Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 25,200 pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators, vegetations, and they earn a median of $45,200/year. The range runs from $35K to $59K. Massachusetts pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators, vegetations start around $35K. The gap between that and the median ($45K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $59K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $60K | N/A |
| New Jersey | $56K | 680 |
| North Dakota | $51K | 300 |
| Hawaii | $50K | 60 |
| Oregon | $49K | 340 |
| New York | $49K | 190 |
| New Mexico | $49K | 60 |
| Pennsylvania | $49K | 340 |
| Washington | $49K | 750 |
| Virginia | $48K | 300 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators, vegetation make?▼
The median pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators, vegetation salary in the United States is $45,200 per year ($22/hour). Entry-level positions start around $34,590, while experienced professionals earn up to $58,910.
What education do you need to become a pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators, vegetation?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators, vegetations?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators, vegetations.
What are the highest paying states for pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators, vegetations?▼
The highest paying states for pesticide handlers, sprayers, and applicators, vegetations are Massachusetts ($59,550), New Jersey ($55,680), North Dakota ($50,670), Hawaii ($50,040), Oregon ($49,400). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.