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Demolition Operator Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Operator

Dixon, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

Essel is currently seeking a skilled Operator to oversee remediation and demolition projects on ... Competitive salary * Health insurance * Retirement plan options * Paid time off * Opportunities for ...

Essel

Operator

Dixon, CA

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

Essel is currently seeking a skilled Operator to oversee remediation and demolition projects on ... Competitive salary * Health insurance * Retirement plan options * Paid time off * Opportunities for ...

Essel

Operator

Dixon, CA · On-site

Essel is currently seeking a skilled Operator to oversee remediation and demolition projects on ... Competitive salary * Health insurance * Retirement plan options * Paid time off * Opportunities for ...

Smith Rowe, LLC

Demolition - Concrete Cutter

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Operating since 1983, the Smith-Rowe Team has grown and developed into a formidable construction ... Benefits: * Competitive Salary * Employee Paid Premiums for Medical Insurance * Health ...

Site Acquisitions, LLC

Equipment Operator

Salem, NH · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Demolition as needed Preferred Qualifications: * 1 -3+ years' experience in commercial/residential ... Some overnight travel SAI offers competitive salary and a full benefits package including medical ...

SAI Group

Equipment Operator

Salem, NH · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Demolition as needed Preferred Qualifications: * 1 -3+ years' experience in commercial/residential ... Some overnight travel SAI offers competitive salary and a full benefits package including medical ...

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Demolition Operator Salary information

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$13

$22

$31

How much do demolition operator salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for demolition operator salary in the United States is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do you get paid in demolition demolition operator salary?

Demolition operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized training and safety certifications can earn higher wages, especially when working on large or complex projects. Wages may also vary based on union membership and overtime opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a demolition operator?

To thrive as a Demolition Operator, you need a solid understanding of construction site safety, equipment operation, and demolition techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with heavy machinery like excavators, bulldozers, and specific certifications such as OSHA safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help operators coordinate safely and efficiently with their crews. These abilities are essential to ensure safe, precise demolition work while minimizing risks and maintaining project timelines.

What is the average salary for a demolition operator?

The average salary for a Demolition Operator in the United States typically ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level operators may start at a lower wage, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Overtime, benefits, and union membership can also impact total compensation. Factors such as the type of demolition work and regional demand play a significant role in determining pay.

What is the difference between Demolition Operator Salary vs Excavator Operator Salary?

AspectDemolition Operator SalaryExcavator Operator Salary
Average Annual Salary$45,000 - $65,000$50,000 - $70,000
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation licensesOSHA safety training, equipment operation licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, demolition projectsConstruction sites, excavation projects
Industry UsageConstruction, demolitionConstruction, excavation

While both demolition operators and excavator operators work on construction sites and require similar certifications, excavator operators tend to earn slightly higher salaries due to broader application in excavation tasks. Demolition operators focus specifically on tearing down structures, whereas excavator operators handle digging and earth-moving activities. Salary differences reflect the scope of work and specialization within the industry.

What are some common challenges faced by demolition operators on the job?

Demolition Operators often encounter challenges such as working in hazardous environments, dealing with unpredictable building structures, and adhering to strict safety regulations. They must stay alert to potential risks like falling debris or exposure to hazardous materials, and work closely with team members to coordinate safe and efficient demolition processes. Regular communication with supervisors and other workers is essential to ensure that each project proceeds smoothly and safely.
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Demolition Operator Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Demolition Operator Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,279 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Refrigerator Equipment Operator 1st Class (Demolition Department)

City of Detroit, MI

Detroit, MI • On-site

$58K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Salary : $58,154.00 - $72,692.00 Annually
Location : DPSH, MI
Job Type: Certified-Regular Civil Service
Job Number: 20261742042DEMOssl
Department: Detroit Demolition
Opening Date: 07/20/2026
Closing Date: 9/30/2026 7:45 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit: 6000-International Union of Operating Engineers (I
Description
CONSTRUCTION & DEMOLITION DEPARTMENT
Refrigerator Equipment Operator 1st Class
Under general supervision, responsible for operating and maintaining refrigeration and air-conditioning systems, including auxiliary equipment requiring possession of a Refrigeration Operator License.
Examples of Duties
  • Operates and adjusts refrigeration equipment.
  • Balances, adjusts, and sets controls including but not limited to, expansion valves; hydrostatic and electric regulators, and various switches to maintain humidity and temperature levels.
  • Operates and maintains a refrigeration compressor room, including, but not limited to, condensing, chilled water pumping, and circulatory apparatus.
  • Operates and maintains air washing, mixing, and conditioning units.
  • Performs inspections to check operating performance of equipment.
  • Maintains required readings of refrigerant, including but not limited to, other pressures, dry and wet bulb temperatures, humidity and other readings in activity log records.
  • Inspects and lubricates bearings and housing.
  • Changes parts on motors, fans, compressors, pumps, and other equipment.
  • Checks and replaces worn belts on belt-driven equipment.
  • Assists in making major repairs and overhauls to refrigeration and air-conditioning units.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Completion of High School Diploma or G.E.D.
  • Two years of experience in the operation and maintenance of refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment and their auxiliaries requiring possession of a license indicated by the title of the class.

Licenses, Certifications, and Other Special Requirements:
  • Valid First Class Refrigeration Operator's License or Greater.
  • Valid State of Michigan Operator License required.

Equivalency
  • Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Supplemental Information
Evaluation Plan
  • Interview: 70%
  • Evaluation of Training, Experience & Personal Qualifications: 30%
  • Total of Interview and Evaluation T.E.P: 100%
Additional points may be awarded for:
  • Veteran Points: 0 - 15 points
  • Detroit Residency Credit: 15 points

LRD: 8/14/2024
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of operating details and characteristics of a variety of types of refrigeration and air-conditioning, ice making, water cooling, and other similar equipment and systems.
  • Knowledge of applicable safety codes, regulations, and ordinances.
  • Skill in working with the tools and materials commonly employed in the operation and maintenance of such equipment.
  • Skill in physical strength and manual dexterity.
  • Ability to maintain operation and maintenance activity logs.
  • Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot operating conditions.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to read and understand wiring diagrams, operating and repair instructions, and manuals

Physical Demands
  • The employee generally remains in a stationary position for an extended period of time operating standard office equipment which may include computers, telephones, photocopiers, and fax machines.
  • The employee is expected to move about to accomplish tasks such as opening file cabinets and moving files.
  • Must be able to lift, push, pull, and carry up to (25) pounds.

Work Environment
  • Work is performed primarily in an office environment.
  • Some work requires travel to meetings, conferences, and other work sites with exposure to seasonal weather conditions

Candidates considered for placement in this classification may be subject to a Criminal Background Investigation based on the requirements of the position.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to the class. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Specific job duties may vary from position to position.
The City of Detroit is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No applicant for employment shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other criteria prohibited by City, State, or Federal law.
EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
The City of Detroit offers a competitive and comprehensive employee benefit package. We pride ourselves on the longevity of our employees. Part of the reason for the low turnover rate is the exceptional benefit package listed below. Benefits include, but are not limited to the following:
HEALTH
  • Medical - Eligible for hospital, surgical, and prescription drug benefits.
  • Dental
  • Vision
INSURANCE
  • Life Insurance - Optional group insurance available to employee and their family. The City pays 60% of premium for first $12,500 of employee life insurance. Employee may purchase, at own expense, life insurance for spouse and each dependent.
  • Long-Term Disability Insurance (Income Protection Plan) - The City offers disability insurance through payroll deductions for persons who become disabled and who are not yet eligible for a service retirement.
PAID TIME OFF
  • Sick Leave
  • Vacation
  • Holidays
OTHER LEAVE BENEFITS
The City also has the following paid and unpaid leaves; funeral leave, Family and Medical Leave, jury duty, military duty leave, unpaid personal leave,
RETIREMENT BENEFITS
City Employees Retirement System
As a regular City employee you automatically become a member of the General Retirement System. This entitles you to a retirement allowance after:
• Completion of thirty (30) years of service;
- At age sixty (60) if you have at least ten (10) years of service, or
- At age sixty-five (65) with eight (8) years of service.
• In the event of disability, other eligibility rules apply);
- An early, actuarially reduced, retirement is offered after you have attained at least twenty-five (25) years of service;
• Employees are vested after ten (10) years of service, regardless of age.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES - Employees have many opportunities for growth and career advancement throughout all City departments and divisions.
Have a successful career with the City of Detroit. Always remember that you are a part of a team with a common Vision of delivering excellent service to the citizens of the City of Detroit
01
Please indicate your highest level of education completed
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree
  • PhD/J.D.
  • No Education experience

02
Do you have a valid First Class Refrigeration License, as provided by the State of Michigan or the City of Detroit?
  • Yes
  • No

03
How many years of work experience do you have in the operation and maintenance of refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment and their auxiliaries requiring possession of a license indicated by the title of the class?
  • No Experience
  • Less than two (2) years of work experience
  • Two (2) to five (5) years of work experience
  • Five (5) to ten (10) years of work experience
  • Ten (10) or more years of work experience

04
Explain in detail your work experience in the operation and maintenance of refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment.
05
Do you possess a valid Michigan Operator's License?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Did you attach a copy of your cover letter, updated resume and any certifications to your online application?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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