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Entry Level Waste Management Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Planet Group

Lab Pack Chemist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$38/hr

As an Environmental Specialist you will support our clients by managing their hazardous waste ... * Entry level - recent graduates accepted * Valid driver's license Ability to work as a member of a ...

UniFirst

Entry Level Sales Representative

San Jose, CA · On-site

$67K - $120K/yr

What We’re Looking For: * 0-2+ years of B2B sales experience (uniform rental, industrial supply, waste management, safety gear, or janitorial services preferred) * Proven track record of ...

Revolution Foods

Production Associate

San Lorenzo, CA · On-site

$17.89/hr

... Support waste management programs including garbage, recycling, and Green Waste separation • ... • Entry-level role; prior fast-paced food handling experience preferred What You Bring • ...

Revolution Foods

Production Associate

San Lorenzo, CA · On-site

$17.89/hr

... Support waste management programs including garbage, recycling, and Green Waste separation • ... • Entry-level role; prior fast-paced food handling experience preferred What You Bring • ...

Revolution Foods

Production Associate

Commerce, CA · On-site

$17.11/hr

... Support waste management programs including garbage, recycling, and Green Waste separation • ... • Entry-level role; prior fast-paced food handling experience preferred What You Bring • ...

Revolution Foods

Production Associate

Commerce, CA · On-site

$17.11/hr

... Support waste management programs including garbage, recycling, and Green Waste separation • ... • Entry-level role; prior fast-paced food handling experience preferred What You Bring • ...

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All JobsWaste Management JobsEntry Level Waste Management JobsEntry Level Waste Management Jobs in California

Entry Level Waste Management information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$47.2K

$67.6K

How much do entry level waste management jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level waste management in California is $47,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $51,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level waste management job?

Entry level waste management jobs involve collecting, sorting, and disposing of waste materials such as trash, recyclables, and hazardous items. Employees in these positions typically work for municipalities, private companies, or recycling centers, and may operate vehicles, use machinery, or perform manual labor. These roles provide valuable experience in environmental services and often offer on-the-job training, making them suitable for individuals new to the industry. Responsibilities may include following safety protocols, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring proper disposal methods are used.

What does an entry level waste management worker do?

In an entry-level waste management role, your daily tasks often include collecting, sorting, and disposing of waste materials according to company protocols and safety standards. You may also be responsible for operating basic equipment, ensuring that recycling guidelines are followed, and maintaining cleanliness in assigned areas. Teamwork is essential, as you'll frequently collaborate with supervisors and other crew members to complete routes efficiently. Over time, you'll gain exposure to various waste management processes, which can open up opportunities for advancement within the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level waste management worker?

To thrive as an Entry Level Waste Management Worker, you need physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection equipment, basic vehicle operation, and adherence to OSHA regulations are commonly required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient, safe waste handling and contribute to a clean, compliant environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Waste Management vs Entry Level Recycling Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level Waste ManagementEntry Level Recycling Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, some certifications (e.g., OSHA)High school diploma, environmental awareness certifications
Work EnvironmentWaste facilities, landfills, collection sitesRecycling centers, community outreach events
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal waste departments, private waste companiesEnvironmental organizations, municipal recycling programs

Entry Level Waste Management roles focus on waste collection, disposal, and site operations, often requiring safety certifications. Entry Level Recycling Coordinators primarily handle recycling program promotion, community education, and coordination at recycling centers. Both roles serve environmental sustainability but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Waste Management jobs in California?

The most popular types of Waste Management jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Waste Management jobs in California?

For Entry Level Waste Management jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Waste Management jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Waste Management jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Waste Management jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Waste Management job openings:

Entry Level Waste Management jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Waste Management job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,205 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Lab Pack Chemist

San Jose, CA • On-site

The Planet Group
See more jobs at The Planet Groupexternal

$38/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Title: Lab Pack Chemist

Starting Pay: Up to $38/hr depending on experience

Location: San Jose CA

Contract to Hire - 6 month contract and then direct hire


Qualifications:

  • BS degree in science or related with a desire to work in the Environmental industry
  • 2+ years of lab pack experience
  • Great communication and be able to work directly with clients
  • Willing to get their hands dirty and work hard


Managers Notes:

  • Will be working for one of their largest clients
  • Will be working between 3 locations and will get paid mileage if they have to go between locations


Benefits:

  • Health, Dental and vision insurance
  • 401/k with contribution
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Health & Wellness including on location gyms
  • Training, Training, and more Training
  • They have a training schedule/program that everyone does and take 3 years and 120/hrs to complete
  • PTO and Holidays
  • Mentorship and career planning
  • Auto/home insurance discounts


Our client, who is one of the largest environmental services firms in North America is looking for Environmental Specialist to join their renowned team of professionals. They provide leading institutions in the higher education, life sciences, healthcare, and industrial sectors with diverse services and advice to assist them with compliance management.

As an Environmental Specialist you will support our clients by managing their hazardous waste programs & projects, utilizing state & federal regulations.

This is a labor-intensive role that requires a high-level of technical aptitude and the ability to deliver high-level customer service


Essential responsibilities and duties:


Technical:

  • Completion of on-boarding and Safety Training Development Program
  • Safety equipment inspections
  • Hazardous waste inspections
  • Perform and document environmental health and safety (EHS) audits for clients
  • Regularly preparing chemical and biological waste for shipment and disposal, including creation of all federal/state waste documents and managing the paperwork for the material
  • Following any applicable state and federal regulations [Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) & Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations]
  • Develop understanding of OSHA regulations as well as Health and Safety practices
  • Monthly on-call responsibilities as part of our Emergency Response team


Hands-on:

  • Material handling (e.g. transportation of materials within client sites as well as from client sites to transfer and/or end disposal facilities)
  • Safe handling of hazardous waste containers on client sites, as well as loading/unloading of waste from vehicles
  • Packaging and prepping of hazardous waste for shipment
  • Spill response measures, including assessment of the spills and potentially leading the cleanup efforts
  • Requires you to work 40+ hours per week and overtime is frequently required


Customer service:

  • Professional attitude, high energy, and high-level communication skills required when dealing directly with client representatives
  • High level of expertise (e.g. state/federal regulations, EHS standards, waste management procedures, etc.)
  • Train clients on proper chemical safety and hazardous waste management
  • Attending client operations meetings
  • Training of new team member(s)


Qualifications:

  • BS/BA in Environmental Science or Business-related degree or relative Military experience preferred
  • Entry level - recent graduates accepted
  • Valid driver’s license


Ability to work as a member of a team as well as an individual

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