"Protecting my co-workers and the public from hazardous waste is an important job that preserves our lives and livelihoods. I also oversee our hazard communication program, which means I make sure we keep detailed records of the properties and risks of every substance on site, including glass cleaner. We are trained to respond safely and effectively if something goes wrong.
 

I also keep track of our Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), monitor for and contain leaks, and perform decontamination. People would be surprised how much hazardous waste is handled in their communities"

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Job Description

SOC Code: 47-4041

Hazardous Materials Removal Workers identify, remove, pack, transport, or dispose of hazardous materials, including asbestos, lead-based paint, waste oil, fuel, transmission fluid, radioactive materials, or contaminated soil. Specialized training and certification in hazardous materials handling or a confined entry permit are generally required. May operate earth-moving equipment or trucks.*

*Source: This information is based on O*NET™ data. O*NET is a trademark registered to the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.

Top Job Skills:

• Complex problem solving
• Time management
• Quality control analysis
• Troubleshooting
• Equipment Maintenance

General Work Activities:

• Mental Processes
  • Apply new technologies to improve work processes
• Information Input
  • Inspect work sites to identify potential environmental or safety hazards
• Work Output
  • Assemble temporary equipment or structures
  • Prepare hazardous waste for processing or disposal
  • Record operational or environmental data
  • Operate cranes, hoists, or other moving or lifting equipment
  • Drive trucks or truck-mounted equipment
  • Load or unload materials used in construction or extraction
  • Decontaminate equipment or sites to remove hazardous or toxic substances
  • Mix substances or compounds needed for work activities
  • Pour materials into or on designated areas 

Source: SC Works Online Services (SCWOS)

*All data is factual, but names, Images, and quotations have been adapted to protect the Identity of employees and businesses.

Job Statistics

 

Examples of Workforce Areas with Job Openings

 

• Greenville
• Pee Dee
• Waccamaw
• Midlands
• Catawba
• Santee-Lynches

Source: SC Works Online Services. Ask an SC Works representative for more information about postings in your area.

Examples of Employers with Job Openings

• Saiia
• Brandenburg Industrial Service Company
• Express Employment Professionals

Source: SC Works Online Services. Ask an SC Works representative for more information about postings in your area

Related Occupations

•  Recycling and Reclamation Workers
• Recycling Coordinators
• Highway Maintenance Workers
• Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators

NOTE: All data based on state averages. Information may vary depending on region, experience, and specific employment situation. Last Updated: 2025

Learn More with SCWOS

SC Works Online Services (SCWOS) is the state’s largest job database and provides all of South Carolina's job postings from all major sites, including Monster and Career Builder, in one resource. SCWOS has thousands of positions listed by employers all over the state. To access SCWOS, visit jobs.scworks.org.

Find in-depth breakdowns of occupational statistics such as necessary job certifications, job skills and abilities, current job openings, overview of general work activities, and more by visiting O*NET.org.