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Septic Cleaner Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Maintain 80 acres and all buildings and systems in working order including septic systems, water ... Keep camp clean and hygienic including housekeeping and trash collection as needed * Identify ...

Maintain 80 acres and all buildings and systems in working order including septic systems, water ... Keep camp clean and hygienic including housekeeping and trash collection as needed * Identify ...

Septic Cleaner information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$13

$16

How much do septic cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for septic cleaner in Michigan is $13.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.73 and $14.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges a Septic Cleaner may face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Septic Cleaners often encounter physically demanding and sometimes unpredictable work environments, such as confined spaces or adverse weather conditions. Common challenges include dealing with strong odors, equipment malfunctions, and ensuring strict adherence to health and safety protocols. To manage these, it's important to use personal protective equipment, receive proper training, and maintain equipment regularly. Working as part of a team and communicating effectively also helps address unexpected issues quickly and safely.

What are septic cleaners and what do they do?

Septic cleaners are professionals responsible for maintaining, cleaning, and emptying septic tanks and related systems. Their main duties involve pumping out waste, inspecting tanks for damage, and ensuring proper function to prevent backups or environmental hazards. They use specialized equipment to safely remove sludge and debris, and may also advise homeowners on septic system care. Regular septic cleaning is crucial for preventing costly repairs and extending the life of the septic system.

Do I need a license to pump septic?

Septic cleaners typically need a license or certification to operate legally, which may include proper training in handling hazardous waste and equipment. Licensing requirements vary by state or local regulations, and obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) or specialized certification is often necessary for operating septic pumping trucks. Ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards is essential for this job.

How much do septic workers make?

Septic cleaners in Texas typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Wages depend on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the job, often requiring knowledge of safety protocols and equipment operation.

What will vinegar do to a septic tank?

Septic cleaners should avoid using vinegar in septic tanks because it can disrupt the natural bacteria that break down waste, potentially leading to system failure. Maintaining a balanced bacterial environment is essential for septic system health, and harsh chemicals or strong acids like vinegar can harm these bacteria. Proper septic maintenance involves using approved products and regular inspections by trained professionals.

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

To thrive as a Septic Cleaner, you need knowledge of septic system maintenance, safe handling of waste, and typically a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). Familiarity with vacuum trucks, septic pumping equipment, and safety protocols is essential for daily operations. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication help ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining public health, preventing environmental hazards, and delivering quality service to clients.

What is the difference between Septic Cleaner vs Drain Cleaner?

AspectSeptic CleanerDrain Cleaner
CredentialsMay require OSHA training, safety certificationsTypically no formal credentials required
Work EnvironmentSeptic tanks, underground systems, outdoor sitesIndoor plumbing, sinks, drains
Industry UsageSeptic system maintenance, waste managementClog removal, pipe cleaning
Common Search IntentSeptic system cleaning, maintenanceClogged drain repair, pipe cleaning

Septic Cleaners focus on maintaining and cleaning septic systems, often working outdoors and requiring safety certifications. Drain Cleaners primarily handle indoor drain clogs and may not need specialized credentials. While both roles involve plumbing-related tasks, septic cleaners deal with waste management systems, whereas drain cleaners focus on clearing blockages in household plumbing.

What is the highest paid cleaning job?

Among cleaning jobs, specialized roles such as industrial or hazardous materials cleaners tend to have higher wages due to the skills and safety training required. Septic cleaners can earn higher pay with experience, certifications, and working in remote or challenging environments. Overall, jobs requiring technical expertise or operating heavy equipment generally offer the highest salaries in the cleaning industry.
What are popular job titles related to Septic Cleaner jobs in Michigan? For Septic Cleaner jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Septic Cleaner jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Septic Cleaner jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Septic Cleaner jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Septic Cleaner job openings:
Camp Hazelwood Caretaker

Camp Hazelwood Caretaker

Oakland Schools

Waterford, MI • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Camp Hazelwood Caretaker

 

Job Title: Caretaker

 

Reports to: Maintenance Supervisor

 

Location: Groveland Twp., MI 

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

 
  • Maintain 80 acres and all buildings and systems in working order including septic systems, water system, refrigeration units, and electrical infrastructure, including responding to power failures.

  • Ensure safety of camp: people, natural disasters, animals, and dealing with uninvited intruders and trespassers.

  • Participate in capital construction projects.

  • Maintain health and safety of lawns, fire-pit, docks, nature paths and trees.

  • Responsible for the exterior and interior maintenance of all buildings including carpentry and painting.

  • Respond to and handle emergencies at any time including when on-call.

  • Repair and maintain equipment, including, refrigerators, hand and power tools, machinery, water heaters, kitchen appliances, vehicles, trailers etc.

  • Keep camp clean and hygienic including housekeeping and trash collection as needed

  • Identify ongoing maintenance needs, prioritize and provide timely follow through

 
  • Other duties may be assigned to meet business needs.

 

Qualifications and Requirements

 
  • Proficient in carpentry, electrical, plumbing, sheetrock, painting, HVAC, tractor operation, and concrete work.

 
  • Able to operate wells, pumps and water storage and treatment.

 
  • Maintain a current Michigan Driver's license.

 
  • Cooperative attitude and ability to live and work well with a diverse group of people.

  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively without supervisor present.

  • Sufficient previous construction and maintenance experience.

 

Knowledge and Skills

 
  • Ability to work cooperatively with local and government agencies.

  • Knowledge of building codes and safety regulations.

  • Demonstrated skill in plumbing installation and repair, electrical repair, rough and finish carpentry, painting and roofing.

 

Physical demands

 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 
  • Lifting and carrying up to 75 lbs.

  • Reading, hearing and speaking.

  • Use hands and fingers to operate office equipment and construction tools.

  • Frequent sitting, standing, climbing, bending, walking, kneeling.

  • Stamina and willingness to work long hours, in inclement weather and for stretches of days.

 
  • Physical strength to perform tasks involved in normal operations of the business.

 

Special requirements

 
  • Residential position, must be willing to live at camp site year-round and live under terms of lease with Hazel Park Schools.




Oakland Schools logo

About Oakland Schools

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oakland Schools is a regional service agency that offers support services to school personnel that are best delivered regionally and provide cost, size and quality advantages to those we serve. Oakland Schools is an autonomous, tax-supported public school district governed by Michigan General School Laws and is one of 56 intermediate school districts (ISDs) established in Michigan in 1962.

Industry

Elementary and secondary schools

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Waterford, MI, US

Year founded

1962