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Garbage Driver Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Kerr Contractors

Maintenance Worker (Yard)

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$22/hr

Conduct garbage removal and general cleanup * Prepare and organize parts and equipment for jobsite ... Valid driver's license and reliable transportation * Experience with landscaping equipment * Strong ...

Allison Inn & Spa

Maintenance Tech 2

Newberg, OR · On-site

Maintains all aspects and cleanness of building exterior including garbage and recycling bins ... Ability to effectively communicate with all staff, guest, contractors and delivery drivers.

New

Allison Inn & Spa

Maintenance Tech 2

Newberg, OR · On-site

Maintains all aspects and cleanness of building exterior including garbage and recycling bins ... Ability to effectively communicate with all staff, guest, contractors and delivery drivers.

New

SkyNat Property Management

Be Seen First

Roving Property Maintenance Technician

Portland, OR · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

... my garbage disposal sounds like it's eating a fork" to "my heater smells funny." If you enjoy ... Must have a valid drivers license, car insurance and reliable transportation * Experience with ...

Troon

Greenskeeper

Ridgefield, WA · On-site

$17.13/hr

Course setup, moving and setting tee balls, picking up garbage, and changing pins. * Mows greens ... Must possess a valid driver's license * Ability to operate trucks and light motorized equipment.

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All JobsGarbage Driver JobsGarbage Driver Jobs in Portland, OR

Garbage Driver information

See Portland, OR salary details

$12

$20

$30

How much do garbage driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage driver in Portland, OR is $20.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.47 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 Portland, OR? For Garbage Driver jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Driver jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Driver jobs in Portland, OR are:
Garbage Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Driver job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,908 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Maintenance Worker (Yard)

KERR CONTRACTORS OREGON LLC

Woodburn, OR • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 hours ago

Job description

About Kerr Contractors:Established in 1988, Kerr Contractors is a leading heavy civil general contractor and construction management firm headquartered in Woodburn, Oregon. Kerr Contractors is recognized as one of the most technically advanced earth-moving, road building, and underground utility contractors in the region. Our business is founded on trusting relationships, excellent service, workmanship that has enduring character, and meeting or exceeding customer expectations every time. We have staked our reputation on our ability to deliver each of these.

What You'll Do:

We're seeking a self-motivated individual to maintain our company yard. This autonomous role involves managing and maintaining the yard's overall appearance, organization, and functionality. The position offers independence and responsibility as a single-person operation.

  • Maintain yard cleanliness and organization
  • Perform regular landscaping duties including mowing and weed control
  • Conduct garbage removal and general cleanup
  • Prepare and organize parts and equipment for jobsite delivery
  • Operate forklift for material handling (training provided)
  • Maintain systematic organization of yard inventory
  • Perform preventative maintenance and minor repairs

What You'll Need:

  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
  • Experience with landscaping equipment
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to work independently
  • Commitment to safety protocols
  • Physical ability to perform required duties
  • Strong work ethic and attention to detail

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Hourly rate: $22.00
  • Overtime pay available
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance (after waiting period)
  • 401(k) with company matching
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Oregon Sick Leave (OSL)
  • Life insurance
  • Training opportunities
  • Career advancement potential
  • Schedule and Location, Monday through Friday, Hours: 6:00 AM - 4:30 PM Location: 395 Shenandoah Lane NE, Woodburn, OR 97071
  • Full-time, 40 hours per week
  • 100% on-site position
  • Training and Development
  • Preferred Forklift Experience - Forklift operation training provided
  • Opportunity for skill development
  • Growth potential within the company

Equal Opportunity Statement: As an equal opportunity employer Kerr Contractors will hire without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or disability. Kerr Contractors also enforces a zero-tolerance drug policy.

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process, don't hesitate to get in touch with Human Resources at employment@kerrcontractors.com

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