1

Roto Rooter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Excavator Operator

Livermore, CA · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor territories, and approximately 400 independent franchise operations, serving approximately 90% of the U.S ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Roto Rooter information

See California salary details

$5

$14

$15

How much do roto rooter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for roto rooter in California is $14.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $15.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you need experience to work at Roto-Rooter?

Roto-Rooter typically hires entry-level technicians who do not need prior experience, as training is provided on the job. However, relevant skills such as problem-solving, physical fitness, and the ability to work in a team are beneficial. Some positions may prefer or require a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.

How much do drain cleaning technicians make?

Drain cleaning technicians typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $15 to $25, with annual salaries between $30,000 and $50,000. Earnings can vary based on experience, location, and whether they work for a plumbing company or independently, often requiring knowledge of plumbing tools and safety procedures.

How much does a rooter make?

A Roto-Rooter technician typically earns between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they are paid hourly or on commission. Entry-level technicians may start at the lower end, while experienced plumbers with specialized skills can earn higher wages. The job often requires knowledge of plumbing tools and safety procedures.

What is a Roto Rooter job?

A Roto Rooter job typically involves diagnosing and fixing plumbing issues, such as clogged drains, sewer line problems, and plumbing repairs. Technicians use specialized equipment like drain snakes and hydro-jetting machines to clear blockages and maintain plumbing systems. They may also perform pipe repairs, leak detection, and septic system maintenance. The job requires mechanical skills, physical labor, and customer service to explain issues and solutions to clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Roto Rooter position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Roto Rooter, you need a strong understanding of plumbing systems, problem-solving abilities, and physical stamina, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant plumbing or drain cleaning experience. Familiarity with specialized drain cleaning equipment, pipe inspection cameras, and sometimes a plumber’s license or apprenticeship is important for the role. Excellent customer service, communication skills, and a professional attitude are key soft skills that help build trust with clients and ensure effective teamwork. These skills are critical for diagnosing and resolving a range of plumbing issues efficiently and professionally, which leads to customer satisfaction and repeat business.

What are some typical challenges faced by Roto Rooter professionals on the job?

Roto Rooter professionals often encounter unexpected issues such as severely clogged pipes, outdated plumbing systems, or difficult-to-access areas, which require creative problem-solving and adaptability. The work can sometimes involve responding to emergency calls outside traditional work hours and working in confined or unsanitary environments. However, each job offers the opportunity to develop technical skills and see immediate, tangible results from your efforts. Team members are usually supported by experienced colleagues and ongoing training, which helps them handle these challenges effectively and safely.

Is Roto-Rooter a good company to work for?

Roto-Rooter offers plumbing and drain cleaning technician roles that typically involve physical work, customer service, and the use of specialized tools. Employee reviews often cite a steady work environment and opportunities for advancement, though experiences can vary based on location and management. It is advisable to research specific branches and consider job requirements such as a valid driver's license and physical stamina.
What are popular job titles related to Roto Rooter jobs in California? For Roto Rooter jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Roto Rooter jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Roto Rooter jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Roto Rooter jobs? Cities in California with the most Roto Rooter job openings:
Infographic showing various Roto Rooter job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $30,594 per year, or $14.7 per hour.
Apprentice Plumber/Service Technician

Apprentice Plumber/Service Technician

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Alhambra, CA • On-site

$55K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Roto-Rooter rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 276 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview
Apprentice Plumber/ Service Technician
Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor territories, and approximately 400 independent franchise operations, serving approximately 90% of the U.S. population and parts of Canada.
If job security, top pay, excellent benefits, and career advancement representing a well-known national brand are what you're looking for, Roto-Rooter is the company for you. We pride ourselves on being a great place to work, providing excellent pay, flexible work schedules and top benefits.
First year Roto-Rooter service technicians can expect top-pay, earning $55,000, on average. Pay increases quickly with each year of experience.
Roto-Rooter provides an initial 12 weeks of paid sewer and drain service training, plus continuing training in our plumbing school to learn the trade. Your daily job will be providing sewer & drain service to our residential and commercial customers. But, Roto-Rooter also allows you to schedule time riding with, and working alongside, a licensed plumber so you can gain the apprentice hours and knowledge needed to become a plumber.
Responsibilities
  • Roto-Rooter plumbing apprentices/drain service technicians use their skills to provide solutions to plumbing and drain problems.
  • A service call begins with diagnosing problems then providing cost estimates to close the sale.
  • Perform sewer and drain cleaning services for customers utilizing specialized Roto-Rooter equipment and tools.
  • Document estimates and invoices, both in writing and on a provided smartphone.
  • Collect monetary payment and move on to the next service call.
  • Engage in direct interactions with vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly.
  • Conduct extensive driving to customer locations in a timely and professional manner.
  • Enter customers' residences to deliver reliable service while resolving plumbing issues.

Requirements
  • A valid driver's license
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • A mechanical aptitude is desirable, but prior plumbing experience is not necessary.

Service technicians are paid an hourly rate of $17.00 to $20.00 during training. After training, they are paid an hourly rate at or above the minimum wage for all hours worked. The hourly pay rate may vary, depending on whether the pay is for base pay paid at the employee's base hourly rate (minimum wage), or administrative pay for administrative hours worked (between minimum wage and $85.60) . Service technicians also have the potential to earn commissions at the rate of 16-22% of revenue depending on the revenue category. Commissions ranging from $10 to $155 can also be earned for selling products and treatments.
Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Change Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.
Benefits
At Roto-Rooter, we believe our most significant investment is in our employees. We prioritize the health and well-being of our team and their families. That's why we offer an extensive employee benefit package including:
  • Medical insurance with a Prescription Drug Card
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Training
  • Life Insurance
  • Matching 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing

Roto-Rooter offers excellent career paths for military veterans and personnel transitioning to civilian professions. Throughout nearly 100 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are an excellent fit for our company.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Advertising Tags
IND20

What Roto-Rooter employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom