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Garbage Helper Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Thrive Restaurant Group

Dishwasher

Ottumwa, IA

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Whether we're helping save a high school prom, or raising money for children battling cancer, we've ... Completes all assigned prep work (10%*). * Removes trash and garbage to dumpster area (10%*). * ...

Thrive Restaurant Group

Dishwasher

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Whether we're helping save a high school prom, or raising money for children battling cancer, we've ... Completes all assigned prep work (10%*). * Removes trash and garbage to dumpster area (10%*). * ...

Thrive Restaurant Group

Dishwasher

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Whether we're helping save a high school prom, or raising money for children battling cancer, we've ... Completes all assigned prep work (10%*). * Removes trash and garbage to dumpster area (10%*). * ...

Applebee's

Dishwasher

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Whether we're helping save a high school prom, or raising money for children battling cancer, we've ... Completes all assigned prep work (10%*). * Removes trash and garbage to dumpster area (10%*). * ...

Applebee's

Dishwasher

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Whether we're helping save a high school prom, or raising money for children battling cancer, we've ... Completes all assigned prep work (10%*). * Removes trash and garbage to dumpster area (10%*). * ...

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All JobsGarbage Helper JobsGarbage Helper Jobs in Iowa

Garbage Helper information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$16

$21

How much do garbage helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage helper in Iowa is $16.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.51 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 are the most commonly searched types of Garbage jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Garbage jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Garbage Helper jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Garbage Helper job openings:
Garbage Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Helper job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $34,278 per year, or $16.5 per hour.
Local Garbage Truck Driver

Local Garbage Truck Driver

Waste Connections

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 264 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 88 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Waste Connections of Iowa, is looking for a safety conscience Local Garbage Truck Driver to join our GROWING team in Des Moines, Iowa.
We are looking to grow employees with us and will help provide the truck and training to help grow your career as a CDL driver - We also pay for your CDL!
Pay range: $26 - $28 per hour
Schedule: Monday - Friday 5:00am - Route complete
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Job Requirements:
- Valid driver's license
- Clean driving record
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
- Excellent communication skills
Roles:
- Safely operate a company vehicle on designated routes
- Pick up and transport waste and recycling materials
- Maintain accurate records of pick-ups and deliveries
- Communicate effectively with customers and dispatch
Responsibilities:
- Follow all safety regulations and company policies
- Complete daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections
- Provide excellent customer service
- Report any issues or concerns to management
Benefits:
- Competitive salary
- Health insurance options
- Retirement savings plan - 5% 401k match
- Paid time off
- Opportunities for advancement within the company
Why you need to join us!
  • CULTURE: It's a Great place to work! We work in an environment where empowered, self-directed All-stars know what they do is important.
  • INTEGRITY: Our definition is "saying what you will do and then doing it!" We keep our promises to our customers and our employees.

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

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