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Drain Cleaner Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Elite Plumbing Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

A. Williams Drain Cleaning & Plumbing Richmond & Tri-Cities, Virginia BUILD YOUR CAREER WITH RICHMOND'S TRUSTED PLUMBING EXPERTS At M.A. Williams Drain Cleaning & Plumbing, we are intentionally ...

The big task You will diagnose and repair residential drain systems and lead customers to informed ... clean driving record. • Participate in training allowing you to grow and develop as a ...

Drain Technician

Rocky Mount, VA · On-site

$16 - $20/wk

The big task You will diagnose and repair residential drain systems and lead customers to informed ... Maintain a clean and professional appearance. * Have and maintain a clean driving record.

Maintain a clean and professional appearance. Have and maintain a clean driving record. Participate in training allowing you to grow and develop as a professional. Have or be willing to get the ...

Drain Technician

Monterey, VA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Plumbing Drain TechnicianWe are a growing plumbing company committed to providing exceptional ... Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked service vehicle.Follow all safety procedures and ...

Drain Technician

Monterey, VA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Plumbing Drain TechnicianWe are a growing plumbing company committed to providing exceptional ... Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked service vehicle.Follow all safety procedures and ...

Plumber

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Sewer and drain cleaning. * Fitting and repairing various household appliances. * Cutting, soldering, and assembling pipes, tubes, fittings, and fixtures. * Inspecting and testing plumbing systems ...

Showing results 21-40

Drain Cleaner information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$26

$41

How much do drain cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for drain cleaner in Virginia is $26.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $32.64 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Drain Cleaner job openings in Virginia 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 $54,381 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Drain Technician

Michael & Son Services Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

IF YOU CAN'T, WE CAN!Do you have a strong desire to succeed and value professional growth? Are you looking for an employer who values diversity, high-quality service, and giving back to their community? If so, you've come to the right place, WE are looking for YOU!Why should you work for the Michael and Son family? Our earnings are performance-based and are among the highest on the East Coast in the Service Trade Industry.Upon successful completion of training, you will receive A FULLY-STOCKED TAKE-HOME service truck with paid automotive insurance, gas card, company cell phone, and tablet for paperless ticketing and dispatching.Michael and Son provide industry-leading training programs to grow your skills.Rotating on call hours that work with your schedule for even more EARNING POTENTIAL.We promote within; many of our Service Technicians are promoted to Service Managers.Michael and Son offers a competitive benefits package, including but not limited to the following:HealthDentalSTD/LTDVisionSupplemental LifeLegal ShieldFSA401(k)We're looking for Experienced Drain Technicians.The right candidate will have experience in the following areas:Duties and Responsibilities:Perform drain cleaning on plumbing systems.Perform minor to non-complex service work on plumbing residential environments.Communicate problems, propose solutions, and explain billing to customers.Snake drake drains to find what clogs them.Qualifications:Must have a Driver's license.Pass Drug Test and Background.Hands-on/Technical Experience.Authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.Willing to work weekendsMichael and Son Services, Inc. is the premier, provider of Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, and Restoration services. Michael and Son Services is a family-owned and multi-state operated business based out of Alexandria, Virginia, with locations along the East Coast, we've been in business since 1976. We place tremendous value in our employees because, without them, Michael and Son wouldn't be where it is today leading the charge of the service industry!Our company provides an excellent work environment and is passionate about its dedication to achievement. We place an enormous value on the welfare and commitment of our employees as well as the superior level of service they provide to our customers.Don't let this opportunity pass you by!!!! We are growing at a rapid pace, the opportunity for advancement is determined by how much you want to succeed. Michael and Son take pride in promoting within. Think you have what it takes to showcase your talent in the service industry?Apply today, fill out our short. employment application at www.michaelandson.com . Thank you for your interest in Michael and Son Services Inc.Michael and Son Services provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.