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Drain Cleaner Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Plumbing Technician

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Perform drain cleaning and basic sewer line diagnostics * Educate customers on repair and replacement options * Maintain accurate service records and job documentation * Deliver exceptional customer ...

Plumbing Technician

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Perform drain cleaning and basic sewer line diagnostics * Educate customers on repair and replacement options * Maintain accurate service records and job documentation * Deliver exceptional customer ...

Plumbing Technician

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Perform drain cleaning and basic sewer line diagnostics * Educate customers on repair and replacement options * Maintain accurate service records and job documentation * Deliver exceptional customer ...

NW Chicago, IL (Lake in the Hills) 24/7 Emergency Plumbing & Drain Services About Our Client Our Client is a fast-growing, franchise-based emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, and water damage ...

NW Chicago, IL (Lake in the Hills) 24/7 Emergency Plumbing & Drain Services About Our Client Our Client is a fast-growing, franchise-based emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, and water damage ...

Chesapeake, VA; 24/7 Emergency Plumbing & Drain Services About Our Client Our Client is a fast-growing, franchise-based emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, and water damage restoration company ...

Storeroom Clerk

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Carry out site preparations and assist in activities such as drain cleaning, concrete laying, partitioning, and shuttering erection. May be assigned to a specific trade area and carry out some of the ...

Showing results 21-40

Drain Cleaner information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$23

$38

How much do drain cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for drain cleaner in Tennessee is $23.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $29.90 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 popular job titles related to Drain Cleaner jobs in Tennessee?

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

What job categories do people searching Drain Cleaner jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Drain Cleaner jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Drain Cleaner job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,785 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Commercial Plumbing Service Technician

Lee Company

Knoxville, TN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Diagnose and troubleshoot commercial plumbing issues, including faucets, drain clogs, and water heaters.

  • Perform repairs and replacements of plumbing fixtures, pipes, and related components in various facilities.

  • Use drain machines and other equipment to clean and clear drain stoppages of different sizes.


Job description

Summary of Job:

Applicant will need to be able to diagnose commercial plumbing issues/problems, which will include anything from faucets to drain clogs or conventional style water heaters and tank-less style as well. The technician must be able to do repairs as well as replacements of anything that has to do with the plumbing in any given facility. Technician should also be familiar with working any type/size drain machine to attempt to clean/clear any sized drain stoppage. Our service techs work inside and outside of our customer's facilities and are in direct communication and contact with them at all times.

We are seeking an experienced Commercial Plumbing Service Technician to join our team. The ideal candidate should have experience in diagnosing and troubleshooting plumbing issues, installing and repairing plumbing fixtures, and working with various plumbing materials.

Our service technicians work inside and outside of our customers' facilities and are in direct communication and contact with them at all times.

Education and Experience:

  • 5+ years of experience in commercial plumbing
  • A mixture of new plumbing installations and plumbing service is a definite requirement
  • Knowledge of complete plumbing systems required

Skills and Abilities:

  • Valid Driver's License with Good Driving Record
  • Plumbing License a Plus
  • Certification in PVC/HDPE Fusion Pipe Welding a Plus
  • Advanced Diagnosis, Service & Repair of all Types of Water Heaters and Boilers
  • Advanced Pump/Lift Station Diagnosis, Service and Repair
  • Backflow Certification
  • Knowledge and Ability to Freeze (Live) Water Lines
  • Knowledge and Ability to Perform Hot Taps for use on Energized Piping and Equipment
  • Advanced Knowledge of Drain Camera Recording/Locating Underground Lines
  • Advanced Electrical Knowledge
  • Complete Knowledge of Plumbing Drainage, Waste & Venting Systems
  • Advanced Drain Cleaning with Cable Machines
  • Advanced Drain Cleaning with Hydro Jetter Equipment
  • Complete Knowledge and Skills to Install & Repair Plumbing Pipe & Fittings
    • Steel Pipe
    • Ductile Iron
    • Copper
    • PEX
    • PVC
  • Advanced Plumbing Fixture / Equipment Installation
  • Complete Knowledge of Local Plumbing Codes and Ability to Read Blueprints

Company Perks & Benefits

Our mission at Lee Company is to create a workplace where our employees can thrive, and we back that up with action. Wellness isn't just about your physical health; it's about your finances, career, community, and relationships too. We don't just talk the talk; we walk the walk. Check out the benefits that help our team live well and work well every day!

  • Physical: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, plus free virtual primary care, mental health, and urgent care services for employees and their family members.

  • Financial: Earned Wage Access (EWA) - access a portion of your earned pay before payday, 401(k) company match, HSA contributions, and company-paid life and long-term disability insurance.

  • Community: Company-supported volunteer opportunities to make a real impact.

  • Career: Free trade training through Lee Company University (LCU), paid time off (PTO), and career growth opportunities.

  • Relational: Paid time off (PTO), holidays, and Chaplain services for support when you need it.

Lee Company is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information or testing, or family and medical leave. Lee Company is an E-Verify employer. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. At the time of hire, employees will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility.