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Cleanup Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Solano RCD

Benicia Earth Day Cleanup

Benicia, CA · On-site

Volunteers will be working with a group to clear trash and recyclable beverage containers from local green spaces and waterways We recommend bringing reusable cleanup supplies such as garden gloves ...

San Jose Arena Management

$23.13/hr

Maintenance ( Custodial & Event Cleanup Staff) POSITION TYPE: Part Time, Non-Exempt COMPANY: Sharks Sports and Entertainment, LLC LOCATION: SAP Center and Tech CU Arena - San Jose, CA REPORTS TO: Sr. ...

Solano RCD

Benicia Earth Day Cleanup

Benicia, CA · On-site

Volunteers will be working with a group to clear trash and recyclable beverage containers from local green spaces and waterways We recommend bringing reusable cleanup supplies such as garden gloves ...

SAP Center

$23.13/hr

Maintenance ( Custodial & Event Cleanup Staff) POSITION TYPE: Part Time, Non-Exempt COMPANY: Sharks Sports and Entertainment, LLC LOCATION: SAP Center and Tech CU Arena - San Jose, CA REPORTS TO: Sr. ...

Essel

Hazmat Laborer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $23.75/hr

Perform hazardous materials cleanup and remediation activities * Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with regulations * Assist with testing, sampling, and monitoring of hazardous ...

Essel

Hazmat Laborer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $23.75/hr

Perform hazardous materials cleanup and remediation activities * Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with regulations * Assist with testing, sampling, and monitoring of hazardous ...

Essel

Hazmat Laborer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.50/hr

Perform hazardous materials cleanup and remediation activities * Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with regulations * Assist with testing, sampling, and monitoring of hazardous ...

Essel

Hazmat Laborer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $23.75/hr

Perform hazardous materials cleanup and remediation activities * Handle and dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with regulations * Assist with testing, sampling, and monitoring of hazardous ...

Ten West

HazMat Tech

San Bernardino, CA

$24 - $26/hr

As an HazMat Technician, you will play a crucial role in the cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials, ensuring compliance with safety regulations. This position offers an opportunity to work with ...

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All JobsCleanup JobsCleanup Jobs in California

Cleanup information

See California salary details

$12

$21

$31

How much do cleanup jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for cleanup in California is $21.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cleanup job?

Cleanup jobs involve tasks related to cleaning, organizing, and maintaining the cleanliness of spaces such as homes, offices, construction sites, or public areas. Workers in cleanup roles may be responsible for removing debris, sanitizing surfaces, emptying trash, and ensuring that environments are safe and tidy. These positions can be found in a variety of industries and may require the use of cleaning equipment, chemicals, and adherence to safety guidelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cleanup worker?

To thrive as a Cleanup Worker, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of safety protocols, often requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial cleaning equipment, chemical handling procedures, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is typically expected. Reliability, teamwork, and a proactive attitude are important soft skills that help ensure tasks are completed efficiently. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safe, clean environments and supporting the overall operation of workplaces or public areas.

What are some common challenges faced by cleanup crew members in maintaining safety and efficiency on the job?

Cleanup crew members often work in fast-paced environments where maintaining both safety and efficiency can be challenging. They must be vigilant to avoid hazards such as slips, trips, and exposure to hazardous materials, especially in industrial or construction settings. Balancing thoroughness with time constraints is a common challenge, as crews are expected to complete tasks quickly without compromising on quality. Effective teamwork and clear communication are essential to ensure that all areas are properly cleaned and safety protocols are consistently followed.

What is the difference between Cleanup vs Janitor?

AspectCleanupJanitor
CredentialsTypically no formal certifications requiredUsually no formal certifications required
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, construction areas, disaster zonesSchools, offices, commercial buildings
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, industrial facilities, cleanup servicesSchools, office buildings, maintenance companies
Common Search IntentCleanup services, disaster cleanup, industrial cleanupJanitorial services, building maintenance

Cleanup generally refers to specialized tasks like industrial or disaster site cleaning, often requiring specific safety protocols. Janitors focus on routine cleaning and maintenance of buildings. While both roles involve cleaning, Cleanup is more specialized and often temporary, whereas Janitors provide ongoing maintenance services.

Can I be a cleanup with no experience?

Cleanup jobs often do not require prior experience, as they typically involve basic tasks like sweeping, mopping, and trash removal. Employers may provide on-the-job training, and having reliability and the ability to follow instructions are important qualities for entry-level positions.

Which cleaning job pays the most?

In the cleaning industry, specialized roles such as industrial or hazardous materials cleaners tend to offer higher wages due to the skills and safety training required. Additionally, supervisory or management positions in cleaning services often pay more than entry-level cleaning jobs. Experience, certifications, and working in high-demand sectors can also increase earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Cleanup jobs in California?

For Cleanup jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cleanup jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cleanup jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cleanup jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cleanup job openings:

Cleanup jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cleanup job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,978 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

UST Cleanup Environmental Specialist

Redhorse Corporation

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

UST Cleanup Environmental Specialist
About the Organization
Now is a great time to join Redhorse Corporation. Redhorse specializes in developing and implementing creative strategies and solutions with private, state, and federal customers in the areas of cultural and environmental resources services, climate and energy change, information technology, and intelligence services. We are hiring creative, motivated, and talented people with a passion for doing what's right, what's smart, and what works.
Position Description 
Redhorse Corporation has a need for a Geologist, Engineer, or Environmental Scientist who will be based out of San Francisco, CA to provide support to the Underground Storage Tank (UST) Cleanup Program for leaking UST cases under the oversight of Regional Water Quality Control Boards or Local Oversight Programs in California.
The UST Cleanup Environmental Assistant will support senior staff in efforts to facilitate effective cleanup of UST cases under State Water Resources Control Board, Regional Water Quality Control Board, or Local Oversight Program oversight. They will perform a wide range of regulatory, environmental protection, and administrative support functions relevant to efforts to address leaking USTs such as reviewing case files, synthesizing information gleaned from files reviewed, supporting funding applications, facilitating digitization of historic paper files, supporting senior staff in evaluation of assessment and remedial efforts at UST cases, and performing field work in support of leaking UST assessment and cleanup. The position will be based out of the Redhorse San Francisco office but a hybrid schedule (1-2 days per week in the office) is available.
Responsibilities include:
  • Draft directive letters and notices to Responsible Parties (RP) of LUST Cases.
  • Track delivery status of letters and notices issued, as well as deadlines for RP submittals.
  • Conduct online research to locate RP contact information and obtain information about site status.
  • Attend meetings with UST Program stakeholders to address program issues and concerns.
  • Support senior staff Act as liaison between oversight agencies, the State Water Board, and U.S. EPA in resolving challenging issues with Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) cases.
  • Develop effective case management techniques in coordination with lead oversight agencies.
  • Assist with training case managers on the skills needed to identify and locate responsible parties, conduct investigative research, and provide step-by-step technical and funding program guidance, via phone and in-person meetings.
  • Review LUST cases to determine if they are eligible for the Low Threat Closure Policy and assist case managers with developing comprehensive Path to Closure Plans.
  • Prepare case closure packages for cases deemed eligible for closure by the lead oversight agency.
  • Review lead Reginal Water Board files, parcel records, and local regulatory agency files, to determine who can be considered a potentially responsible party (PRP).
  • Ensure relevant physical copy reports are uploaded to the State Water Board’s GeoTracker Database.
  • Prepare funding applications for the UST Clean up fund and Orphan Site Cleanup fund for eligible responsible parties.
Minimum Requirements for Skills, Experience, Education and Credentials include:
  • Bachelor’s degree in environmental/civil engineering, chemistry, geology, biology, environmental science, or related field is required; a Master’s degree is preferred.
  • Ability to develop strategies to correct problems, coordinate with appropriate personnel and (where appropriate) determine the need for an environmental study of the problem.
  • 1 to 3 years of prior work experience in a field relevant to environmental assessment, engineering, or regulatory oversight (in California is preferred).
  • Ability to develop productive working relationships with State and local agencies.
  • Ability to effectively communicate policy, regulations, and technical issues with a variety of audiences both verbally and in writing.
  • Self-starter that takes initiative.
Preferred Skills, Experience, Education and Credentials include:
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, balancing multiple tasks and deadlines.
  • Strong verbal communication skills and a high level of professionalism.
  • Excellent writing, computer, and internet skills, including use of spreadsheets. Advanced use of MS Excel preferred.
  • Detail-oriented and well organized.
  • Conversational Spanish skills preferred.
Executive Order Requirement:
In accordance with Executive Order 14042 as a Federal Contractor Redhorse requires all U.S. new hires to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 by December 8, 2021 or prior to the first date of employment, whichever is later. As required by the Executive Order, Redhorse will work in coordination with applicable contract agencies to consider requests for Reasonable Accommodations.
Redhorse Corporation shall, in its discretion, modify or adjust the position to meet Redhorse’s changing needs.
This job description is not a contract and may be adjusted as deemed appropriate in Redhorse’s sole discretion.
EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled

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