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Demolition Contractor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... contractor. * Experience estimating projects involving sitework, earthwork, remediation, demolition, or infrastructure construction. * Strong understanding of construction documents, specifications ...

... contractor. * Experience estimating projects involving sitework, earthwork, remediation, demolition, or infrastructure construction. * Strong understanding of construction documents, specifications ...

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Demolition Contractor information

See California salary details

$9

$19

$27

How much do demolition contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for demolition contractor in California is $19.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are demolition contractors?

Demolition contractors are professionals or companies that specialize in the safe and efficient tearing down of buildings and other structures. They handle all aspects of the demolition process, including site assessment, obtaining permits, ensuring safety measures, and managing debris removal. Demolition contractors use specialized equipment and techniques to dismantle structures while minimizing risks to people and the environment. They may also be responsible for recycling materials and ensuring compliance with local regulations. Their work is critical for site redevelopment, renovations, or clearing land for new construction.

Is there a demand for demolition workers?

Demand for demolition workers remains steady due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and building renovations. The job often requires physical strength, safety training, and familiarity with tools like wrecking balls and excavators, and employment prospects are generally favorable in regions with active development activity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Demolition Contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Demolition Contractor, you need a solid understanding of construction practices, safety regulations, and hazardous material handling, often backed by relevant licenses and certifications. Familiarity with demolition tools, heavy machinery, and software for project management and safety compliance is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help manage risks and coordinate with teams and clients. These skills and qualities are critical to ensure safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant demolition projects.

What is the difference between Demolition Contractor vs Demolition Worker?

AspectDemolition ContractorDemolition Worker
CredentialsLicenses, certifications, experience in project managementBasic safety training, on-the-job experience
Work EnvironmentSupervises demolition projects, manages teams, plans proceduresPerforms manual demolition tasks, operates equipment under supervision
Industry UsageHired by clients or companies for entire projectsEmployed on-site as part of the demolition team

Demolition Contractors oversee entire demolition projects, handling planning, permits, and team management. Demolition Workers focus on executing manual tasks and operating equipment under supervision. Both roles are essential but differ in responsibilities and credentials.

How much do you get paid in demolition?

Demolition contractors typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled workers with certifications or specialized tools may earn higher wages, and the job often involves physical labor and safety training.

What are some common challenges faced by demolition contractors on a job site?

Demolition contractors often encounter challenges such as ensuring site safety, managing hazardous materials like asbestos, and coordinating with other construction professionals to avoid project delays. Strict adherence to regulations and environmental guidelines is required, which can involve detailed planning and documentation. Additionally, unexpected structural issues or hidden utilities may arise, requiring quick problem-solving and clear communication with the team and clients.

How much does a demolition contractor make?

Demolition contractors typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled contractors with certifications and specialized equipment may earn higher wages, especially for large or complex demolitions.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Demolition contractors can earn around $4,000 per week depending on project size, experience, and location. These roles often require physical skill, safety certifications, and the ability to work in demanding environments, with pay varying based on workload and expertise.
What cities in California are hiring for Demolition Contractor jobs? Cities in California with the most Demolition Contractor job openings:
Infographic showing various Demolition Contractor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,862 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Take-Off Engineer / Estimator/Project Management Support

Take-Off Engineer / Estimator/Project Management Support

ADA Demolition Inc

San Jose, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Take-Off Engineer / Estimator

A.D.A. Demolition, Inc. โ€“ Bay Area, CA

A.D.A. Demolition, Inc. is a growing demolition contractor serving the Bay Area. We specialize in interior demolition, structural demolition, and construction clean-up services. We are currently seeking a Take-Off Engineer / Estimator to join our team and support both estimating and project operations.

This role will be responsible for daily bidding, quantity take-offs, project coordination, and assisting with project management of current jobs. The position works closely with leadership, field teams, and project managers to ensure projects are estimated accurately and executed efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating and Take-Off

  • Perform accurate quantity take-offs from plans, specifications, and project documents.
  • Prepare cost estimates for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor work.
  • Review project drawings, RFPs, and specifications to ensure the full scope is captured.
  • Request and review vendor and subcontractor pricing.
  • Prepare and submit bids on a daily basis for demolition and construction related projects.

Project Management Support

  • Assist with project management of current jobs, including tracking scope, budgets, and schedules.
  • Support project managers with cost tracking, documentation, and change orders.
  • Attend job walks and pre-bid meetings when required.
  • Coordinate with operations to ensure estimates transition smoothly into active projects.

Estimating Department Support

  • Maintain organized documentation for bids, take-offs, and pricing databases.
  • Assist with reviewing scopes, contracts, and project requirements before project start.
  • Support internal estimating procedures and documentation.

Qualifications

  • 2+ years of experience in construction estimating, demolition estimating preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
  • Experience with take-off software such as Bluebeam, Planswift, or similar tools.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple bids and deadlines.
  • Construction or demolition industry experience is strongly preferred.

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Opportunity to grow within a rapidly expanding demolition company
  • Exposure to both estimating and project management responsibilities
  • Collaborative and team-oriented environment