Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Clean and repair septic tanks, sewer lines, or drains. May patch walls and partitions of tank, replace damaged drain tile, or repair breaks in underground piping.
Median pay: $49,880/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +7.6% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.
About 2,900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Communicate with supervisors and other workers, using equipment such as wireless phones, pagers, or radio telephones.
• Drive trucks to transport crews, materials, and equipment.
• Inspect manholes to locate sewer line stoppages.
• Operate sewer cleaning equipment, including power rodders, high-velocity water jets, sewer flushers, bucket machines, wayne balls, and vac-alls.
• Prepare and keep records of actions taken, including maintenance and repair work.
• Clean and repair septic tanks, sewer lines, or related structures such as manholes, culverts, and catch basins.
• Measure excavation sites, using plumbers' snakes, tapelines, or lengths of cutting heads within sewers, and mark areas for digging.
• Service, adjust, and make minor repairs to equipment, machines, and attachments.
What's the median pay for Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners?
The median pay for Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners is $49,880 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners?
Employment for Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners is projected to change +7.6% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.
What education is typically required for Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners?
About 2,900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.