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Drain Cleaner Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Drain Cleaner

Auburn, WA ยท On-site

$26 - $35/hr

Drain Cleaning Technician Job Type: Full-time Pay: $26 - $35 per hour Supplemental Pay: Commission Incentive Pay Overview: We are actively searching for an energetic and self-driven individual to ...

Lula is looking for a 1099 Drain Cleaning Pro to help with property maintenance of several thousand rental properties across the Seattle area . We are seeking individuals who have experience in the ...

Drain Technician

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$73K - $78K/yr

Valid driver's license with a clean driving record. * Strong understanding of drain cleaning, sewer maintenance, and plumbing service procedures. * Ability to safely operate specialized plumbing and ...

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Licensed Plumber

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$50K - $125K/yr

... Drain with integrity and professionalism Qualifications WA state Plumber license 02 Valid WA Driver's license and clean driving record Professional, reliable and self-motivated Service Plumbing and ...

Veteran-friendly

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Licensed Plumber

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$50K - $125K/yr

... Drain with integrity and professionalism Qualifications WA state Plumber license 02 Valid WA Driver's license and clean driving record Professional, reliable and self-motivated Service Plumbing and ...

Veteran-friendly

Pump Truck Driver

Puyallup, WA ยท On-site

$36/hr

Plumbing and drain cleaning as needed * Locate and dig up tanks when required * Follow all DOT requirements for CDL drivers * Strong customer service/communication skills needed * Performs ...

Master/Licensed Plumber (ID# 687)

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$65K - $120K/yr

About Our Client Our Client is a fast-growing, franchise-based emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, and water damage restoration company operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With locations ...

About Our Client Our Client is a fast-growing, franchise-based emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, and water damage restoration company operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With locations ...

About Our Client Our Client is a fast-growing, franchise-based emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, and water damage restoration company operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With locations ...

Seattle, WA 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 operating ...

Master/Licensed Plumber (ID# 687)

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$65K - $120K/yr

About Our Client Our Client is a fast-growing, franchise-based emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, and water damage restoration company operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With locations ...

About Our Client Our Client is a fast-growing, franchise-based emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, and water damage restoration company operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With locations ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drain Cleaner information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$16

$30

$48

How much do drain cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for drain cleaner in Seattle, WA is $30.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $37.50 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 Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Drain Cleaner jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Drain Cleaner jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Drain Cleaner jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Drain Cleaner job openings:

Infographic showing various Drain Cleaner job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,423 per year, or $30 per hour.

$26 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Drain Cleaning Technician

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $26 - $35 per hour
Supplemental Pay: Commission Incentive Pay

Overview:
We are actively searching for an energetic and self-driven individual to join our Drain Cleaning Team! As a Drain Cleaning Technician, you will use your expertise to provide solutions to sewer and drain problems for both residential and commercial customers. Your responsibilities will include diagnosing issues, providing cost estimates, completing services, documenting estimates and work performed on a tablet, and collecting payment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems in commercial and residential environments
  • Diagnose drain problems and utilize equipment (sewer cameras, locators) to identify drain line issues
  • Perform drain cleaning and unclogging services for various plumbing systems
  • Conduct minor to complex plumbing services, including replacing water heaters, fixing leaky pipes, and installing or replacing fixtures
  • Work with blueprints and job specifications relevant to the plumbing craft
  • Determine proper materials and quantities for new and ongoing projects
  • Keep the company vehicle and equipment serviced, clean, and in optimal working order
  • Be punctual, prepared, and ready to work at the start of each day
  • Maintain professional and respectful communication with customers, office staff, and co-workers
  • Participate in company and technical meetings
  • Perform basic maintenance on drain cleaning equipment, including changing cables on machines and replacing hoses on jetters
  • Clear mainline drains, septic and sewer using cables and jetters

Requirements & Qualifications:

  • Minimum 2 years of verifiable drain cleaning experience
  • Valid Driver's License
  • A clean driving record (MVR)
  • Experience operating drain cleaning machines and basic hand tools
  • Ability to work inside and outside, in various weather conditions, and in septic/sewage environments
  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
  • Friendly, personable, and able to communicate effectively with customers and team members
  • Able to lift up to 75 lbs. and perform physical tasks, including pushing, pulling, and carrying heavy objects
  • Availability for emergency services, on-call shifts, nights, and weekends

Our Ideal Candidate:

  • Dependable โ€” Reliable and consistent
  • People-oriented โ€” Enjoys interacting with others and working on team projects
  • Adaptable/Flexible โ€” Comfortable with tasks that require frequent changes or shifts in direction
  • Detail-oriented โ€” Focuses on the fine details and quality of the work
  • Achievement-oriented โ€” Motivated by taking on challenges and delivering results
  • Autonomous/Independent โ€” Works well with minimal direction

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $28 - $35 per hour
Supplemental Pay: Commission Incentive Pay

Required Experience:

  • Plumbing: 1 year (Required)
  • Septic: 1 year (Required)
  • Drain Cleaning: 2 years (Required)

License:

  • Valid Driverโ€™s License (Required)

Benefits:

  • Company Paid Medical for Employees ($25.00 bi-weekly employee contribution)
  • Dental & Vision Insurance (Supplemental, after 2ย months)
  • Company Paid $25,000 Life Insurance
  • Supplemental Life Insurance (Principal + Colonial)
  • 401(k) with 4% Company Match
  • Paid Sick Leave: Accrues from day one (1 hour for every 40 hours worked), and eligible for use after 90 days.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) Plans: Available after 1 year and tiered based upon tenure plan
  • Aflac Supplemental Insurance (Short- & Long-Term Disability, Critical Illness, Accident, etc.)
  • Pet Insurance (Supplemental, available through United Healthcare)
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Retirement Plan
  • Referral Bonus Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • 6 Paid Holidays (After 6 months of employment)
  • Veterans and Active Military Members receive Veterans Day as an additional paid holiday (After 6 months of employment)

Schedule:

  • 10-hour shift
  • 8-hour shift
  • Day shift (Monday to Friday)
  • On-call shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed

Please see job description for qualifications.