Grease Trap

Term from Plumbing industry explained for recruiters

A grease trap is a plumbing device that helps prevent fats, oils, and grease from entering the sewer system, particularly in commercial kitchens and restaurants. Plumbers work with these devices to install, maintain, repair, and ensure they meet local health codes. A grease trap is also sometimes called a grease interceptor or FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) interceptor. This equipment is essential for any food service business and requires regular professional maintenance to stay operational and compliant with local regulations.

Examples in Resumes

Installed and serviced Grease Trap systems for 20+ commercial kitchens

Performed monthly maintenance on Grease Interceptor systems for local restaurants

Led team in FOG Interceptor installations and emergency repairs

Certified in commercial Grease Trap compliance and inspection

Typical job title: "Grease Trap Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Plumber Commercial Plumber Grease Trap Specialist FOG System Technician Kitchen Plumbing Technician Restaurant Plumbing Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a major grease trap failure in a busy restaurant during peak hours?

Expected Answer: Should discuss emergency response procedures, temporary solutions to keep business running, proper safety protocols, and coordination with restaurant management while maintaining health code compliance.

Q: What factors do you consider when sizing a grease trap for a new restaurant installation?

Expected Answer: Should mention restaurant size, menu type, meal volume, local codes, flow rates, and maintenance schedules as key considerations for proper sizing.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the common maintenance steps for a grease trap system?

Expected Answer: Should describe regular cleaning schedule, inspection points, measuring grease levels, proper disposal methods, and documentation requirements.

Q: How do you ensure compliance with local health codes when servicing grease traps?

Expected Answer: Should discuss knowledge of local regulations, proper documentation, cleaning frequencies, and coordination with health inspectors.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic parts of a grease trap?

Expected Answer: Should identify inlet, outlet, baffles, grease separation chamber, and clean-out access points as main components.

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when cleaning a grease trap?

Expected Answer: Should mention proper protective equipment, ventilation requirements, and safe handling of waste materials.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic grease trap cleaning and maintenance
  • Understanding of safety procedures
  • Knowledge of basic tools and equipment
  • Ability to identify common problems

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Independent maintenance and repairs
  • Health code compliance knowledge
  • Customer service and communication
  • Problem diagnosis and resolution

Senior (5+ years)

  • System design and installation
  • Emergency repair expertise
  • Team leadership and training
  • Advanced troubleshooting skills

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of local health codes and regulations
  • Lack of proper certification or licenses
  • No experience with commercial kitchen systems
  • Poor understanding of safety procedures