Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation
Pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators mix and apply chemical treatments to control pests, weeds, and diseases on vegetation. They work outdoors on lawns, trees, shrubs, and crops using sprays, dusts, vapors, and soil applications. The work requires state or federal certification and specialized training beyond high school.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators, vegetation and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves preparing pesticide mixtures according to specifications, operating spray equipment on residential or agricultural properties, and monitoring treated areas for effectiveness. Workers may travel between job sites, inspect vegetation for pest damage, keep detailed application records, and follow safety protocols including proper protective equipment. Seasonal demand fluctuates, with heavier workloads during growing and pest seasons.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'd do well in this work if you're practical-minded and prefer hands-on tasks with clear procedures and measurable results. You likely value following established methods, working independently outdoors, and solving straightforward problems in vegetation management.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $51,850 | $62,980 | $63,320 | — |
| Delaware | $49,360 | $54,190 | $54,190 | 40 |
| Oregon | $48,020 | $51,590 | $61,260 | 290 |
| Hawaii | $39,310 | $51,240 | $54,540 | 60 |
| North Dakota | $46,800 | $50,490 | $56,160 | 280 |
| Ohio | $40,560 | $50,060 | $55,020 | 490 |
| Wyoming | $46,780 | $49,190 | $50,990 | 120 |
| Kansas | $43,050 | $49,090 | $54,470 | 520 |
| Minnesota | $45,570 | $49,030 | $56,650 | 950 |
| Pennsylvania | $44,760 | $48,870 | $52,330 | 360 |
| Arizona | $46,700 | $48,630 | $55,100 | 210 |
| Virginia | $40,670 | $48,610 | $57,600 | 240 |
All 44 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified IPM Technician (CIT) — Entomological Society of America Certification Corporation
- Landscape Industry Certified Technician - Exterior (Irrigation) (LICT-E) — National Association of Landscape Professionals
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators, vegetation and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 37-3012.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.