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Drain Cleaner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mr. Rooter

Drain Cleaner

Anaheim, CA · On-site

Whether you have drain cleaning experience or plumbing knowledge, we offer opportunities for training, advancement, and year-round work. If you take pride in helping customers, enjoy hands-on work ...

Lula

Drain Cleaner Needed (Sacramento)

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Lula is looking for a 1099 Drain Cleaning Pro to help with property maintenance of several thousand rental properties across the Sacramento area . We are seeking individuals who have experience in ...

Lula

Drain Cleaner Needed (Stockton)

Stockton, CA · On-site

Lula is looking for a 1099 Drain Cleaning Pro to help with property maintenance of several thousand rental properties across the Stockton area . We are seeking individuals who have experience in the ...

Zoom Drain

Drain Service Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

They go in, diagnose the customer's issue, and help them get up and running again, whether it's drain cleaning or preventative maintenance. Drain Service Technician Role | WHAT WE DO * Clear drain ...

Zoom Drain

Drain Install Technician

Escondido, CA · On-site

$60K - $120K/yr

They go in, diagnose the customer's issue, and help them get up and running again, whether it's drain cleaning or preventative maintenance. Job Requirements and Qualifications: * High school diploma ...

Thousand Oaks Plumbing

Drain Technician

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Diagnose and perform drain cleaning services on residential and commercial properties * Use ServiceTitan software to manage work orders, customer info, and transactions * Spot additional plumbing ...

15 Sewer and Drain

Plumber/Drain Cleaning

San Jose, CA · On-site

$31 - $37/hr

Do you have extensive plumbing service/Drain Cleaning/Leak Locating/Fixture Replacement/Sewer Line Replacement/Trenchless Pipe Bursting and/or Hydro Jetting experience? Are you a skilled and ...

15 Sewer and Drain

Plumber/Drain Cleaning

San Jose, CA · On-site

$31 - $37/hr

Do you have extensive plumbing service/Drain Cleaning/Leak Locating/Fixture Replacement/Sewer Line Replacement/Trenchless Pipe Bursting and/or Hydro Jetting experience? Are you a skilled and ...

Allbritten

Drain Technician

Fresno, CA · On-site

Get rewarded for doing great work What We're Looking For ✔ At least 1 year of plumbing or drain cleaning experience ✔ Strong customer service and communication skills ✔ Ability to work ...

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All JobsDrain Cleaner JobsDrain Cleaner Jobs in California

Drain Cleaner information

See California salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do drain cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for drain cleaner in California is $26.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $32.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Do you have to be licensed to be a drain cleaner?

In many areas, drain cleaners do not need a specific license to perform basic cleaning tasks, but some jurisdictions require licensing or certification for specialized or hazardous work. It is important for drain cleaners to have knowledge of plumbing codes and safety procedures, and licensing requirements can vary by location and job scope.

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 money do drain cleaners make?

Drain cleaners typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $15 to $25, with annual salaries between $30,000 and $50,000. Earnings can vary based on experience, location, and whether they work independently or for a company, often requiring knowledge of plumbing tools and safety 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 the most commonly searched types of Drain Cleaner jobs in California? The most popular types of Drain Cleaner jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Drain Cleaner jobs in California? For Drain Cleaner jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drain Cleaner jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Drain Cleaner jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Drain Cleaner jobs? Cities in California with the most Drain Cleaner job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Drain Cleaner jobs in CA? For Drain Cleaner jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Drain Cleaner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drain Cleaner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,134 per year, or $26 per hour.

Drain Cleaner

Mr. Rooter

Anaheim, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Join the Mr. Rooter Plumbing Team!
Are you hardworking, dependable, and ready to build a long-term career in the plumbing industry? Mr. Rooter Plumbing is looking for a motivated Drain Cleaning Technician to join our growing team! Whether you have drain cleaning experience or plumbing knowledge, we offer opportunities for training, advancement, and year-round work.
If you take pride in helping customers, enjoy hands-on work, and want to work for a company that values work-life balance, we want to hear from you!
What You'll Do
  • Perform drain cleaning services for residential and commercial customers.
  • Diagnose and clear clogged drains, sewer lines, sinks, tubs, and toilets.
  • Operate drain cleaning equipment including snakes, jetters, and sewer machines.
  • Educate customers on services and recommend solutions professionally.
  • Maintain accurate job notes and communicate with dispatch throughout the day.
  • Maintain company vehicle, equipment, and cleanliness standards.
  • Deliver excellent customer service while representing Mr. Rooter Plumbing professionally.

What We're Looking For
  • Plumbing or drain cleaning experience preferred (but willing to train the right candidate)
  • Strong work ethic and positive attitude
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds and work in various environments
  • Must be dependable, professional, and motivated

Why Join Mr. Rooter Plumbing?
What We Offer:
Every Other Weekend Off
Closed Sundays
No On-Call Rotation
Flexible Scheduling
Professional advancement through sponsored training and continuous development
Health & wellness package including medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, and life coverage
Company-provided service truck, tablet, and uniforms
Stable, year-round work
Company-wide family events
Growth opportunities within the company
Compensation
Competitive hourly pay or commission opportunities available. Pay is based on experience, skill level, and qualifications. We reward hard work, performance, and excellent customer service.
Ready to Join the Team?
Apply Within Today!

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