Good demand for pest control technicians
Pest control technicians are in demand due to:
- continuing need for pest control – particularly in places, such as restaurants, where people produce and serve food
- a warming climate, which leads to more pests such as flies and cockroaches
- some younger staff leaving the role after a short time, once they realise what the job involves
- a number of pest control technicians reaching retirement.
According to the Census, 849 pest control technicians worked in New Zealand in 2018.
Approach employers to find vacancies
Many pest control technician vacancies aren't advertised, so the best way to find work is to approach employers directly.
Warm months the best time to look for work
The best time to look for work is in the warmer months – October to April – when most pests breed. You may be offered a short-term role, which could lead to a permanent job.
Four main pest control employers
Pest control technicians work for a range of employers. The four largest are:
- Rentokil
- Ecolab
- Genus
- Flick Anticimex.
A third of pest control technicians are self-employed.
