How To Become An Applicator: What It Is and Career Path

What is an applicator and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

3 min read

Applicators are construction professionals that are responsible for applying substances like sealants, sprays, and adhesives to various structures. They may work as independent contractors or as part of a construction team. Moreover, they may find plenty of opportunities in both residential and commercial construction.

Apart from applying various substances, the duties of an applicator may also include using spray robots, repairing equipment, collaborating with project managers, developing IPM solutions for clients, and ensuring that they practice OSHA standards at all times. They may also be responsible for training new workers in application processes. Aside from construction, applicators can also find opportunities in manufacturing as well as non-profits.

The typical minimum requirement for this job is a high school diploma, similar to other labor jobs. However, contractor businesses may still consider school leavers since the job requires manual skills. Job experience is also a huge plus but may not be required as employers usually provide training on the job. Applicators make around $31,000 a year on average, but that figure can go up to $42,000 with enough experience and skills.

ScoreApplicatorUS Average

Salary

3.2

Avg. Salary $40,945

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level

8.1

Growth Rate 5%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity

4.8

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 2.69%

Asian 0.38%

Black or African American 1.54%

Hispanic or Latino 15.77%

Unknown 3.08%

White 76.54%

Gender

female 7.22%

male 92.78%

Age - 42

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 42

Stress Level

8.1

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity Level

8.0

Complexity Level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance

3.6

Work Life balance is poor

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become an applicator

Explore applicator education requirements

Most common applicator degrees

High School Diploma

35.1 %

Bachelor's

27.2 %

Associate

23.9 %

Start to develop specific applicator skills

Skills	Percentages
CDL	33.29%
DOT	17.39%
Application Equipment	7.14%
Harvest	6.55%
AG	5.68%

Complete relevant applicator training and internships

Accountants spend an average of Less than 1 month on post-employment, on-the-job training. New applicators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an applicator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real applicator resumes.

Obtain the necessary licensing

Becoming an licensed applicator usually doesn't require a college degree. However, you need to pass an exam to become a licensed applicator in most of states. 29 states require applicators to have license for their work. You can see the list of states below.

State	Education	Exam	License Url
Alabama	-	-	Professional Fumigation Pest Control Operator (FC)
Alaska	-	State exam required	Pesticide Applicator
California	Specific course required	State exam required	Qualified Applicator Certificate
Colorado	-	State exam required	Commercial Applicator's License (Pesticides)
Georgia	-	State exam required	Pesticide Applicator

Research applicator duties and responsibilities

Detect need repairs on building roofing systems by following establish inspection procedures.
Pull and fill NH3 trailers.
Repair equipment.Done varible rate putting on nh3
Install propane systems, and fuel tanks.

Prepare your applicator resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your applicator resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on an applicator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose From 10+ Customizable Applicator Resume templates

Build a professional Applicator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Applicator resume.

Apply for applicator jobs

Now it's time to start searching for an applicator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams

How do applicators rate their job?