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Septic Cleaner Jobs in Florence, SC (NOW HIRING)

Plumber

Darlington, SC · On-site

$19.08/hr

Repairs water valves and flushing components, repairing pump stations, drain field lines and septic ... cleaning agents, backflow preventers, etc. * Estimates material requirements for projects and ...

Septic Cleaner information

See Florence, SC salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do septic cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for septic cleaner in Florence, SC is $14.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $15.82 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 Florence, SC? For Septic Cleaner jobs in Florence, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Septic Cleaner jobs in Florence, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Septic Cleaner jobs in Florence, SC are:

$19.08/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description:     Plumber  
                                260-day position  
                                Base Salary:   $19.08/hour  (based on verified experience and licensure)
Location:  Darlington Area



Available:  Immediately    *Negative TB Test Result must be on file prior to starting work
Qualifications:

  • High School graduate with vocational/technical school training in plumbing with six to nine years of commercial plumbing experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities
  • Must possess a valid South Carolina Driver's License
  • Valid municipal or commercial plumbing license is desirable
  • Demonstrated aptitude or competence for assigned responsibilities
  • SLED/criminal background review required

Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may find appropriate and acceptable
FLSA Status:     Non-Exempt

Job Status:   "At-will" Employee
Responsible To:   Director of Operations 
Job Goal:  Perform highly skilled work in the servicing of district plumbing systems and fixtures.



Job Duties:

  • Conducts general plumbing maintenance which involves, but is not limited to, such duties as replacing faucets and plumbing fixtures.  Repairs water valves and flushing components, repairing pump stations, drain field lines and septic tank lines, repairs sewer and associated lines.  Performs sewer and water repairs, such as unstopping commodes, repairing sewer lines, etc.
  • Conducts general maintenance for gas lines (natural and propane) which involves but is not limited to the installation of new lines, pressure testing, leak detection, and component replacement.
  • Conducts general maintenance for air, hot and cold water, and steam distribution systems.  To include but is not limited to new installation, testing, leak detections and component replacement.
  • Conducts general maintenance on storm drainage systems to include but is not limited to new installation, repair, and/or replacement of existing storm water systems.
  • Conducts general maintenance on irrigation systems which includes but is not limited to installation and maintenance of irrigation systems at schools and ball fields.
  • Conducts general maintenance on both wet and dry barrel sprinkler systems which includes but is not limited to repair, draining, testing, replacing heads, and recharging of the systems.
  • Operates various equipment in the performance of duties including power tools, hand tools, plumbing hand tools, sewer cables, power sewer machines, drill motors, trenching machines, backhoes, cleaning agents, backflow preventers, etc.
  • Estimates material requirements for projects and submits purchase requisitions for the same.  Works with vendors/suppliers as required.
  • Monitors all plumbing and related maintenance equipment to ensure necessary and timely replacement/ maintenance.
  • Prepares and utilizes various records and documents in the performance of duties including work orders, blue prints, schedules, logs, equipment, manuals, etc.
  • Monitors wells, tests wells, repairs pumps; prepares DHEC reports and performs operational tasks as required.
  • Perform other related duties as required, as well as all other duties as assigned

A complete application packet must be submitted through the online application system prior to the closing date in order to be considered for this position.   ALL of the following requirements must be submitted before the posted deadline:

1.  Classified Employment Application
NOTE: Reference section requires contact information for three (3) employment references; reference forms will be emailed directly to the references listed
          2.  Copy of high school diploma / equivalent or secondary degree
          3.  Copy of municipal or commercial plumbing license
          4.  Copy of 10 year Driving Record issued from SCDMV
CLOSING DATE:    Until Filled






NOTE:  It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that all required application documents are submitted prior to the posted deadline.  An incomplete application will render the applicant ineligible.

For DCSD EmployeesIn addition to the application packet, a "Request to Interview for Transfer" form must be submitted for approval (available on the website, in the schools, and at Department of Human Resources).

The District reserves the right at any time to extend the deadline without notice and without final consideration of any pending application.