Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners
O*NET 47-4071.00 · SOC 47-4071
Septic Tank Servicer is a solid career choice. Median pay is $50k a year with +7.8% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 2,800 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Pump waste from septic tanks using vacuum trucks.
- →Clean clogged sewer pipes with high-pressure water jets.
- →Inspect septic systems for leaks or structural damage.
- →Locate underground septic tanks using probing rods.
- →Transport and dispose of sewage waste at approved sites.
Education & How to Get In
Septic Tank Servicer roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Septic Tank Servicer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Septic Tank Servicer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Septic Tank Servicer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners is projected to grow 7.8% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·45% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Septic Tank Servicer make?
The median Septic Tank Servicer earns $50k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Septic Tank Servicer jobs?
Our model puts Septic Tank Servicer at 42 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 45% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Septic Tank Servicer a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 7.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 2,800 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Septic Tank Servicer?
Most Septic Tank Servicer roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Septic Tank Servicer?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Septic Tank Servicer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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