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Supply Chain & ProductionStable

Pesticide Handler, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation

Operational-level

Also known as: Agricultural Service Worker, Applicator, Applicator Sprayer, Certified Pesticide Applicator

Supply Chain & ProductionBachelor's Degree

Job Description

Mix or apply pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, or insecticides through sprays, dusts, vapors, soil incorporation, or chemical application on trees, shrubs, lawns, or crops. Usually requires specific training and state or federal certification.
Pesticide ApplicationHorticultureAgronomyTurf ManagementAgricultureEnvironmental ScienceChemical HandlingBuildingSkilled Trade

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

+3.9%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

3,300

per year (US)

Jobs today

25,700

in 2025 → 26,700 (2035)

Typical entry education

High school diploma or equivalent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
High
Working in a team
Moderate
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
Moderate
Time spent sitting
Low
Working outdoors
High
Indoor, climate-controlled
Moderate
Dealing with customers
Moderate
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Stable Job Market

This field maintains steady employment levels with consistent demand. Job opportunities remain available with moderate competition.

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will significantly impact this career by introducing precision application technologies like AI-driven drones and autonomous sprayers. These systems will optimize pesticide use by targeting specific areas, reducing manual labor and minimizing environmental impact. Consequently, human applicators may transition into roles focused on managing, maintaining, and analyzing data from these advanced systems, requiring new technical skills.