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Tank Cleaner Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Industrial Tank Cleaner serves as representative of HPC-Industrial in creating a continuous working relationship with clients/customers. Transitioning Military , this is a great opportunity to ...

The Industrial Tank Cleaner serves as representative of HPC-Industrial in creating a continuous working relationship with clients/customers. Transitioning Military , this is a great opportunity to ...

Tank Cleaning Technician

Hammond, IN · On-site

$14.42 - $28.85/hr

The Industrial Tank Cleaner serves as representative of HPC-Industrial in creating a continuous working relationship with clients/customers. Transitioning Military , this is a great opportunity to ...

The Industrial Tank Cleaner serves as representative of HPC-Industrial in creating a continuous working relationship with clients/customers. Transitioning Military , this is a great opportunity to ...

This position is responsible for performing all aspects of tank trailer and ISO cleaning, Position Responsibilities: * Is responsible for all aspects of tank trailer and ISO cleaning. * Includes ...

This position is responsible for performing all aspects of tank trailer and ISO cleaning, Position Responsibilities: * Is responsible for all aspects of tank trailer and ISO cleaning. * Includes ...

Tank Wash Technician

Joliet, IL · On-site

$17.82 - $20/hr

Position Summary The position is responsible for the performance of tasks associated with the cleaning of hazardous, non-hazardous and food grade tanker trailers, on-site remediation, clean-up ...

Tank Wash Technician

Bridgeview, IL · On-site

$17.82 - $20/hr

Position Summary The position is responsible for the performance of tasks associated with the cleaning of hazardous, non-hazardous and food grade tanker trailers, on-site remediation, clean-up ...

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Tank Cleaner information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do tank cleaner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for tank cleaner in Chicago, IL is $18.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $21.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tank cleaner?

Tank cleaners are professionals responsible for cleaning, maintaining, and inspecting storage tanks used in industries such as oil and gas, water treatment, food processing, and chemicals. Their duties typically involve removing residues, sediments, and contaminants from inside tanks to ensure safety, prevent contamination, and maintain equipment efficiency. Tank cleaners use specialized equipment and may work in confined spaces, following strict safety protocols to protect themselves and the environment.

What does a tank cleaner do?

As a tank cleaner, you wash and clean the interior of a tank. You may drain and scrape it using a pressure washer, broom, or another tool to ensure it is as clean as possible. In this context, a tank is a storage device that holds any material in bulk, including vats, kettles, chutes, and some trucks. In this role, you may work in containers that have previously stored hazardous materials, so the ability to wear and use the appropriate safety gear is essential to this position. This job should not be confused with jobs that involve cleaning fish tanks or military tanks, despite the similarities in job titles.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a tank cleaner?

To thrive as a Tank Cleaner, you need strong attention to detail, physical stamina, and knowledge of safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial cleaning equipment, confined space entry certification, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) are important technical requirements. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for navigating potentially hazardous environments and ensuring efficient operations. These skills and qualifications are crucial to maintain safety, prevent contamination, and deliver thorough cleaning in compliance with industry standards.

What challenges do tank cleaners face and how are they addressed?

Tank cleaners often encounter challenges such as confined spaces, hazardous materials, and the need for strict adherence to safety protocols. These challenges are addressed through comprehensive safety training, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and adherence to strict entry and ventilation procedures. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as tasks are typically performed with spotters or supervisors present to ensure compliance with safety standards and to respond quickly in case of emergencies.

What is the difference between Tank Cleaner vs Pipe Fitter?

AspectTank CleanerPipe Fitter
CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly confined space certificationOSHA safety training, pipefitting certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial tanks, storage facilities, chemical plantsConstruction sites, industrial plants, piping systems
Job DutiesCleaning tanks, removing residues, ensuring sanitationInstalling, repairing, and maintaining piping systems

While both roles work in industrial settings and require safety certifications, Tank Cleaners focus on cleaning and maintaining tanks, whereas Pipe Fitters specialize in installing and repairing piping systems. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and career goals.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Tank Cleaner jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Tank Cleaner job openings:

Infographic showing various Tank Cleaner job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,109 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Tank Cleaning Technician

Hammond, IN • On-site


Clean Harbors
Environmental Consulting Services • 10K+ employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 91 rated recycling and waste

Good employer

Paid breaks

Respectful managers


Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

HPC-Industrial, powered by Clean Harbors, in Hammond, IN is looking for an Industrial Tank Cleaner to work at various customer locations, and to join their safety conscious team!This team member is responsible for supporting work during industrial tank cleaning operations which will entail following all site-specific safety guidelines and protocols; as we all, following instructions from the site supervisory personnel and various other responsibilities. The Industrial Tank Cleaner serves as representative of HPC-Industrial in creating a continuous working relationship with clients/customers.  Transitioning Military, this is a great opportunity to leverage your skills and training as you return to civilian life. 

Why work for HPC-Industrial? 

  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority and we live it 3-6-5! 

  • Competitive wages 

  • Positive and safe work environments

  • Refinery tank cleaning is preferred; however, offshore, drilling, chemical handling, military experience is also acceptable; 

  • Ability to work in an industrial setting, refinery, petrochemical, utilities, pulp and paper mills, etc; 

  • Ability to work outside in all elements and conditions, inside confined spaces with full HazMat apparel including breathing air lines or respirators. 


 

What does it take to work for HPC-Industrial? 

  • High School diploma or equivalent; 

  • Valid TWIC required or ability to obtain TWIC. 
     

About HPC-Industrial  

HPC-Industrial, a Clean Harbors company, is the premier industrial cleaning and environmental services company in North America supporting the upstream, downstream, and utility sectors. HPC-Industrial offers an exceptional three-pronged safety system, innovative career development platform, committed customer service, deep industry expertise, and advanced technology and automation. We are committed to safety, people, growth, service, and performance. We provide the safest, most efficient operational experience for our customers and the most comprehensive training and career development for our employees. 

HPC-Industrial is an equal opportunity employer. 

HPC-Industrial is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547. 

HPC-Industrial is a Military & Veteran friendly company. 

Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making.

Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

*HPC

  • Ensures Health and Safety is the number one goal by following policies, processes, and acting in a safe manner at all times; 

  • Transporting, carrying, and connecting hoses, fittings, pumps, and other site related equipment; 

  • Monitoring and operation of special equipment such as pumps, breathing air equipment, and tools to enab le the cleaning of tanks; 

  • Operate equipment according to procedures and safe practices 

  • Ability to follow orders from site supervisory personnel; 

  • Donning and doffing HazMat PPE and entering confined spaces to aid in the cleaning of large storage tanks; 

  • May be required to perform physically strenuous duties such as removal of product or sludes while in the tank wearing HazMat PPE; 

  • Additional duties as assigned.  


Clean Harbors logo

About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US


What Clean Harbors employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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