Jan Homola: The Man Behind Online Pest Doctor & His Journey in Pest Control

1. Background & Career Path

Can you share your journey into the pest management industry and your current role?

I began my journey in the pest control industry in 2020. During this time, I’ve not only performed advanced pest control techniques but also taken on the responsibility of training newcomers. I specialize in working with large pharmaceutical sites and food production facilities, adhering to strict regulations and standards.

I collaborate closely with EHS, EHO, and BRC auditors to ensure compliance and maintain quality. Additionally, I hold a firearm license, which allows me to handle specialized tasks effectively and within the boundaries of the legislation. I find great satisfaction in helping clients with challenging situations while continuously advancing my skills and contributing to the industry.

What inspired you to start Online Pest Doctor, and what impact has it had so far?

We all know that if a customer has the chance to speak with an expert, half of the problem is already solved. By combining knowledge, confidence, and a little guidance, many issues can be resolved without the need for an actual technician visit.

Most in-person visits usually result in housekeeping or proofing recommendations, which are a good starting point – especially before committing to full treatment. While an expert is still needed, physical presence isn’t always necessary in these cases.

What are the key responsibilities of a Pest Management Specialist?

A standard technician conducts inspections on clients’ premises and performs tasks such as fogging, spraying, trapping, or baiting. The most important responsibility is ensuring the safe operation of pest control equipment and the proper use of chemicals.

Then advanced technicians, field biologists, and other specialists handle more specific tasks. These roles require certain skills, attention to detail, and the ability to think outside the box.

How do you balance working as a Service Engineer for LG Vaughan while running an online advisory service?

Online Pest Doctor is still a project I manage through social media and a simple website at the moment. I am a full-time employee, and everything related to the project is done after hours. There’s no capital invested, and no capital generated at the moment. So be sure to follow @online_pestdoctor for updates, as big news is coming soon.

What are the most common misconceptions about pest control that people have?

One common misconception is: “I can do it myself”  -Well, if it was that easy, pest control services wouldn’t be so expensive. However, most of the content on @online_pestdoctor addresses general public misconceptions about pest control.

What are some challenging cases you’ve handled in pest control, and how did you solve them?

Anyone in the pest control industry would agree that the most challenging cases involve dealing with people. Communication is key, and that’s where it all starts (or fails). Thorough communication and good reporting are the first steps to successfully solving any case.

What do you enjoy most about working in this industry?

Constant learning. Apart from meeting interesting people and seeing new places, there are many challenging tasks that require a bit of improvisation. This keeps the job dynamic, promoting constant learning and improvement.

2. Education & Skills Requirements

How important is formal education vs. hands-on experience in pest management?

Simply said, without formal education, you won’t get a job. Without hands-on experience, you won’t get the job done. Both are very important, not just in pest control, but in any industry.

Are there any specialized training programs you would recommend for newcomers?

There are many courses, web magazines, and even podcasts available. It’s essential to stay informed and updated, especially as legislation changes every year. The more interest you show, the more successful you’ll be.

What soft skills (e.g., communication, customer service) are important for a pest control professional?

Good customer service, communication, improvisation skills, time management, adaptability, reliability, and strong observational and problem-solving skills. With a can-do attitude, everything can be learned and applied.

How do you stay updated with the latest pest control technologies and trends?

Pest control is a small industry where everyone knows each other. I personally stay informed through social media, online magazines, and maintaining connections with former colleagues at other companies. Being genuinely interested is always beneficial.

Is there a demand for multilingual professionals in this field, especially for customer interactions?

Not really. The general public doesn’t necessarily understand pest control in any language, and pests, like rats or mice, don’t care what language you speak!

3. Salary & Career Progression

What is the typical salary range for a junior pest control technician?

Unfortunately, salaries in the pest control industry don’t reflect the professionalism and certifications required for an ordinary technician. For example, a technician with nationally recognized licenses, who plays a key role in managing various environmental aspects, dealing with dangerous chemicals and tools, and working often in confined spaces, earns less than an entry-level shop assistant who requires no education.

It’s a shame, because technicians are the backbone of the company and the entire pest control industry.

How does salary progression look from junior to senior roles?

This varies from case to case or company to company. Generally, the more a technician is interested in growing, the faster their progression.

What factors contribute to higher earnings in pest management (e.g., specialization, experience, location)?

Years of experience, certifications, and overall expertise are the main factors. Then it comes down to specialized licenses, knowledge of certain areas or people, or just having high sales turnover.

4. Industry Scope & Growth

How has the pest control industry evolved in recent years?

The end of rodenticides is on the horizon, and everyone is trying to introduce “smart” pest control innovations to the market. Some are genuinely smart, while others are simply marketed smart. Unfortunately, quality is being slowly replaced by quantity.

What new challenges have emerged in pest management, and how is the industry adapting?

Due to recent inflation, cost-cutting has become the new trend everywhere, which is contributing to the growth of infestations and a lack of solutions.

Which industries rely the most on pest control services?

Legislation requires certain businesses to operate only when regular pest control is maintained. Essentially, any industry that is audited by higher authorities is reliant on pest control.

How competitive is the pest control market, and what sets successful professionals apart?

There are many large players, small players, and also solo players. Unfortunately, the most important factor for customers is price. Most customers are unaware of what pest control entails until they need it, so they typically rely on Google searches, reviews, and price comparisons. However, well-known names and numerous 5-star reviews may lead to disappointment, and that’s where word of mouth comes in.

What advice would you give to someone looking to build a career in pest management?

Stay interested. Pest control isn’t for everyone, but once you’re in, give it your all.

5. Smart Pest Control & Innovation

What are the biggest innovations in modern pest control today?

Companies are being pressured to reduce rodenticides due to legislation and inflation-driven cost cutting. The term “smart pest control” is the next big thing. Smart innovations reduce the number of annual visits, can be remotely monitored, feature auto-resetting traps, etc.

This gives technicians more time to focus on quality. However, this extra time is often used to take on more contracts, making technicians even busier. Here, quantity often takes precedence over quality.

Of course, it has potential—but only when it’s truly done SMART.

How does Smart Pest Control differ from traditional pest control methods?

• The number of legally required visits can be reduced.

• Use of rodenticides is minimized (sometimes not needed at all).

• It generates more sales due to the novelty of the technology.

• Documentation is automatically generated.

• There’s online transparency for the customer.

Again, this is only effective when smart pest control is genuinely smart and not just a smart money-making scheme. Otherwise, it’s only a matter of time before customers figure it out.

What role do AI and digital monitoring tools play in modern pest management?

AI is becoming an essential part of every company and is growing rapidly. It’s difficult to say where the limit lies.

How effective are non-toxic and eco-friendly pest control methods compared to traditional approaches?

Traditional methods are slowly disappearing—much like plastic straws, bags, and coffee lids. Only time will tell if this was a wise decision.

What advice would you give to businesses looking to implement digital pest control solutions?

Technicians’ feedback is crucial during the testing phase. Their ideas should be the first to be considered. Implementing processes or technologies without input from technicians will always lead to failure.

What common mistakes do people make when trying to control pests on their own?

I’ve told thousands of customers, “Putting cheese on the trap only works in Tom & Jerry cartoons.”

How do you see the pest control industry evolving in the next 5-10 years?

Pest control has always been and will always be necessary. The only question is whether it will be done by a predatory animal, a technician, or from behind a computer.

What’s the biggest takeaway you’d like people to learn from Online Pest Doctor?

There’s no need to spend a fortune on pest control services. When you’re desperate, the last person you want to talk to is the salesman.