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Drain Cleaner Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Liquid Environmental Solutions

Drain Cleaner

Fraser, MI · On-site

$23/hr

Drain & Sewer Technician Dover Grease - A Liquid Environmental Solutions Company Fraser, MI - 2075 Burlingame Ave SW Wyoming, MI 49509 Position Summary Dover Grease is seeking a Drain & Sewer ...

Universal Home Services

If you have experience in: • Drain cleaning • Hydro jetting • Sewer diagnostics • Camera inspections • Locating • Cabling • Trenchless sewer work • Specialty drain services -we want ...

Williams & Bay

Plumbing & Drain Technician

Maple City, MI · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Drain Cleaning: Clear blockages in sinks, toilets, showers, and main sewer lines using motorized cable machines and cutters. * Inspection & Diagnosis: Use video camera technology to locate pipe ...

Apex Service Partners

Drain Technician

Lowell, MI · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Complete drain cleaning, camera inspections, and drain locating service calls * Build strong customer rapport and recommend the right products and services * Educate and assist customers with ...

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Drain Cleaner information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$22

$36

How much do drain cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for drain cleaner in Michigan is $22.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $28.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Michigan? For Drain Cleaner jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drain Cleaner jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Drain Cleaner jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Drain Cleaner jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Drain Cleaner job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Drain Cleaner jobs in MI? For Drain Cleaner jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Drain Cleaner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drain Cleaner job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,809 per year, or $23 per hour.
Drain Cleaner

Drain Cleaner

Liquid Environmental Solutions

Fraser, MI • On-site

$23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Liquid Environmental Solutions rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 88 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Drain & Sewer Technician
Dover Grease - A Liquid Environmental Solutions Company
Fraser, MI - 2075 Burlingame Ave SW Wyoming, MI 49509
Position Summary
Dover Grease is seeking a Drain & Sewer Technician to support commercial plumbing and drain service operations throughout Metro Detroit. This position performs drain clearing, jetting, camera inspections, and routine service work for restaurants, commercial kitchens, and industrial customers.
This role focuses on high-volume service work and supports the majority of our field service calls.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Clear and troubleshoot commercial drain and sewer lines
  • Perform hydro jetting, snaking, and camera inspections
  • Diagnose drainage and minor plumbing issues
  • Perform minor repairs including traps, disposals, and basic fixture components
  • Maintain professional communication with customers
  • Participate in on-call rotation as assigned
  • Follow all safety policies and company procedures

Qualifications
  • 2+ years of drain, sewer, or plumbing service experience preferred
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
  • Ability to work independently in the field
  • Reliable work history
  • Valid driver's license
  • Chauffeur's License required prior to start (company assistance available)
  • Ability to pass pre-employment screening including a 10-panel drug test

Backflow certification or CDL is a plus but not required.
Compensation
Starts at $23 per hour. Higher pay may be available based on incoming experience and demonstrated skill.
Overtime is available.
Schedule
  • Full-time
  • Monday - Friday 7am to 3:30pm
  • 8-10-hour shifts
  • Overtime available
  • On-call rotation required
  • Occasional weekend work

Benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Life insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Weekly pay
  • Company-provided tools and equipment

Career Path
This role offers advancement opportunities into:
  • Lead Drain Technician
  • Hydro Jet Specialist
  • CDL Vacuum Operator
  • Licensed Commercial Plumber

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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