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Garbage Collection Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

AtWork Group

Dock Associate

Rochester, NY · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

... garbage and cardboard as needed Sort and arrange pallets and frames in staging area Separate ... From the iconic Highland Park with its Lilac Festival to the impressive collection at the Memorial ...

All JobsGarbage Collection JobsGarbage Collection Jobs in Rochester, NY

Garbage Collection information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$5

$16

$28

How much do garbage collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage collection in Rochester, NY is $16.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $14.47 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.

What are popular job titles related to Garbage Collection jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Garbage Collection jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Garbage Collection jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Garbage Collection jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Garbage Collection jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Garbage Collection job openings:

Garbage Collection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Collection job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,475 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Dock Associate

AtWork Group

Rochester, NY • On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description


Dock Associate Starting at $19-21.00 per hour depending on experience
Assist with unloading trucks, stage, and label incoming equipment with IR Partner details
Update receiving log with information on incoming equipment, communicate with appropriate team members about incoming equipment
Clean and maintain dock to assure equipment is stored and staged properly, empty garbage and cardboard as needed
Sort and arrange pallets and frames in staging area
Separate equipment as determined by keep/scrap list as needed on the dock for incoming equipment
Consolidate and wrap pallets to maximize warehouse spce Relocate equipment in the warehouse as needed
Coordinate members of other teams to assist with receipt of reorganization of incoming equipment
Take direction from management and supervisors and be able to offer suggestions for process improvement
Use forklift to organize and move heavy/large bays on the dock and throughout the warehouse safely and carefully
This position can be physically demanding, must be able to lift, bend and squat.
About Rochester, NY
Ready to take your career to the next level? Explore job opportunities in the vibrant area surrounding Rochester, New York! Known as the 'Flower City,' Rochester offers a perfect blend of bustling urban life and serene natural beauty. From the iconic Highland Park with its Lilac Festival to the impressive collection at the Memorial Art Gallery, this region boasts a rich cultural scene. With attractions like the George Eastman Museum, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and exciting sporting events courtesy of the Rochester Red Wings and the Rochester RazorSharks, this area has something for everyone. Discover career growth and a unique quality of life in Rochester today!

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