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Garbage Helper Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

DIVERSE FACILITY SOLUTIONS INC

MP - 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 ...

Waste Connections Inc

CDL Driver

Virginia, IL · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. Waste ... Ability to perform a physically demanding job, loading and unloading, at times with no helpers.

Waste Connections of Canada

CDL Driver

Virginia, IL · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. Waste ... Ability to perform a physically demanding job, loading and unloading, at times with no helpers.

Waste Connections of Canada

CDL Driver

Virginia, IL · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. Waste ... Ability to perform a physically demanding job, loading and unloading, at times with no helpers.

Waste Connections

CDL Driver - $5,000 BONUS

Galena, IL · On-site

$28/hr

Safely operating a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. * Reading route sheets ... us help you save for your future * Healthcare; Medical, Dental, Vision * Perks, perks, perks!

Waste Connections Inc

CDL Driver

Virginia, IL · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. Waste ... Ability to perform a physically demanding job, loading and unloading, at times with no helpers.

Belcan

Production Worker

Peru, IL

$16/hr

... of garbage and production waste according to the organization's waste removal and recycling ... Our overriding goal is to provide quality staffing solutions that help people, organizations, and ...

Belcan

Production Operator I

Peru, IL

$16/hr

... of garbage and production waste according to the organization's waste removal and recycling ... Our overriding goal is to provide quality staffing solutions that help people, organizations, and ...

Chick-fil-A

Dishwasher

Springfield, IL

$17/hr

Helping other team members to unload and store deliveries * Assist other staff members with tasks ... Rinsing garbage cans Dishwasher Job Requirements: * Must have minimal work experience as a ...

Belcan

Production Operator I

Peru, IL · On-site

$16/hr

... of garbage and production waste according to the organization's waste removal and recycling ... Our overriding goal is to provide quality staffing solutions that help people, organizations, and ...

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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.

ORD T5 - Temp Custodian

DIVERSE FACILITY SOLUTIONS INC

Chicago, IL

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Position:  Custodian 

Diverse Facility Solutions, Inc. is a 100% minority owned, Chicago corporation with an emphasis on janitorial and facility maintenance services. We create teams of trustworthy, customer focused and diverse people that care about the facility they work in. The quality of the services we provide and our commitment to unsurpassed customer service has helped us become one of the nation’s premiere Minority Janitorial Contractors. 

Job Description:  

The Custodian is responsible for performing custodial duties, minor maintenance and other miscellaneous duties in order to ensure that building and facilities are maintained in a healthy, safe and sanitary manner. Knowledge or willingness to learn proper cleaning techniques is essential. 

Duties/Responsibilities: 

  • Collect trash and replace garbage liners, clean garbage receptacles as required 

  • Ability to work between multiple locations 

  • Dust and cleaning of all furniture, fixtures, and horizontal surfaces as required 

  • Vacuum all carpeted areas, mop tile and concrete floor areas as required 

  • Wash, disinfect, and restock all restroom floors, toilets, toilet seats, paper and soap dispensers as required 

  • Empty trash in all washrooms, clean mirrors, walls and toilet partitions 

  • Cleaning window sills and windows 

  • Perform and/or report minor maintenance repairs and any damages 

  • Maintain janitor closets in a clean, organized and safe manner 

  • Maintain janitorial equipment in a clean, safe and operable condition  

  • Proper labeling, dilution and use of all chemicals 

  • Wear proper Personal Protective Equipment at all times 

  • Perform other duties as assigned 

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Qualifications:  

  • The custodian reports to the Lead Custodian and the Custodial Supervisor and cares for the Main building/facilities and equipment. Maintaining these responsibilities will help to ensure the health, safety and security of the public. 

  • Strong follow-through on delegated tasks and assignments 

  • Ability to operate and use tools/equipment 

  • Ability to follow oral and/or written instructions 

  • Maintain a positive attitude 

  • Good client/customer service skills 

  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks 

  • Ability to work effectively independently or with a team 

  • Basic knowledge of general housekeeping methods and practices, cleaning products and use 

Physical Demands:  The Custodian position is a physically demanding position. The work requires routine walking, standing, bending, lifting heavy objects.  

Management has the exclusive tight to alter the scope of work within the framework of the job description at any time without prior notice. 

AAP/EEO Statement 

Diverse Facility Solutions, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Diverse Facility Solutions complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. 

Diverse Facility Solutions, Inc. expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Diverse Facility Solution’s employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge. 

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