Across U.S. metros, roofers typically earn $1,925 more a year than hazmat removal workers (4%). In the 125 metros where BLS publishes both, hazmat removal workers earn more in 31 and roofers in 94.
| Hazmat Removal Worker | Roofer | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical metro median pay | $48,215 | $50,140 |
| Lowest metro median | $26,520 | $24,100 |
| Highest metro median | $104,530 | $105,270 |
| Job growth 2025–35 (U.S.) | +1.5% | +5.3% |
| Openings per year (U.S.) | 4,300 | 12,000 |
| Self-employed | 1% | 20% |
| Typical education | High school diploma or equivalent | No formal educational credential |
| Typical training | Moderate-term on-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Injury rate per 10k workers (U.S.) | 71 | 162 |
| Metros with pay data | 134 | 265 |
On safety, roofers report more injuries that cause missed work (162 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 hazmat removal workers out-earn roofers the most Our calculation
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
Where roofers out-earn hazmat removal workers the most
Gap in median yearly pay, same metro.
What each trade does
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.
Roofer
Cover roofs of structures with shingles, slate, asphalt, aluminum, wood, or related materials. May spray roofs, sidings, and walls with material to bind, seal, insulate, or soundproof sections of structures.
Compare one trade across two cities →