Top 25 Terminix Pest Control Technician Interview Questions & Answers

Getting hired as a pest control technician at Terminix can be a very rewarding career path However, you need to be fully prepared to ace your Terminix job interview In this article, I’ll share the top 25 Terminix pest control technician interview questions and sample answers to help you get ready.

Having interviewed numerous candidates over my 10 years as a Terminix hiring manager I know firsthand the kinds of Terminix interview questions you can expect. My goal is to give you insider tips and strategies to help you make a winning impression.

First, let’s look at some of the most common questions that Terminix pest control technicians are asked:

1. Why do you want to work as a pest control technician for Terminix?

This question aims to assess your motivations and interest in the role. The interviewer wants to know why you specifically chose to apply to Terminix. An ideal response would showcase your passion for the job, knowledge of the company, and how your skills make you a good fit.

Sample Answer: I have always been fascinated by science and problem-solving, which drew me to a career in pest control. After researching companies in this industry, Terminix stood out to me as a leader known for its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. I admire Terminix’s values and believe my attention to detail, technical knowledge, and passion for helping customers align perfectly with this role. I’m excited by the opportunity to grow my skills and make a difference as a pest control technician.

2. What makes you qualified to be a pest control technician?

This question is meant to find out more about your qualifications and experiences that are relevant to this job. The person interviewing you wants to see if you have the right level of education to be a pest control technician. Focus on experiences and skills that directly relate.

Example Answer: I have an associate’s degree in applied science and have taken classes in biology, entomology, and environmental studies that were useful. This academic background taught me a lot about pests, how they behave, and how to get rid of them. I also have more than three years of real-world experience as an assistant pest control technician, where I worked with more experienced technicians on treatments, inspections, and teaching customers about pests. I’m also ServSafe certified and have a pesticide applicator license. I’m a good candidate for this job because I know a lot about both the theory and practice of pest control.

3. How would you inspect a property before starting a treatment?

The interviewer is looking to evaluate your process, knowledge, and practical skills when it comes to property inspection prior to treatment. They want to hear specifics about your systematic approach to inspection and your ability to identify signs of infestation.

Sample Answer: When inspecting a property prior to starting a treatment, I would begin by thoroughly examining both the interior and exterior of the property while wearing proper PPE gear. I would look for visible signs of pest activity like droppings, damaged areas, or sightings of live pests. I would also use monitoring tools like traps to collect samples and identify hot spots. For pests like termites, I would look closely for signs of structural damage. Throughout the inspection, I would take detailed notes and photographs to inform the customized treatment plan I develop. I would also discuss my findings and recommendations with the customer to ensure we are aligned.

4. How do you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in pest control?

Pest control methods and best practices constantly evolve, so continuing education is a must. With this question, the interviewer wants to understand what efforts you make to regularly enhance your knowledge and skills. It demonstrates your commitment to excellence through lifelong learning.

Sample Answer: Staying current in pest control methods and technologies is very important to me. I regularly read industry publications and journals to learn about new products, treatment techniques, and technological advances. I also make it a priority to attend trade shows and seminars where I can hear from experts and network with fellow pest management professionals. Within my own company, I leverage the knowledge of mentors and more experienced technicians. I’m also a member of a pest management association through which I can access educational resources. Making use of these varied opportunities ensures I’m always expanding my skills.

5. How would you handle a dissatisfied customer?

The crux of a pest control technician’s job revolves around customer satisfaction. With this question, the interviewer aims to assess your customer service skills, specifically when faced with a challenging situation like a dissatisfied customer. They want to know how you would respond professionally and work to resolve the issue.

Sample Answer: If faced with a dissatisfied customer, I would first listen carefully to understand the exact issues they are facing. I’d ask clarifying questions if needed to get more context. I would apologize sincerely for any inconvenience while assuring the customer I will do everything I can to make it right. I would review my process to identify any lapses on my end. If the issue was technical, I would offer to come back and re-treat the property at no additional cost. If it was a communication issue, I would re-explain my methods and the treatment plan. My goal is to always learn from the feedback and improve my customer service skills. Most importantly, I would follow up to ensure the customer’s concerns were fully resolved.

6. How would you handle a situation where you arrive at a customer’s home and children or pets are present?

Safety is paramount in pest control, so interviewers want to ensure you understand proper protocols to safeguard customers (especially vulnerable ones) as well as yourself. This question tests your safety knowledge, risk assessment abilities, and communication skills.

Sample Answer: If I arrived at a customer’s home and found children or pets present, I would not begin any treatment without first addressing the safety issue. I would politely but firmly inform the customers that for the safety of all parties, vulnerable individuals like children and pets cannot be present during interior treatments. I would reschedule the appointment to a time the customers can make arrangements for the children/pets to be out of the home. If it was an exterior-only treatment, I would ask the customers to keep all doors/windows closed and keep children/pets inside. I would delay my work until proper precautions were taken. Safety is my utmost priority, so I would not compromise on this matter.

7. What safety precautions do you take when doing pest control treatments?

This question enables you to demonstrate your knowledge of safety protocols and your commitment to following them rigorously. The interviewer wants to be sure you can perform treatments safely and responsibly.

Sample Answer: Safety is paramount when conducting pest control treatments. I always wear proper PPE gear like chemical-resistant gloves, protective eyewear, masks, and coveralls. I ensure my equipment and products are in sound working condition. I thoroughly review product labels and SDS sheets before use, and follow all instructions. When applying pesticides, I use the minimum effective amount, focused on targeted areas. I set up safety barriers as needed to prevent access to treatment areas. I also clearly communicate all relevant safety information to customers, including when it’s safe to re-enter treated areas. After finishing, I properly triple-rinse and dispose of containers. Following protocols helps protect myself, customers, their property, and the environment.

8. How would you ensure pesticides are applied correctly and safely?

Another safety-focused question, the interviewer here wants to dig deeper into your knowledge around proper, safe chemical application. It’s critical that technicians understand correct usage to avoid hazards.

Sample Answer: The safe, effective application of pesticides is imperative. Before using any product, I thoroughly read the entire label and SDS to understand the specific usage instructions, hazards, PPE needs, and first aid information. I also inspect my application equipment to confirm it’s in proper working order with the appropriate protective guards, valves, and filters. When applying, I use exactly the concentration, type of equipment, and treatment method specified on the label. I avoid over-application and focus just on the targeted areas. I diligently follow re-entry intervals and airing out dwellings. I also place appropriate warning signs or barriers. And I never hesitate to stop and consult resources or experienced colleagues if I have any concerns about appropriate usage. My goal is to always use pesticides judiciously and safely.

9. Tell me about a time you had to problem solve a tricky pest problem. What was the situation and how did you handle it?

Since problem-solving is a huge aspect of being a pest control technician, expect to be asked about a time you had to troubleshoot a challenging scenario. The interviewer wants insight into your critical thinking, persistence, and creative approach when faced with a difficult pest problem.

Sample Answer: In one home I serviced, the customers had an ongoing ant problem that persisted through multiple treatments. Rather than continue applying more pesticide, I took a step back to re-assess the situation. I asked the customers detailed questions about when and where they mostly noticed the ants. This revealed that the ants were clustering around an outdoor tree near their home. I inspected the tree and found substantial ant nests in the sap. I advised the customers that removing the tree would be the most effective long-term solution by eliminating the nesting site. However, I knew this large undertaking would take time to coordinate. In the meantime, I set out ant baits near the tree which helped cur