Pest-Busting Profession: Earning a Living While Helping People
On the Hunt for a Better Career, Jan Kortenbusch Stumbles Upon Pest Control
Pest Elimination Professionals: "We Spend Whole Days Tracking Down Pests and Assisting Homeowners" - Exterminatorprofession: "Spending entire days tracking down pests - aiding residential and commercial clients"
By Frank Donovitz
Chronicle: Jan Kortenbusch, a 25-year-old certified Pest Exterminator, shares his journey from agricultural service to an unexpected career change, making him a business leader.
Salary Breakdown:
- Monthly Gross Income: 4,500 Euros
- Monthly Net Income: 3,320 Euros
A certified agricultural service technician, Jan realized his first job wasn't the right fit after two years. His uncle, a pest controller for a Dutch firm, described this profession as a golden opportunity: "You're on the hunt all day, and you help people." Intrigued, Jan decided it was worth a shot.
From Career Reboot to Business Boardroom
Journeying through a six-week retraining course, Jan became recognized as a certified pest exterminator, or colloquially referred to as a "chamber hunter." He joined a company active across North Rhine-Westphalia and recently co-owns their branch office in Münsterland's Olfen. Jan's customer base stretches from Koblenz in the south, to Bremen in the north, and even into Holland in the west. His team has grown from a small group to 16 dedicated members today.
Newcomers to the profession can gain a foothold through IHK training or retraining programs. Opportunities for advancement exist too, like taking on roles as a service manager, quality manager, or environmental protection specialist. Plus, there's no noticeable shortage of skilled workers, possibly due to the industry's strong social media presence, which Jan attributes to his business' growth and success.
A Helping Hand in Troubled Times
Pest controllers, like Jan, alleviate various predicaments, such as rat infestations, mice, martens, insects, bed bugs, and more. They also dabble in pigeon deterrence, pest monitoring, and prevention, utilising state-of-the-art techniques and equipment. While customers undoubtedly appreciate their service, they're also exceedingly grateful! It's a thrilling, fulfilling career, offering diverse experiences and a multitude of customer interactions.
Jan's typical workweek spans 40 hours, but that number fluctuates occasionally. He's content with his income, permitting occasional splurging on meals out or gifts for his partner. Besides his pest control duties, Jan maintains his family farm, generating another source of income. Jan saves 500 euros monthly for a personal pension insurance that invests globally in stocks. Despite high fuel costs - driving about 70,000 kilometers annually - customers often require prompt, urgent service.
Side Note: Jan's story will feature on "What does Germany earn," airing on RTL on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 8:15 PM. The show is part of RTL Germany.
Tags Involved:
- Pest Exterminator
- Career Leap
- Income Opportunities
- In his role as a certified Pest Exterminator, Jan Kortenbusch not only benefits from a lucrative salary, but also engages in education-and-self-development opportunities, including science-based vocational training, to further his career-development within the industry.
- As Jan's customer base expands, primarily focusing on health-and-wellness concerns related to pest infestations, he recognizes the importance of financial management to ensure the sustainability and growth of his vocational career.
- To balance his career-development with personal well-being, Jan Kortenbusch demonstrates commitment to community policy initiatives by allocating a portion of his monthly net income towards education-and-self-development programs for newcomers in the pest control industry, thereby fostering a better future for both the industry and community.
