Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation
O*NET 37-3012.00 · SOC 37-3012
Pesticide Handler is a solid career choice. Median pay is $46k a year with +3.9% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 3,300 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Mix pesticide solutions according to label instructions
- →Spray herbicides along roadsides, ditches, and rights-of-way
- →Inspect treated areas to verify vegetation is controlled
- →Calibrate spray equipment to ensure correct application rates
- →Record chemicals used, quantities applied, and areas treated
Education & How to Get In
Pesticide Handler roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Pesticide Handler involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Pesticide Handler?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Pesticide Handler Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation is projected to grow 3.9% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·37% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·44% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Pesticide Handler make?
The median Pesticide Handler earns $46k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Pesticide Handler jobs?
Our model puts Pesticide Handler at 50 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 37% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 44% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Pesticide Handler a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 3.9% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 3,300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Pesticide Handler?
Most Pesticide Handler roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Pesticide Handler?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Pesticide Handler career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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