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Garbage Collection Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Garbage Collection information

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$4

$14

$25

How much do garbage collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage collection in Michigan is $14.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.11 and $12.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job as a garbage collector?

To become a garbage collector, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a physical exam due to the demanding nature of the work. Many positions require a valid driver's license and the ability to operate collection trucks, with some areas offering on-the-job training. Certification or licensing may be required depending on local regulations.

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 hard is it to be a garbage collector?

Being a garbage collector involves physically demanding work, often outdoors in various weather conditions, and requires lifting heavy objects and operating collection trucks. The job typically requires physical fitness, attention to safety protocols, and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL). It can be challenging but is generally considered manageable with proper training and experience.

What are garbage collectors and what do they do?

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 qualifications do you need to be a garbage collector?

Garbage collectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must be physically fit to handle lifting and operating equipment. Some positions require a valid driver's license and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions; certifications for operating specialized trucks may also be beneficial.

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 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.

Is garbage collecting a good job?

Garbage collection is a physically demanding job that involves operating trucks, handling waste, and working outdoors, often with early or irregular hours. It provides steady employment and benefits in many areas, but may involve health risks and limited advancement opportunities. Job satisfaction depends on individual preferences for manual labor and working conditions.
What are popular job titles related to Garbage Collection jobs in Michigan? For Garbage Collection jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Collection jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Collection jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Garbage Collection jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Garbage Collection job openings:
Garbage Collection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Collection job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,571 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Janitorial Technician in Farmington Hills - $17.00/hr - Full Time

Hurricane Technologies

Farmington Hills, MI

$17/hr

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Janitor / Custodian - $17.00/hr - Full Time - Crossroads are West 11 Mile Rd and Middlebelt Rd No expierence required, training is provided **Must be able to pass a background check** Shift is 3:00pm to 11:00pm, Monday through Friday Job Summary Clean and maintain designated spaces both inside and outside of the facility on a daily basis, which includes lobbies, restrooms, conference rooms, parking lots, kitchen areas and public areas Garbage collection, dusting/polishing furniture, high/low dusing, cleaning entryways and interior glass, sweeping and dust mopping hard floor surfaces, disinfecting surfaces, cleaning stainless steel surfaces, vacuuming and damp mopping floors

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