Hazmat Waste Handler Salary
Salary Breakdown
Top Paying Cities
| City | State | Avg. Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | TX | $62,000 |
| Los Angeles | CA | $60,000 |
| New York | NY | $58,000 |
| Philadelphia | PA | $55,000 |
| Atlanta | GA | $53,000 |
About This Role
Hazmat waste handlers collect, transport, and dispose of hazardous materials including chemicals, biomedical waste, and contaminated soils. They follow strict federal and state regulations to ensure safe handling, packaging, and documentation of dangerous substances. This role requires specialized training and meticulous attention to safety protocols.
Key Skills
Certifications
Job Outlook
Demand for hazmat waste handlers is growing as environmental regulations tighten and industries produce more regulated waste streams. Cleanup of legacy contamination sites and expansion of pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing continue to drive hiring. Workers with HAZWOPER certification and field experience command premium wages.
Hazmat Jobs Hiring Now
- Hazardous Materials Technician (InSite Technician)Full-TimeClean Harbors · Foster City, CA
- Medical Waste Plant Operator 3rd Shift (10:30pm - 7am) - 5837Full-TimeDaniels Health · Taylor, MI
- Hazardous Waste TechnicianFull-TimeJohns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory · Laurel, MD
- Medical Waste Containers - Plant Operator 1st Shift (6AM - 2:30PM) - 5973Full-TimeDaniels Health · Taylor, MI
- Medical Waste Containers - Plant Operator 2nd Shift (2:30PM - 11PM) - 5972Full-TimeDaniels Health · Taylor, MI
Hazmat Waste Handler Career Path & Salary Expectations
A career as a hazmat waste handler in the waste management industry offers a clear trajectory from entry-level positions starting around $35,000 per year to senior roles earning $80,000 or more annually. With the national average sitting at $52,000 ($25.00/hr), professionals in this field can expect competitive compensation that grows with experience, certifications, and geographic location. Top-paying markets like Houston offer salaries as high as $62,000. Whether you are just entering the waste and recycling industry or looking to advance your career, investing in relevant skills and certifications is the most reliable path to higher earning potential in this essential and growing sector.