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Exhaust Cleaner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Tech

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$23 - $25/hr

As the Lead Technician - Hood & Exhaust Cleaning , you will be part of our overnight crew in cleaning and maintaining commercial kitchen exhaust systems. You'll oversee job site setup, power washing ...

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Exhaust Cleaner information

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How much do exhaust cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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.
More about Exhaust Cleaner jobs
Infographic showing various Exhaust Cleaner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,785 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Kitchen Exhaust Hood Cleaning Technician

HOODS UNLIMITED, INC

Tifton, GA โ€ข On-site

$1.3K - $1.6K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

About Us
Hoods Unlimited is a leader in commercial kitchen exhaust cleaning and fire safety. We partner with restaurants, schools, hospitals, and food facilities across the Southeast to keep kitchens safe, compliant, and operating efficiently.
Position Overview
We’re hiring Hood Cleaning Technicians in Tifton, GA! This role is hands-on, fast-paced, and essential to ensuring fire safety in commercial kitchens. You’ll work mostly overnight shifts cleaning exhaust systems, documenting services, and working as part of a team to deliver excellent results.
All new hires will complete training at our Atlanta office (Woodstock, GA). During training, housing and food are fully covered by the company. Once you successfully complete training, you’ll return to Tifton to begin full-time work in your local market.
What We Offer
  • Starting pay: $18/hr with opportunities for raises and promotions
  • Paid training in Woodstock, GA with housing and food provided
  • Full-time schedule with steady, year-round work
  • Career growth potential: After training, earn $1,300–$1,600 per week as a Lead Technician
  • Company-provided uniforms, equipment, and vehicles
  • Clear advancement path with leadership opportunities
Responsibilities
  • Clean commercial kitchen exhaust systems to fire code standards
  • Operate cleaning equipment, lifts, and vehicles safely
  • Work overnight shifts (Sunday–Thursday nights typical)
  • Take before-and-after photos and submit reports
  • Deliver professional customer service at client locations
  • Support team members to ensure jobs are completed on time
Qualifications
  • No experience required — full training provided
  • Must have valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
  • Ability to lift 50+ lbs, climb ladders, and work on rooftops
  • Comfortable with overnight work
  • Dependable, detail-oriented, and safety-focused
Compensation
  • $18/hr starting pay during training and early stages
  • After training, potential to earn $1,300–$1,600/week as a Lead Technician
Compensation: $1,200.00 - $1,600.00 per week