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Garbage Collector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Garbage Collector information

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$5

$16

$30

How much do garbage collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage collector in Chicago, IL is $16.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.12 and $15.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much is a garbage collector paid?

Garbage collectors in the United States typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and union membership. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced workers or those in high-cost areas can earn higher wages, often supplemented with benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What Is the Job of a Garbage Collector?

A garbage collector’s duties are to pick up trash and recycling and transport it to a landfill, sorting facility, or recycling center. In this career, you may pick up trash from residential buildings, commercial buildings, or both. You may pick up trash cans by hand or operate hydraulic components of the truck that lift the can and dump the contents into the truck. Some garbage collectors drive along specific routes throughout the week, while others respond to calls to pick up trash.

What are some common challenges faced by garbage collectors, and how are they addressed in the workplace?

Garbage collectors often encounter challenges such as exposure to harsh weather conditions, handling heavy or hazardous waste, and navigating busy streets or alleys. To address these, employers typically provide safety training, personal protective equipment, and clear procedures for lifting and handling waste. Teams often work closely to support each other, ensure routes are covered efficiently, and maintain clear communication with supervisors about any issues that arise during collection. Adaptability and teamwork are key to overcoming these challenges while maintaining safety and efficiency.

What is the difference between Garbage Collector vs Waste Management Technician?

AspectGarbage CollectorWaste Management Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentHigh school diploma; may require certifications in waste management
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, on collection routesOutdoor and indoor waste processing facilities
Industry UsagePublic sanitation servicesWaste treatment and recycling facilities
Job FocusCollecting and transporting wasteManaging waste processing, recycling, and disposal

While both roles involve waste management, Garbage Collectors focus on collecting waste from residential or commercial sites, whereas Waste Management Technicians handle waste processing, recycling, and disposal at facilities. The roles often overlap in industry and credentials but differ in daily tasks and work environment.

What qualifications do you need to be a garbage collector?

Garbage collectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a physical exam due to the demanding nature of the job. Some positions require a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) and knowledge of safety procedures and equipment operation.

What does a garbage collector do?

A garbage collector is responsible for collecting and disposing of waste and recyclables from homes, businesses, and public areas. They operate garbage trucks, lift and empty bins, and ensure that trash is properly sorted and disposed of according to local regulations. The job may also involve cleaning streets, maintaining equipment, and interacting with the public to promote proper waste disposal. Garbage collectors play a vital role in keeping communities clean and protecting public health.

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, a high school diploma or equivalent, and a strong understanding of safety protocols. Familiarity with refuse collection vehicles, hydraulic lift systems, and basic maintenance tools is typically required. Reliability, attention to detail, and teamwork are essential soft skills that enhance performance in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe waste removal and contribute to maintaining public health and sanitation in communities.

How do you become a garbage collector?

To become a garbage collector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a physical exam. On-the-job training is provided, and knowledge of safety procedures and operating waste collection equipment is important; some positions may require a commercial driver's license (CDL).

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 specialized trucks. The job typically requires physical fitness, safety awareness, and adherence to schedules, but it generally does not require advanced education or certifications.
More about Garbage Collector jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Garbage Collector jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Garbage Collector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Garbage Collector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Garbage Collector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Collector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Collector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Garbage Collector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Garbage Collector job openings:
Garbage Collector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Collector job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,978 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
SANITATION TECHNICIAN I / CUSTODIAN - WEEKEND EVENING SHIFT (6:00P - 6:30A FRI-SUN) - 395

SANITATION TECHNICIAN I / CUSTODIAN - WEEKEND EVENING SHIFT (6:00P - 6:30A FRI-SUN) - 395

NOW Health Group

Bloomingdale, IL • On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Maintains the overall cleanliness of the manufacturing plant and warehouse area. Performs cleaning and sanitation of areas as stated in the SOP and Master Sanitation Schedule.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
Production Areas:
  • Performs all daily duties as stated in the Master Sanitation Schedule:

    • Cleans and sanitizes all common areas such as hallways, lockers, locker areas, sanitation rooms, dust collector rooms, drains, docking areas, ovens, ceiling vents and tiles
    • Deep cleaning of production work stations as requested
    • Removal and disposal of trash and cleaning of garbage bins
    • Assist production personnel with changeovers and workstation cleaning.

  • Operates the following equipment to assist with sanitation:

    • Electric pallet jack, forklift and man-lift to assist in performing the sanitation duties
    • Floor scrubbers, power washers and explosion proof vacuums
    • Dust collectors

  • Checks Soap Titrations and water temperature in tote washers.
  • Refills soap, sanitizers, paper towels, and other personal protective equipment.
  • Assists with continuous improvement by Identifying opportunities for quality and sanitation.
  • Performs sanitation related tasks including but not limited to scrubbing, mopping of the floors, walls and equipment; removing trash; using the proper chemicals / equipment and all other related duties as assigned.
  • Operates electric pallet jack, forklift and man-lift to assist in performing sanitation duties.
  • Completes daily task documentation as required.
  • Reports all repairs and maintenance issues throughout the facility in a timely manner.
  • Supports Production and Quality teams through sanitation efforts and initiatives.
  • Complies with safety, cGMP, SOP and SQF requirements.

Warehouse and Non-Production Areas:
  • Performs all daily duties as stated in the cleaning schedule

  • Cleans and sanitizes all common areas such as cafeteria, offices, restrooms, entrances, stairwells, lockers, conference rooms.
  • Washes walls, ceiling, and woodwork; washes windows, door panels, and sills.
  • Cleans washrooms, including sinks, toilets, and floors. Replenishes bathroom supplies.
  • Cleans warehouse areas including loading docks, rails, racks, restrooms and offices.
  • Deep cleaning of offices, hallways, and other common areas.
  • Removal and disposal of trash and cleaning of garbage bins.

  • Operates the following equipment to assist with sanitation

    • Electric pallet jack, forklift and man-lift to assist in performing the sanitation duties
    • Floor scrubbers, power washers and vacuums

  • Refills soap and sanitizers.
  • Assists with continuous improvement by Identifying opportunities for quality and sanitation.
  • Performs sanitation related tasks including but not limited to scrubbing, mopping of the floors, walls and equipment; vacuuming, removing trash; using the proper chemicals / equipment and all other related duties as assigned.
  • Operates electric pallet jack, forklift and man-lift to assist in performing the sanitation duties.
  • Completes daily documentation as required.
  • Reports all repairs and maintenance issues throughout the facility.
  • Supports Production and Quality teams through sanitation efforts and initiatives.

  • Complies with safety, cGMP, SOP and SQF requirements.

SAFETY RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT
Supports a culture of safe production and exhibits safe work practices. Actively participates in the safety program by engaging in safety activities. Effectively provides and accepts constructive peer-to-peer feedback on safety performance. Adheres to policies, procedures, SOP's, safe work practices, and safety policies and procedures. Reports ALL workplace incidents to supervisor immediately. Communicates concerns to supervisor, reports hazards, and provides input on prevention. Properly uses, wears, and stores Personal Protective Equipment when required. Participates on safety teams and/or completes safety-related activities as part of regular job responsibilities.
PERFORMANCE ABILITY
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED)
  • Experience in manufacturing sanitation environment, preferably food or pharmaceuticals helpful.
  • Prior forklift experience preferred.

LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret documents such as MSDS sheets, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals (S.O.P.). Ability to fill out sanitation/production paperwork accurately. Good verbal communication skills required.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Basic computer and data entry skills required.
  • Ability to operate various types of powered industrial equipment (electric pallet jack, forklift and man ) required.
  • Good attention to detail skills required.
  • Exhibits strong teamwork skills; possesses a good, "can do" attitude; collaborates with others; works in a fast-paced environment while following all company policies and procedures, including all safety policies; and exhibits flexibility and willingness to learn new tasks, change tasks and work in different areas as needed.

REASONING ABILITY
Ability to apply commonsense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and/or walk; ascend and/or descend stairs; and reach with hands and arms, including overhead reaching and horizontally on a ladder (up to 10 feet); bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Employee will be required to use a lift truck, with a height of up to 20 feet.
The employee must regularly lift, move (in some cases drag items), slide, raise and/or place:
  • Up to 30 lb. force for up to 25 feet and then pull to original position.
  • Up to 33 lbs. from 5 inches off ground and raise to 47 inches and then return 33 lbs. to original position.
  • Up to 50 lbs. for 3 feet at waist level; lift bag/box onto side and return to original position.
  • Up to 60 lbs. from 31 inch high shelf and 2-hand carry for up to 5 ft. and then return 60 lbs. to 31 inch surface.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works near moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to herbal aromas, dust, and/or airborne particles, some classified as allergens or irritants.
This position works in all areas of NOW's manufacturing facilities with direct exposure to ingredients (powders and liquids), mixes (powders and liquids), equipment, and packaging.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately loud, and in some areas where louder hearing protection is required.
2025 BENEFITS AT A GLANCE
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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