Updated 2024 · Plumbing
How to Become a Septic Tank Servicer
Septic tank servicers install, maintain, pump, and repair septic systems for residential and commercial properties not connected to municipal sewer systems.
Steps to Become a Septic Tank Servicer
- Meet basic requirements, You must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. A strong foundation in math, physics, and shop classes helps.
- Apply to an apprenticeship program, Septic Tank Servicer apprenticeships last 1 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apply through your local union (IBEW, UA, etc.) or a non-union contractor program. You earn while you learn from day one.
- Complete required training, Complete 2000 hours of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction.
- Earn certifications, Required certifications include: State septic system installer/pumper license, CDL Class B (for vacuum trucks), OSHA 10-Hour.
- Pass the journeyman exam, After completing your apprenticeship, pass the journeyman licensing exam in your state to earn full journeyman status and pay.
What Does a Septic Tank Servicer Do?
Septic tank servicers install, maintain, pump, and repair septic systems for residential and commercial properties not connected to municipal sewer systems.
Daily Duties
- Pump and clean septic tanks
- Inspect septic systems for damage and compliance
- Install new septic systems and drain fields
- Repair and replace damaged tanks and pipes
- Test soil percolation rates for new installations
Skills Needed
- Septic system installation
- Vacuum truck operation
- Soil testing
- Pipe laying
- Code compliance
Required Certifications
- State septic system installer/pumper license
- CDL Class B (for vacuum trucks)
- OSHA 10-Hour
Septic Tank Servicer Salary (2024)
The national median septic tank servicer salary is $52,193 per year. Pay ranges from $39,540 in the lowest-paying metro to $62,830 in the highest-paying metro. See the full septic tank servicer salary breakdown by city.
Apprentice Pay Progression
Septic Tank Servicer apprentices earn while they learn, starting at approximately 40% of journeyman pay:
| Year | % of Journeyman | Estimated Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 40% | $20,877 |
| Journeyman | 100% | $52,193 |
Union vs Non-Union Septic Tank Servicer Pay
Union septic tank servicers earn 8% more than non-union workers, $24.30/hour union vs $22.50/hour non-union. Approximately 4.2% of septic tank servicers are union members. See the full union vs non-union comparison.
Work Environment
Septic servicers work outdoors in residential areas. Exposure to sewage and unpleasant conditions. Physical work involving excavation and heavy equipment.
Career Outlook
Steady demand in rural and suburban areas. EPA regulations on water quality are driving demand for system upgrades and replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions
The national median salary for a septic tank servicer is $52,193 per year (2024 BLS data). Pay ranges from $39,540 to $62,830 depending on location, with top earners in the 90th percentile making significantly more.
It takes 1 years to complete a septic tank servicer apprenticeship. During this time, you earn while you learn, starting at approximately 40-50% of journeyman wages and receiving annual raises.
No college degree is required to become a septic tank servicer. The primary path is through an apprenticeship program or trade school. You will need to earn specific certifications: State septic system installer/pumper license and CDL Class B (for vacuum trucks).
Septic Tank Servicer earns a Trade Pay Score grade of D, meaning it rates moderately on pay relative to cost of living, wage growth, and demand. Steady demand in rural and suburban areas. EPA regulations on water quality are driving demand for system upgrades and replacements.
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