Across U.S. metros, construction supervisors typically earn $29,000 more a year than hazmat removal workers (60%). In the 134 metros where BLS publishes both, construction supervisors earn more in 131 and hazmat removal workers in 3.
| Construction Supervisor | Hazmat Removal Worker | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $77,215 | $48,215 |
| Lowest metro median | $34,130 | $26,520 |
| Highest metro median | $130,790 | $104,530 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +5.0% | +1.5% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 67,000 | 4,300 |
| Self-employed | 11% | 1% |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Typical training | — | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 72 | 71 |
| Metros with pay data | 392 | 134 |
On safety, construction supervisors report more injuries that cause missed work (72 vs. 71 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 construction supervisors out-earn hazmat removal workers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where hazmat removal workers out-earn construction supervisors the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
Construction Supervisor
Directly supervise and coordinate activities of construction or extraction workers.
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 →