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Garbage Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Custodian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.40/hr

All garbage must be disposed of at the bin in the parking lot. * Supervise and work together with Community Service Workers to clean and prepare building for programs when they are present. * Help ...

Custodian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.40/hr

All garbage must be disposed of at the bin in the parking lot. * Supervise and work together with Community Service Workers to clean and prepare building for programs when they are present. * Help ...

Showing results 41-60

Garbage Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$18

$23

How much do garbage helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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:
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.

$17 - $20.40/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 360 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

571st of 771 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

THE SALVATION ARMY

NORTH & CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION

LAWN CORPS

POSITION DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE: Custodian

LOCATION/DEPT: Lawn Corps

REPORTS TO (TITLE): Corps Officers

FLSA CATEGORY: Non-Exempt

STATUS TYPE: RPT

PAY GRADE: 402

PAY RANGE: $17.00 - $20.40

OUTCOMES

This position is expected to perform all types of building custodial cleaning duties to include seasonal grounds upkeep, set-up rooms for meetings, and other duties as assigned by the Corps Officer. Will maintain a clean and healthy environment for employees and clients through basic janitorial services. Position is expected to comply with and meet The Salvation Army, Federal, State and Local policies and standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Custodian Duties
    1. Ensure that the entire building is cleaned, including all offices and Chapel. Vacuuming the carpets, mopping all hard floors.
    2. Attend to the bathrooms, replacing hand towels and toilet paper. Ensure all liquid soap containers are filled at all times.
    3. Attend to all counter tops in bathrooms and kitchen.
    4. Set up classrooms and other designated rooms for corps activities, and other weekly activities that are held during the week.
    5. Periodically, inspect the building to remove cobwebs and replace light bulbs as necessary.
    6. Empty all garbage containers from the offices, kitchen and the bathrooms. All garbage must be disposed of at the bin in the parking lot.
    7. Supervise and work together with Community Service Workers to clean and prepare building for programs when they are present.
    8. Help with the unloading of food delivery for the pantry.
  2. Equipment and Supplies
    1. Keep inventory of cleaning supplies. Prepare a cleaning supplies purchase order when necessary and submit it to the Corps Officers for official ordering.
  3. All other duties as assigned.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

Under the direct supervision of the Corps Officers, or when not available the Corps Office Assistant, with minimal freedom to plan, schedule and carry out responsibilities within established policies and guidelines.

This individual relates to and interacts with a wide range of contacts both within and outside The Salvation Army, including staff, youth, Soldiers and the community. In these contacts, they act as a representative of the Army and its mission.

PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS

This individual will be evaluated on how effectively the outcomes of this position are achieved, as well as the timeliness, accuracy and completeness of accomplishing assigned goals.

A 30, 60, and 90-day performance review will be conducted.

EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE

  • High School education or its equivalent preferred.
  • Basic experience in maintenance and knowledge of related tools and equipment.

COMPETENCIES

  • Must be a self-starter and have the ability to work unsupervised.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work quickly and with a level of excellence in cleaning.
  • A positive attitude and the ability to be flexible in light of changing job situations/priorities.
  • Must be willing to work a flexible schedule and serve as needed.
  • Ability to work well with both staff and clients.
  • Must present The Salvation Army in a positive manner.
  • Supportive of the mission of The Salvation Army.

POSITION LIMITATIONS

  • This individual will only commit Army resources that have been allocated or approved.
  • This individual will keep the Corps Officers informed on all critical issues relating to their area of responsibility.
  • This individual will adhere to all policies and procedures in carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • This position is required to do light to heavy physical work.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and climb a ladder.
  • In order to successfully perform the essential functions of this position, the employee is regularly required to remain stationary for some periods of time; use hands and fingers; communicate; move; occasionally required to position self to stoop, kneel or crouch; frequently required to reach with and use arms and hands, as required in using standard maintenance equipment.
  • The work environment for this position includes an office and outside environment with a low to high noise level.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and ability to focus especially for driving a van with passengers.

THE SALVATION ARMY MISSION STATEMENT

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

DOING THEMOST GOOD

Do you want to use your skills and talents to make a lasting difference in the world?The Salvation Army is the fourth largest charity in the United States and is an international organization based on Biblical principles created to help people in need.We are mission-driven, diverse, collaborative, and focused on positive results for people. Join us in making a difference.

The Salvation Army offers a competitive benefit package for eligible employees which may include the following medical, dental, vision, hearing, disability and life insurance, flexible spending accounts, 403(b) retirement accounts, a company-funded defined contribution (pension) plan and generous time off policies.

In compliance with the ADA AmendmentsActif you have a disability and would like to requestan accommodationto apply for this position, please contact the Human Resources department.

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minority/Female/Veterans/Disabled. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have beenimpactedby the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.


What Salvation Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US