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Construction & Trades · California

How to Become a Hazardous Materials Removal Workers in California

Hazardous Materials Removal Workers in California earn a median salary of $54,740/year, which is 13% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.9%. After taxes and rent, a hazardous materials removal workers takes home approximately $2,292/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$55K
Median salary in California
+13%
vs. national average
2.9%
State income tax
7,950
Employed in California

What a hazardous materials removal workers can afford in California

Gross annual salary$54,740
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.9% state tax)$3,704/mo
Median 2BR rent (California)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home38.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$54,740/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,292/mo

Becoming a hazardous materials removal workers in California

1

Meet education requirements

Hazardous Materials Removal Workers positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many hazardous materials removal workers positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain California licensure or certification

California may require specific licensing or professional certification for hazardous materials removal workerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in California

California employs 7,950 hazardous materials removal workers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.

Hazardous Materials Removal Workers salary by metro area in California

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara$65K$31.25/hr360
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont$61K$29.2/hr1,470
Salinas$59K$28.48/hr70
Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom$58K$27.81/hr490
Vallejo$57K$27.51/hr200
Fresno$54K$26.16/hr220
Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura$53K$25.4/hr180
San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad$53K$25.31/hr680
Bakersfield-Delano$52K$24.91/hr150
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim$50K$24.18/hr3,020
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario$50K$23.95/hr460
Santa Maria-Santa Barbara$50K$23.84/hr110

Hazardous Materials Removal Workers salary range in California

10th percentile (entry)
$39K
25th percentile
$45K
Median (50th)
$55K
75th percentile
$77K
90th percentile (senior)
$88K
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Hazardous Materials Removal Workers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hazardous materials removal workers make in California?

The median hazardous materials removal workers salary in California is $54,740 per year ($26.32/hr). This is 13% above the national median of $48,490. Salaries range from $39,360 to $88,430.

What are the requirements to become a hazardous materials removal workers in California?

Hazardous Materials Removal Workers positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a hazardous materials removal workers afford to live in California?

At the median salary of $54,740, a hazardous materials removal workers in California would take home approximately $3,704/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 38.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for hazardous materials removal workers in California?

The highest paying metro areas for hazardous materials removal workers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($64,990), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($60,730), Salinas ($59,240). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does California have state income tax for hazardous materials removal workers?

Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.9%. On a $54,740 salary, this means roughly $1,575/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.