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Garbage Helper Jobs in Athens, TN (NOW HIRING)

Clean Team

Commerical Cleaner

Sweetwater, TN · On-site

$11.25 - $13.25/hr

... facilitiesRemove garbage and recycling according to facility guidelinesFollow daily cleaning ... helpful, but not requiredWhat We OfferFull-time stable employmentSupportive work ...

Clean Team

Commerical Cleaner

Sweetwater, TN · On-site

$11.25 - $13.25/hr

Remove garbage and recycling according to facility guidelines * Follow daily cleaning schedules and ... Previous commercial cleaning experience is helpful, but not required What We Offer * Full-time ...

Clean Team

Commerical Cleaner

Sweetwater, TN · On-site

$11.25 - $13.25/hr

Remove garbage and recycling according to facility guidelines * Follow daily cleaning schedules and ... Previous commercial cleaning experience is helpful, but not required What We Offer * Full-time ...

McMinn County School District

Substitute Cook

Athens, TN · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

... garbage collection containers and areas neat and sanitary. 6. Correct unsafe conditions in work ... Help record food requisitions and order necessary supplies. 10. Maintain daily food preparation ...

McMinn County School District

Substitute Cook

Athens, TN · On-site

$12.50 - $15.25/hr

... garbage collection containers and areas neat and sanitary. 6. Correct unsafe conditions in work ... Help record food requisitions and order necessary supplies. 10. Maintain daily food preparation ...

Compass Group

JANITOR (PART TIME)

Cleveland, TN

$16/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: SSC Services for Education is a ... and removing rubbish. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Collects and disposes of trash ...

Compass Group

JANITOR (PART TIME)

Cleveland, TN

$16/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: SSC Services for Education is a ... and removing rubbish. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Collects and disposes of trash ...

Compass Group

JANITOR

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$16/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: SSC Services for Education is a ... and removing rubbish. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Collects and disposes of trash ...

Compass Group

JANITOR

Kingston, TN · On-site

$12/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: SSC Services for Education is a ... and removing rubbish. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Collects and disposes of trash ...

Compass Group

JANITOR

Ten Mile, TN · On-site

$12/hr

Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: SSC Services for Education is a ... and removing rubbish. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Collects and disposes of trash ...

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All JobsGarbage Helper JobsGarbage Helper Jobs in Athens, TN

Garbage Helper information

See Athens, TN salary details

$7

$14

$19

How much do garbage helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage helper in Athens, TN is $14.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.69 and $16.49 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 near Athens, TN are hiring for Garbage Helper jobs?

Cities near Athens, TN with the most Garbage Helper job openings:

Garbage Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Helper job openings in Athens, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,572 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Commerical Cleaner

Clean Team

Sweetwater, TN • On-site

$11.25 - $13.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Commercial Janitorial CleanerLocation: Sweetwater, TN 37874Schedule: Full-Time | Mid ShiftJob OverviewDuncan & Sons', a Clean Team company, is currently hiring dependable and detail-oriented Commercial Janitorial Cleaners in the Sweetwater, TN area. This position plays an important role in maintaining clean, safe, and professional environments for our commercial clients.As a Commercial Janitorial Cleaner, you will be responsible for performing routine cleaning and sanitation tasks in a variety of commercial facilities. We are looking for team members who take pride in their work, maintain a positive attitude, and understand the importance of reliability and consistency.This is a great opportunity for individuals seeking stable, long-term employment with a respected company that values hard work, professionalism, and teamwork.ResponsibilitiesPerform general cleaning duties including dusting, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and trash removalClean, sanitize, and restock restroom facilitiesRemove garbage and recycling according to facility guidelinesFollow daily cleaning schedules and complete assigned tasks efficientlyRespond to spills and unexpected cleaning situations promptlyMaintain cleanliness standards set by both the company and clientFollow all safety and security procedures within client facilitiesCommunicate professionally with supervisors, coworkers, and clientsMaintain a professional appearance and positive attitude at all timesWork independently while staying productive and detail-focusedQualificationsMust be at least 18 years of ageStrong attention to detail and reliabilityAbility to work independently and as part of a teamGood communication and time management skillsAbility to complete physical cleaning tasks throughout the shiftPrevious commercial cleaning experience is helpful, but not requiredWhat We OfferFull-time stable employmentSupportive work environmentOpportunities for advancementConsistent schedulingA company culture focused on teamwork and quality serviceAbout Duncan & Sons / Clean TeamDuncan & Sons / Clean Team Careers has been a trusted leader in commercial cleaning services throughout East Tennessee for more than 35 years. We proudly provide professional cleaning services for office buildings, healthcare facilities, churches, industrial locations, and other commercial properties.Our team is committed to delivering dependable, high-quality cleaning solutions tailored to each client's needs. We focus on creating clean, healthy, and welcoming environments while building strong relationships with both our customers and employees.Thanks to our commitment to excellence, Duncan & Sons / Clean Team has earned Knoxville's Best of the Best recognition for seven consecutive years, voted on by both clients and employees. We believe our success comes from hiring hardworking people who care about the quality of their work and take pride in helping others every day.If you are looking to join a respected company with a strong reputation, supportive culture, and opportunities for growth, we encourage you to apply today.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro