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Garbage Helper Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections of Canada

Driver Helper

Virginia, IL

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

The Helper position is responsible for helping the driver of a garbage truck on specified routes to manually collect solid waste and transport it to appropriate disposal sites. Typical job duties ...

Waste Connections Inc

Driver Helper

Virginia, IL

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

The Helper position is responsible for helping the driver of a garbage truck on specified routes to manually collect solid waste and transport it to appropriate disposal sites. Typical job duties ...

Multi-Color Corporation

Floor Helper - 3rd Shift

Niles, IL · On-site

$21.24 - $22.93/hr

We are currently looking for a Floor Helper, 3rd Shift to join our team! Why work at MCC ... Ensure all assets have correct stock at machine, dump garbage, wrap cardboard, Must be able to use ...

ABM Industries

Overnight Helper C

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22/hr

On days that help is needed, it is your responsibility to let the Head Janitor know that assistance ... Maintain the equipment for garbage removal. * Assist with snow and ice removal. * Maintain and ...

HHDC

Helper A (Union) - Logan Square

Chicago, IL

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

SUMMARY The Helper A Janitor is a union represented position responsible for keeping exteriors ... Replaces broken glass, tile, carpet, screens, garbage disposals, fixtures, appliances, draperies ...

HHDC

Helper A (Union) - Logan Square

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

SUMMARY The Helper A Janitor is a union represented position responsible for keeping exteriors ... Replaces broken glass, tile, carpet, screens, garbage disposals, fixtures, appliances, draperies ...

HHDC

Helper A (Union) - Logan Square

Chicago, IL

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

SUMMARY The Helper A Janitor is a union represented position responsible for keeping exteriors ... Replaces broken glass, tile, carpet, screens, garbage disposals, fixtures, appliances, draperies ...

Waste Connections

Swing CDL Driver

Rochelle, IL · On-site

$29 - $31/hr

... garbage experience preferred. What you'll get from us: * Competitive Compensation - $29.00 to $31.00 per hour, depending on experience. * 401(K) with company match; let us help you save for your ...

Waste Connections

CDL Driver

Freeport, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Safely operating a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. * Reading route sheets ... Competitive Compensation * 401(K) with company match; let us help you save for your future * Heal ...

Waste Connections

CDL Driver

Freeport, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Safely operating a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. * Reading route sheets ... Competitive Compensation * 401(K) with company match; let us help you save for your future * Heal ...

Waste Connections

Sorter

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Help maintain equipment such as baler and conveyor line. * Other duties as assigned * Other manual ... Garbage is very stable, and we work year-round. Job Requirements: * Ability to lift 50lbs ...

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All JobsGarbage Helper JobsGarbage Helper Jobs in Illinois

Garbage Helper information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$17

$22

How much do garbage helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage helper in Illinois is $17.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Garbage Helper, you need physical stamina, basic knowledge of waste collection procedures, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with garbage trucks, hydraulic lifts, and safety equipment is typically required on the job. Dependability, teamwork, and attention to safety are crucial soft skills that help ensure efficient operations. These skills and qualities are important to maintain public health, prevent workplace accidents, and support reliable waste management services.

What are some common challenges faced by a Garbage Helper and how can they be managed?

Garbage Helpers often face challenges such as exposure to unpleasant odors, inclement weather, and physically demanding tasks like lifting heavy bins. To manage these, it's important to use proper protective gear such as gloves and masks, follow safety protocols to avoid injuries, and maintain good communication with the driver and crew to ensure efficient workflow. Over time, many find that teamwork and adapting to a routine help make the role more manageable and rewarding.

What is the difference between Garbage Helper vs Waste Collector?

AspectGarbage HelperWaste Collector
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, valid driver’s license, sometimes CDL
Work EnvironmentResidential and commercial areas, often assisting with waste collectionOutdoor routes, operating trucks, collecting waste from designated areas
Employer & Industry UsageWaste management companies, sanitation servicesMunicipal waste departments, private waste collection firms
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles assisting waste collectionPrimary role in waste collection services

Garbage Helpers assist Waste Collectors by handling waste, sorting, and supporting collection routes. While both roles work in waste management, Waste Collectors are responsible for operating trucks and collecting waste directly from customers, whereas Garbage Helpers typically perform supportive tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position in the waste management industry.

What does a Garbage Helper do?

A Garbage Helper, also known as a sanitation worker or refuse collector, assists in collecting and disposing of residential and commercial waste. They typically ride on garbage trucks, lift and empty trash bins into the truck, and ensure that waste is properly loaded for transportation to disposal or recycling facilities. The job requires physical stamina, attention to safety, and the ability to work in various weather conditions. Garbage Helpers play an essential role in keeping communities clean and reducing health hazards associated with improper waste disposal.
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Garbage Helper jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Garbage Helper job openings:
Garbage Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Helper job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,364 per year, or $17 per hour.

Driver Helper

Waste Connections of Canada

Virginia, IL

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

American Disposal is looking for a safety conscious Driver Helper to join the team at our Manassas, VA location.

The Helper position is responsible for helping the driver of a garbage truck on specified routes to manually collect solid waste and transport it to appropriate disposal sites.

Typical job duties include (but are not limited to):

  • Ride on garbage truck to assist the Driver service customers - will load refuse bags and bring containers to the truck for proper disposal.

  • Directing the truck driver when backing

  • Assisting with vehicle maintenance

  • Operate packing mechanisms and levers to activate the loading arm

  • Clean the packer blade and truck body

  • Deliver positive customer service interactions

  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

  • This is a very physical job working outside in all weather conditions.

  • Monday-Friday day shift with occasional Saturdays.

What We Offer:

  • Good pay, family benefits, 401k, vacation and a great management team.

  • Garbage is very stable and we work year round.

Job Requirements:

  • Ability to lift 50lbs repeatedly throughout the day.

  • Ability to work outside in all weather conditions.

Apply today and Connect with Your Future!

We offer excellent benefits including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement.

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

Apply