Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation Salary Guide 2025: $46,340 Median
Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation earn a median salary of $46,340 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The mean wage is $47,070, or about $22 an hour. Most workers earn between $35,570 (10th percentile) and $61,420 (90th percentile). The occupation employs 27,050 people nationally.
How much Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation earn
The median annual wage for Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation is $46,340, per BLS data. Half of workers earn less than that, half earn more. The typical range runs from $35,570 at the 10th percentile to $61,420 at the 90th. The mean hourly wage works out to $22.63.
- Median annual salary: $46,340
- Mean annual salary: $47,070
- Mean hourly wage: ~$22.63
- Typical range: $35,570 – $61,420
Pay by state
Where you work matters. The highest-paying state for pesticide applicators is Massachusetts, with an average salary of $62,980. Delaware follows at $54,190, then Oregon ($51,590), Hawaii ($51,240), and North Dakota ($50,490).
On the lower end, Louisiana pays the least—an average of $26,220. Mississippi ($35,770) and Oklahoma ($36,870) also fall below the national median.
How to become Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation
Most states require pesticide applicators to be licensed or certified. You typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers provide on-the-job training lasting weeks or months.
The path usually goes: pass a written exam covering pesticide safety, application methods, and state-specific laws. Some states require completing a training course or apprenticeship. Recertification—often every few years—keeps your license current. Check with your state's Department of Agriculture or Extension Service for exact requirements.
- Complete a high school diploma or GED
- Meet state licensing requirements (varies by state)
- Pass a pesticide applicator exam
- Complete on-the-job training (typically several weeks)
- Maintain license through periodic recertification
Job outlook
Employment of Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation is projected to grow 3.8% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This translates to roughly 4,100 job openings per year, many from workers leaving the occupation or retiring.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation?
The median annual salary is $46,340, with a typical range of $35,570 to $61,420 (BLS).
How do I become a pesticide applicator?
You need a high school diploma, state licensure (pass a pesticide exam), and on-the-job training. Requirements vary by state.
Is the job outlook good for pesticide handlers?
Growth is 3.8% over 2024-2034, about as fast as average. About 4,100 openings each year are expected.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation data.