Seeking an experienced, high-caliber Lead Kitchen Exhaust Technician to spearhead high-volume restaurant service routes across Central Florida. This is not a basic pressure washing job. We are looking for a true professional who understands NFPA 96 standards, takes pride in bare-metal cleaning, and can safely operate and maintain a high-volume hot-water trailer rig.
As the Lead Technician, you will manage a 2-man crew, handle on-site customer communication, ensure 100% water containment, and certify that every system meets municipal fire codes before leaving the property.
Key Responsibilities
- System Cleaning & Compliance: Clean commercial kitchen exhaust systems (hood canopies, plenum areas, vertical/horizontal ductwork, and roof-mounted upblast fans) to bare metal in strict compliance with NFPA 96 standards.
- Crew & Rig Leadership: Manage on-site helpers, ensure proper PPE usage, and oversee the safe operation of an industrial 8.0 GPM hot-water skid system, 12V chemical foaming pumps, and continuous wastewater extraction equipment.
- Site Prep & Containment: Oversee complete kitchen protection. Ensure all cooking lines are wrapped and a zero-bypass funnel/drape system is executed flawlessly to protect client equipment and electronics.
- Code Documentation: Conduct thorough pre- and post-cleaning inspections. Document inaccessible areas, system deficiencies (such as missing hinge kits or access panels), and take clear digital photos to submit for customer compliance reports.
- Equipment Maintenance: Perform basic field maintenance on trailer rigs, including monitoring pump oil, checking burner fuel, ensuring clear Y-strainers, and properly managing chemical inventory.
Job Requirements & Qualifications
- Experience: Minimum 2+ years of hands-on experience performing commercial kitchen exhaust cleaning (specifically leading a crew in high-volume environments).
- Certifications: Active certification from a recognized industry body (IKECA CECT/CECS, Phil Ackland, or MFS) is highly preferred.
- Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of mechanical kitchen exhaust systems, access panel installation, and electrical lockout/tagout (LOTO) safety procedures.
- Schedule Flexibility: Must be able to work consistent overnight shifts (typically starting between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM) when restaurants are closed.
- Physical Stamina: Ability to climb ladders, work on commercial roofs in varying weather conditions, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in confined spaces.
- Driver's License: Valid Florida Driver's License with a clean driving record; comfortable towing and maneuvering a 14ft–16ft enclosed utility trailer.
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly base pay with regular overtime availability.
- Monthly performance and route-efficiency bonuses.
- Company-paid ongoing training, re-certifications, and IKECA membership advancement.
- Top-tier, professional equipment and dedicated chemical-resistant PPE.
- Paid time off (PTO) and career advancement tracks as our fleet expands.
Pay: $24.17 - $29.11 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Opportunities for advancement
Experience:
- Commercial Hood exhaust cleaning : 2 years (Required)
License/Certification:
- NFPA 96 or IKECA Certification ? (Required)
Shift availability:
Ability to Commute:
- Polk County, FL (Required)
Work Location: In person
