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How much do exhaust cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for exhaust cleaner in the United States is $14.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are exhaust cleaners?

Exhaust cleaners, also known as kitchen exhaust cleaning technicians, are professionals who specialize in cleaning and maintaining kitchen exhaust systems, including hoods, ducts, fans, and vents. Their work is vital for removing grease and other flammable residues that build up in commercial kitchen ventilation systems, reducing fire risks and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Exhaust cleaners often work in restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and other facilities with commercial kitchens. Their services help improve air quality, maintain system efficiency, and ensure that businesses pass regular fire and health inspections.

What are some common challenges faced by exhaust cleaners, and how can they be managed effectively?

Exhaust cleaners often work in confined spaces and at heights, which can present safety challenges and physical demands. Managing these challenges involves adhering to strict safety protocols, using proper protective equipment, and staying up-to-date with safety training. Additionally, cleaners may encounter stubborn grease buildup requiring specialized cleaning agents and techniques, so ongoing training and teamwork are essential. Communication with kitchen staff and facility managers is also important to schedule cleanings and minimize disruption to operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exhaust Cleaner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exhaust Cleaner, you need knowledge of ventilation systems, cleaning procedures, and safety standards, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning tools, degreasers, pressure washers, and sometimes certification in kitchen exhaust cleaning (such as IKECA) is beneficial. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills for working safely and efficiently, often in teams or during off-hours. These skills ensure thorough cleaning, compliance with fire safety regulations, and the prevention of hazards in commercial kitchens or industrial settings.

How much do hood vent cleaners make?

Hood vent cleaners typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Earnings can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the cleaning jobs performed.

Do you need a license to clean hood vents?

Exhaust cleaners who work on commercial kitchen hood vents often need to obtain a license or certification, depending on local regulations. Licensing ensures proper safety standards and compliance with fire codes, and some employers may require specific training or certifications such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.

What qualifications do I need to be a cleaner?

To be an exhaust cleaner, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include attention to detail, physical stamina, and familiarity with cleaning tools and safety procedures; some positions may require training or certifications in hazardous material handling or equipment operation.

What is the highest paid cleaning job?

Among cleaning jobs, specialized roles such as industrial or hazardous materials cleaners tend to have higher salaries due to the skills and safety training required. For example, industrial cleaning technicians or hazardous waste removal workers often earn higher wages compared to standard janitorial or residential cleaners.

What is the difference between Exhaust Cleaner vs HVAC Technician?

AspectExhaust CleanerHVAC Technician
CredentialsTypically requires safety training, certification in cleaning methodsRequires HVAC certification or license
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, commercial kitchens, exhaust systemsResidential, commercial, or industrial HVAC systems
Industry UsageSpecialized in cleaning exhaust systemsDesign, install, repair HVAC systems
Common Search IntentCleaning exhaust systemsHVAC system maintenance and repair

Exhaust Cleaners focus on cleaning and maintaining exhaust systems to ensure safety and compliance, while HVAC Technicians handle the installation, repair, and maintenance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Both roles require technical skills but differ in scope and industry focus.

More about Exhaust Cleaner jobs
What job categories do people searching Exhaust Cleaner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Exhaust Cleaner jobs are:
Exhaust Cleaner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exhaust Cleaner job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,785 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Kitchen Exhaust Hood Cleaner

Kept Companies Inc

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Kept Companies rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 59 rated cleaning companies

Job description

Description:

Kept Companies is the largest self-performing commercial cleaning and maintenance company in the nation. With nine leading brands and over 100 locations nationwide servicing industries including restaurant, solar, retail, transportation, and supermarket. Kept Companies is the leading provider of commercial fleet washing, retail equipment refurbishing and sales, refrigeration, hood, coil and solar panel cleaning, and parking lot services.


Responsibilities


  • Perform scheduled hood cleaning services for restaurants and commercial kitchens.
  • Ensure compliance with fire protection and safety standards.
  • Diagnose technical problems and determine solutions.
  • Utilize mobile applications to complete service tickets and reports.
  • Maintain tools, equipment, and vehicle in excellent condition.
  • Perform setup and teardown of all equipment at job sites.
  • Report NFPA 98 deficiencies and follow company safety procedures.


Requirements


  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid Driver’s License with a clean driving record.
  • Experience in hood cleaning or kitchen exhaust cleaning (preferred).
  • Physical ability to work in labor-intensive conditions.
  • Ability to work night and early morning shifts (some weekends).
  • Strong attention to detail and troubleshooting skills.
  • Must be Utah Certified Kitchen Exhaust Hood Cleaner


Benefits

  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • 401K
  • PTO


Requirements:


What Kept Companies employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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