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Drain Cleaner Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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... Drain cleaning Water lines and sewer lines repair or replacement would be a Plus Anything plumbing related Great customer service Job Type: Full-time Benefits: * 401(k) 4% Match Application Question ...

Plumber

Richmond, VA · On-site

$1.0K - $2.0K/wk

... a clean record. Compensation: $1,000.00 - $2,000.00 per week Be Part of the Fastest-Growing Plumbing Company in the U.S At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain ® , we always strive for next-level workmanship ...

Plumber

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$100K/yr

Overview Journeyman Plumber 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 ...

Plumber

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$100K/yr

Journeyman Plumber 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 ...

Plumbing Sales - Dig and Drain

Manassas, VA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Valid driver's license with clean driving record * Must pass background check and drug screening * Willingness to work evenings/weekends as needed * Strong communication and customer presentation ...

Plumber

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$100K/yr

Overview Journeyman Plumber 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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Drain Cleaner information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$26

$41

How much do drain cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 job categories do people searching Drain Cleaner jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Drain Cleaner jobs in Virginia 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.

Plumbing Service Technician (Must live in VA)

Hicks Plumbing

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Experienced plumber with a minimum of 2 years

Must have clean driving record

Must pass a background check

Must live in Virginia

Repair or replace Electric water heaters

Repair or replace gas water heaters

Replace sump pumps

Replace Garbage disposals

Repair or replace faucets

Repair or replace hose bibs

Replace sewer ejector pumps

Repair or replace toilets

Drain cleaning

Water lines and sewer lines repair or replacement would be a Plus

Anything plumbing related

Great customer service

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k) 4% Match

Application Question(s):

  • Are you able to work emergency calls at night and on the weekends?

Experience:

  • Plumbing and/or HVAC: 5 years (Required)

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Commute:

  • Fairfax, VA 22030 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

  • Fairfax, VA 22030: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Company Description

Pay will be discussed at interview depends on experience.