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Garbage Collection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meridian Waste

Class A Driver

Foristell, MO · On-site

$80K - $96K/yr

Meridian Waste is a leading waste management company committed to providing efficient and environmentally responsible garbage collection services. We take pride in our commitment to sustainability ...

Meridian Waste

Class A Driver

Foristell, MO

Meridian Waste is a leading waste management company committed to providing efficient and environmentally responsible garbage collection services. We take pride in our commitment to sustainability ...

The City of West Monroe

Can Puller

West Monroe, LA · On-site

$25/hr

Walk assigned collection routes to locate residential garbage containers. * Move garbage containers from residences to the roadside and position them for automated collection. * Return garbage ...

The City of West Monroe

Can Puller

West Monroe, LA · On-site

$25/hr

Walk assigned collection routes to locate residential garbage containers. * Move garbage containers from residences to the roadside and position them for automated collection. * Return garbage ...

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Garbage Collection information

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$5

$16

$29

How much do garbage collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage collection in the United States is $16.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $14.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a garbage collector?

Garbage collectors, also known as sanitation workers or waste collectors, are responsible for collecting, transporting, and disposing of residential and commercial waste and recyclables. They operate garbage trucks, pick up trash and recycling bins, and ensure that waste is properly sorted and delivered to landfills, recycling centers, or other disposal facilities. This job plays a crucial role in keeping communities clean, preventing the spread of disease, and supporting environmental health.

What are some common challenges faced by garbage collectors, and how can new employees prepare for them?

Garbage collectors often face challenges such as physically demanding work, exposure to varying weather conditions, and strict time schedules. New employees can prepare by maintaining good physical fitness, wearing appropriate protective gear, and familiarizing themselves with safety procedures. It’s also helpful to develop strong teamwork skills since the job typically requires close collaboration with a partner or crew to efficiently and safely complete routes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a garbage collector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Garbage Collector, you need physical stamina, attention to safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste management vehicles, hydraulic lift systems, and sometimes a commercial driver’s license (CDL) are typical technical requirements. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills are crucial to efficiently and safely maintaining public health and cleanliness in communities.

What is the difference between Garbage Collection vs Waste Management Worker?

AspectGarbage CollectionWaste Management Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, CDL license often preferredHigh school diploma, safety training
Work EnvironmentUrban and suburban streets, residential and commercial areasLandfills, recycling centers, waste processing facilities
Industry UsagePublic sanitation services, municipal governmentPrivate waste disposal companies, public agencies

Garbage Collection primarily involves collecting waste from residential and commercial areas using specialized trucks, often requiring a commercial driver's license. Waste Management Worker encompasses a broader role, including handling waste at landfills, recycling centers, and processing facilities. While both roles focus on waste disposal, Garbage Collection is more about curbside pickup, whereas Waste Management Worker involves the entire waste processing cycle.

How do you become a garbage collector?

To become a garbage collector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and the ability to operate collection trucks. Some positions may require physical stamina and knowledge of safety procedures; on-the-job training is common. Certification is not usually required but can improve job prospects.
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Cities with the most Garbage Collection job openings:

What states have the most Garbage Collection jobs?

States with the most job openings for Garbage Collection jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Garbage Collection jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Garbage Collection jobs are:

Garbage Collection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Collection job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,928 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Frontload Garbage Truck Driver (Miami FL )

Waste Connections Inc

Miami, FL • On-site

$30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 264 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 91 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Waste Connections is hiring Front Load Drivers in Miami, FL!

Do you have a passion for driving, career growth, and share our #1 value:SAFETY? If so, we want you to join our team!

Pay:$25-$30/hr, depending on experience

Work Week:50-60 hours per week, with occasional weekends as needed

POSITION SUMMARY:

In this position, you will operate a garbage truck on a specified route. This role requires regular heavy lifting and climbing in and out of the truck. You will be responsible for providing safe, efficient, and courteous service to customers. This is a full-time, year-round position. A typical schedule is Monday to Friday, with occasional weekends as needed, totaling approximately 50-60 hours per week.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

  • Valid CDL (Class A or B) for 1+ years
  • At least 2 years of stable work history, with your most recent position being a CDL driver
  • Less than 2 incidents or moving violations on your MVR in the last 5 years
  • Able to lift 50+ pounds
  • Able and willing to work outside in all weather conditions
  • Bilingual candidates preferred(does not need to be fluent in both languages)
  • PreviousFront Load experiencepreferred!
  • VETERANS are encourage to apply.

WHAT WE OFFER:

  • Competitive pay!
  • Excellent benefits, including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long-term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement
  • Safety bonus program: Earn up to an additional$2,600annually
  • Garbage collection is a stable, year-round industry with growth opportunities
  • If you have any questions or need help with your application feel free to call the Recruiter, Pete Carreon at 832-510-5681.

Apply today and Connect with Your Future!

Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.

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