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Garbage Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Multi-Color Corporation

Floor Helper - 3rd Shift

Niles, IL · On-site

$21.24 - $22.93/hr

We are currently looking for a Floor Helper, 3rd Shift to join our team! Why work at MCC ... Ensure all assets have correct stock at machine, dump garbage, wrap cardboard, Must be able to use ...

HHDC

Helper A (Union) - Logan Square

Chicago, IL

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

SUMMARY The Helper A Janitor is a union represented position responsible for keeping exteriors ... Replaces broken glass, tile, carpet, screens, garbage disposals, fixtures, appliances, draperies ...

HHDC

Helper A (Union) - Logan Square

Chicago, IL

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

SUMMARY The Helper A Janitor is a union represented position responsible for keeping exteriors ... Replaces broken glass, tile, carpet, screens, garbage disposals, fixtures, appliances, draperies ...

HHDC

Helper A (Union) - Logan Square

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

SUMMARY The Helper A Janitor is a union represented position responsible for keeping exteriors ... Replaces broken glass, tile, carpet, screens, garbage disposals, fixtures, appliances, draperies ...

DIVERSE FACILITY SOLUTIONS INC

OPC - 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 ...

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Garbage Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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$18

$23

How much do garbage helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage helper in Chicago, IL is $18.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $20.29 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.

How to become a garbage helper?

To become a garbage helper, you typically need to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, and be able to perform physical tasks such as lifting and standing for long periods. Some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training. Physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are important for this role.

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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Garbage Helper jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Garbage Helper job openings:
Garbage Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Helper job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,594 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Helper C / Cleaner (2nd Shift)

ABM Industries

Chicago, IL

$22.82/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

ABM Industries rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 409 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

171st of 251 rated facilities management

Job description

The Cleaner/Helper C will complete work orders. They will assist with the trash-out of vacant apartments, e.g., moving heavy/bulky items to dumpster. They will assist service staff with maintenance functions as requested. They will maintain and cleans common spaces, mechanical, electrical and shop areas. They will perform simple procedures and tasks and other routine maintenance duties. They will maintain regular attendance in the workplace and provide the highest quality of service to the tenants, staff and visitors at the facility.
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Pay: $22.82 per hour
The pay listed is the hourly range for this position. Any specific offer will vary based on the successful applicant’s education, experience, skills, abilities, geographic location, and alignment with market data.
 

ABM offers a comprehensive benefits package. For information about ABM’s benefits, visit ABM Team Member

Benefits \u007C Front Line Team Members \u007C (Programa de Beneficios de ABM)

Shift: Tues-Sat 2:30pm-11:00pm 

Essential Functions:
Complete work orders that are within your classification. It is up to the Head Janitor/Assistant Head Janitor to distribute work orders accordingly. If a work order is beyond your job classification, it is your duty to report this to your supervisor in order for the trouble to be rectified in a timely manner.
Responsible for moving all trash containers on property. On days that help is needed, It is your responsibility to let the Head Janitor know that assistance is needed.
Maintain the equipment for garbage removal.Assist with snow and ice removal.
Maintain and cleans common spaces, mechanical, electrical and shop areas.
Assist with the trash-out of vacant apartments; e.g., moving heavy/bulky items to dumpster.
Assist service staff with maintenance functions as requested.
Coordinates parts, supplies, and equipment from local vendors and inventory.
Performs simple procedures and tasks and other routine maintenance duties.
 
Qualifications:
Certification meeting OSHA ACM awareness training requirements as required.
Working knowledge of energy conservation strategies (energy saving lighting, etc.).
Process administrative paperwork in accordance to departmental policies and procedure.
Actively functions as a team member.
Demonstrates commitment to quality of service.
Complies with ABM Engineering Services and facility policies and procedures.
Complies and participates with ABM Engineering Services safety program.
Complies and participates in facility specific safety program.
Maintain regular attendance in the work place.
Provide highest quality of service to the tenants, staff and visitors at the facility.
Participate in regular required communication with Head Janitor, assistant Head Janitor, management, tenants and other staff.
Must be able to work on a ladder or elevated surface.
 

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