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Garbage Helper Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections of Canada

Driver Helper

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

WasteConnections has an immediate opening for aDriver Helper/ Driver in Trainingto join our team ... OurDriverHelper will work directly with the Truck Driver to ensure safe and proper garbage removal ...

Waste Connections Inc

Driver Helper

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Our Driver Helper will work directly with the Truck Driver to ensure safe and proper garbage removal on the assigned route. We seek individuals with a leadership mentality and desire to grow with ...

Waste Connections Inc

Driver Helper

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

WasteConnections has an immediate opening for aDriver Helper/ Driver in Trainingto join our team ... OurDriverHelper will work directly with the Truck Driver to ensure safe and proper garbage removal ...

Waste Connections of Canada

Driver Helper

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Our Driver Helper will work directly with the Truck Driver to ensure safe and proper garbage removal on the assigned route. We seek individuals with a leadership mentality and desire to grow with ...

Waste Connections

Driver Helper

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Waste Connections has an immediate opening for a Driver Helper/ Driver in Training to join our team ... Our Driver Helperwill work directly with the Truck Driver to ensure safe and proper garbage removal ...

Home Town Disposal

Helper - Memphis

Memphis, TN · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Helper Location: Memphis, Tennessee (onsite) About Greenmark Waste Solutions Based in the Dallas ... Ride on a garbage truck to assist Drivers servicing customers - bringing refuse bags, carts, and ...

Greenmark Waste Solutions

Helper - Memphis

Memphis, TN

$14 - $17.75/hr

Helper Location: Memphis, Tennessee (onsite) About Greenmark Waste Solutions Based in the Dallas ... Ride on a garbage truck to assist Drivers servicing customers - bringing refuse bags, carts, and ...

Waste Connections Inc

$11.50 - $14/hr

Waste Connections is looking for a safety conscience Driver Helper to join our growing team in ... Ability to safely operate on and around a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste.

Waste Connections of Canada

$11.50 - $14/hr

Waste Connections is looking for a safety conscience Driver Helper to join our growing team in ... Ability to safely operate on and around a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste.

Greenmark Waste Solutions

Helper - Memphis

Memphis, TN · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

Helper Location: Memphis, Tennessee (onsite) About Greenmark Waste Solutions Based in the Dallas ... Ride on a garbage truck to assist Drivers servicing customers - bringing refuse bags, carts, and ...

NWI Aerostructures

Machine Shop Utility

Nashville, TN

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Work Performed Performs such typical work as helping load and unload stock parts, to and from ... Parts, assemblies, materials, tooling, scrap and rubbish. Materials Worked With: Cleaning compounds ...

Career Strategies - Nashville

Be Seen First

Apartment Maintenance Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Appliances - help with installation of W&D, stoves (when applicable), installing garbage disposals, small repairs * Technicians should be courteous to residents and provide realistic expectations for ...

Waste Pro

Class A CDL Driver

Clarksville, TN · On-site

The Waste Pro Residential Driver operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage, yard waste, or recycling. Oversees work of helpers assisting on assigned ...

Career Strategies - Nashville

Be Seen First

Apartment Maintenance Technician - EPA Certified

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Appliances - help with installation of W&D, stoves (when applicable), installing garbage disposals, small repairs * Technicians should be courteous to residents and provide realistic expectations for ...

Waste Connections Inc

Roll Off CDL Driver

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/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 ...

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All JobsGarbage Helper JobsGarbage Helper Jobs in Tennessee

Garbage Helper information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do garbage helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage helper in Tennessee is $15.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $17.88 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 Tennessee are hiring for Garbage Helper jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Garbage Helper job openings:

Garbage Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Helper job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,123 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Driver Helper

Waste Connections of Canada

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

WasteConnections has an immediate opening for aDriver Helper/ Driver in Trainingto join our team inKnoxille, TN.

OurDriverHelperwill work directly with the Truck Driver to ensure safe and proper garbage removal on the assigned route. We seek individuals with a leadership mentality and desire to grow with promotional opportunities in this role.

WasteConnections offers:

  • Competitive Compensation.

  • Safety Bonuses - Get rewarded for your safe habits.

  • Yearly Boot Stipend and Company Uniforms provided.

  • Benefits Plans - Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Account options.

  • Generous matching 401(K).

Pay rate: $20.00/hr

Schedule:6:30am start time averaging approximately 9-11 hours/day.

Monday-Friday with occasional Saturdays.

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

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Collect solid waste materials from customer locations and load into the waste collection truck.

  • Assist driver in safe operation of the vehicle by directing the driver in backing, traffic control, and tight space maneuvering.

  • Operate equipment on the garbage truck to compact trash.

  • Audit the garbage truck for proper equipment prior to leaving for route.

Requirements:

  • Willing to obtain Class A or B CDL for future growth opportunities!

  • Ability to work in all weather conditions.

  • Ability to lift at least 50lbs repeatedly.

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

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