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Drain Cleaner Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

GlacierFlow Plumbing and Heating Ltd

Be Seen First

Journeyman Plumber

Calgary, AB · On-site

CA$40 - CA$50/hr

Perform drain cleaning and troubleshooting * Complete plumbing inspections and maintenance services * Communicate solutions clearly and professionally with homeowners * Prepare accurate service ...

GlacierFlow Plumbing and Heating Ltd

Be Seen First

Journeyman Plumber

Calgary, AB · On-site

CA$40 - CA$50/hr

Perform drain cleaning and troubleshooting * Complete plumbing inspections and maintenance services * Communicate solutions clearly and professionally with homeowners * Prepare accurate service ...

Handyman Connection of Calgary

Service Plumber

Calgary, AB · On-site

CA$75 - CA$85/hr

Proficiency in Residential & Light Commercial Plumbing - Including re-piping, water heater installation, leak detection, drain cleaning, and fixture replacements. * Comfortable Working with Various ...

York Group

Senior Building Operator

Calgary, AB · On-site

Execute preventive maintenance tasks including filter changes, lubrication, belt inspections, drain cleaning, and seasonal system adjustments; identify gaps in PM coverage and flag concerns to the ...

York Group

Senior Building Operator

Calgary, AB

Execute preventive maintenance tasks including filter changes, lubrication, belt inspections, drain cleaning, and seasonal system adjustments; identify gaps in PM coverage and flag concerns to the ...

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Drain Cleaner information

How do I become a drain cleaner?

To become a drain cleaner, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training or apprenticeships to learn plumbing techniques and safety procedures. Skills in using hand tools, understanding plumbing systems, and physical stamina are important; some employers may require certification in plumbing or hazardous materials handling.

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

To thrive as a Drain Cleaner, you need a good understanding of plumbing systems, manual dexterity, and problem-solving abilities, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with drain cleaning machines, augers, pipe inspection cameras, and sometimes relevant safety certifications is typically required. Strong customer service skills, reliability, and attention to detail help set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure efficient service, safety, and customer satisfaction when resolving plumbing issues.

What does a drain cleaner do?

A drain cleaner is a professional who specializes in clearing clogs and blockages from plumbing systems, such as sinks, toilets, and main sewer lines. They use specialized tools and techniques, like drain snakes, augers, and sometimes hydro-jetting equipment, to remove debris and restore proper water flow. Drain cleaners also inspect pipes for damage or recurring issues and may offer advice on preventing future blockages. Their work ensures that residential and commercial plumbing systems function efficiently and safely.

How much do drain cleaners get paid an hour?

Drain cleaners typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a company or as independent contractors. Skilled workers with certifications or specialized tools may earn higher wages, and the job often involves physical labor and troubleshooting plumbing issues.

How much does a drain cleaner get paid?

Drain cleaners typically earn an average hourly wage between $15 and $25, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Pay can vary based on experience, location, and whether they work for a company or as independent contractors, often requiring knowledge of plumbing tools and safety procedures.

What Are the Duties and Responsibilities of a Drain Cleaner?

As a drain cleaner, you clear clogs from various types of drains and pipes such as floor drains, sinks, tubs, toilets, and urinals. You typically use equipment like electric snakes, high-velocity water jets, and sewer cameras for inspecting drain lines. More advanced positions have responsibilities involving technical service, such as repairing underground sewers and drains using excavation methods. Other duties include fixing frozen lines and steam thawing. You must maintain a safe work environment by following company rules and any state or local policies.

What is the difference between Drain Cleaner vs Plumber?

AspectDrain CleanerPlumber
Credentials/CertificationsTypically no formal certification required, but some may have training or licensesRequires plumbing license and certifications
Work EnvironmentPrimarily performs cleaning and unclogging tasks, often in residential or commercial settingsPerforms installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems in various settings
Industry UsageUsed mainly for drain cleaning and minor repairsInvolved in comprehensive plumbing services including repairs, installations, and inspections

Drain cleaners focus on clearing clogs and cleaning drains, often with specialized tools or chemicals. Plumbers have broader responsibilities, including installing and repairing plumbing systems, and typically hold certifications. While drain cleaners may work independently or for cleaning services, plumbers are licensed professionals providing a wide range of plumbing solutions.

How much do people who clean sewers make?

Sewer and drain cleaners typically earn a median annual wage of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a company or independently. Skilled workers with certifications and safety training can earn higher wages, especially in hazardous environments requiring specialized tools and procedures.

What are some common challenges that Drain Cleaners face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Drain Cleaners often encounter challenges such as working in confined or awkward spaces, exposure to unpleasant odors, and dealing with tough blockages that require specialized tools. Staying up-to-date with the latest equipment and safety protocols helps address these challenges. Additionally, effective communication with clients and team members ensures the job is completed safely and efficiently, while wearing proper protective gear minimizes health risks.
More about Drain Cleaner jobs
What are popular job titles related to Drain Cleaner jobs in Alberta? For Drain Cleaner jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drain Cleaner jobs in Alberta look for? The top searched job categories for Drain Cleaner jobs in Alberta are:
What are popular job titles related to Drain Cleaner jobs in AB? For Drain Cleaner jobs in AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Drain Cleaner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drain Cleaner job openings in Alberta as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Service Plumber - Drain Cleaning Specialist

First Choice Maintenance

Calgary, AB • On-site

CA$45 - CA$50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Service Plumber - Drain Cleaning Specialist

Work Location: Field-based | Calgary, AB

Company: First Choice Maintenance

Job Type: Full-time

About Us

At First Choice Maintenance (FCM), we’ve proudly delivered high-quality facility maintenance services across Canada since 2003. We specialize in plumbing, plumbing fixtures, water filtration systems, electrical, restaurant equipment, and more. We maintain a strong focus on reliable, responsive field service.

We are a 100% Canadian-owned company that believes in supporting our tradespeople with the tools, respect, and flexibility they need to succeed. This is especially true in the dynamic, fast-paced environments we serve.

The Role

We are hiring a Journeyman Plumber based in Calgary, AB. This is a full-time, field-based role involving daily travel to job sites, primarily in the commercial and foodservice sectors.

This role is perfect for a plumbing professional with expert knowledge and extensive hands-on experience in drain cleaning, water filtration systems, plumbing fixtures, and commercial drainage system maintenance. You will be expected to diagnose complex drain and pipe blockages and provide effective solutions quickly and efficiently. This position requires a highly skilled specialist who is comfortable working independently and thrives in a demanding, hands-on environment.

Much of the work is performed in active retail or restaurant locations, often in tight spaces during off-hours or around customers.

What You'll Do

  • Diagnose, maintain, and repair commercial plumbing systems with a strong emphasis on drain cleaning and clearing blockages

  • Perform drain cleaning and jetting, and service water filtration systems and plumbing fixtures

  • Complete service calls and preventative maintenance visits

  • Recommend repair solutions and communicate clearly with internal teams

  • Maintain safe, clean, and food-safe job sites during and after work

  • Accurately complete digital service reports and timesheets

  • Follow all safety regulations, building codes, and company protocols

  • Drive to different locations throughout the day (company vehicle provided)

  • Occasionally respond to after-hours or weekend calls, as required

Work schedules can vary based on service needs and may occasionally include evening or weekend work, with advance notice when possible. One of the benefits of working with FCM is that you can focus fully on your trade. We handle all customer billing and scheduling. You'll enjoy a steady flow of service calls from our established commercial clients, so you never have to worry about finding your next job or chasing payments.

What We're Looking For

  • Certified Journeyman Plumber (Required)

  • Valid Class 5 (AB) Driver's License and clean driving record (Required)

  • Comfortable with mobile apps, work orders, and digital tools (Required)

  • 3–5+ years of plumbing experience in a service-focused role

  • Proven hands-on experience diagnosing and repairing commercial plumbing systems, water filtration systems, and plumbing fixtures. Skilled at clearing blockages and servicing drainage systems

  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

  • Strong attention to safety, cleanliness, and detail

  • Clear, professional communication skills (both written and verbal)

  • Physically able to lift 50–100 lbs and work in demanding environments

  • Gas Fitter Certification. An asset, but not required

  • Backflow Certification. required

  • Legally authorized to work in Canada (FCM does not sponsor work permits, visas, or immigration processes)

  • Clean criminal record (required)

What We Offer

  • Competitive wage based on experience

  • Company vehicle and fuel card

  • All tools, equipment, and uniforms provided

  • Health and dental benefits after probation period

  • Onboarding and training support

  • Consistent year-round work in a growing, well-organized company

  • A respectful, safety-focused environment where tradespeople are valued

Join Our Team

If you're a skilled plumber who takes pride in your work, thrives in the field, and wants to join a company that truly supports its tradespeople, we want to hear from you. Apply today and bring your expertise to FCM, where you can make a real impact on our customers' satisfaction.

FCM is an equal opportunity employer. Accommodations are available upon request. If you require a specific accommodation during the application process, please let us know.


Note: We use AI-enabled tools to sort applications based on job-related criteria. However, a human resources professional decides who moves forward. This role is an active opening within our organization.