Self-employed exterminators can have a varied schedule and set their own working hours, while those that are employed by a corporation have a fixed working schedule. In both cases however, a lot of time is spent driving to and from various appointments.

Exterminators mostly work in cramped and possibly dirty places that include basements, attics and even house foundations. Exterminators also sometimes have to identify the source of an infestation and this may include trips to equally unpleasant places including garbage disposal sites and sewage systems. Thus an exterminator must be comfortable working in these conditions and should have proper protection and safety equipment.