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Water Extraction Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Restoration Technician

Tinley Park, IL ยท On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Evaluate and perform restoration activities including but not limited to, water extraction, fire damages, set-up of specialty equipment, and demolition. * Load, inventory, and maintain work vehicles ...

Mitigation Lead Technician

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$16 - $26/hr

Extract water from flooded structures using commercial extraction equipment * Lead job site production to include water extraction, demolition, use of hand tools, power tools, general cleanup ...

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Water Extraction information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$20

$28

How much do water extraction jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for water extraction in Chicago, IL is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by water extraction technicians during an emergency response?

Water extraction technicians often encounter challenges such as working in unpredictable environments, dealing with hazardous materials like mold or sewage, and operating heavy equipment in confined spaces. They must act quickly to minimize property damage and ensure safety, often working irregular hours or on-call shifts, especially after storms or floods. Teamwork is crucial, as technicians frequently coordinate with restoration specialists, insurance adjusters, and property owners to deliver efficient results and restore normalcy.

What is water extraction in the restoration industry?

Water extraction is the process of removing standing water from homes or businesses after flooding, leaks, or other water-related incidents. Professionals use specialized equipment like pumps, vacuums, and dehumidifiers to quickly remove water and prevent further damage. Effective water extraction helps reduce the risk of mold growth, structural damage, and costly repairs. It's a critical first step in the water damage restoration process to ensure the property is safe and dry.

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

To thrive as a Water Extraction Technician, you need knowledge of water damage restoration, moisture detection, and safety protocols, often supported by certifications like IICRC Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT). Familiarity with industrial-grade extraction equipment, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help technicians assess damage and reassure clients in stressful situations. These competencies ensure efficient restoration processes, minimize property loss, and maintain client trust during emergencies.

What is the difference between Water Extraction vs Carpet Cleaning Technician?

AspectWater ExtractionCarpet Cleaning Technician
CertificationsWater Damage Restoration Certification, IICRCCarpet Cleaning Certification, IICRC
Work EnvironmentWater damage sites, flood restorationIndoor spaces, residential and commercial carpets
Industry UsageRestoration companies, disaster recoveryCleaning service providers, janitorial companies

Water Extraction focuses on removing excess water from structures after flooding or leaks, often requiring specialized restoration skills. Carpet Cleaning Technicians primarily clean carpets using various methods, including steam cleaning. While both roles involve cleaning and may require IICRC certifications, Water Extraction is more specialized in water damage scenarios, whereas Carpet Cleaning Technicians focus on routine cleaning tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Water Extraction jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Water Extraction jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Extraction jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Extraction jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Water Extraction jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Water Extraction job openings:

Crew Chief for Water Damage & Restoration

Hydroforce Cleaning & Restoration

Bridgeview, IL โ€ข On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Company car
  • Company parties
  • Paid time off
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Free uniforms
  • Training & development

Hydroforce Cleaning & Restoration – Chicago Area
High Pay | Full-Time | Experienced Candidates

Hydroforce Cleaning & Restoration is hiring an experienced Crew Chief / Lead Restoration Technician to join our production team.
This is a hands-on production position, not a foreman role where you stand around supervising. Our Crew Chief is expected to be the most experienced and productive person on the crew — working alongside technicians, setting the pace, making field decisions, and making sure the job is completed correctly and efficiently.
We are looking for someone with strong construction experience who is comfortable working with tools, performing demolition, solving problems, and taking ownership of jobs from start to finish.
Water damage restoration experience is strongly preferred. Candidates with solid construction, remodeling, demolition, carpentry, or similar experience may also be considered.
Responsibilities
  •  Lead and work alongside a small restoration crew 
  •  Perform water extraction, demolition, cleaning, and mitigation 
  •  Remove affected drywall, flooring, baseboards, insulation, cabinetry, and other materials 
  •  Set up air movers, dehumidifiers, air scrubbers, containment, and drying equipment 
  •  Take moisture readings and monitor drying progress 
  •  Perform HEPA vacuuming, cleaning, and antimicrobial application 
  •  Keep technicians productive and jobs moving efficiently 
  •  Document work with photos, moisture readings, and job notes 
  •  Communicate professionally with customers and the office 
  •  Load/unload equipment and maintain clean, organized jobsites 
  •  Respond to emergency water/fire losses when needed 
Qualifications
  • Construction or restoration experience required
  • Water damage restoration experience strongly preferred
  •  Previous Crew Chief, Lead Technician, or lead construction experience preferred 
  •  Strong knowledge of hand tools, power tools, and building materials 
  •  Able to work independently and make decisions in the field 
  •  Able to lead helpers while actively performing production work 
  •  Strong work ethic and sense of urgency 
  •  Valid driver's license 
  •  Able to lift 50+ lbs and perform physical work throughout the day 
  •  Available for overtime and occasional emergency/night/weekend work 
  •  IICRC WRT certification is a plus 
Compensation
We pay very well for experienced people who can produce.

Compensation is based on experience, productivity, and ability to successfully run jobs. There is significant earning potential for someone who can take ownership of a project, lead a crew, and consistently get work completed without constant supervision.
Why Hydroforce?
  •  High earning potential 
  •  Performance incentives 
  •  Overtime opportunities 
  •  Paid time off 
  •  Training and certification opportunities 
  •  Advancement opportunities 
  •  Steady, year-round work 
We are looking for someone who leads by working. If you take pride in being the person who grabs the tools, sets the pace, solves problems, and gets the job done, we want to talk to you.