More Than a Job: The Unexpectedly Rewarding World of a Specialist Hygiene Technician

At Rentokil Initial, we know that some of the most important jobs are the ones people rarely think about. Our Rentokil Specialist Hygiene colleagues are the unsung heroes who step in during times of crisis, helping people and businesses get back on their feet when they need it most. It’s a role that requires a unique blend of compassion, resilience, and a genuine desire to make a difference.

The journey of Taylor McGeechan, who started her career with us as a specialist hygiene technician, shines a light on this unique career path, revealing a role that is as fulfilling as it is challenging. Her story shows what it truly means to be there for people in their moments of need.

For many, the idea of cleaning up after a traumatic event might seem daunting. But for Taylor, it was a calling. "It was really rewarding," she explains, reflecting on her work. This sense of purpose is a common thread among our team members. They understand that their work is about more than just cleaning; it’s about restoring safety, providing peace of mind, and helping people begin the process of moving forward.

Taylor recalls the moment she knew this was the right path for her. After her first major job, she felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. "I went home and I was like, 'Mum, I know it's not the most glamorous job, but it was amazing,'" she shared. It's this profound feeling of making a tangible difference that drives our team.

Upon starting a career with Rentokil Specialist Hygiene we don’t expect you to know everything from day one. In fact, we’re committed to providing world-class training to ensure you have the skills, knowledge, and confidence to handle any situation with the highest degree of professionalism and care. Our investment in you starts from the moment you join.

All our technicians begin a structured development path, starting with the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) Level 1 qualification, which is typically completed within your first 13 weeks. This foundational training equips you with the essential knowledge for the role. As you grow with us, you’ll progress towards the RSPH Level 2 certification, a more advanced qualification that most of our technicians achieve after their first year. This ongoing training is delivered both at our state-of-the-art training academy and in the field, ensuring you are constantly learning and developing your expertise.

The technical skills are crucial, but the human element is what truly defines this role. One of the most powerful aspects of Taylor’s story is her profound empathy for the people she helps. She often found herself in situations of profound loss, where her role extended far beyond the physical task at hand.

"You can't walk into someone's house, when they've just lost someone, and be in tears yourself. You have to have that balance," Taylor explains. “It's about being a pillar of support in a moment of chaos." You say: ”We're here for you. That's the most important part.” This deep-seated value of Care is at the heart of our customer service DNA, our SCORE behaviours (Sustainability, Care, Ownership, Results, Expertise). 

We actively look to recruit people like Taylor who have a natural ability to connect with customers and show compassion when it matters most. To support our colleagues, we have robust safeguarding arrangements and a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), ensuring our team feels protected and supported, both on and off the job.

Taylor’s journey didn't stop at being a specialist hygiene technician. She has since moved into a sales consultant role within the business, a perfect example of our ethos of looking to "promote from within". We are passionate about the growth of our colleagues and provide clear pathways for career progression. In fact, many of our former apprentices have advanced into roles in sales, management, and even as assessors for our current apprenticeship programmes.

The Level 2 Customer Service Apprenticeship, for example, has seen a 99% success rate, with the vast majority of participants achieving a distinction. This is a testament to the quality of our training and the dedication of our people. We believe in nurturing talent and providing the opportunities for you to build a long and successful career with us.

A career in specialist hygiene is not for everyone. It requires a strong stomach, a compassionate heart, and a professional mindset. But as Taylor’s story shows, for the right person, it is an incredibly fulfilling path. It’s a job where you will be challenged, where you will learn every day, and where you will end your week knowing that you have made a real, positive impact on people's lives.

If you are looking for a role where no two days are the same, where you can genuinely help people, and where you are supported by a world-class team, we invite you to explore a career with Rentokil Initial.