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Garbage Driver Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections Inc

CDL Driver- Bronx NY

Royal, IA · On-site

$30 - $32.90/hr

🚛 Driver - Royal Waste 📍 Location: Bronx, NY 💵 Pay: $30.00-$32.90 per hour (based on ... This role operates garbage truck routes throughout the borough, ensuring the safe collection ...

Waste Connections Inc

CDL Driver- Bronx NY

Royal, IA

$30 - $32.90/hr

🚛 Driver - Royal Waste 📍 Location: Bronx, NY 💵 Pay: $30.00-$32.90 per hour (based on ... This role operates garbage truck routes throughout the borough, ensuring the safe collection ...

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All JobsGarbage Driver JobsGarbage Driver Jobs in Iowa

Garbage Driver information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$18

$27

How much do garbage driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage driver in Iowa is $18.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a garbage driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Garbage Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), good driving record, and knowledge of safe vehicle operation. Familiarity with garbage trucks, hydraulic lift systems, and GPS routing technology is typically required. Reliability, attention to detail, and strong customer service skills help drivers build positive relationships with clients and maintain high safety standards. These skills and qualities ensure efficient, safe, and compliant waste collection services that support community health and sanitation.

How many hours a week do garbage drivers work?

Garbage drivers typically work around 40 hours per week, often involving early morning or evening shifts. Overtime may be required during busy periods or to cover route demands, and schedules can vary based on the employer and location.

How hard is it to become a garbage driver?

Becoming a garbage driver typically requires a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and physical ability to handle the job's physical demands. Training is often provided by employers, and the job involves operating large trucks, working early mornings or evenings, and following safety protocols.

Why do garbage truck drivers get paid so much?

Garbage truck drivers often earn higher wages due to the physically demanding nature of the job, the need for specialized skills in operating large vehicles, and the requirement to work early mornings or in challenging environments. Their compensation reflects the responsibility for safety, efficiency, and adherence to strict schedules in waste collection operations.

What is the difference between Garbage Driver vs Recycling Truck Driver?

AspectGarbage DriverRecycling Truck Driver
CredentialsDriver's license, CDL often requiredDriver's license, CDL often required
Work EnvironmentResidential/commercial waste collectionRecycling collection at residential/commercial sites
Industry UsageWaste management, sanitation servicesRecycling and environmental services
Job TasksCollect and transport wasteCollect and transport recyclable materials

Both Garbage Drivers and Recycling Truck Drivers operate in waste management, often requiring similar licenses and working in residential or commercial areas. The main difference lies in the materials they handle: Garbage Drivers focus on waste, while Recycling Truck Drivers specialize in recyclable materials. Their roles are essential for maintaining sanitation and environmental sustainability.

What are some common challenges garbage drivers face on their routes, and how can they prepare for them?

Garbage drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating narrow streets, variable weather conditions, and dealing with unpredictable traffic patterns. Additionally, they must remain vigilant for pedestrians and properly handle heavy or hazardous waste. Preparation involves familiarizing themselves with their routes, conducting routine vehicle inspections, and adhering strictly to safety protocols to minimize risks and maintain efficiency.

What does a garbage driver do?

A garbage driver, also known as a refuse collector or sanitation truck driver, is responsible for operating garbage trucks to collect waste and recyclables from homes, businesses, and public areas. They follow established routes and schedules, ensuring timely and safe removal of trash. In addition to driving, they may also assist in loading and unloading waste containers and are required to follow safety and environmental guidelines. This role is essential in keeping communities clean and maintaining public health standards.
What are popular job titles related to Garbage Driver jobs in Iowa? For Garbage Driver jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Driver jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Driver jobs in Iowa are:
Garbage Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Driver job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,003 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Local Garbage Truck Driver

Waste Connections

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 264 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 90 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Waste Connections of Iowa, is looking for a safety conscience Local Garbage Truck Driver to join our GROWING team in Des Moines, Iowa.
We are looking to grow employees with us and will help provide the truck and training to help grow your career as a CDL driver - We also pay for your CDL!
Pay range: $26 - $28 per hour
Schedule: Monday - Friday 5:00am - Route complete
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Job Requirements:
- Valid driver's license
- Clean driving record
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
- Excellent communication skills
Roles:
- Safely operate a company vehicle on designated routes
- Pick up and transport waste and recycling materials
- Maintain accurate records of pick-ups and deliveries
- Communicate effectively with customers and dispatch
Responsibilities:
- Follow all safety regulations and company policies
- Complete daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections
- Provide excellent customer service
- Report any issues or concerns to management
Benefits:
- Competitive salary
- Health insurance options
- Retirement savings plan - 5% 401k match
- Paid time off
- Opportunities for advancement within the company
Why you need to join us!
  • CULTURE: It's a Great place to work! We work in an environment where empowered, self-directed All-stars know what they do is important.
  • INTEGRITY: Our definition is "saying what you will do and then doing it!" We keep our promises to our customers and our employees.

Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.
#ACBoost

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