Job Description

Drain Apprentice
Ostrom | Roanoke, VA | Full-Time

Ostrom is hiring a Drain Apprentice to learn the drain and sewer trade from the ground up alongside our experienced technicians. This is an entry-level, hands-on role for someone who's dependable, coachable, and not afraid of hard work. You'll ride with our drain crews, learn the equipment, and over time build the skills to run jobs on your own. Training is fully paid and on the job — no prior plumbing experience required. What you bring is a strong work ethic, a good attitude, and the drive to build a real career in the skilled trades.

Responsibilities

• Assist lead technicians in operating drain cleaning equipment, including motorized snakes, jetters, and sewer camera inspection systems
• Learn to diagnose, troubleshoot, and locate drainage blockages, broken pipes, and system failures
• Transport, load, unload, and safely set up tools, equipment, and materials at job sites
• Clean and maintain service vehicles and machinery so all tools stay in safe working condition
• Keep customer property clean and protected, leaving every work area clean at the end of the call
• Represent Ostrom professionally in customers' homes with clear, respectful communication
• Follow all safety protocols, local plumbing codes, and company service standards

Requirements

Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
• Valid driver's license with an insurable driving record and reliable transportation
• Six months to one year of drain cleaning, plumbing, or related field experience preferred, but not required — we provide paid on-the-job training
• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn hand and power tool operation
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for direct customer interaction
• Prior experience in construction, labor, or customer service is a plus, but not required
• Ability to perform physical labor in varying weather conditions, including lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying equipment up to 70 lbs
• Ability to work in confined spaces, crawl spaces, and basements, and to stand, kneel, bend, and crouch for extended periods
• Must be 18 years of age or older to apply

Why Join Ostrom

Ostrom has served the Roanoke Valley for decades across electrical, plumbing, heating, and air. We invest in our people — you'll get paid training, real mentorship from experienced drain technicians, and a clear path to grow into a technician role of your own. If you want a trade and a long-term career instead of just a job, we want to hear from you.