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Drain Cleaner Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Journeyman Plumber

Portland, OR

$90K - $180K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

As a licensed and locally operated company, we offer comprehensive services including drain cleaning, sewer line replacement, and water heater installation. We are committed to providing clients with ...

Excavation Laborer

Tualatin, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview Excavation Technician/Laborer Roto-Rooter, America's premier provider of plumbing and drain cleaning company is the name that homeowners and businesses turn to for select quality services.

Excavation Laborer

Tualatin, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview Excavation Technician/Laborer Roto-Rooter, America's premier provider of plumbing and drain cleaning company is the name that homeowners and businesses turn to for select quality services.

Excavation Laborer

Tualatin, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview Excavation Technician/Laborer Roto-Rooter, America's premier provider of plumbing and drain cleaning company is the name that homeowners and businesses turn to for select quality services.

Excavation Laborer

Tualatin, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview Excavation Technician/Laborer Roto-Rooter, America's premier provider of plumbing and drain cleaning company is the name that homeowners and businesses turn to for select quality services.

Excavation Laborer

Tualatin, OR

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Excavation Technician/Laborer Roto-Rooter, America's premier provider of plumbing and drain cleaning company is the name that homeowners and businesses turn to for select quality services. We are ...

Excavation Laborer

Tualatin, OR

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Excavation Technician/Laborer Roto-Rooter, America's premier provider of plumbing and drain cleaning company is the name that homeowners and businesses turn to for select quality services. We are ...

Journeyman Plumber

Portland, OR · On-site

$40 - $55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Clean driving record * 1-5 years of experience as a journeyman * Positive attitude and team player ... S At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain ® , we always strive for next-level workmanship and innovation. If ...

SALES ASSOCIATE in DRAIN, OR S17726

Drain, OR · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Every day. ® by offering products that are frequently used and replenished, such as food, snacks, health and beauty aids, cleaning supplies, basic apparel, housewares and seasonal items at everyday ...

SALES ASSOCIATE in DRAIN, OR S17726

Drain, OR · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Every day. ® by offering products that are frequently used and replenished, such as food, snacks, health and beauty aids, cleaning supplies, basic apparel, housewares and seasonal items at everyday ...

Excavation Crew Member and Labor

Gladstone, OR · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

I recommend them highly for any drain/sewer work. (Yelp Review) At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Portland & Vancouver we protect the health of our community through the most clean, courteous, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Drain Cleaner information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$27

$44

How much do drain cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for drain cleaner in Oregon is $27.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $34.81 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.

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

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

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Drain Cleaner jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Drain Cleaner job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Drain Cleaner job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,994 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Water Restoration Technician/General Labor

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Tualatin, OR • On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Roto-Rooter rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

198th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview
Discover an exciting new career opportunity at Roto-Rooter as a Water Restoration Technician.
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.
  • After paid training program, expect to earn between $40,000 and $60,000.
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Top benefits
  • Immediate hiring for full-time positions available.
  • No prior experience necessary. Suitable for individuals with skills in carpet cleaning, construction, lawn care, pest control, and general laborer.
  • Opportunities for growth within the Water Restoration department.

Responsibilities
  • You will be responsible for using specialized equipment to extract water from structures as part of the team.
  • Perform tasks such as removing damaged furniture, flooring, and wallboard.
  • Follows all IICRC protocols on all jobs.

Requirements
  • Applicants must be at least 21 years old if the position is DOT regulated and possess relevant certifications.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license is a mandatory requirement
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Must be medically cleared to wear a respirator and complete a respirator fit test.
  • Maintains IICRC Water Damage Restoration Technician certification.

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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