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Septic Cleaner Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Septic Cleaner information

See Boston, MA salary details

$10

$16

$20

How much do septic cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for septic cleaner in Boston, MA is $16.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $17.74 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 Boston, MA? For Septic Cleaner jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Septic Cleaner jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Septic Cleaner jobs in Boston, MA are:

Customer Service Representative (Remote Near WRE Branch)

Wind River Environmental LLC

Marlborough, MA • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Wind River Environmental rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 89 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Description:

This position is the primary point of contact for customers inquiring about Wind River Environmental's products and services. The Customer Service Representative (CSR) takes ownership of thoroughly understanding the features and benefits of all the consumer products and services we offer. The CSR also keeps current on all pricing, procedures, promotions, tools, and systems used to place orders, update billing, and maintain records of customer contacts. The CSR handles a large volume of inbound calls daily related to our many service offerings, including septic, drain cleaning, grease removal, inspections, and many other detailed topics.


Location: While this is a fully remote position, selected individuals will live within 30 miles of a WRE branch to provide local support when needed. For branch locations, see: https://www.wrenvironmental.com/locations/


Pay Range: $18 - $22 per hour


Shifts: Various schedules are available between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM, seven days per week, based on business needs. Applicants will be asked to provide their availability during the application process.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Answers customer calls and concerns from the Residential Pumping Queue.
  • Provides engaging and educational customer service to ensure customers understand the value of pumping services and available options.
  • Schedules residential pumping services.
  • Determines service needs by working with customers and documents all calls in accordance with department requirements.
  • Answers inquiries by clarifying desired information; researching, locating, and providing information.
  • Maintains the order management system by entering service orders.
  • Resolves problems by clarifying issues; researching and exploring answers and alternative solutions; implementing solutions; and escalating unresolved problems.
  • Fulfills requests by clarifying desired information, completing transactions, and forwarding requests.
  • Works in a metric- and goal-driven environment. CSRs have both individual and team goals to achieve.
  • Manages a high volume of inbound and outbound calls in a timely manner.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Ability to understand instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills for customers, co-workers, and management alike.
  • Ability to demonstrate basic customer service skills with all customers, showing interest and empathy as appropriate.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents, including Company policies and procedures, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, maps, and road signs.
  • Ability to work independently and manage pressure to meet deadlines.
  • Basic computer literacy, including email and internet skills.
  • Ability to perform basic math functions.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Highly detail-oriented.
  • Ability to learn operating procedures quickly and execute them consistently to standard.
Minimum Education / Experience / Qualifications
  • Must have a High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous customer service experience.
  • Must be able to operate in a drug-free workplace.

Wind River Environmental services and maintains a broad array of non-hazardous liquid waste systems, including grease traps, septic tanks, and related waste systems. Headquartered in Marlborough, MA, we offer a full suite of services to business, residential, and municipal customers throughout the East Coast.


Wind River Environmental LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with applicable law, we prohibit discrimination against any applicant or employee based on any legally recognized basis, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age (40 and over), national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), veteran status, uniformed service member status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. Our commitment to equal opportunity employment applies to all persons involved in our operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination by any employee, including supervisors and co-workers.

Requirements:



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