About pestcareers.org.uk
pestcareers.org.uk is a project from the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), created by our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee. Our goal is straightforward: to encourage more individuals from diverse backgrounds to explore a career in pest management.
Facing recruitment challenges head-on
We believe pest management is one of the most rewarding and essential trades in the UK, but too few people know it exists as a career option. This website is here to change that.
Whether you're leaving education, switching careers, or exploring self-employment, pest management has space for you.
Why pest management needs people like you
Pest control protects public health, the food supply chain, and the spaces where we live and work. But it's facing a recruitment challenge. Thousands of trained professionals help to keep our environments safe from pests, but as the sector grows and the workforce ages, we urgently need new talent to step in.
That's why BPCA is committed to:
- Breaking down outdated perceptions of pest control
- Making sure career advice includes our profession
- Encouraging people from underrepresented communities to consider the trade
- Offering clear, honest guidance on getting started in the industry
We know from years of research and experience that pest management is suitable for a wide range of people. Our members include ex-forces personnel, recent graduates, school leavers, sole traders, and individuals retraining from a wide range of fields, from hospitality to healthcare.
Whatever your background, if you're curious, hands-on and want to make a difference—you'll fit right in.
Powered by industry professionals
This website brings together the stories, guidance and resources you need to understand what working in pest management is really like.
All the stories on our Industry Stories page come from real pest control professionals. They share how they got into the industry, what their job involves, and why they love the work they do.
Our Starting Out section is packed with practical tips on how to train, find work or start your own pest control business. We've laid out all the basics, so you can explore what's right for you.
A career that makes a difference
Pest professionals help stop the spread of disease. They protect homes and businesses from damage. And they're on the front line when new pest threats emerge.
If you care about helping people, enjoy solving practical problems, and want a job that's different every day, pest management could be your next great move.
As one of our members puts it:
I'd never considered pest management before, and I think if my careers advisor at school had mentioned it, I'd have laughed in their face. But here I am 25 years later, loving it! The food chain is definitely something that needs protecting, and there are a lot of issues out there that relate to pests and public health, which is changing so dynamically that it makes it a very interesting place to be.
About BPCA
The British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is the UK's trade association for pest management. We represent over 800 organisations and individuals committed to protecting public health, property and the environment.
We're proud to support pest professionals through training, guidance and advocacy—and we're equally proud to support the next generation.
If you have questions or would like to share your own story or resources, we'd love to hear from you at hello@bpca.org.uk