Entertainment & Media

Drainer

SOC 47-2152.00 · ESCO 7126 · OSCA 363931

Role snapshot

Overview

Lays and connects underground stormwater and sewerage pipes, excavating trenches, setting gradients, and testing systems to ensure waste and rainwater flow correctly away from buildings. This involves precise measurement, adherence to safety protocols, and effective problem-solving to prevent blockages and leaks, crucial for public health and property protection.

Ensures public health and safety by maintaining efficient waste and stormwater removal, preventing property damage, and protecting environmental water quality from contamination.

On the job

Excavate and prepare trenches for pipe installation, ensuring proper depth, width, and stability.
Lay, assemble, and connect various types of pipes (e.g., PVC, concrete, clay) for stormwater and sewerage systems.
Measure and calculate pipe gradients and slopes to ensure correct gravity flow and drainage.
Install and maintain drainage structures such as pits, grates, manholes, and septic systems.
Perform pressure and flow tests on newly installed or repaired systems to detect leaks and ensure full functionality.

Tools & technology

ExcavatorsTrenchersPipe cutters and joinersLaser levels and transitsPipe wrenches and shovelsDrainage cameras and hydro-jetters

Average salary

$65K

MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD

$45K Bottom 10%

$85K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Vocational training, apprenticeship, or certificate in plumbing, drainage, or pipe laying.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Lead Drainer

Plumbing Contractor

Construction Foreman

CURRENT ROLE

Drainer

Entertainment & Media

Construction Laborer

Plumbing Apprentice

General Laborer

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

realistic · RCI

People who enjoy practical, hands-on tasks, working with tools and equipment, and solving concrete problems in a structured environment tend to thrive in this role.

Personality characteristics

Practical Thinker

Prefers concrete tasks and working with tangible objects and systems rather than abstract ideas or theories.

Detail-Oriented

Meticulous in ensuring precise measurements, correct pipe gradients, and strict adherence to safety codes and regulations.

Reliable

Consistently completes tasks to high standards, maintains equipment, and follows through on job commitments.

Composed

Maintains a calm and steady approach when facing unexpected site challenges, difficult weather, or emergency callouts.

Independent Worker

Comfortable working alone or in small teams, focusing intently on the task at hand without constant supervision.

Best for

Individuals who enjoy seeing the tangible results of their skilled labor and solving practical challenges.
People who prefer a structured work environment with clear procedures and problem-solving tasks.
Those who are comfortable with physical work, outdoor conditions, and the responsibility of maintaining critical infrastructure.

Watch out for

Requires working outdoors in various weather conditions and often in confined, dirty, or physically demanding spaces.
The job can be physically demanding and requires strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent accidents.