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Cleanup Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Supervisor

Pasadena, MD · On-site

$32 - $35/hr

This role involves biohazard cleanup (blood, bodily fluids, trauma scenes). If you're ready to make a difference when it matters most, this is for you. What is a Hybrid Pay Structure? In this role ...

Senior Environmental Engineer (REMOTE ROLE)

Reston, VA · On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

Knowledge of EPA Superfund cleanup program and policies. * Experience in cost estimation related to environmental characterization and cleanup programs, as well as with the development and ...

Porter

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $15.76/hr

General cleanup of spills as needed in the warehouse. * General cleanup of employee break room as needed (per schedule). * Assist with department managers in aisle cleaning as needed. * Ensure all ...

Porter

Chantilly, VA

$15.25 - $15.76/hr

General cleanup of spills as needed in the warehouse. * General cleanup of employee break room as needed (per schedule). * Assist with department managers in aisle cleaning as needed. * Ensure all ...

Hiring Manager

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Roto-Rooter Plumbing and Water Cleanup is looking for an individual to drive a successful recruiting strategy to meet the needs of the business. This on-site person will recruit and help retain ...

Dietary Aid

Potomac, MD · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

* Assist with meal setup, serving, and cleanup in the dining room * Follow resident dietary needs, preferences, and special diet orders * Maintain cleanliness of kitchen, dining, and food service ...

General Labors

Springfield, VA

$16.75 - $21/hr

Perform general labor and site cleanup tasks. * Load, move, and lift materials weighing up to 40 lbs. * Maintain a safe and clean work area. * Work outdoors in various weather conditions, including ...

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Cleanup information

See Washington, DC salary details

$14

$24

$35

How much do cleanup jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cleanup in Washington, DC is $24.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $27.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 requirements involved. Additionally, supervisory or management positions in cleaning services often pay more than entry-level cleaning jobs. Experience, certifications, and working in high-demand environments can also increase earning potential.
What job categories do people searching Cleanup jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Cleanup jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Cleanup job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,422 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Excavator Operator/Lead Crew Member

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup

Springfield, VA • On-site

$23.75 - $31.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Roto-Rooter rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

180th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Excavator Operator/Lead Crew Member

Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor territories, and approximately 400 independent franchise operations, serving approximately 90% of the U.S. population and parts of Canada.

If job security, top pay, excellent benefits, and career advancement representing a well-known national brand are what you're looking for, Roto-Rooter is the company for you. We pride ourselves on being a great place to work, providing excellent pay, flexible work schedules and top benefits.

We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator, especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements.

Responsibilities
  • Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials on residential and commercial job sites.
  • Load, unload and secure equipment on transport trailers according to guidelines.
  • Follow OSHA and Roto-Rooter safety procedures.
  • Work collaboratively with a crew to efficiently complete excavation work on various projects.
  • Interact with customers as needed, providing excellent customer service and addressing their requirements professionally.
  • Maintain excavation equipment and gather all necessary equipment from the branch and/or rental companies to ensure smooth operations during excavation tasks.
  • Perform excavation work in confined spaces and open trenches, adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.
  • Locate and arrive at job sites promptly, ensuring safe driving and operation of service vehicles between locations.
Requirements
  • Essential requirement: Construction experience in both residential and commercial projects.
  • Mandatory requirement: Possession of a current CDL Class A license for this position.
  • Trenchless water, sewer & gas experience is a plus.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, as required for the role.
  • Complete jobs within specified timelines.
Benefits

At Roto-Rooter, we believe our most significant investment is in our employees. We prioritize the health and well-being of our team and their families. That's why we offer an extensive employee benefit package including:

  • Medical insurance with a Prescription Drug Card
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Training
  • Life Insurance
  • Matching 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing

Roto-Rooter offers excellent career paths for military veterans and personnel transitioning to civilian professions. Throughout nearly 100 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are an excellent fit for our company.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.


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