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Apprentice Solid Waste Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Carbondale, IL

Apprentice Teamster

IL · On-site

$21.81/hr

Driving and operating solid waste vehicles and equipment is required. The Apprentice Teamster follows the lead of the refuse truck driver while on the collection route, but reports, is directly ...

City of Acworth

Sanitation Crew Member

Acworth, GA · On-site

$11 - $13.25/hr

Position Summary This position is responsible accompanies a solid waste collection truck on an ... apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years. * Possession of or ...

CITY OF VALDOSTA

Refuse Collection Driver

Valdosta, GA

$19.05/hr

Drives a refuse collection truck along an assigned route to collect solid waste, commercial waste ... apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years. Possession of or ...

City of Valdosta

Refuse Collection Driver

Valdosta, GA · On-site

$19.05/hr

... to collect solid waste, commercial waste, or yard waste. · Transports refuse to landfill. · ... of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years. · ...

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All JobsEnergy and Environment JobsSanitation JobsSolid Waste Technician JobsApprentice Solid Waste Jobs

Apprentice Solid Waste information

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$12

$22

$37

How much do apprentice solid waste jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice solid waste in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice solid waste?

Apprentice Solid Waste workers are individuals who are in the early stages of training to become solid waste professionals. They typically assist with the collection, sorting, and disposal of garbage, recyclables, and other waste materials under the guidance of experienced staff. Apprentices learn how to operate various equipment, follow safety protocols, and understand environmental regulations related to waste management. This role provides hands-on experience and knowledge needed for advancement within the solid waste industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice solid waste worker?

To thrive as an Apprentice Solid Waste Worker, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic math and literacy skills, and the physical ability to perform manual labor. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, safety equipment, and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) are commonly required. Dependability, teamwork, and strong communication are important soft skills that help ensure efficient and safe operations. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining public health and environmental standards while supporting effective waste management services.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice solid waste workers, and how can they effectively overcome them?

Apprentice Solid Waste workers often encounter challenges such as handling physically demanding tasks, adapting to early or irregular work hours, and ensuring safety while working around heavy equipment and hazardous materials. To effectively overcome these challenges, it’s important to maintain proper lifting techniques, make use of provided safety gear, and communicate regularly with your team members. Additionally, staying attentive during training sessions and asking questions can help apprentices quickly adapt and perform their duties efficiently in a supportive team environment.

What is the difference between Apprentice Solid Waste vs Waste Management Technician?

AspectApprentice Solid WasteWaste Management Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or GED; may require certifications like CDL or waste management licenses
Work EnvironmentFieldwork involving collection, disposal, and recycling activitiesField and some office work related to waste collection, processing, and environmental compliance
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role in waste management companies, municipalitiesFull-time role in waste collection, disposal, and environmental services

In summary, an Apprentice Solid Waste is an entry-level position focusing on learning waste collection and disposal, often requiring on-the-job training. A Waste Management Technician is a more experienced role with similar work environments but may require additional certifications and responsibilities. Both roles are essential in the waste management industry, with the apprentice position serving as a stepping stone to a technician role.

What cities are hiring for Apprentice Solid Waste jobs?

Cities with the most Apprentice Solid Waste job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Solid Waste jobs?

The most popular types of Solid Waste jobs are:

What states have the most Apprentice Solid Waste jobs?

States with the most job openings for Apprentice Solid Waste jobs include:

Apprentice Solid Waste jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Solid Waste job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.

Truck Driver I - Solid Waste

City of Decatur, AL

Decatur, AL • On-site

$47K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Salary : $47,439.88 - $65,396.39 Annually
Location : Decatur, AL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202600146
Department: Solid Waste Department
Opening Date: 08/20/2026
Closing Date: 9/3/2026 11:59 PM Central
Job Summary
This position operates a refuse collection truck equipped with a hydraulic packer along assigned routesto collect solid waste in a safe, efficient, and courteous manner. The role includes vehicle maintenance and inspections, customer service, and related duties.
Major Duties
  • Operates a refuse collection truck with hydraulic packer and dump in a safe and legal manner on assigned routes.
  • Assists in collecting and loading refuse as needed; lifts and dumps refuse containers into the truck; empties garbage cans and loads trash (limbs, leaves, grass, etc.).
  • Unloads truck at the landfill or designated disposal site.
  • Conducts daily pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections to ensure safety and operability; performs minor maintenance, greasing, cleaning, and reports needed repairs.
  • Completes daily reports, time sheets, and maintains accurate records.
  • Resolves customer service complaints and deals with citizens in a tactful and diplomatic manner.
  • Reports violations of solid waste collection regulations to supervisor.
  • Performs related duties such as repairing and maintaining carts, mowing/trimming grass and weeds, assisting with leaf collection, and emergency call-outs as required.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Sufficient experience in the operation of trucks and related automotive equipment, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having held a similar position for one to two years.
  • Must possess and maintain a current and valid Alabama Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a clean driving record.
  • Ability to pass a standard driving test, pre-employment physical, and random drug testing.
  • Eyesight sufficient to operate vehicles safely; ability to maneuver various sized vehicles.
  • Knowledge of the operation, maintenance, and safety principles of packer-type refuse collection trucks and related equipment.
  • Knowledge of traffic laws, ordinances, and defensive driving practices applicable to commercial vehicles.
  • Knowledge of department and city policies and procedures related to solid waste collection.
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards and applicable safety precautions in refuse collection operations.
  • Skill in the safe operation of large, heavy-duty trucks and associated hydraulic equipment.
  • Skill in planning, organization, decision-making, and route management.
  • Skill in providing excellent customer service and maintaining effective working relationships with supervisors, crew members, and the public.
  • Skill in oral and written communication, including the ability to read, write, and prepare reports.
  • Ability to acquire rapid knowledge of city streets, addresses, and geography.

Supplemental Information
Guidelines
  • Guidelines include city and department policies and procedures, traffic laws, and equipment operation manuals. These guidelines are generally clear and specific, but may require some interpretation in application.
Complexity/Scope of Work
  • The work consists of related vehicle operation, team operations, and manual labor duties. Inclement weather conditions, heavy traffic, and customer interactions contribute to the complexity of the position.
  • The purpose of this position is to collect solid waste efficiently and safely. Successful performance contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of city solid waste management functions.
Contacts
  • Contacts are typically with co-workers, crew members, supervisors, and the general public.
  • Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, provide services, and ensure safe operations.
Physical Demands/Work Environment
  • The work is typically performed while standing, walking, bending, stooping, crouching, climbing, kneeling, grasping, throwing, and lifting heavy objects. The employee frequently uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
  • The work is typically performed outdoors, occasionally in extreme or inclement weather (heat, cold, rain, etc.). The employee may be exposed to noise, dust, dirt, grease, machinery with moving parts, traffic hazards, potential biological/chemical hazards from household garbage, contagious diseases, or irritating chemicals. The work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, or gloves.
  • Requires physical strength and endurance for heavy manual labor, walking on uneven/rough terrain, and prolonged sitting while driving.
Supervisory and Management Responsibility
  • None.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
01
Do you have a High School dipolma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a good driving history?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Have your driver's privileges ever been suspended, canceled, revoked, or disqualified in any city or state?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Have you ever been disquaified from driving or operating a commercial vehicle?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have or can you obtain a valid Alabama driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you have a current/valid Alabama class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL)?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Are you willing to work early morning shifts (including starting before 6:00 AM)?
  • Yes
  • No

08
Are you able to work around traffic and in residential areas safely?
  • Yes
  • No

09
Are you able to perform daily vehicle inspections and basic maintenance checks?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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