Hazardous Materials Removal Workers

Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed

Identify, remove, pack, transport, or dispose of hazardous materials, including asbestos, lead-based paint, waste oil, fuel, transmission fluid, radioactive materials, or contaminated soil. Specialized training and certification in hazardous materials handling or a confined entry permit are generally required. May operate earth-moving equipment or trucks.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $49,450/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$38,460$82,410

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +1% projected growth, 2024–2034 — slower than average.

About 5,000 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

MonitoringCritical ThinkingOperation and ControlOperations MonitoringActive ListeningReading ComprehensionSpeakingSocial PerceptivenessActive LearningWriting

Top knowledge areas

Public Safety and SecurityAdministration and ManagementTransportationCustomer and Personal ServiceBuilding and ConstructionMechanicalEnglish LanguageMathematics

Core tasks

• Build containment areas prior to beginning abatement or decontamination work.

• Remove asbestos or lead from surfaces, using hand or power tools such as scrapers, vacuums, or high-pressure sprayers.

• Identify asbestos, lead, or other hazardous materials to be removed, using monitoring devices.

• Prepare hazardous material for removal or storage.

• Comply with prescribed safety procedures or federal laws regulating waste disposal methods.

• Load or unload materials into containers or onto trucks, using hoists or forklifts.

• Clean contaminated equipment or areas for reuse, using detergents or solvents, sandblasters, filter pumps, or steam cleaners.

• Remove or limit contamination following emergencies involving hazardous substances.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Hazardous Materials Removal Workers?

The median pay for Hazardous Materials Removal Workers is $49,450 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Hazardous Materials Removal Workers?

Employment for Hazardous Materials Removal Workers is projected to change +1% from 2024 to 2034 - slower than average.

What education is typically required for Hazardous Materials Removal Workers?

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

How many job openings are there each year for Hazardous Materials Removal Workers?

About 5,000 openings per year, on average, over the decade.