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Garbage Driver Jobs in Minneapolis, MN (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections

CDL Route Driver

Lakeville, MN · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

... Driver to join our GROWING team in Lakeville, MN. Pay-$27-28/hour DOE Why you need to join us ... DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to ...

Waste Connections of Canada

Yard Helper

Hudson, WI · On-site

$24.84/hr

Hudson Garbage Service , a Waste Connections company, is looking for a safety conscious & motivated ... Running of errands (non-CDL), picking up parts, cart/portable toilet deliveries * Various utility ...

Waste Connections Inc

Yard Helper

Hudson, WI · On-site

$24.84/hr

Hudson Garbage Service , a Waste Connections company, is looking for a safety conscious & motivated ... Running of errands (non-CDL), picking up parts, cart/portable toilet deliveries * Various utility ...

Raymond Auto Body

Lot Attendant/Porter

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Perform daily garbage and waste removal as needed. * Maintain flexibility to assist with unexpected operational needs as they arise. Essential Requirements: * Must have a valid driver's license and a ...

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Garbage Driver information

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How much do garbage driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage driver in Minneapolis, MN is $20.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

How to get a job on a garbage truck?

To become a garbage truck driver, you typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with a clean driving record, and some employers may require prior experience driving large vehicles. Job openings are often posted by waste management companies or municipal agencies, and applicants should be prepared for physical work and early morning or evening shifts. Completing safety training and understanding local regulations can improve your chances of employment.

Is it hard 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. The process involves training, passing written and driving tests, and sometimes background checks, but it is generally accessible for those meeting the requirements.

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 early or irregular hours they work. Their responsibilities include ensuring safe and efficient waste collection, which requires training and adherence to safety regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Garbage Driver jobs in Minneapolis, MN?

For Garbage Driver jobs in Minneapolis, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Garbage Driver jobs in Minneapolis, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Garbage Driver jobs in Minneapolis, MN are:

Garbage Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Driver job openings in Minneapolis, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,232 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

CDL Route Driver

Lakeville, MN • On-site

Waste Connections

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 265 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 91 rated recycling and waste

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Waste Connectionsexternal

$27 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Dick's Sanitation, a Waste Connections company, is looking for a safety conscience CDL Driver to join our GROWING team in Lakeville, MN.
Pay-$27-28/hour DOE
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.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. Waste experience preferred, but not required.
• Ability to read route sheets and service each customer identified on the sheet or assigned by the dispatcher.
• Perform routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking fluids, safety equipment, and tires.
• Ability to perform a physically demanding job, loading and unloading, at times with no helpers.
• Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.
• Courteous interaction with our customers and perform other miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:
• Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds.
• Work environment involves some exposure to physical risks such as moving mechanical parts. Which require following basic safety precautions.
• The employee is exposed to outside weather, including frequent wet and/or humid conditions, as well as exposure to fumes and vibration. Noise level is usually moderate.
MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:
• Valid Class B CDL with air brakes endorsement as a minimum.
• Ability to read, write, comprehend and communicate in English.
• 2 years of experience preferred.
• Basic knowledge of truck components in order to complete pre- and post-trip inspections.
We offer excellent benefits including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long term & short term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement and unlimited opportunities to "Connect with Your Future".
Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.

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