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.
SOC: 47-4071.00
Common Job Titles
Drain Cleaner
Septic Pump Truck Driver
Septic Tank Service Technician
Service Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate septic pumping trucks and high velocity water jetters in residential and commercial field settings, following safety protocols.
Developing
Hands-onPerform cleaning and maintenance of sewer lines and septic tanks using portable sewer cleaning machines and power rodders under physically demanding conditions.
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Hands-onExecute repairs to underground piping and damaged drain tile using hand tools and excavation equipment in confined spaces.
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KnowledgeAnalyze septic system malfunctions and drainage blockages using sewer surveillance cameras and on-site inspection data.
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KnowledgeApply troubleshooting techniques to diagnose plumbing and waste system failures under time constraints while coordinating with customers.
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Hands-onManipulate specialized equipment including liquid pumps, power rodders, and excavators to access and service underground waste systems safely.
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KnowledgeApply public safety and environmental regulations when handling and disposing of hazardous waste materials.
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MindsetEngage with customers to explain service procedures and system maintenance requirements in residential and commercial settings, demonstrating professionalism.
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Hands-onCalibrate septic system equipment and monitoring devices to ensure optimal performance and regulatory compliance.
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KnowledgeEstimate job requirements including time, materials, and equipment needs when planning service calls and repair projects.
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Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
29,050
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $36,500. 25th percentile: U.S. $42,700. 50th percentile: U.S. $49,140. 75th percentile: U.S. $60,320. 90th percentile: U.S. $73,670. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$36,500
10% of workers earn the following or more
$73,670
Workers on average earn
$52,730
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service3.9/5
Transportation3.5/5
Mechanical3.5/5
English Language3.4/5
Public Safety and Security3.4/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
