How to Be Pest Control Technician Lead - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 13, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Pest control technicians are responsible for identifying and eliminating infestations of pests from homes and businesses. When a Technician Lead is employed by a company, they are responsible for managing the efforts of the other technicians, ensuring that the proper procedures are followed, and that all safety protocols are adhered to. This role is important because it helps maintain a safe and effective service for the client.

The Technician Lead also ensures that pest infestations are eliminated quickly and efficiently, preventing them from spreading further. This can save the client both time and money, as well as protect their property from potential damage. Furthermore, the Technician Lead's leadership and guidance can motivate other technicians to perform their work better, resulting in an improved overall quality of service.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most Pest Control Technician Lead positions require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Consider taking classes in science, biology, and/or chemistry to better prepare yourself for the job.
Obtain certification as a Pest Control Technician. While some states do not require certification, many do. Check with your states pest control licensing board to find out their requirements.
Gain experience as a Pest Control Technician. This is typically done through an apprenticeship program or on-the-job training. During this time, you will learn about different pest control techniques and products, as well as the safety protocols associated with using them.
Apply for a Lead Pest Control Technician position. Many companies will promote from within, so if you have been working as a Pest Control Technician with the same company for some time, you may be able to apply for a Lead position.
Attend training courses to stay up to date on new industry regulations and technologies. Lead Pest Control Technicians need to stay abreast of their field and be able to provide their teams with up-to-date information on best practices.
Supervise your team of Pest Control Technicians. As a Lead Pest Control Technician, you will be responsible for providing guidance and direction to the team and ensuring that they follow safety protocols and use the correct products and techniques when dealing with pests.

Pest Control Technician Leads are responsible for setting the standard for successful pest control operations. To be an effective Lead, it is important to have a well-developed understanding of pest control techniques, technology, and safety procedures. When these key elements are in place, a Lead can optimize the teams productivity and the quality of the work they produce.

An ideal and efficient Lead will also be organized and detail-oriented, able to effectively manage resources and personnel, as well as delegate tasks and responsibilities to ensure that deadlines are met. By providing clear direction and setting an example of professionalism, a Lead can ensure that their team is both effective and efficient in their pest control efforts.

You may want to check Pest Control Technician Assistant, Pest Control Technician Operator, and Pest Control Technician Coordinator for alternative.

Job Description

Inspect properties for pests, rodents, and other hazards.
Utilize a variety of tools and techniques to effectively eliminate pests and control infestations.
Utilize EPA approved chemicals, treatments, and other materials to control pests.
Identify potential pest problems and recommend preventative measures.
Develop plans to monitor and address pest issues in a timely manner.
Provide accurate and detailed reports of services rendered to clients.
Train and mentor junior pest control technicians.
Establish and maintain positive customer relations.
Maintain up to date knowledge of industry best practices and regulations.
Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and safety standards.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of pest control products, methods, and tools
Ability to identify and assess pests and pest infestations
Good communication and customer service skills
Ability to provide customer training on pest control methods
Ability to work with minimal supervision
Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects at once
Knowledge of safety protocols and regulations
Experience in team leadership
Excellent organizational and time management skills
Ability to lift heavy objects and climb ladders
Problem-solving and decision-making skills
Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations regarding pesticide use

Being a Pest Control Technician Lead requires a great deal of responsibility, knowledge and skill. The most important skill a Pest Control Technician Lead must have is the ability to think critically and problem solve. This skill is essential in diagnosing the source of the pest problem and devising an effective plan of action.

Good communication skills are also key to successful pest control, as they enable technicians to explain the risks and safety procedures to clients and give them peace of mind. Furthermore, knowledge of various pesticides and their application methods is necessary in order to safely and effectively manage pests. Finally, the ability to work independently as well as part of a team is important, as this will determine how efficiently the job is done and how quickly the pest problem is solved.

All of these skills together create an individual who is well-equipped to lead a successful pest control team.

Pest Control Technician Foreman, Pest Control Technician Supervisor, and Pest Control Technician Officer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the pest control industry?
How familiar are you with the regulations and safety measures related to pest control?
What strategies would you implement to ensure that all pest control procedures are followed correctly?
What methods do you use to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the pest control industry?
Do you have any experience leading a team of pest control technicians?
How would you handle a situation where a customer is not satisfied with the results of pest control services?
What techniques do you use to motivate a team and ensure that deadlines are met?
How do you handle customer complaints or difficult situations?
What would you do to ensure that all equipment is properly maintained and ready for use?
How do you handle difficult conversations with customers or colleagues?

Common Tools in Industry

Spray Guns. Used to apply pesticides to an area. (Example: B&G Sprayer)
Power Washers. Used to clean and disinfect areas. (Example: Hotsy Pressure Washer)
Dusters. Used to apply dust-based insecticides. (Example: Bellow Hand Duster)
Traps. Used to capture and remove pests from the environment. (Example: Victor Mouse Trap)
Rodent Baits. Used to poison rodents. (Example: Tomcat Rat Bait)
Foggers. Used to disperse insecticides into a room or area. (Example: Black Flag Fogger)
Insecticides. Used to kill or repel insects. (Example: Talstar P Professional Insecticide)
Safety Equipment. Used to protect technicians from hazardous materials. (Example: Tyvek Coveralls and Protection Goggles)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Pest Management Association (NPMA)
National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA)
Professional Pest Management Alliance (PPMA)
National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC)
Entomological Society of America (ESA)
Pest Control Operators of California (PCOC)
International Association of Certified Pest Specialists (IACPS)
Pest Control India (PCI)
Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program (PESP)
American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA)

We also have Pest Control Exterminator, Pest Control Technician Apprentice, and Pest Control Technician Technician-Technologist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Integrated Pest Management (IPM). A strategy used to manage pests by combining different types of pest control methods in an environmentally friendly way.
Pesticides. Chemical substances used to kill or control pests.
Exclusion. Techniques used to keep pests out of areas, such as sealing cracks and crevices, installing screens, and maintaining cleanliness.
Fumigation. The process of using a gas or aerosol to rid an area of pests.
Trapping. The use of traps to capture and remove pests from an area.
Baiting. The act of using bait to attract and destroy pests.
Monitoring. The observation of an area to identify signs of pest activity.
Sanitation. Practices that help prevent the spread of pests, such as proper garbage disposal and keeping food containers sealed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What duties does a Pest Control Technician Lead typically perform?

A Pest Control Technician Lead typically performs duties such as inspecting and evaluating premises for signs of pest infestations, deploying traps and baits, treating infested areas with pesticides, and documenting findings. They may also be responsible for training and leading other technicians, as well as maintaining records and equipment.

What qualifications are required to become a Pest Control Technician Lead?

To become a Pest Control Technician Lead, one typically needs to possess a high school diploma or equivalent, with experience in the pest control field preferred. Depending on the state and company, additional certification may be required.

How much does a Pest Control Technician Lead typically earn?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a Pest Control Technician Lead is $44,814 per year.

What hours do Pest Control Technician Leads typically work?

Pest Control Technician Leads usually work full-time hours, often including evenings and weekends.

What safety precautions must Pest Control Technician Leads take?

Pest Control Technician Leads must follow safety protocols when using pesticides, such as wearing protective gear, adhering to product labels, and avoiding contact with skin and eyes. They must also take steps to avoid contamination of the environment and surrounding areas.