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Garbage Driver Jobs in Round Lake, IL (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections Inc

CDL Driver

Elgin, IL · On-site

$30.26/hr

... Driver to join the team at our location in Elgin IL. POSITION SUMMARY ... In this position you will be operating a garbage truck on a specified route. * This is a position ...

Waste Connections of Canada

CDL Driver

Elgin, IL · On-site

$30.26/hr

... Driver to join the team at our location in Elgin IL. POSITION SUMMARY ... In this position you will be operating a garbage truck on a specified route. * This is a position ...

Waukegan Park District

Recreation Driver SEA

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$15 - $20.70/hr

Care for assigned vehicle including gas, garbage and basic operation. * Load, unload and transport program participants and supplies via park district vehicles. * Abide by Park Districts Drivers ...

WAUKEGAN PARK DISTRICT

Recreation Driver SEA

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$15 - $20.70/hr

Care for assigned vehicle including gas, garbage and basic operation. * Load, unload and transport program participants and supplies via park district vehicles. * Abide by Park Districts Drivers ...

The Salvation Army

Custodian/Driver

Elgin, IL

$15.75 - $20/hr

Empty all garbage containers from the offices, kitchen, and the bathrooms. All garbage must be ... Valid Driver's license and good driving record. * Clearance of TSA MVR check. JOB LIMITATIONS

SMS Staffing

Licensed Plumber

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$80K - $140K/yr

Troubleshoot and replace sump pumps, battery backups, ejector pumps, garbage disposals, and ... Clean driving record and valid driver's license. * Tech-savvy: Comfortable using dispatching ...

SMS Staffing

Licensed Plumber

Gurnee, IL · On-site

Troubleshoot and replace sump pumps, battery backups, ejector pumps, garbage disposals, and ... Clean driving record and valid driver's license. * Tech-savvy: Comfortable using dispatching ...

Metalex LLC

Stand Up Forklift Operator

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$20.95 - $23.40/hr

Adhere to basic housekeeping of work area; i.e., wood, scrap metal, garbage, liquid spills. I ... C. Certified Forklift Driver (Sit down & Stand up). D. Knowledge of shipping procedures. E.

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All JobsGarbage Driver JobsGarbage Driver Jobs in Round Lake, IL

Garbage Driver information

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How much do garbage driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage driver in Round Lake, IL is $18.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $22.12 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 job categories do people searching Garbage Driver jobs in Round Lake, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Garbage Driver jobs in Round Lake, IL are:

Garbage Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Driver job openings in Round Lake, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,804 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

CDL Driver

Elgin, IL • On-site

Waste Connections Inc
See more jobs at Waste Connections Incexternal

$30.26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 267 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Groot, a subsidiary of Waste Connectionsis looking for individuals who have a passion for driving , career growth and share our #1 value:SAFETY!

We are looking for a full-time CDL Driver to join the team at our location in Elgin IL.

POSITION SUMMARY:

  • In this position you will be operating a garbage truck on a specified route.

  • This is a position requiring regular heavy lifting and climbing in and out of the truck.

  • This position will be responsible for safely, efficiently, and courteously serving customers.

  • This is a full time, seasonal position. A typical schedule for this position is Monday - Friday with occasional Saturdays as needed, approximately 45-55 hour work week.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

  • Valid Class A or B CDL w/ air brake endorsement

  • Clean driving record

  • Have 1 year of work experience as well as a stable work history, preferably in a driver position.

  • Able to lift 50+ pounds.

  • Able and willing to work outside in all weather conditions.

WHAT WE OFFER:

  • Competitive pay & benefits. ($30.26/hr) Union position - season runs 9 months out of the year from April to December approximately.

  • Garbage is very stable and we work year round!

Apply today and 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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