Exterminator Guide
Exterminators, under general supervision, perform work in the prevention, control, and elimination of insects, vermin and other pests from buildings and surrounding areas including parks; inspect areas of infestation; use the most effective insecticides, rodenticides, baits, traps, etc., for exterminating pests as required; keep records of equipment usage, work schedules, and exterminating operations performed; and may drive a motor vehicle. All Exterminators perform related work. (For Agencies Under the Jurisdiction of the Commissioner, DCAS Only; CUNY applicants must file for Exam 7035 separately).
SALARY RANGE
$48,154 minimum per annum (Subject to change; appointments generally made to Assignment Level I with three assignment levels available at agency discretion)
DIPLOMA LEVEL
High School / Degree
OPEN WINDOW
Filing Scheds
Key Job Duties
What you will act and execute daily upon appointment:
- Perform work in the prevention, control, and elimination of insects, vermin, and other pests from buildings and surrounding areas including parks.
- Inspect areas of infestation to determine the nature and severity of pest problems.
- Use the most effective insecticides, rodenticides, baits, traps, etc., for exterminating pests as required.
- Keep records of equipment usage, work schedules, and exterminating operations performed.
- Operate and drive a motor vehicle as required.
- Perform related exterminating and pest control work.
Filing & Appointment Eligibility
Candidates must fulfill these rules BEFORE certification:
- Certification Requirement: By September 30, 2026, you must have a valid certificate as a Certified Commercial Pesticide Applicator for Industrial, Institutional, Structural and Rodent Control (7A) issued by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC). This certification must be maintained for the duration of employment. Credit will not be given for certification obtained after September 30, 2026.
- Driver License Requirement: For appointment to certain positions, possession of a motor vehicle driver license valid in the State of New York may be required. Moving violations, suspensions, or an accident record may cause disqualification. Must be maintained for the duration of employment.
- Residency Requirement Advisory: Under NYC Administrative Code Section 12-120, you might need to be a resident of the City of New York within 90 days of the date you are appointed. Consult the appointing agency's personnel office at the time of appointment interview.
- English Requirement: You must be able to understand and be understood in English.
- Proof of Identity: Under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, you must be able to prove your identity and your right to obtain employment in the United States prior to employment.
- Jurisdiction Scope: This examination is for positions with City agencies under the jurisdiction of the Commissioner, DCAS only, and not the City University of New York (CUNY). CUNY positions require Exam No. 7035.
Computerized Examination Pattern
Education and Experience Exam (EEE) evaluated via OASys. Candidates receive 70 points for meeting the qualification requirements (valid NYS DEC 7A certification). Additional credit up to 30 points is awarded for satisfactory full-time pesticide application experience post-7A certification (from 2.5 points for 6 months up to 30 points for 72+ months), plus 5 points each for NYS DEC Category 8 (Public Health) or Category 7B (Fumigation) certifications.
Physical Demands & Environmental Conditions
Physical activities performed and environments experienced in this role:
- Walking to and from inspection sites during inspections and standing for extended periods of time.
- Bending and stooping during inspections and working in confined areas.
- Using baits and traps, and preparing insecticides and rodenticides for exterminating pests.
Special Working Conditions
Operational environments and agency-specific criteria:
- Shift Schedules: Exterminators may be required to work various shifts including nights, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
- Safety Protocols: Routine handling and application of insecticides, rodenticides, and hazardous chemical agents in compliance with DEC regulations.
Filing and Application Fee Process
Apply online through the Online Application System (OASys) at www.nyc.gov/examsforjobs. Application Fee: $68.00 (paying by card incurs a nonrefundable 2.00% service fee; waivers available for eligible candidates). You must finalize and submit your Education and Experience Exam in OASys by midnight Eastern time on September 22, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important Timelines
Application Period: September 2, 2026 – September 22, 2026. Application Fee: $68.00. Education and Experience Exam must be Final Submitted in OASys by midnight Eastern time on September 22, 2026. Required NYS DEC Category 7A certification must be obtained by September 30, 2026.
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