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Demolition Operative Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Diamond Coring

LABORER (ROAD CONSTRUCTION)

Chicago, IL

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

... demolition, and maintenance projects, including digging, cleaning sites, and moving materials. Key duties involve operating hand/power tools, assisting skilled tradespeople, and following strict ...

Diamond Companies

LABORER (ROAD CONSTRUCTION)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

... demolition, and maintenance projects, including digging, cleaning sites, and moving materials. Key duties involve operating hand/power tools, assisting skilled tradespeople, and following strict ...

Diamond Companies

LABORER (ROAD CONSTRUCTION)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

... demolition, and maintenance projects, including digging, cleaning sites, and moving materials. Key duties involve operating hand/power tools, assisting skilled tradespeople, and following strict ...

powercon

Union Laborer

Chicago, IL

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Laborers are responsible for demolition of existing structures, assisting in the concrete work of ... Signal operators of construction equipment to facilitate alignment, movement, and adjustment of ...

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All JobsDemolition Operative JobsDemolition Operative Jobs in Chicago, IL

Demolition Operative information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$20

$28

How much do demolition operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for demolition operative in Chicago, IL is $20.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Demolition Operative vs Construction Labourer?

AspectDemolition OperativeConstruction Labourer
CertificationsHealth & Safety, CSCS card, machinery operationBasic health & safety, general construction site safety
Work EnvironmentDemolition sites, often with heavy machinery and debrisConstruction sites, assisting with various tasks
Employer & Industry UsageSpecialized demolition companies, construction firmsGeneral construction companies, building projects

Demolition Operatives focus on safely tearing down structures using specialized equipment, requiring specific safety certifications. Construction Labourers perform a broader range of tasks on construction sites, often assisting with general duties. While both roles work in construction environments, Demolition Operatives have more specialized skills related to demolition activities.

How much do you get paid as a demolition operative?

Demolition operatives typically earn between £20,000 and £40,000 annually in the UK, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Pay can also include overtime and benefits, with skilled workers earning higher wages. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operatives with specialized skills can command higher salaries.

Is demolition a good career?

Demolition is a physically demanding job that involves safely tearing down structures using tools and machinery, often requiring certifications and adherence to safety regulations. It can offer steady employment and opportunities for advancement, but it also involves risks and working in challenging environments. Overall, it can be a viable career for those interested in construction and heavy equipment operation.
Demolition Operative jobs near you
Infographic showing various Demolition Operative job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,609 per year, or $20 per hour.

Shear Crane Operator - Second Shift

Blue Island, IL • On-site

Blue Island Recycling, LLC
See more jobs at Blue Island Recycling, LLCexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Blue Island Recycling, LLC is seeking an experienced, safety-focused Shear Crane Operator to join our 2nd Shift operations team.

This position is responsible for operating excavators equipped with hydraulic shear attachments to process ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal. Equipment operated may include Hitachi, Liebherr, Komatsu, and Caterpillar excavators equipped with Genesis, Gensco, and LaBounty hydraulic shears.

The ideal candidate will have experience operating excavators, shear cranes, material handlers, or similar heavy equipment in a scrap recycling, demolition, steel, construction, or industrial environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Safely operate excavators equipped with hydraulic shear attachments
  • Process ferrous and nonferrous scrap metal according to production requirements
  • Cut oversized materials into specification for downstream processing
  • Sort and process incoming scrap materials
  • Feed shredders and other processing equipment as directed
  • Load and unload trucks as needed
  • Maintain efficient material flow throughout the yard
  • Perform daily preshift and postshift equipment inspections
  • Report equipment deficiencies and maintenance concerns promptly
  • Follow all company safety policies and operating procedures
  • Assist with general yard operations as needed
  • Maintain a clean, wellorganized, and safe work area
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management
    • QUALIFICATIONS
  • Previous experience operating excavators, shear cranes, material handlers, or similar heavy equipment required
  • Scrap recycling experience strongly preferred
  • Experience operating hydraulic shears preferred
  • Experience operating Hitachi, Liebherr, Komatsu, Caterpillar, Sennebogen, or similar equipment preferred
  • Strong understanding of safe material handling practices
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Dependable attendance and punctuality required
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Strong awareness of surroundings and commitment to workplace safety
    • WORK SCHEDULE
  • Monday through Friday
  • Shift starts at 2:00 PM
  • Minimum 8hour shift
  • Additional hours may be required based on production and operational needs
  • Occasional Saturdays and Sundays may be required based on production needs
  • Schedule is subject to operational requirements and may vary
    • COMPENSATION

    Compensation is competitive and will be based on experience, qualifications, equipment proficiency, and overall fit for the position.

    BENEFITS
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Opportunities for advancement
    • ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Must have reliable transportation to and from work
  • Must be able to pass a preemployment drug screening
  • Must be able to safely operate heavy equipment in an active scrap recycling environment
  • Must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times
  • Must have their own pair of steeltoe safety boots on their first day of work
  • Must be able to work around moving equipment, heavy materials, and industrial processing operations
    • ABOUT BLUE ISLAND RECYCLING

    Blue Island Recycling, LLC is a full-service scrap metal recycling facility serving the Chicagoland area. We purchase, process, and recycle ferrous and non-ferrous metals from industrial, commercial, and public customers. Our team is committed to safety, operational excellence, and providing outstanding service to our customers.

    Blue Island Recycling, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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