Hazardous Materials Removal Workers
Hazardous materials removal workers identify, remove, pack, transport, and dispose of dangerous substances like asbestos, lead-based paint, radioactive materials, and contaminated soil. They work on construction sites, industrial facilities, and cleanup operations, following strict safety protocols. Specialized certification in hazardous materials handling is typically required for the role.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against hazardous materials removal workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves assessing contaminated sites, wearing protective equipment, and carefully removing hazardous materials according to regulations. Workers might spend days at a construction site removing asbestos insulation, then transport materials to disposal facilities. Tasks include documenting materials, maintaining equipment, coordinating with site supervisors, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards throughout the process.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer concrete, rule-based work with clear procedures and measurable outcomes. You're detail-oriented and comfortable following established protocols, finding satisfaction in systematically solving problems and maintaining order in structured environments.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $55,570 | $73,090 | $85,450 | 4,090 |
| Illinois | $49,530 | $61,330 | $75,880 | 1,980 |
| Alaska | $50,640 | $60,320 | $74,330 | 140 |
| District of Columbia | $55,140 | $60,240 | $68,390 | 50 |
| North Dakota | $38,720 | $60,160 | $63,960 | 170 |
| Washington | $49,010 | $60,160 | $78,990 | 3,250 |
| Tennessee | $46,440 | $60,090 | $75,400 | 570 |
| Colorado | $47,440 | $59,920 | $64,370 | 1,400 |
| Missouri | $41,590 | $59,120 | $67,840 | 370 |
| Minnesota | $47,660 | $59,100 | $80,700 | 730 |
| Hawaii | $47,700 | $58,440 | $62,250 | 340 |
| California | $47,180 | $56,120 | $67,540 | 7,340 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- WSO - Certified Hazardous Materials Technician I (WSO-CHMT) — World Safety Organization
- Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) — Institute of Hazardous Materials Management
- WSO - Certified Hazardous Materials Technician Level II (WSO-CHMT II) — World Safety Organization
- Student Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (ST/CHMM) — Institute of Hazardous Materials Management
- Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner (CHMP) — Institute of Hazardous Materials Management
- WSO - Certified Hazardous Materials Supervisor (WSO-CHMS) — World Safety Organization
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against hazardous materials removal workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-4041.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.