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Clean Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operator

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Industrial Cleaning Operators perform the general labor activities of an Industrial Cleaning Technician as well as operate water blasting and industrial vacuum equipment associated with hazardous and ...

... clean equipment before running each load to prevent cross contamination. • Prepare/set-up the ... Cleaning House Operator | 4/24/2024 2 knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable ...

Evening Medical Facility Cleaner

East Lansing, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $15.75/hr

Terminal clean experience * Cleaning operating and procedure rooms to surgery-center standards * Following workflow task sheets * Equipment cleaning and maintenance * Proper trash storage and ...

Operator

Tuscaloosa, AL

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Industrial Cleaning Operators perform the general labor activities of an Industrial Cleaning Technician as well as operate water blasting and industrial vacuum equipment associated with hazardous and ...

Cleaning Associate

Jackson, MI

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

... operating, and procedure rooms to meet customer and client satisfaction Essential functions and responsibilities of the position may vary by Clean Team location based on client requirements and ...

Cleaning Associate

Jackson, MI

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

... operating, and procedure rooms to meet customer and client satisfaction Essential functions and responsibilities of the position may vary by Clean Team location based on client requirements and ...

Operator

Bossier City, LA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Industrial Cleaning Operators perform the general labor activities of an Industrial Cleaning Technician as well as operate water blasting and industrial vacuum equipment associated with hazardous and ...

Cleaning Assoicate

Jackson, MI · On-site

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

... operating, and procedure rooms to meet customer and client satisfaction Essential functions and responsibilities of the position may vary by Clean Team location based on client requirements and ...

Evening Medical Facility Cleaner

East Lansing, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $15.75/hr

Terminal clean experience * Cleaning operating and procedure rooms to surgery-center standards * Following workflow task sheets * Equipment cleaning and maintenance * Proper trash storage and ...

Cleaning Associate

Jackson, MI · On-site

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

... operating, and procedure rooms to meet customer and client satisfaction Essential functions and responsibilities of the position may vary by Clean Team location based on client requirements and ...

Cleaning Associate

Jackson, MI

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

... operating, and procedure rooms to meet customer and client satisfaction Essential functions and responsibilities of the position may vary by Clean Team location based on client requirements and ...

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Clean Operator information

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$10

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$29

How much do clean operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for clean operator in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 2 hours a week enough for a cleaner?

For a Clean Operator or similar cleaning roles, 2 hours a week may be sufficient for small or routine tasks, but it is generally considered minimal for comprehensive cleaning of larger spaces. The adequacy depends on the size of the area, cleaning frequency, and specific job requirements, often requiring more hours for thorough results or regular maintenance.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

The role of Clean Operator may decline as automation and robotics increasingly handle cleaning tasks in industrial and commercial settings. Jobs that involve routine manual labor are expected to decrease, while roles requiring advanced technical skills or oversight of automated systems will grow. Adaptation to new technologies and certifications in automation may be necessary for future employment.

What are Clean Operators?

Clean Operators are professionals responsible for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in industrial, commercial, or manufacturing environments. Their duties often include operating specialized cleaning equipment, following strict protocols for sanitization, and ensuring that workspaces meet safety and cleanliness standards. Clean Operators play a vital role in preventing contamination, especially in industries like food processing, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. They may also handle hazardous materials and must adhere to regulatory and workplace safety guidelines. Attention to detail and knowledge of cleaning procedures are essential skills for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Clean Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clean Operator, you need a solid understanding of cleaning protocols, attention to detail, and basic literacy skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial cleaning equipment, chemical handling procedures, and safety certifications such as OSHA or COSHH is typically required. Reliability, time management, and the ability to follow instructions are critical soft skills that distinguish top performers. These competencies ensure a safe, hygienic environment and compliance with industry standards, which are vital for the overall success and safety of the workplace.

Is $50 an hour good for house cleaning?

For a house cleaning job, earning $50 an hour is considered above average in many regions, where typical rates range from $15 to $30 per hour. Experienced cleaning operators with specialized skills or working in high-demand areas may command higher rates, making $50 an hour a competitive or excellent wage depending on the location and job requirements.

Which cleaning job pays the most?

In the cleaning industry, specialized roles such as industrial or hazardous materials cleaners tend to offer higher wages compared to standard janitorial or residential cleaning jobs. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in high-risk environments can also influence pay rates for cleaning positions.

What are some common challenges Clean Operators face when working in fast-paced industrial environments?

Clean Operators often work in settings where maintaining strict cleanliness and safety standards is crucial. Common challenges include managing time effectively to complete cleaning tasks without disrupting production, adapting to changing schedules, and handling specialized equipment or chemicals safely. Teamwork is essential, as Clean Operators regularly coordinate with production staff and supervisors to ensure all areas meet compliance requirements. Staying organized and proactive in identifying potential hazards can help overcome these challenges and contribute to a safe, efficient workplace.

What is the difference between Clean Operator vs Janitorial Worker?

AspectClean OperatorJanitorial Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic training often provided
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, manufacturing, or commercial facilities; operating cleaning machineryCommercial buildings, offices, schools; general cleaning tasks
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing plants, warehouses, industrial sitesCleaning service companies, schools, offices

While both roles involve cleaning tasks, a Clean Operator typically works with specialized cleaning equipment in industrial or commercial settings, requiring specific training. In contrast, a Janitorial Worker performs general cleaning duties in various facilities, often with minimal specialized equipment. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit based on skills and work environment.

More about Clean Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Clean Operator jobs? Cities with the most Clean Operator job openings:
What states have the most Clean Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Clean Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Clean Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Clean Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Clean Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Industrial Cleaning Operator

Industrial Cleaning Operator

Republic Services

Robstown, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Republic Services rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 567 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 75 rated recycling and waste


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: Industrial Cleaning Operators are responsible for removing industrial waste from customer's facilities using equipment such as vacuum trucks and high pressure water equipment. When Industrial Cleaning Operators are not working on a customer's site or responding to emergency spills, they are working at our facility loading and off-loading trucks and assisting with waste bulking, receiving, and transferring.

PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Operates light and heavy equipment relating to clean-up, including: tanker, roll-off, liquid and turbo vacuums, box trucks, and sewer cleaners.

  • Responds to customer spills and emergencies.

  • Performs pre-trip and post-trip Department of Transportation inspections.

  • Maintains vehicle logs.

  • Performs general housekeeping, including maintenance of equipment and site.

  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Ability to use heavy and light equipment, such as tanker, vacuum truck, forklift and pallet-jack.

  • Skilled using hand and shop tools, and instruments. Demonstrates, accuracy, thoroughness and attention to detail.

  • Must be able to prioritize, stay focused and handle multiple, diverse responsibilities

  • A valid driver's license may be required for some positions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Ability to pass 40-hour HAZWOPER Training upon hire.

Rewarding Compensation and Benefits

Eligible employees can elect to participate in:
Comprehensive medical benefits coverage, dental plans and vision coverage.
Health care and dependent care spending accounts.
Short- and long-term disability.
Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment insurance.
Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP).
Employee discount programs.
Retirement plan with a generous company match.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Benefits: https://jobs.republicservices.com/us/en/about-us/benefits

The statements used herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by an employee in this position, and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required by an incumbent so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Company.

EEO STATEMENT:Republic Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, relationship or association with a protected veteran (spouses or other family members), genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. For any concerns relating to Republic Services' commitment to equal opportunity employment, you may contact the AWARE Line at 1-866-3-AWARE-4.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) is a leader in the environmental services industry. We provide customers with the most complete set of products and services, including recycling, waste, special waste, hazardous waste and field services.Our industry-leading commitments to advance circularity and support decarbonization are helping deliver on our vision to partner with customers to create a more sustainable world.


In 2025, Republic's total company revenue was $16.6 billion, and adjusted EBITDA was $5.3 billion. We serve 13 million customers and operate more than 1,000 locations, including collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and landfills.


Although we operate across North America, the collection, recycling, treatment, or disposal of materials is a local business, and the dynamics and opportunities differ in each market we serve. By combining local operational management with standardized business practices, we drive greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational decisions at the local level, closest to the customer.


Our customers, including small businesses, major corporations and municipalities, want a partner with the expertise and capabilities to effectively manage their multiple recycling and waste streams. They choose Republic Services because we are committed to exceeding their expectations and helping them achieve their sustainability goals. Our 42,000 team members understand that it's not just what we do that matters, but how we do it.


Our company values guide our daily actions:

  • Safe: We protect the livelihoods of our colleagues and communities.
  • Committed to Serve: We go above and beyond to exceed our customers' expectations.
  • Environmentally Responsible:We take action to improve our environment.
  • Driven: We deliver results in the right way.
  • Human-Centered:We respect the dignity and unique potential of every person.

We are proud of our high employee engagement score of 86. We have an inclusive and diverse culture where every voice counts. In addition, our team positively impacted 5.1 million people in 2024 through the Republic Services Charitable Foundation and local community grants. These projects are designed to meet the specific needs of the communities we serve, with a focus on building sustainable neighborhoods.


STRATEGY

Republic Services' strategy is designed to generate profitable growth. Through acquisitions and industry advancements, we safely and sustainably manage our customers' multiple waste streams through a North American footprint of vertically integrated assets.

We focus on three areas of growth to meet the increasing needs of our customers: recycling and waste, environmental solutions and sustainability innovation.

With our integrated approach, strengthening our position in one area advances other areas of our business. For example, as we grow volume in recycling and waste, we collect additional material to bolster our circularity capabilities. And as we expand environmental solutions, we drive additional opportunities to provide these services to our existing recycling and waste customers.


Recycling and Waste

We continue to expand our recycling and waste business footprint throughout North America through organic growth and targeted acquisitions. The 13 million customers we serve and our more than 5 million pick-ups per day provide us with a distinct advantage. We aggregate materials at scale, unlocking new opportunities for advanced recycling. In addition, we are cross-selling new products and services to better meet our customers' specific needs.


Environmental Solutions

Our comprehensive environmental solutions capabilities help customers safely manage their most technical waste streams. We are expanding both our capabilities and our geographic footprint. We see strong growth opportunities for our offerings, including PFAS remediation, an increasing customer need.


Sustainability Innovation

Republic's recent innovations to advance circularity and decarbonization demonstrate our unique ability to leverage sustainability as a platform for growth.


The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility. These innovative sites process rigid plastics from our recycling centers, producing recycled materials that promote true bottle-to-bottle circularity. We also formed Blue Polymers, a joint venture with Ravago, to develop facilities that will further process plastic material from our Polymer Centers to help meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging. We are building a network of Polymer Centers and Blue Polymer facilities across North America.


Our customers are increasingly looking for decarbonization solutions, and we are leveraging our network of landfills to meet that need. Republic is committed to harnessing landfill gas, a natural byproduct of decomposing waste, and converting it to energy. Republic has partnered with renewable gas developers to construct Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) plants at our landfills, expanding beyond the 77 projects we currently have to make progress towards our goal to beneficially reuse 50% more biogas by 2030 (2017 baseline year).


RECENT RECOGNITION

  • Barron's 100 Most Sustainable Companies
  • CDP Discloser
  • Dow Jones Best-In-Class Indices
  • Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies
  • Fortune World's Most Admired Companies
  • Great Place to Work
  • Sustainability Yearbook S&P Global

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