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Garbage Collection Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Avanta Staffing Solutions LLC

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Garbage Truck Collection Helpers

Memphis, TN · On-site

$19/hr

A Garbage Collector plays a crucial role in maintaining community cleanliness and environmental ... Drive assigned routes for timely waste collection * Collect and load waste materials safely

Avanta Staffing Solutions LLC

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CDL Class B Garbage Truck Driver

Memphis, TN · On-site

$25/hr

Safely operate a commercial garbage truck on assigned local routes. * Perform pre-trip and post ... Drive residential and/or commercial collection routes. * Work closely with helpers to complete ...

New

McMinn County School District

Substitute Cook

Athens, TN · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

... Keep garbage collection containers and areas neat and sanitary. 6. Correct unsafe conditions in work area and promptly report any conditions that are not immediately correctable to supervisor. 7. ...

McMinn County School District

Substitute Cook

Athens, TN

$12.50 - $15.25/hr

... Keep garbage collection containers and areas neat and sanitary. 6. Correct unsafe conditions in work area and promptly report any conditions that are not immediately correctable to supervisor. 7. ...

Aramark

Food Service Worker - Clayton Homes

Maryville, TN

$13 - $16/hr

Maintain garbage collection site and kitchen floor areas in a neat and sanitary fashion * Perform other duties as assigned including other areas in the kitchen * This role may have physical demands ...

Aramark

Food Service Worker - Univ. of Tennessee

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Maintain garbage collection site and kitchen floor areas in a neat and sanitary fashion * Perform other duties as assigned including other areas in the kitchen * This role may have physical demands ...

Aramark

Food Service Worker

Knoxville, TN

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Maintain garbage collection site and kitchen floor areas in a neat and sanitary fashion * Perform other duties as assigned including other areas in the kitchen * This role may have physical demands ...

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All JobsGarbage Collection JobsGarbage Collection Jobs in Tennessee

Garbage Collection information

See Tennessee salary details

$4

$14

$26

How much do garbage collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage collection in Tennessee is $14.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.59 and $13.32 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 Tennessee? For Garbage Collection jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Collection jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Collection jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Garbage Collection jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Garbage Collection job openings:
Garbage Collection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Collection job openings in Tennessee 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 $30,793 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Garbage Truck Collection Helpers

Avanta Staffing Solutions LLC

Memphis, TN • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

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Job description

A Garbage Collector plays a crucial role in maintaining community cleanliness and environmental health by efficiently collecting and disposing of waste. This position involves driving routes, operating equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety standards while working collaboratively with team members to manage waste loads accurately and responsibly.

Responsibilities

  • Drive assigned routes for timely waste collection
  • Collect and load waste materials safely
  • Conduct routine vehicle maintenance and inspections
  • Adhere to safety regulations and protocols
  • Sort waste materials appropriately
  • Manage waste load capacity effectively
  • Operate waste collection equipment proficiently
  • Coordinate with team members to optimize collection efficiency
  • Maintain accurate records of routes and collections

Required Qualifications

  • Vaild Driver's License with clean record

Preferred Qualifications

  • 1+ years experience in waste management
  • Proficient in vehicle operation
  • Knowledge of safety compliance procedures
  • Strong physical stamina
  • Effective time management skills
  • Ability to work well in a team environment
  • Attention to detail
  • Good communication skills