What Does a Restoration Technician Do?
A restoration technician helps repair and restore properties that have been damaged by disasters such as fire, water, mold, or storms. They are responsible for assessing damage, cleaning and removing debris, operating restoration equipment, and working with homeowners and businesses to bring properties back to safe, livable conditions.
Restoration technicians often respond to urgent situations and must work efficiently to minimize further damage. They use specialized tools and follow industry standards to complete restoration projects safely and effectively. The role requires a combination of hands-on technical skills, physical stamina, and strong customer service.
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Restoration Technician Core Responsibilities
- Assess property damage caused by fire, water, mold, or natural disasters
- Remove debris, standing water, or damaged materials
- Operate restoration equipment such as dehumidifiers, air movers, and cleaning machines
- Perform mold remediation and air quality treatments
- Clean, sanitize, and deodorize affected areas
- Document damage and restoration activities for insurance purposes
- Work with project managers, homeowners, and insurance adjusters
- Follow safety and regulatory guidelines throughout restoration projects
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Ability to operate specialized restoration and cleaning equipment
- Knowledge of fire, water, and mold remediation techniques
- Basic construction, demolition, and repair skills
- Familiarity with safety procedures and OSHA guidelines
- Ability to document restoration work and communicate with insurance companies
Soft skills
- Strong customer service and communication abilities
- Problem-solving and adaptability in emergency situations
- Teamwork and collaboration with restoration crews
- Attention to detail in completing restoration tasks
- Physical stamina for heavy lifting and demanding work environments
Education
- High school diploma or GED required
Certifications
- IICRC certifications strongly recommended:
- Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT)
- Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT)
- Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT)
- OSHA safety training may be required by some employers
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in construction, demolition, or property restoration
- Bilingual communication skills for working with diverse clients
- Additional certifications in specialty restoration areas such as trauma cleanup or HVAC system cleaning
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for on-site response
National Average Salary
Restoration technician salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Restoration Technician is:
$43,110
Sample Job Description Templates for Restoration Technicians
Entry-Level Restoration Technician
Position Overview
We are seeking an entry-level restoration technician to join our disaster recovery team. This role is ideal for motivated individuals who want to learn the restoration trade while helping homeowners and businesses recover from water, fire, or mold damage. Training and mentorship will be provided.
Responsibilities
- Assist with cleanup and debris removal from fire, water, or mold damage sites
- Set up and operate drying and restoration equipment such as dehumidifiers and air movers
- Perform basic demolition tasks, including removing drywall or flooring
- Clean and sanitize affected areas under supervision
- Document work performed and take photos for project files
- Follow safety guidelines and company policies on every job site
Requirements
Hard skills
- Ability to safely use hand tools and restoration equipment
- Basic understanding of cleaning and sanitation procedures
- Familiarity with safety practices such as PPE use
Soft skills
- Willingness to learn and take direction from supervisors
- Strong work ethic and reliability
- Team-oriented attitude
- Good communication with team members and clients
Education
- High school diploma or GED required
Certifications
- None required; IICRC WRT certification encouraged within first year
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in construction, cleaning, or labor-intensive roles
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
Mid-Level Restoration Technician
Position Overview
We are hiring a mid-level restoration technician to handle restoration tasks with minimal supervision. This role requires prior field experience and the ability to work independently on water, fire, and mold remediation projects.
Responsibilities
- Perform water extraction, drying, and dehumidification processes
- Conduct mold remediation and sanitization procedures
- Assist in fire and smoke damage cleanup, including odor removal
- Maintain accurate job logs and reports for insurance purposes
- Communicate with homeowners about progress and expected timelines
- Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory guidelines
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in using restoration equipment and hand tools
- Knowledge of water, fire, and mold remediation practices
- Ability to prepare detailed project documentation
Soft skills
- Strong problem-solving abilities in field situations
- Good customer service and communication skills
- Ability to manage time effectively across multiple projects
- Dependability and accountability
Education
- High school diploma or GED required; associate’s degree preferred
Certifications
- IICRC Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) required
- OSHA safety training recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 2–3 years of restoration or construction experience
- Additional certifications such as FSRT or AMRT
Senior Restoration Technician
Position Overview
We are looking for a senior restoration technician to take on advanced restoration projects and mentor junior team members. This role requires technical expertise and proven experience in property restoration.
Responsibilities
- Lead complex restoration projects involving fire, mold, or water damage
- Supervise junior and mid-level technicians on job sites
- Perform advanced demolition and reconstruction tasks
- Ensure all work is completed according to IICRC standards
- Communicate with insurance adjusters and project managers on progress
- Conduct quality checks to ensure compliance with company standards
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced knowledge of restoration processes and equipment
- Ability to supervise crews and oversee project timelines
- Proficiency in documenting job site conditions for insurance purposes
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentoring skills
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
- Strong communication with both clients and team members
- Organizational skills for managing multiple projects
Education
- High school diploma or GED required; associate’s degree in construction or related field preferred
Certifications
- IICRC WRT and FSRT required
- AMRT certification strongly recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of restoration experience
- Experience leading job site teams
Lead Restoration Technician
Position Overview
We are hiring a lead restoration technician to oversee day-to-day field operations, assign workloads, and ensure that projects are completed efficiently. This role balances hands-on restoration work with team supervision.
Responsibilities
- Lead restoration teams during emergency response and scheduled projects
- Assign daily tasks and provide on-site training to technicians
- Communicate with homeowners, business owners, and insurance representatives
- Monitor compliance with safety standards and regulatory guidelines
- Manage equipment usage and ensure maintenance is performed
- Prepare job reports and submit project updates to management
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in water, fire, and mold restoration techniques
- Ability to manage and train restoration staff on-site
- Strong understanding of safety and compliance standards
Soft skills
- Leadership and conflict-resolution abilities
- Strong customer service and communication skills
- Time management and multitasking abilities
- Ability to work under pressure during emergency situations
Education
- High school diploma or GED required; technical training preferred
Certifications
- IICRC WRT and FSRT required
- AMRT or additional certifications recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience as a senior restoration technician
- Supervisory experience in restoration or construction
Restoration Project Manager
Position Overview
We are seeking a restoration project manager to oversee multiple restoration projects from start to finish. This role requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to coordinate with clients, insurance adjusters, and field teams.
Responsibilities
- Plan, coordinate, and manage all phases of restoration projects
- Oversee field teams to ensure projects are on schedule and within budget
- Serve as the primary contact for clients and insurance adjusters
- Prepare cost estimates and project documentation
- Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations
- Provide training and performance feedback to restoration staff
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong project management skills and knowledge of restoration processes
- Proficiency in estimating software and reporting tools
- Ability to manage budgets and vendor contracts
Soft skills
- Leadership and team management abilities
- Strong negotiation and client relationship skills
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Excellent organizational and time management abilities
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in construction management, business, or related field preferred; experience may substitute
Certifications
- IICRC certifications required (WRT, FSRT)
- PMP or equivalent project management certification recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years of restoration industry experience, including leadership roles
- Experience working directly with insurance adjusters and claims processes
Director of Restoration Services
Position Overview
We are seeking a director of restoration services to provide executive leadership over restoration operations. This role sets strategic direction, manages budgets, and ensures all projects meet quality and compliance standards.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement company-wide restoration strategies and processes
- Oversee project managers, lead technicians, and support staff
- Manage departmental budgets, financial performance, and growth goals
- Build and maintain relationships with insurance companies and vendors
- Ensure compliance with IICRC standards and regulatory requirements
- Represent the restoration division in executive meetings and planning sessions
Requirements
Hard skills
- Extensive knowledge of restoration operations and industry standards
- Ability to manage budgets, contracts, and vendor relationships
- Strong financial and operational reporting abilities
Soft skills
- Executive-level leadership and communication skills
- Strategic vision and long-term planning abilities
- Ability to influence and inspire large teams
- Negotiation and conflict resolution skills
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in business or construction management preferred
Certifications
- Multiple IICRC certifications required (WRT, FSRT, AMRT)
- PMP or advanced leadership certifications valued
Preferred Qualifications
- 10+ years of progressive experience in restoration services
- Proven success managing multi-site or large-scale operations