ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Septic Cleaner Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

SpringHill Camps

Sites and Facilities Manager

Evart, MI · On-site

... groomed and clean, and ready to deliver an outstanding experience to all SpringHill campers ... Areas of oversight include HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Water and Septic Systems, Carpentry, Vehicle ...

New

Oakland Schools

Camp Hazelwood Caretaker

Waterford, MI · On-site

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 ...

Lester Brothers

Maintain safe, clean, and professional job sites. * Complete basic daily paperwork and equipment ... development, septic systems and drain fields, underground utility installation, drainage work.

New

Diocese of Gaylord

Maintenance

Prescott, MI · On-site

Experience with wells, septic fields, sump pumps and water softeners helpful but not required ... Keep Church Garage in order and clean as needed. * Monitor AED, GFI, Exit lights: replace burned ...

Diocese of Gaylord

Maintenance

Prescott, MI · On-site

Experience with wells, septic fields, sump pumps and water softeners helpful but not required ... Keep Church Garage in order and clean as needed. * Monitor AED, GFI, Exit lights: replace burned ...

All JobsSeptic Cleaner JobsSeptic Cleaner Jobs in Michigan

Septic Cleaner information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$13

$16

How much do septic cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 is a septic cleaner?

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.

How much do septic cleaners make?

Septic cleaners in Washington state typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, certifications, and location. The job often requires physical labor, knowledge of septic systems, and safety precautions.

Is pumping septic tanks a good job?

Septic cleaning, including pumping septic tanks, is a physically demanding job that requires knowledge of safety procedures and proper equipment use. It can be a stable career with opportunities for certification and specialization, but it also involves working in confined spaces and handling waste materials. Job satisfaction depends on individual preferences for manual labor and environmental conditions.

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.

How much money can you make cleaning septic tanks?

Septic cleaners typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and job complexity. Skilled workers who operate specialized equipment or hold certifications may earn higher wages.

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 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:
Septic Cleaner jobs near you

Vacuum Truck Operator / CDL Equipment Operator

Waste Recovery Systems

Wyoming, MI • On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Join Our Team!


Waste Recovery Systems is looking to add an experienced CDL licensed driver to our team. Practical knowledge and experience with the operation of industrial vacuum and/or sewer combo trucks is preferred.  Experience and licensure in manual transmission. 


Position Overview: Operates and maintains vacuum truck and related equipment in the performance of daily operations. Adheres to safety and compliance regulations, with the ability to work in a wide variety of environmental conditions. The right candidate must be able to meet the physical demands of the position as well as be adaptable to schedule changes. 
Benefits: Health Insurance, Dental insurance, Life insurance, Short Term Disability insurance, Long Term Disability insurance, AD & D insurance, Paid Time Off, Cell phone reimbursement, Boot reimbursement, Clothing stipend, 401(k) with up to 4% employer match

Essential Job Functions:
- Help mobilize Vacuum Trucks and related equipment. Set up, execute work, and demobilize upon completion of work. Heavy lifting involved (up to 80 lbs)
- Must be able to operate and/or learn to run Industrial Vacuum Truck.
- Must be able to operate and/or learn to run Sewer Cleaning Equipment.
- Confined Space Entry with training and certification.
- Work in a range of environments, including food manufacturing plants, septic, industrial, hot and cold weather and noisy environments both indoor and outdoor, etc.
- Responsible for own on the job safety and work quality.
- Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspections in accordance with FMCSR guidelines.
- Regular physical and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position.


The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Qualifications: Valid CDL Class B with Tanker and Air Breaks  Endorsement Minimum - Manual transmission, clean driving record, attention to detail, problem solving skills, time management, experience operating vacuum truck is preferred, abiltiy to pass drug screen, non-prohibited status with FMSCA Clearinghouse.
Job Type: Full-time with Benefits