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Tank Cleaning Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Structural Mechanical Systems

Tank Cleaner

Norfolk, VA · On-site

A Gas-Free Tank Cleaner is responsible for cleaning, ventilating, inspecting, and preparing tanks ... Operate pumps, pressure washers, vacuum trucks, ventilation systems, and other cleaning equipment.

Epsilon Systems

Tank Cleaner I

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

Position Summary Performs bilge maintenance, pumping, cleaning and preparation for gas free certification of tanks, voids, cofferdams, inaccessible areas, bilges and other compartments located on U.S.

Epsilon Systems Solutions

Tank Cleaner I

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Position Summary Performs bilge maintenance, pumping, cleaning and preparation for gas free certification of tanks, voids, cofferdams, inaccessible areas, bilges and other compartments located on U.S.

SBSBTC

Laborer Tank Cleaning Virginia

Norfolk, VA

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

SOUTH BAY SANDBLASTING & TANK CLEANING, INC. is a local Norfolk, Virginia shipyard related subcontractor looking to hire General Laborers - Tank Cleaning. Job Summary Position performs routine ...

Epsilon Systems Solutions

Tank Cleaner II

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Summary Performs bilge maintenance, pumping, cleaning and preparation for gas free certification of tanks, voids, cofferdams, inaccessible areas, bilges and other compartments located on U.S. Navy ...

Epsilon Systems

EH&S Tank Cleaner

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

Assists with conducting pumping operations, closing checkpoints, cleaning and setup/breakdown of all equipment associated with Bilge Maintenance and Tank Cleaning operations. Provides various ...

Epsilon Systems

Tank Cleaner II

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

Summary Performs bilge maintenance, pumping, cleaning and preparation for gas free certification of tanks, voids, cofferdams, inaccessible areas, bilges and other compartments located on U.S. Navy ...

Epsilon Systems

Tank Cleaner Specialist

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Performs management and execution of personnel for bilge maintenance, pumping, cleaning and preparation for gas free certification of tanks, voids, cofferdams, inaccessible areas, bilges and other ...

SIGNATURE MARINE

Be Seen First

Shipboard Tank cleaner

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$26/hr

Perform thorough pressure washing of tanks interiors, including removal of residue, sludge, and ... Must have clean background for government work * Ability to Travel out of state (Optional with Paid ...

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All JobsTank Cleaning JobsTank Cleaning Jobs in Virginia

Tank Cleaning information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do tank cleaning jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for tank cleaning in Virginia is $17.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is tank cleaning?

Tank cleaning refers to the process of removing residues, sludge, and contaminants from the inside of storage tanks, which are commonly used in industries such as oil and gas, chemicals, food processing, and water treatment. The process can involve manual cleaning, the use of automated cleaning systems, or a combination of both, depending on the size and type of tank and the materials stored within. Proper tank cleaning is essential for maintaining product quality, ensuring safety, preventing contamination, and complying with environmental regulations. Professionals use specialized equipment and follow strict safety procedures to effectively and safely clean tanks of all sizes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tank cleaning technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tank Cleaning Technician, you need knowledge of industrial cleaning processes, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with specialized cleaning equipment, confined space entry procedures, and certifications such as OSHA or HAZWOPER are typically required. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and strong teamwork skills set standout technicians apart in this demanding role. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance in hazardous and challenging environments.

What are common challenges faced by tank cleaning professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Tank cleaning professionals often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, exposure to hazardous materials, and adhering to strict safety protocols. These challenges can be addressed by receiving thorough safety training, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and following established procedures for ventilation and emergency response. Teamwork and clear communication are also essential, as tasks often require coordination with other crew members and supervisors to ensure safety and efficiency.

What is the difference between Tank Cleaning vs Tank Maintenance?

AspectTank CleaningTank Maintenance
Primary FocusRemoving residues, contaminants, and buildup from tanksInspecting, repairing, and ensuring the integrity of tanks
Skills & CertificationsHazardous materials handling, safety training, cleaning equipment operationWelding, corrosion control, inspection certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, chemical plants, oil & gas facilitiesIndustrial facilities, manufacturing plants, storage tanks
PurposeEnsure cleanliness and safety for storage or processingMaintain tank functionality and prevent failures

While both roles involve working with tanks in industrial settings, Tank Cleaning focuses on removing residues and contaminants to ensure safety and cleanliness. Tank Maintenance involves inspecting and repairing tanks to maintain their structural integrity and functionality. Both require safety certifications and often work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ.

How to become a tank cleaner?

To become a tank cleaner, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and training in safety procedures. Experience with industrial cleaning equipment and knowledge of hazardous materials are beneficial, and some positions may require certifications such as OSHA safety training. Physical stamina and attention to safety protocols are important for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Tank Cleaning jobs in Virginia?

For Tank Cleaning jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tank Cleaning jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Tank Cleaning jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Tank Cleaning jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Tank Cleaning job openings:

Tank Cleaning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tank Cleaning job openings in Virginia 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 $36,676 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Laborer Tank Cleaning Virginia

South Bay Sand Blasting & Tank Cleaning

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description


SOUTH BAY SANDBLASTING & TANK CLEANING, INC. is a local Norfolk, Virginia shipyard related subcontractor looking to hire General Laborers - Tank Cleaning.
Job Summary
Position performs routine physical labor; moving materials, tools, and/or equipment; cleaning equipment, machinery, and work areas. May be required to perform additional duties as deemed necessary by the supervisor for the completion of the job in a safe and timely manner.
Must be local in Norfolk, Virginia, we are not looking to relocate candidates at this time.
Responsibilities:
  • Performs various physical duties as assigned
  • Use proper PPE
  • Moves, secures, installs, builds, loads, or unloads materials
  • Performs some specialized tasks which may require on-the job training
  • Effectively using heavy and light equipment, depending on the jobsite/assignment
  • Moves items from place to place, according to direction from the site supervisor
  • Moving tools, equipment, or other material as directed in plans or by supervisor
  • Implement and follow the company's safety, quality, and environmental policies

Qualifications:
  • Ability to read labels, safety warnings, and guidelines
  • Attentive to detail and alert always to ensure safety
  • Able to receive and follow instructions and communicate with co-workers
  • Ability to safely operate various vehicles and equipment
  • Previous experience, especially in particular industry, preferred

Education Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED, B.A., Technical/Vocational trade school, or apprenticeship

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:
  • Must be able to climb up and down ladders and gangways, work aloft while wearing fall prevention equipment
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and carry the same for short distances and up and down stairs and steep inclines
  • The work requires long periods of sitting in awkward positions, standing on a variety of surfaces and at differing angles, bending over, crouching, and climbing up and over obstructions such as scaffolding, ladders, and internal barge and boat structural members.

Other requirements:
All positions require a pre-employment medical test. This employer participates in E-Verify. Must be able to qualify for DBIDS security clearance. Ability to read technical English is a must. U.S. Citizenship is preferred (for some work locations it is required). Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
To respond to this ad, you:
  • MUST provide us with a resume

If all requirements listed above are not provided your application will not be considered.
Please respond to this ad on our website:
Women, veterans, and their spouses are encouraged to apply.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. EEO/AA M/F D/V
Job Type: Full-time

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