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Garbage Collection Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Garbage Collection information

See Madison, WI salary details

$5

$16

$29

How much do garbage collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage collection in Madison, WI is $16.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.84 and $14.76 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.
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What job categories do people searching Garbage Collection jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Collection jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Garbage Collection jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Garbage Collection job openings:
Infographic showing various Garbage Collection job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,187 per year, or $16.4 per hour.
Facilities Maintenance Tech (First Shift)

Facilities Maintenance Tech (First Shift)

Latitude Corp.

Verona, WI • On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Other

Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description
Latitude Corp.
We are looking for a Facilities Maintenance Tech. to join our 100% EMPLOYEE-OWNED team.
Shift: Monday - Friday (6am - 2:30pm)
Latitude Corp. offers challenging and rewarding career opportunities in precision metal manufacturing where we make the impossible possible. We embrace problem solvers, creativity and innovation. With clean, climate-controlled facilities, we offer comfortable working environments. Our customers span a variety of industries, including US military and defense. We are proud of the work we do and we believe that our employees are the key to our success. That's why we're committed to providing our team with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed.
Minimum Job Requirements
  • Physical - capable of lifting 40 lbs. safely or with assistance. Possess the ability to stand and bend for various lengths of time with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Working Hours - full-time (40 hours)
  • Personal Traits - Good communication skills with positive teamwork attitude. Conscientious attention to detail.
  • Knowledge - Ability to troubleshoot and perform minor maintenance to buildings.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
Timely completion of job functions, prepare and requisition cleaning supplies and vending items, correspond with vendors as required. Stock vending machines, collect vending money and make weekly deposit. Adhere to safety and ISO-9001 quality systems. Authority to drive company forklifts if trained.
  • Ensure work is done safely and hazardous conditions are eliminated.
  • Ensure the highest quality standards are met with all work done in the department.
  • Ensure output meets required deadlines while executing above.
  • Ensure ISO quality system procedures are followed within department.
  • Ensure all department preventative maintenance is done on schedule.
  • Perform minor repair of department and building equipment.
  • Ensure all forklift maintenance and repairs are complete, including requisition of outside vendors if necessary.
  • Ensure company sidewalks and entryways are kept clear of winter snow.
  • Collection of alcohol-soaked rags and proper disposal.
  • Assist coatings department with safe and proper disposal of paint booth filters.
  • Removal and disposal of pallets and scrap wood.
  • Requisition of cleaning and vending supplies, including pick up of vending products ordered.
  • Perform daily maintenance on all restrooms.
  • Perform basic office, conference rooms, break room, and hallway clean up duties as required, including daily trash pick-up and disposal.
  • Pick up and deliver mail and supplies between buildings and post office daily.
  • Keep vehicles clean and fueled.
  • Time permitting; perform departmental shop garbage collection and disposal.
  • Assist shipping department if requested.
  • Arrive to work in a punctual manner and be willing to work overtime when needed.
  • Manage recycling.
  • Other ad hoc duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • General knowledge to perform routine and preventative maintenance on buildings and utility systems.
  • Ability to read, communicate and follow instruction.
  • Good organization skills and ability to multi-task.
  • Forklift driving experience

Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent.
Why Should You Choose Latitude Corp?
  • We are a rapidly growing employee-owned manufacturing company
  • Growth Opportunities
  • Training Available
  • Weekly Pay
  • Clean and Climate Controlled Work Environment
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Short-Term, and Long-Term Disability
  • Work on products that support the US Military and National Defense
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • 401K Plan with 4% Company Match

Latitude Corp is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. This company considers candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.