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Garbage Collector Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Solid Waste Collector

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$46K - $64K/yr

This Solid Waste Collector position supports the Core and Special Services divisions within the ... Solid Waste Services collects and processes residential garbage, recycling, yard waste materials ...

At GFL (Green For Life), we aren't just "garbage men"-we're the Green Team. We keep the wheels ... Tool Collector: You've got a toolbox that's your pride and joy. * Problem Solver: You don't just ...

At GFL (Green For Life), we aren't just "garbage men"-we're the Green Team. We keep the wheels ... Tool Collector: You've got a toolbox that's your pride and joy. * Problem Solver: You don't just ...

2nd-Shift Mechanic

Durham, NC · On-site

$33/hr

At GFL (Green For Life), we aren't just "garbage men"-we're the Green Team. We keep the wheels ... Tool Collector: You've got a toolbox that's your pride and joy. * Problem Solver: You don't just ...

Garbage Collector information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$5

$15

$28

How much do garbage collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage collector in Raleigh, NC is $15.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.40 and $14.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include specialized roles such as high-level consultants, surgeons, or certain executive positions that require advanced skills, certifications, and significant experience. These roles often involve demanding schedules, high responsibility, and may be found in industries like healthcare, finance, or technology. Such high daily earnings are usually associated with freelance or contract work, or positions with substantial bonuses or commissions.

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.

How hard is it to become a garbage collector?

Becoming a garbage collector typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and the ability to operate collection trucks. Physical stamina and the willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions are also important; some positions may require passing a background check and training on safety procedures.

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.

What is the average pay of a garbage collector?

The average pay for a garbage collector in the United States is around $40,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and union membership. Many garbage collectors work full-time, often with early morning or evening shifts, and may require physical strength and safety training.

What do bin men get paid?

Garbage collectors, also known as bin men, typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $15 to $25, depending on experience, location, and union status. Annual salaries generally range from $30,000 to $50,000, with benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans often included. Pay may increase with seniority, certifications, or additional responsibilities.
What are popular job titles related to Garbage Collector jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Garbage Collector jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Collector jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Collector jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Infographic showing various Garbage Collector job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 11% Temporary, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,979 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

$46K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Loads garbage, recycling, and yard waste materials into collection vehicles for disposal.

  • Assists equipment operators by providing route support, directions, and communicating hazards or obstacles.

  • Delivers, repairs, assembles, and removes collection carts as needed.


Job description

Job Description Would you like an opportunity to join one of the many teams dedicated to maintaining high-quality public services within a city that has been ranked as one of the best places to live year over year. If so, the City of Raleigh Solid Waste Services Department is seeking a highly resourceful, adaptable, multi-tasker with solid critical thinking and communications skills for our Solid Waste Collector position. This Solid Waste Collector position supports the Core and Special Services divisions within the Solid Waste Services Department.

Depending on the assignment, this position provides labor required to load garbage, recycling and yard waste materials into vehicles for disposal.About Us: Solid Waste Services collects and processes residential garbage, recycling, yard waste materials, and several specialized collection services. Our department is committed to providing high-quality waste management, disposal, and recycling services for all our valued customers. As an essential and critical service, we take great pride in preserving and protecting the community's natural resources and sustainable growth

Duties and Responsibilities The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description. Loads waste on daily routes into the back of a collection truck; loads recyclable materials into recycling truck; and loads yard waste into rear loader vehicles Assist equipment operator with backing up the vehicle, provides route support for directions and turns, and communicates any spotted hazards or obstacles Delivers, repairs, assembles and removes collection carts as needed Communicates with residents as needed regarding questions about collection dates and acceptable materials that can be collected.

Properly tags any waste items left curbside that are not acceptable for pick-up Assist in preventative maintenance, cleaning, and upkeep of vehicles Collects waste from backdoor service locations and curbside containers for loading into rear loader trucks May be asked to operate non-CDL vehicles such as pup trucks and alley trucks Typical Qualifications Education and Experience High School diploma or G.E.D. equivalency; Less than 1 year experience in construction, maintenance or related work OR Any equivalent combination of training and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities may be substituted Licenses or Certifications: Valid North Carolina Class C Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record, or the ability to obtain within 60 days of hire Additional Information Knowledge Of: Acceptable materials that can be collected Standard practices, methods and materials of assigned work Occupational hazards and applicable safety principles and practices Uses and properties of supplies and equipment Skill In: Customer Service Following directions and meeting standards Providing attention to detail in assignments Ability To: Communicate with coworkers, supervisors, the general public and others to sufficiently exchange or convey information and to receive work directions Operate assigned tools and equipment Comprehend maps and directions ADA and Other Requirements: Work Environment and Physical Effort: Heavy: Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Work Environment: Work is typically performed in an outdoor or street environment (near moving traffic), at a construction site and in or around vehicles

Employees may occasionally work in an office or similar indoor environment. Work Exposures: There is frequent exposure to moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles and loud noises. Employees may occasionally be exposed to individuals who are hostile or irate, individuals with known violent backgrounds, extreme cold (below 32 degrees), extreme heat (above 100 degrees), communicable diseases, and toxic or caustic chemicals or substances.

City of Raleigh is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are provided upon request.