How much does a pesticide sprayer make?

In the United States, experienced workers and those with sought-after licenses or skills may earn more. Pay also varies by employer or industry and location, and the number of hours worked changes total earnings.

Mix or apply pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, or insecticides through sprays, dusts, vapors, soil incorporation, or chemical application on trees, shrubs, lawns, or crops. Usually requires specific training and state or federal certification. Crop dusters are included in “Commercial Pilots” (53-2012).

What's a typical day like?

They inspect lawns and trees for weeds or plant trouble, then mix chemicals and fill a sprayer tank. Wearing protective gear, they direct hoses or nozzles over the target, record the treatment, and clean the equipment.

In the U.S., a high school diploma or GED is typical, and many jobs provide on-the-job training. State rules set required training and exams for certification; federal certification for restricted-use pesticides requires applicants to be 18.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

Despite the name, they don’t only spray: BLS says they may apply chemicals as dusts or vapors, or mix them directly into soil.