ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drain Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Thousand Oaks Plumbing

Drain Technician

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

If you're a skilled Drain Tech who's done chasing the next dead-end job, we want to talk to you. Thousand Oaks Plumbing is growing fast -- and we're offering a sign-on bonus (based on experience) to ...

S.D. Expert Plumbing, Inc.

Plumber

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Each plumber/drain tech will report directly to the dispatcher or property maintenance tech. Qualifications * At least 2-years of previous plumbing/drain experience preferred * Previous experience in ...

Bell Brothers

Drain Technician

Concord, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

We offer a culture of excellence, professional growth and development, cutting-edge technology and tools, a strong team environment, and competitive compensation and benefits. The Drain Technician is ...

Bell Brothers

Drain Technician

Sacramento, CA

$24/hr

We offer a culture of excellence, professional growth and development, cutting-edge technology and ... We are looking for our next Drain Technician ! Our Drain Technicians are responsible for ...

S.D. Expert Plumbing, Inc.

Plumber

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Each plumber/drain tech will report directly to the dispatcher or property maintenance tech. Qualifications * At least 2-years of previous plumbing/drain experience preferred * Previous experience in ...

Bell Brothers

Drain Technician

Oakland, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

We offer a culture of excellence, professional growth and development, cutting-edge technology and tools, a strong team environment, and competitive compensation and benefits. The Drain Technician is ...

Bell Brothers

Drain Technician

Hayward, CA

$20 - $22/hr

We offer a culture of excellence, professional growth and development, cutting-edge technology and tools, a strong team environment, and competitive compensation and benefits. The Drain Technician is ...

S.D. Expert Plumbing, Inc.

Plumber

San Diego, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Each plumber/drain tech will report directly to the dispatcher or property maintenance tech. Qualifications * At least 2-years of previous plumbing/drain experience preferred * Previous experience in ...

Bell Brothers

Drain Technician

San Jose, CA

$18 - $22/hr

We offer a culture of excellence, professional growth and development, cutting-edge technology and tools, a strong team environment, and competitive compensation and benefits. The Drain Technician is ...

Bell Brothers

Drain Technician

Hayward, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

We offer a culture of excellence, professional growth and development, cutting-edge technology and tools, a strong team environment, and competitive compensation and benefits. The Drain Technician is ...

Bell Brothers

Drain Technician

Hayward, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

We offer a culture of excellence, professional growth and development, cutting-edge technology and tools, a strong team environment, and competitive compensation and benefits. The Drain Technician is ...

Bell Brothers

Drain Technician

Hayward, CA

$18 - $22/hr

We offer a culture of excellence, professional growth and development, cutting-edge technology and tools, a strong team environment, and competitive compensation and benefits. The Drain Technician is ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrain Tech JobsDrain Tech Jobs in California

Drain Tech information

See California salary details

$14

$25

$41

How much do drain tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for drain tech in California is $25.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drain Tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drain Tech, you need a solid understanding of plumbing systems, basic mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drain cleaning equipment, pipe inspection cameras, and sometimes relevant certifications (like OSHA safety training) is expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective customer communication set top performers apart. These abilities ensure efficient diagnosis and repair of drainage issues, leading to satisfied customers and safe, high-quality work.

What are Drain Techs?

Drain Techs, also known as drain technicians, are professionals who specialize in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining drainage and plumbing systems. Their job typically involves clearing blockages, inspecting pipes with cameras, performing routine maintenance, and sometimes installing new drainage systems. Drain Techs use specialized tools and equipment to ensure water and waste flow smoothly through residential, commercial, and industrial properties. They play a critical role in preventing water damage and maintaining sanitary conditions.

How much do drain cleaning technicians make?

Drain cleaning technicians typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a company or independently. Many technicians also earn additional income through overtime, tips, or service contracts, and certifications in plumbing or drain cleaning tools can enhance earning potential.

What is the highest paid type of plumber?

Master plumbers and specialized plumbing contractors tend to earn the highest salaries among plumbing professionals, often due to advanced skills, certifications, and experience. Commercial and industrial plumbing jobs, which may involve complex systems and larger projects, also typically offer higher pay compared to residential plumbing roles.

What does a drain tech do?

A drain tech inspects, cleans, and repairs drains and sewer systems using specialized tools such as drain snakes and hydro-jetters. They diagnose blockages, perform maintenance, and ensure proper flow in plumbing systems, often working in confined spaces and following safety protocols.

What is the difference between Drain Tech vs Plumber?

Drain TechPlumber
Specializes in clearing and maintaining drains, sewer lines, and piping systemsPerforms installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems, including fixtures and water supply lines
Requires certifications in drain cleaning and sewer line repairRequires plumbing license and certifications for water and gas systems
Works primarily in commercial and residential settings focusing on drain and sewer issuesWorks in similar environments but handles a broader range of plumbing tasks

Drain Techs focus specifically on drain and sewer line issues, often requiring specialized certifications. Plumbers have a wider scope, including water supply and fixture installation, and typically hold a plumbing license. While both roles work in similar environments, Drain Techs concentrate on drain systems, making their skills more specialized for drain-related problems.

What are some typical challenges a Drain Tech might face on the job, and how are they addressed?

Drain Techs frequently encounter unexpected blockages, severe clogs, or difficult-to-access pipes, which can make troubleshooting more complex. These challenges are typically addressed through the use of specialized equipment such as drain cameras, hydro-jetters, and augers, as well as by collaborating closely with other technicians or plumbers for more complicated repairs. Maintaining strong problem-solving skills and staying up-to-date with the latest industry tools can help Drain Techs effectively manage these situations and ensure customer satisfaction.

How to make 300k a year as a plumber?

To earn $300,000 annually as a drain tech or plumber, professionals typically need extensive experience, advanced skills, and specialization in high-demand areas like commercial or industrial plumbing. Building a strong reputation, obtaining certifications, and working in areas with higher pay rates or owning a business can also increase earning potential. Long hours, overtime, and continuous skill development are often necessary to reach this income level.
What are popular job titles related to Drain Tech jobs in California? For Drain Tech jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drain Tech jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Drain Tech jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Drain Tech jobs? Cities in California with the most Drain Tech job openings:
Drain Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drain Tech job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,586 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

PLUMBER / DRAIN TECH - COMBINED ROLE

CastleWorks Water Heaters

Valencia, CA • On-site

$28 - $36/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 hours ago

Job description

About This Role
The Combined Service Tech / Drain Tech is a dual-skilled, customer-facing field professional. This role eliminates the traditional handoff between plumbing service calls and drain/sewer work - giving customers one trusted technician who can diagnose, repair, and resolve a full range of residential and light commercial plumbing issues in a single visit.
Santa Clarita Plumbing is a new, locally owned plumbing company built for the Santa Clarita Valley - by locals. We're hiring our first Combined Service & Drain Tech: a dual-skilled field professional who can handle service repairs and drain work in a single visit.
Base hourly rate plus commission incentive!
What You'll Do
• Diagnose and repair leaks, broken fixtures, water heaters, and pressure issues
• Conduct whole-home plumbing inspections
• Service faucets, toilets, garbage disposals, supply lines
• Clear blockages using cable machines and hydro-jetting equipment
• Replace shut-off valves, hose bibbs, and supply lines
• Run sewer camera inspections and walk homeowners through your findings
• Install and replace tank and tankless water heaters
• Present good-better-best pricing options clearly and confidently
• Upsell maintenance plans and memberships on every eligible call
• Document findings with photos and written reports in Service Ttian
• Collect 5-star reviews and complete same-day job documentation
Requirements
What We're Looking For
• Journeyman Plumber license OR 3+ years residential service experience
• Drain cleaning experience - cable machine and/or hydro-jetting
• Valid California driver's license pursuant to Company policy
• Comfortable presenting pricing and options directly to homeowners
• Able to lift 50+ lbs and work in varying field conditions
Preferred:
• Sewer camera / CCTV inspection experience (NASSCO PACP cert a plus)
• Familiarity with ServiceTitan
• Water heater installation experience (tank and tankless)
We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment 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.
Salary Description
$28.00 - $36.00 plus commission

Apply