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Exhaust Cleaner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Exhaust Cleaner information

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How much do exhaust cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 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 is an exhaust cleaner?

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 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.

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 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.

Is kitchen exhaust cleaner a good job?

A kitchen exhaust cleaner is responsible for cleaning and maintaining commercial kitchen ventilation systems, which requires attention to safety protocols and sometimes working in confined spaces. The job can be physically demanding and may involve working with grease, fumes, and cleaning chemicals, but it offers steady employment opportunities in the cleaning and maintenance industry.
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What are popular job titles related to Exhaust Cleaner jobs?

For Exhaust Cleaner jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Exhaust Cleaner job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,785 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Lead/Foreman Kitchen Exhaust Technician

Englewood, CO • On-site

$22 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Complete full-system cleaning of hoods, ductwork, and rooftop fans to bare-metal standards to ensure NFPA 96 compliance.

  • Conduct pre- and post-service inspections to identify system deficiencies or fire hazards and document the work with photos and videos.

  • Manage a 2-person crew, oversee vehicle and tool organization, and ensure efficient setup, teardown, and facility cleanup.


Job description

Responsive recruiter
Benefits:
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Free uniforms
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Company parties
  • Free food & snacks
  • Relocation bonus
  • Signing bonus
  • Training & development

If you have Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning experience and you want to lead and solid career growth, we want to speak to you.
The Skill Set Required:
  • Experience: [1-3+] years of kitchen exhaust cleaning experience
  • Technical Knowledge: Understanding of NFPA 96 codes and grease containment systems.
  • Leadership: Ability to work independently, manage customer facilities securely, and train junior associates.
  • Team Leadership: Manage a 2-person crew, ensuring efficient setup, teardown, and meticulous facility cleanup
  • Driving: Valid Driver's License with a clean record (capable of operating large service vehicles).

What You Get:
  • Solid Pay + Overtime + Bonuses: Start at $22/hr with extra performance bonus opportunities.
  • Paid Training & Trade Certification: Learn the equipment and gain NFPA 96 Fire Safety certification on our dime.
  • Provided Company Gear: We supply all tools, uniform tops and safety gear.
  • Real Career Growth: Show up on time, do clean work, and move from Technician to Lead Tech / Foreman quickly.

What You'll Lead & Execute:
  • NFPA 96 Compliance: Complete full-system cleaning of hoods, ductwork, and rooftop fans to bare-metal standards.
  • System Diagnostics: Conduct pre- and post-service inspections, identifying system deficiencies or fire hazards that others miss.
  • Documentation: Capture high-quality photo/video documentation of the entire system to ensure 100% client transparency and fire marshal compliance.
  • Fleet & Gear Management: Oversee vehicle organization and ensure all specialized tools are maintained and ready for the next shift.

Requirements:
  • Climb ladders for rooftop access.
  • Squat, lift, and carry 50 lbs. for 100+ feet.
  • Stand/move for the duration of a 10-hour shift.
  • Attention to detail under night-shift conditions.
  • Dependable and Reliable
  • Ability to work the Night Shift

At Kitchen Guard, we don't just "wash hoods"-we prevent fires. Since 2009, we've built a reputation as a powerhouse in the kitchen exhaust industry by prioritizing bare-metal cleaning and NFPA 96 compliance. We are looking for a Lead Technician who takes pride in the "before and after," understands the mechanics of a rooftop fan, and can mentor a crew to meet our elite standards of excellence.
Join us in paving the way for excellence in commercial kitchen exhaust cleaning services. We await your passion and expertise!
Kitchen Guard is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and to attracting, retaining, developing, and promoting the most qualified employees without regard to their race, gender, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited by federal or state law. We are dedicated to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment, and where employees are treated with respect and dignity.
Compensation: $22.00 - $35.00 per hour
Kitchen Guard of Colorado is transforming commercial kitchen exhaust and cleaning services with modern, advanced technology. We're customer-focused and committed to delivering the highest-quality, professional, and consultative service.
Our mission is simple: help restaurants and commercial kitchens stay fire-safe and fully compliant with local, state, and federal safety standards-while building trusted, long-term relationships with every client we serve.