Pest control means dealing with the kinds of animals many of us try our best to avoid. But catching rats and battling cockroaches turns out to be very satisfying work.

My research reveals that this surprising level of job satisfaction comes from the variety, challenge and connection pest controllers experience. They also told me their work had a positive effect on people’s lives.

I discovered this after spending the last few years immersed in the world of professional pest control. I’ve attended trade shows, read industry magazines, interviewed pest controllers and accompanied them on their call outs.

One thing that stood out was the range of pests involved, and the different places in which they appear. Both provide opportunities for pest controllers to engage in problem solving and detective work.

Most pest controllers are generalists who will deal with a wide range of wildlife, from rats and mice to wasps, bedbugs and moths. And every infestation needs a nuanced understanding of animal behaviour.

I was told that pest control work, particularly in people’s homes, requires changing tactics and adaptability. For example, some animals learn to avoid traps or develop resistance to certain chemicals. The unpredictability prevents the work from becoming monotonous........

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