Operations Manager

Sprague Pest Solutions•Salt Lake City, UT

12d•$78,000 - $85,000

About The Position

Lead the Work. Grow the People. Raise the Bar. At Sprague Pest Solutions, we don’t just solve pest problems — we build teams that protect food, property, and public health. We’re looking for a self-directed, people-centered Operations Manager to help lead our Salt Lake City branch operations, with a strong focus on technician development, service quality, and operational execution. This role is ideal for a leader who is respected by their peers, energized by solving real operational problems, and motivated to help others grow — while continuing to grow themselves. What You’ll Do The Operations Manager is the day-to-day operational leader for our technician team. While the Branch Manager sets the overall business direction and strategy, the Operations Manager brings that strategy to life by driving quality, productivity, efficiency, and technician development. You’ll lead Route Managers through coaching, accountability, and hands-on operational support — helping the team run smoothly, take ownership, and consistently deliver excellent service. In this role, you will: Lead & Develop Your Team Serve as a visible, trusted leader for Route Managers — someone the team looks to for guidance, support, and follow-through. Coach, mentor, and develop technicians, with a focus on technical excellence, professionalism, and leadership readiness. Identify high-potential employees and actively support certification attainment, skill development, and career progression. Help technicians successfully transition from “doing the work” to “leading others” when appropriate. Foster a culture of accountability, positivity, and continuous improvement. Drive Operational Excellence Own daily operational execution, including route efficiency, coverage planning, and service quality. Proactively identify operational challenges and implement solutions without waiting for direction. Manage logistics and workflow to keep the operation running smoothly — even when plans change. Partner closely with the Branch Manager to improve productivity, throughput, and consistency. Champion Quality, Safety & Compliance Ensure all services meet Sprague standards, client expectations, and regulatory requirements. Reinforce safe work practices, equipment readiness, and proper pesticide handling. Lead with a “run toward problems” mindset when quality, safety, or compliance issues arise. Communicate & Collaborate Communicate clearly, positively, and consistently with technicians, peers, and leadership. Address challenges directly while maintaining trust and morale. Collaborate across teams to support branch goals and long-term growth. Why Sprague? We’re more than a pest control company—we’re a team of professionals who care deeply about our clients and each other. We offer competitive pay, great benefits, and a chance to be part of something meaningful. Meaningful Impact: Protect essential businesses and communities. People-First Culture: We believe great operations start with strong leaders and engaged teams. Growth & Development: Training, certifications, leadership development, and career pathways. Stability & Support: A respected brand with long-term opportunity. Position Summary: The primary responsibility for the Operations Manager is to lead a team of Route Managers (commercial pest control technicians) in a direction consistent with the Sprague mission, culture, and business plan. The Operations Manager will be responsible for training staff to consistently and passionately deliver uncompromising service to all clients. This position requires a passion for leading people and processes to achieve safety, quality, compliance, and performance goals. The Operations Manager will collaborate with the Branch Manager to foster loyalty and retention among both clients and route managers, address the evolving growth and development needs of the workforce and marketplace, and implement policy and process changes to support Sprague’s long-term growth strategies.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED
Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly and influence outcomes
Comfort using Microsoft Office and other business technology tools
Ability to pass background screening, motor vehicle checks, DOT physical, and drug screening
Ability and aptitude with Microsoft Office Suite and other technology necessary for successful day-to-day functioning in a business environment.
Ability to meet DOT physical standards, including a 5-panel drug screen
Physical Strength and Stamina: Ability to handle pest control equipment and work in various conditions and environments1.
Lifting and Carrying: Ability to lift and carry equipment and materials, which may weigh up to 50 pounds.
Bending, Stooping, and Crawling: Frequent bending, stooping, and crawling to access and treat pest-infested areas.
Standing and Walking: Prolonged periods of standing and walking while inspecting and treating areas.
Working in Confined Spaces: Ability to work in tight or confined spaces, such as crawl spaces, equipment rooms, and silos.
Climbing: Ability to climb ladders and work at heights when necessary.
Use of Protective Equipment: Wearing protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and respirators, to reduce the risk of harm from pesticides
Working in various weather conditions: Preparedness to work outdoors in all types of weather, including extreme heat, cold, and rain.
Safety awareness: Ability to follow safety protocols and wear personal protective equipment to minimize health risks from exposure to chemicals and pests

Nice To Haves

2+ years of experience in pest management and/or people and operations management
Experience in pest control, food production, industrial, or safety-regulated environments
Pest control, industrial, or safety certifications
2+ years in pest management and/or 2+ years in managing people and business operations, preferably in pest control, food production, or related industries.

Responsibilities

Route and Technician Management: Train technicians on pest management techniques, including pest identification, control, and prevention, plus new programs, processes, and equipment.
Coach technicians on effective and efficient route management, ensuring completion of all assigned routes; reassign or cover work to address vacations or vacancies.
Conduct vehicles inspections with technicians to ensure proper inventory levels of tools, equipment, and pest control supplies, ensuring all equipment is well-maintained, tidy, stored, and used according to Sprague safety standards.
Quality Assurance & Customer Satisfaction: Regularly assess service quality, ensuring pest control services meet client, industry, and Sprague standards.
Interact with customers and assist technicians to resolve service issues, ensuring timely responses to client complaints and follow-up actions.
Train and coach technicians on quality assurance standards and customer service expectations.
Compliance and Safety: Ensure all technicians perform all job duties, including operating motor vehicles, according to Sprague and industry safety standards
Stay updated on local, state, and federal regulations regarding pest control practices and ensure all techniques are trained, informed, and implementing new policies and processes.
Observe and coach technicians on the correct handling, storage, and disposal of pesticides and chemicals to prevent accidents and environmental contamination.
Business Development: Collaborate with technicians and sales to identify new clients, build route density, and enhance value for existing ones.
Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, suppliers, and the community.
Work with branch managers, sales personnel, and technicians to prepare bids for special services, including fumigation and bird work.
Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Salary: $78000-85000 to start (depending on experience) plus annual bonus
A take-home service vehicle with gas card
Company-provided phone, uniforms, and safety equipment
On-the-job training and licensing
Pride in your work and the Sprague mission
A supportive team environment based on family values
Unlimited growth opportunities, with continuing education and leadership training
Health, Vision, Dental Insurance within 30 days of hire
401K after 1 year, with 100% match up to 3% plus 50% match up to 6%
Paid time off: Sick time available day 1, holiday and vacation time after 90 days
Childcare assistance and college savings plan