Across U.S. metros, concrete finishers typically earn $9,030 more a year than hazmat removal workers (19%). In the 129 metros where BLS publishes both, concrete finishers earn more in 111 and hazmat removal workers in 18.
| Concrete Finisher | Hazmat Removal Worker | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $57,245 | $48,215 |
| Lowest metro median | $27,610 | $26,520 |
| Highest metro median | $104,450 | $104,530 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +1.6% | +1.5% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 13,600 | 4,300 |
| Self-employed | 2% | 1% |
| Typical education | No formal educational credential | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Typical training | Moderate-term on-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 25 | 71 |
| Metros with pay data | 334 | 134 |
On safety, hazmat removal workers report more injuries that cause missed work (71 vs. 25 per 10,000 full-time workers, national 2023–24).
Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025 (typical = median across metros). Growth, openings, education, training: BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Injuries: BLS SOII 2023–24.
Where concrete finishers out-earn hazmat removal workers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where hazmat removal workers out-earn concrete finishers the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Concrete Finisher
Smooth and finish surfaces of poured concrete, such as floors, walks, sidewalks, roads, or curbs using a variety of hand and power tools. Align forms for sidewalks, curbs, or gutters; patch voids; and use saws to cut expansion joints.
Hazmat Removal Worker
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.
Compare one trade across two cities →