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Garbage Helper Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

DIVERSE FACILITY SOLUTIONS INC

OPC - Custodian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.65/hr

... helped us become one of the nation's premiere Minority Janitorial Contractors. The Custodian is ... Collect trash and replace garbage liners, clean garbage receptacles as required * Ability to work ...

DIVERSE FACILITY SOLUTIONS INC

OPC - Custodian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.65/hr

... helped us become one of the nation's premiere Minority Janitorial Contractors. The Custodian is ... Collect trash and replace garbage liners, clean garbage receptacles as required * Ability to work ...

DIVERSE FACILITY SOLUTIONS INC

MMF - Custodian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... helped us become one of the nation's premiere Minority Janitorial Contractors. The Custodian is ... Collect trash and replace garbage liners, clean garbage receptacles as required * Ability to work ...

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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 Aug 23, 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 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 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.

How to become a garbage helper?

To become a garbage helper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and physical stamina for lifting and working outdoors. Job requirements often include a valid driver's license and the ability to operate waste collection equipment; some positions may require background checks or safety training. On-the-job training is common, and the work usually involves early morning or evening shifts in a team environment.

What qualifications do you need to be a garbage helper?

To be a garbage helper, no formal education is typically required, but physical strength and stamina are important for lifting and moving heavy waste. Basic knowledge of safety procedures and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are also essential; some employers may require a valid driver's license if operating or assisting with waste collection vehicles.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,364 per year, or $17 per hour.

Dietary Aide

Mercer Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation

Aledo, IL • On-site

$15 - $16.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Mercer Manor Rehabilitation is seeking a Dietary Aide for full-time or part-time employment.

Pay: $15.00-$16.20 per hour

This is a great opportunity for a dependable team member who enjoys working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and helping provide quality meals and service to our residents.

Responsibilities

  • Set up dining areas and tables, maintaining cleanliness and order

  • Prepare and serve meals under supervision

  • Deliver meals, dishes, and trays to designated areas

  • Wash dishes, cookware, utensils, and silverware

  • Clean food preparation and service areas

  • Stock ingredients and supplies and assist with inventory

  • Take out garbage and properly dispose of leftovers

  • Assist with maintaining kitchen equipment and appliances

Qualifications

  • Customer service experience preferred

  • Friendly, dependable, and able to communicate effectively

  • Previous Dietary Aide or food service experience is a plus, but not required

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred

Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off.

Apply