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Drain Cleaner Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Shop Tech

Fridley, MN · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

This is a great opportunity to get into the drain cleaning and plumbing service field. Compensation: $21.00 - $23.00 per hour Plumbing isn't just about leaks, pipes, and gaskets. It's about people.

What We're Looking For * 2+ years plumbing, drain cleaning, underground, or mechanical field experience * Experience operating jetters or heavy mechanical tools preferred * Valid driver's license ...

PLUMBER (ID# 650)

Blaine, MN · On-site

$21 - $42/hr

Perform drain cleaning, hydro-jetting, and sewer line inspections * Install and repair bathroom and kitchen fixtures including sinks, toilets, faucets, and showers * Respond promptly to emergency ...

PLUMBER (ID# 650)

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$21 - $42/hr

Perform drain cleaning, hydro-jetting, and sewer line inspections * Install and repair bathroom and kitchen fixtures including sinks, toilets, faucets, and showers * Respond promptly to emergency ...

Maintenance Technician

Richfield, MN · On-site

$24.08 - $34.01/hr

Performs light HVAC work such as annual physical inspections, filter changes, drain cleaning, general observation for items of potential concern (mold growth, etc. - need to pursue source issue and ...

Maintenance Technician

Lakeville, MN · On-site

$24.08 - $34.01/hr

Performs light HVAC work such as annual physical inspections, filter changes, drain cleaning, general observation for items of potential concern (mold growth, etc. - need to pursue source issue and ...

Showing results 41-60

Drain Cleaner information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$25

$41

How much do drain cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for drain cleaner in Minnesota is $25.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $32.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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 plumbing-related work. It is important to check local regulations, as licensing requirements can vary by location and the scope of work involved.

How much do drain cleaners make per hour?

Drain cleaners typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a company or independently. Skilled workers with certifications or specialized tools may earn higher wages, especially in commercial or industrial settings.

How much does a drain cleaner get paid?

Drain cleaners typically earn an hourly wage ranging from $15 to $25, with experienced workers or those in specialized environments earning higher pay. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and whether they work for a company or independently, and many positions require knowledge of plumbing tools and safety procedures.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drain Cleaner jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Drain Cleaner jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Drain Cleaner jobs in Minnesota?

For Drain Cleaner jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Drain Cleaner jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Drain Cleaner job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Drain Cleaner jobs in MN?

For Drain Cleaner jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Drain Cleaner job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,723 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Water Restoration Manager

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Full-time, Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop and manage water restoration sales activities, procedures, and performance to increase business volume.

  • Supervise and train project managers, technicians, and claims specialists in job site operations, safety, and customer service.

  • Ensure proper use and maintenance of equipment and vehicles, and monitor safety compliance and inventory management.


Roto-Rooter rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

201st of 283 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Water Restoration Manager

Roto-Rooter is the name that home owners and businesses have turned to for over 90 years for their plumbing and drain cleaning troubles.  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.

We are seeking a Water Restoration Manager to lead our water restoration department at our Minneapolis branch to success!  The salary range of this position is $80,000-$95,000, depending on experience.  There is also opportunity for a branch performance-based bonus.

The Water Restoration Manager has three main focuses: Increase water restoration business volume to targeted goals by developing existing business, cultivating new customers, improving the skills of assigned sales professionals and service technicians; ensuring optimum use of staffing; and equipment.


Your Impact: Key Responsibilities

Develop New and Existing Business

  • Train for and manage the water restoration sales force activity, procedures, and performance.
  • Promote our commercial and residential services to insurance agents for properties that have been damaged by water. 
  • Front line and first responder for our company.
  • Be the point of contact for the customer and insurance agent throughout the project.
  • Along with the Hiring Manager, hire and maintain a team of sales representatives and service technicians.

Technician Skills Development and Supervision

  • Conduct on the job training for project managers, technicians, and claims specialist in keeping with RRSC guidelines.
  • Work closely with service technicians and commercial sales representatives in the selling and estimating process.
  • Inspect site and present solutions to the customer.
  • Ensure project is completed in established time frame and to the customer’s satisfaction.

Safety and Loss Prevention

  • Conduct routine inspections of equipment (i.e.: trucks, safety equipment, uniforms) to ensure that company polices, and regulatory agency requirements are being enforced.
  • Monitor employee compliance with safety policies and requirements

 Equipment

  • Ensure vehicles are being properly used and maintained.
    Maintain appropriate inventory of needed supplies and control co
  • Use Xactimate software to create proposal

  • Sales management experience preferably in the restoration or service industry
  • Strong customer service focus and able to communicate effectively with customers
  • Able to work in a fast-paced environment 
  • Fluent using Xactimate software
  • Valid driver's license.

At Roto-Rooter we believe our greatest 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 our 90 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are a great fit at our company.


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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