Agriculture & Food

Asbestos Removalist

SOC 47-4041.00 · ESCO 9313 · OSCA 821131

Role snapshot

Overview

Asbestos Removalists safely identify, contain, and remove asbestos-containing materials (ACM) from residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. This role requires strict adherence to safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment, meticulous containment procedures, and proper regulated waste disposal to protect public health and the environment.

Protects public health by safely eliminating hazardous asbestos fibers from buildings, preventing serious respiratory diseases, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

On the job

Establish critical containment barriers and negative air pressure systems to prevent asbestos fiber release
Wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators and protective suits, throughout removal operations
Carefully remove asbestos-containing materials using specialized tools and techniques
Package and label asbestos waste for transport and disposal according to strict regulations
Perform thorough cleanup and air monitoring to ensure the work area is safe for re-occupancy

Tools & technology

Respirators (full-face, powered air-purifying)Tyvek suits and other protective clothingNegative air machines and HEPA vacuumsPolyethylene sheeting and duct tapeSpecialized hand tools (scrapers, sprayers)Air monitoring equipment

Average salary

$55K

MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD

$40K Bottom 10%

$75K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

High school diploma or GED, plus specialized asbestos abatement certifications.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Asbestos Abatement Supervisor

CURRENT ROLE

Asbestos Removalist

Agriculture & Food

ADJACENT MOVES

Hazardous Waste Specialist

Environmental Remediation Technician

Construction Laborer

Demolition Worker

General Laborer

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

realistic · RCI

Individuals who thrive in hands-on, procedural work with a strong emphasis on safety and adherence to regulations often find satisfaction as an Asbestos Removalist.

Personality characteristics

Conscientious

Meticulously follows strict safety protocols and procedures essential for hazardous material handling.

Practical

Enjoys hands-on work, using tools, and performing physical tasks to achieve a tangible outcome.

Methodical

Prefers clear guidelines and systematic approaches to tasks, crucial for complex abatement processes.

Calm under pressure

Maintains composure and focus in hazardous environments, ensuring safety for themselves and their team.

Safety-focused

Prioritizes adherence to regulations and best practices to prevent harm and ensure compliance.

Best for

Individuals who are highly disciplined and committed to safety procedures.
Those who prefer practical, hands-on work over desk-bound tasks.
People seeking a career with a direct and measurable impact on public health and safety.

Watch out for

The work environment is often hazardous and requires constant vigilance and strict PPE use.
The job can be physically demanding and may involve working in confined spaces or challenging conditions.