The job market for hazardous materials removal workers in the United States

There are currently an estimated 48,700 hazardous materials removal workers in the United States. The hazardous materials removal worker job market is expected to grow by 0.8% between 2022 and 2032.

How employable are hazardous materials removal workers?

CareerExplorer rates hazardous materials removal workers with a D employability rating, meaning this career should provide weak employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 6,600 hazardous materials removal workers. That number is based on 400 additional hazardous materials removal workers, and the retirement of 6,200 existing hazardous materials removal workers.

Are hazardous materials removal workers in demand?

In the United States, employment growth and demand for these workers will be driven by the need to safely remove and clean up hazardous materials at sites identified by the Environmental Protection Agency. Some additional jobs may be created by the need to recycle waste on a larger scale. As nuclear plants continue to be decommissioned, hazmat removal workers will be called upon to decontaminate equipment, store radioactive waste, and prepare these facilities for safe closure. On the other hand, as the number of structures containing asbestos and lead declines, the need for workers who remove these materials will decrease. Hazmat removers may face competition from construction and insulation workers who may also be trained in the removal of hazardous materials. The industry is not greatly affected by economic fluctuations because most hazmat removal is by nature urgent and generally cannot be delayed. Job applicants who have experience with reactors in a military environment may enhance their employability, especially with nuclear facilities. Hazmat removal workers are typically unlikely to remain in this industry for their entire working life. Many stay in the occupation for only short periods and most eventually seek jobs with safer, less physically demanding, and more comfortable working conditions. Turnover in the occupation is therefore high. The Alliance of Hazardous Materials Professionals (AHMP) is the industry’s international organization. The AHMP provides support for individuals and companies involved in hazardous materials management.

What’s the supply of hazardous materials removal workers?

The hazardous materials removal worker industry is concentrated in California, New York, Texas

Hazardous Materials Removal Worker job market by state