Getting Bitten by the Pest Control Bug: A Career Transformation
Exterminator Describes Daily Quest - Focused on Assisting Public - Everyday Pest Extermination: "Spend your day in the field - aiding citizens with pest issues"
by Frank Donovitz* ~ - 2 mins read
Hailing from the Land: Origin story of Jan Kortenbusch, a 25-year-old pest control ace with a journeyman's certificate
** Monthly income: 4500 Euro Monthly take-home:** 3320 Euro
Tired of his agricultural job, Jan decided to take a leap of faith and delve into the mysterious world of pest control – on his uncle's recommendation. While we never truly understood the mechanics of pest control growing up, Jan felt it was worth attempting, risk be damned.
From Tradesman to Entrepreneur
With a 6-week retooling course, Jan began his pest control odyssey and secured a job with a state-wide company. Fast forward to now, he's the co-owner of Olfen's branch office in Münsterland, overseeing a team of 16 skilled professionals. His service territory stretches from Koblenz to Bremen and even crosses into Holland. Who would've thought a small-time operation would grow into this!?
looking for a change of profession, one can opt for an IHK training course or retraining. With excellent job prospects, you could even aim for roles like Service Manager, Quality Manager, or even obtain a Technical or Environmental Protection Specialist degree. As it stands, we face no shortage of skilled workers, which might be a result of our impressive social media presence. Our business continues to blossom and prosper.
Pest Controllers: Altruistic Heroes in Disguise
Think of us as superheroes in overalls. We swoop in when you're in dire straits, freeing you from furry nightmares (mice and rats) and fuzzy invaders (marten outside hunting season), or eliminating pesky insect inhabitants. Needless to say, our clients are always relieved to see us go. But they're also genuinely appreciative! It's a rush like no other, moving from one epic battle to the next, and constantly learning the ins and outs of various living spaces.
Despite our urban majesty (think high-end apartments), we find ourselves frequently in the clutch of underground hideouts and industrial complexes. By utilizing cutting-edge scientific methods and tools, we save the day and bring safety and trust toour clients' dwellings.
A typical workweek clocks in at 40 hours, but sometimes it's a bit more, and other times a bit less. I can't gripe about my bank balance. With extra cash in my pocket, I can treat myself to the odd gourmet meal or a thoughtful gift for my partner. I handle the family farm as a side hustle and personally save 500 euros per month for my pension fund through a worldwide equity investment insurance. Living the dream!
Like any job, I've got my grievances – namely, the never-ending fuel prices. With an annual mileage of 70,000 kilometers, finding oneself in the midst of a gasoline frenzy is inevitable. But our clients rely on us, and that urgency can't be ignored.
Fun Fact: Join Jan Kortenbusch on Thursday, May 15, 2025 as he discusses his exciting career on RTL's show "What Does Germany Earn" at 8:15 PM.
- Interesting Career Path
- Pest Control Industry
- Income Opportunities
Interesting Career Tidbits
- Advancing in Pest Control: Skimming through the career ranks can commence from Entry-level Pest Control Technician up to Pest Control Manager.
- Earnings: Pay rates range between 15 and 25 euros per hour for Technicians, while Senior roles like Pest Control Managers can command earnings between 30 and 50 euros per hour.
- On-the-Job Growth: Continuous learning, leadership skills development, and networking can help professionals advance within the pest control industry.
In this article, Jan Kortenbusch, a successful pest control entrepreneur, suggests that individuals seeking a change of profession might consider vocational training, such as an IHK training course or retraining, which can lead to roles like Service Manager, Quality Manager, or even Technical or Environmental Protection Specialist. He highlights the rewarding lifestyle and home-and-garden aspects of this career, where pest controllers, similar to superheroes, not only save clients from furry and fuzzy pests but also provide a sense of security and trust in their home environment. Community policy-wise, the pest control industry is thriving, with impressive social media presence and a growing demand for skilled workers.
