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Garbage Helper Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Reasonable accommodations may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to ... of garbage and debris in all departments, assist paint in weekly cleanup Pick up trash in parking ...

Custodian

Lawrence, MA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Reasonable accommodations may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to ... of garbage and debris in all departments, assist paint in weekly cleanup Pick up trash in parking ...

Housekeeper

Weston, MA · On-site

$17/hr

Empty trash, garbage, and recycling bins using safety procedures. * Clean campus property including ... Must act responsibly and follow all policies and procedures; be punctual, honest, and helpful.

Housekeeper

Weston, MA · On-site

$17/hr

Empty trash, garbage, and recycling bins using safety procedures. * Clean campus property including ... Must act responsibly and follow all policies and procedures; be punctual, honest, and helpful.

Dishwasher

Rockport, MA · On-site

$15.50 - $17/hr

Ultimately, you'll help provide an unforgettable dining experience for our customers ... Remove garbage regularly Sanitize the kitchen area, including the floor Requirements Work ...

STEWARD (FULL TIME)

Boston, MA · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: Diversity of thought and inclusion for ... Steam cleans or hoses out garbage cans in appropriate and assigned areas. * Washes dishes, pots ...

STEWARD (FULL TIME)

Boston, MA

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: Diversity of thought and inclusion for ... Steam cleans or hoses out garbage cans in appropriate and assigned areas. * Washes dishes, pots ...

STEWARD

Boston, MA · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: Diversity of thought and inclusion for ... Steam cleans or hoses out garbage cans in appropriate and assigned areas. * Washes dishes, pots ...

STEWARD (FULL TIME)

Boston, MA

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: Diversity of thought and inclusion for ... Steam cleans or hoses out garbage cans in appropriate and assigned areas. * Washes dishes, pots ...

STEWARD (FULL TIME)

Boston, MA · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: Diversity of thought and inclusion for ... Steam cleans or hoses out garbage cans in appropriate and assigned areas. * Washes dishes, pots ...

STEWARD (FULL TIME)

Boston, MA · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: Diversity of thought and inclusion for ... Steam cleans or hoses out garbage cans in appropriate and assigned areas. * Washes dishes, pots ...

STEWARD (FULL TIME)

Boston, MA · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: Diversity of thought and inclusion for ... Steam cleans or hoses out garbage cans in appropriate and assigned areas. * Washes dishes, pots ...

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Showing results 1-20

Garbage Helper information

See Massachusetts salary details

$10

$19

$25

How much do garbage helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage helper in Massachusetts is $19.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $21.54 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 Massachusetts? The most popular types of Garbage jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Garbage Helper jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Garbage Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Garbage Helper job openings in Massachusetts 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% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,856 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Carman Helper - 90379531 - Springfield

Carman Helper - 90379531 - Springfield

Amtrak

Springfield, MA • On-site

$26.25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Amtrak rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 96 rated public transport


Job description

Your success is a train ride away!
As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.
Are you ready to join our team?
Our values of 'Do the Right Thing, Excel Together and Put Customers First' are at the heart of what matters most to us, and our Core Capabilities, 'Building Trust, Accountability, Effective Communication, Customer Focus, and Proactive Safety & Security' are what every employee needs to know and do to be most impactful at Amtrak. By living the Amtrak values, focusing on our capabilities, and actively embracing and fostering diverse ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives, together we will honor our past and make Amtrak a company of the future.
Job Summary
Responsible for performing cleaning to the exterior/interior of rolling stock equipment, e.g. toilet shrouds, trash cans, etc. Properly dispose of garbage, drive snowplow (geographic specific), drive toilet service truck, service toilets, yard cleanup, and performing all other duties as assigned.
Essential Functions
  • Perform exterior/interior cleaning of rolling stock equipment, toilet shrouds, trash cans, etc.
  • Use a forklift
  • Use a waste disposal system (truck, portable cart, manual, etc.)
  • Perform car watering
  • Perform Carpet shampooing
  • Performing all other duties as assigned
  • May assist other craft personnel in the performance of their duties

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Must successfully complete training and or attain/retain certifications applicable to assigned job
  • Fork Truck qualified
  • Valid government issued driver's license
  • Must be able to lift items weighing up to 50lbs

Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge and skill in the use of power washer, garden sprayer, other cleaning equipment that may be required per the appropriate JSA/job procedure.
  • Some computer skills
  • Ability to read, write and communicate proficiently

Communications and Interpersonal Skills
  • Must have excellent written and oral communication skills.

Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions
  • Required to wear safety apparel and equipment as required per the Employee Safety Rule book.
  • Shop, field, train or yard locations with moderate to high noise level, lighting of various degrees, floors of carpet/metal and various heat/cold conditions and inclement weather
  • Will frequently be required to bend, stoop, stand and climb in performing daily tasks and activities
  • Must have visual acuity and hearing capability to perform the essential functions of the job unless other vision or hearing standards are required by law.
  • Must be able to work safely around loose materials, uneven surfaces and metal plates and equipment.
  • Must be able to lift, carry, push or pull loads in accordance with all applicable safety rules

The hourly range is $26.25 - $35.00 (with opportunity for increases, as per the applicable collective bargaining agreement, after beginning employment).
Health and WellbeingFinancial and RetirementWork and Family Life SupportHealth, Dental, and Vision Insurance401K Rail Pass PrivilegesWellness ProgramsRailroad Retirement BenefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramMedical Plan Opt-out CreditLife InsuranceCommuter and Flexible Spending AccountsNo-cost Personal Health AdvocateNo-cost Financial Advisor SessionFertility and Family Building Benefits
Some benefits are subject to the collective bargaining agreement. Learn more about our benefits offerings here.
Requisition ID:166496
Posting Location(s):Massachusetts
Relocation Offered:No
Travel Requirements:Up to 25%
You power our progress through your performance.
We want your work at Amtrak to be more than a job. We want your career at Amtrak to be a fulfilling experience where you find challenging work, rewarding opportunities, respect among colleagues, and attractive compensation. Amtrak maintains a culture that values high performance and recognizes individual employee contributions.
Amtrak is committed to a safe workplace free of drugs and alcohol. All Amtrak positions requires a pre-employment background check that includes prior employment verification, a criminal history check and a pre-employment drug screen.
Candidates who test positive for marijuana will be disqualified, regardless of any state or local statute, ordinance, regulation, or other law that legalizes or decriminalizes the use or possession of marijuana, whether for medical, recreational, or other use. Amtrak's pre-employment drug testing program is administered in accordance with DOT regulations and applicable law.
In accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR § 40.25), Amtrak is required to obtain prior drug and alcohol testing records for applicants/employees intending to perform safety-sensitive duties for covered Department of Transportation positions. If an applicant/employee refuses to provide written consent for Amtrak to obtain these records, the individual will not be permitted to perform safety-sensitive functions.
In accordance with federal law governing security checks of covered individuals for providers of public transportation (Title 6 U.S.C. §1143), Amtrak is required to screen applicants for any permanent or interim disqualifying criminal offenses.
Note that any education requirement listed above may be deemed satisfied if you have an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
Amtrak is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/color, to include traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and hairstyles such as braids, locks and twists, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions, such as lactation), national origin/ethnicity, disability (intellectual, mental and physical), veteran status, marital status, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, genetic information, citizenship or any other personal characteristics protected by law.

What Amtrak employees say

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About Amtrak

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As we move America's workforce toward the future, Amtrak connects businesses and communities across the country. We employ more than 20,000 diverse, energetic professionals in a variety of career fields throughout the United States. The safety of our passengers, our employees, the public and our operating environment is our priority, and the success of our railroad is due to our employees.

Industry

Travel arrangement services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1971