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Demolition Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Next Level Construction

DEMO LABORER

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

As a Demo Laborer, you will be responsible for assisting with various demolition projects. You will work under the supervision of a project manager or foreman to carry out demolition tasks safely and ...

Essel

Overnight Construction Demo Laborer

Suisun City, CA · On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

We are currently hiring Overnight Construction Laborers in Suisun City, CA to assist with demolition and site preparation on an active construction project. This role is ideal for individuals with ...

Essel

Overnight Construction Demo Laborer

Suisun City, CA · On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

We are currently hiring Overnight Construction Laborers in Suisun City, CA to assist with demolition and site preparation on an active construction project. This role is ideal for individuals with ...

Essel

Overnight Construction Demo Laborer

Suisun City, CA · On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

We are currently hiring Overnight Construction Laborers in Suisun City, CA to assist with demolition and site preparation on an active construction project. This role is ideal for individuals with ...

Penhall

Project Safety Manager (Full-Time)

Anaheim, CA · On-site

As the nation's leader in concrete cutting, coring, scanning, and demolition, and ranked 3rd in Demolition by ENR's 2023 Top Specialty Contractors, we deliver more than just expertise-we deliver ...

Essel

Operator

Dixon, CA · On-site

Essel is currently seeking a skilled Operator to oversee remediation and demolition projects on behalf of our client. The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating heavy earthmoving and ...

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 behalf of our client. The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating heavy earthmoving and ...

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 behalf of our client. The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating heavy earthmoving and ...

PuroClean

Demo Laborer

Victorville, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Demolition Laborer Department: Restoration / Mitigation Reports To: Project Manager / Restoration Supervisor FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Employment Type: Full-Time Compensation: $18.00 per hour Company ...

RimePro Inc

Heavy Civil Estimator

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

Prepare detailed cost estimates for environmental remediation, demolition, site development, and heavy civil construction projects. * Analyze project drawings, specifications, and contract documents ...

RimePro Inc

Heavy-Civil Estimator

Burbank, CA

$100K - $140K/yr

Prepare detailed cost estimates for environmental remediation, demolition, site development, and heavy civil construction projects. * Analyze project drawings, specifications, and contract documents ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDemolition JobsDemolition Jobs in California

Demolition information

See California salary details

$9

$19

$27

How much do demolition jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for demolition 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a demolition worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Demolition Worker, you need a solid understanding of construction safety, equipment operation, and hazardous material handling, often supported by OSHA certification or similar training. Familiarity with tools such as jackhammers, excavators, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help ensure safe and efficient project execution. These abilities are crucial for minimizing risks, maintaining compliance, and successfully completing demolition projects on schedule.

What qualifications do I need for demolition?

Demolition workers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have physical strength, stamina, and the ability to operate tools and machinery. Relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training and experience with demolition equipment are often required or preferred.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in demolition work, and how can they be managed safely?

Demolition professionals often encounter challenges such as handling hazardous materials, working in confined or unstable structures, and managing debris removal efficiently. These challenges require strict adherence to safety protocols, effective communication with team members, and careful planning before each project begins. Regular safety training, use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and close collaboration with project managers and environmental specialists are essential to mitigate risks and ensure smooth project completion.

Is it hard to get into demolition?

Getting into demolition work can be challenging due to the physical demands, safety requirements, and the need for specialized skills such as operating heavy machinery. Many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma, relevant certifications, and experience in construction or related fields.

What is the difference between Demolition vs Demolition Laborer?

AspectDemolitionDemolition Laborer
Credentials/CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly specialized demolition certificationsOSHA safety training, basic construction safety certifications
Work EnvironmentActive demolition sites, often involving heavy machinery and structural workAssisting on demolition sites, handling debris, supporting skilled workers
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, demolition companies, industrial sitesConstruction firms, demolition contractors, general labor roles

Demolition involves planning and executing the complete teardown of structures, often requiring specialized skills and equipment. Demolition laborers support these projects by performing manual tasks, handling debris, and assisting skilled demolition workers. While demolition workers may have more technical responsibilities, laborers focus on supporting roles within the same industry environment.

What is a demolition worker?

Demolition workers are professionals who specialize in tearing down buildings and other structures in a safe and controlled manner. Their responsibilities include preparing sites, removing hazardous materials, operating heavy machinery, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They play a crucial role in urban development, making way for new construction or clearing unsafe structures. Demolition work requires physical strength, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of safety procedures.

What do demolition workers do?

Demolition workers are in charge of overseeing the safe destruction of buildings. They take a look at the construction of the building and then use machinery and explosives to destroy it. Safety is a priority in this trade, particularly with the heavy machinery and blasting used to tear down buildings. When working a demolition job, you first gut the interior of the building, salvaging as much material as you can, before beginning work on the outer walls and main structure. Depending on the type of building, more care may be necessary to salvage as much as possible.

More about Demolition jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Demolition jobs in California? The most popular types of Demolition jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Demolition jobs in California? For Demolition jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Demolition jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Demolition jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Demolition jobs? Cities in California with the most Demolition job openings:
Demolition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Demolition job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,862 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Chief Estimator

Texas State Library and Archives Commision

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$152K - $201K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

The Chief Estimator is a senior leadership position responsible for directing and managing all aspects of the estimating process for complex, large-scale demolition projects. This role requires a highly experienced professional with a deep understanding of demolition techniques, project management, and cost estimating to ensure accurate, competitive, and profitable bids.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead and oversee the entire estimating team to prepare detailed and accurate cost estimates for large-scale demolition projects.
  • Analyze project plans, specifications, and related documents to identify scope, materials, labor,equipment, and subcontractor needs.
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and clients to ensure complete understanding of project requirements and scope.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and industry contacts to obtain competitive pricing and subcontractor bids.
  • Evaluate risk factors and develop contingency plans to include in estimates.
  • Implement and maintain estimating best practices, tools, and software to improve accuracy and efficiency.
  • Review and approve final estimates before submission to senior management and clients.
  • Support business development efforts by providing technical expertise and timely responses to bid opportunities.
  • Monitor market trends and competitor pricing to keep competitive in the bidding process.
  • Mentor and develop estimating staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.
  • Ensure all estimating activities comply with company policies, safety standards, and legal regulations.

  • Extensive experience (typically 10-15 years) in estimating large-scale demolition or heavy civil construction projects.
  • Strong knowledge of demolition methods and equipment, safety standards, and environmental regulations.
  • Proven leadership skills with experience managing estimating teams.
  • Proficiency in commercial construction estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Ability to interpret and analyze construction documents including drawings and specifications.
  • Strong negotiation skills to manage subcontractor and supplier pricing.
  • Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving ability.
  • Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulatory requirements related to demolition work is preferred.

  1. Extensive experience (typically 10-15 years) in estimating large-scale demolition or heavy civil construction projects.
  2. Strong knowledge of demolition methods and equipment, safety standards, and environmental regulations.
  3. Proven leadership skills with experience managing estimating teams.
  4. Proficiency in commercial construction estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
  5. Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
  6. Ability to interpret and analyze construction documents including drawings and specifications.
  7. Strong negotiation skills to manage subcontractor and supplier pricing.
  8. Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving ability.
  9. Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulatory requirements related to demolition work is preferred.

Reporting Structure:
The Chief Estimator reports to Senior Management and works closely with Project Managers, Business Development, and Operations teams.

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