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Garbage Helper Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Serrato Corporation

Cook Helper

Detroit, MI · On-site

$17.70/hr

Responsible to help keep the dining and kitchen area clean and organized. * Notify staff of items ... garbage, and steam-cleans or hoses garbage containers. * Distributes supplies, utensils, and ...

Serrato Corp.

Cook Helper

Detroit, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Responsible to help keep the dining and kitchen area clean and organized. * Notify staff of items ... garbage, and steam-cleans or hoses garbage containers. * Distributes supplies, utensils, and ...

Serrato Corporation

Cook Helper

Detroit, MI · On-site

$17.70/hr

Responsible to help keep the dining and kitchen area clean and organized.Notify staff of items that ... or hoses garbage containers.Distributes supplies, utensils, and portable equipment, using hand ...

Continental Services

Utility

Detroit, MI · On-site

$18/hr

... garbage regularly * Sanitize the kitchen area, including the floor, walls, doors and handles Skills, Knowledge and Expertise Demonstrates attributes of * Ability to follow instructions and help with ...

Cherry Creek Golf Club

Kitchen Dishwasher/Stewarding

Shelby, MI · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

Remove trash and garbage to dumpster Help complete kitchen tasks with food preparation Set up or break down dishwashing and kitchen area Sweep/mop floors Maintain safety standards Weekly and monthly ...

Compass Group

STEWARD - University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$14.75 - $20/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 ...

Compass Group

STEWARD - University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$14.75 - $20/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 ...

Continental Services

Kitchen Utility Worker

Warren, MI · On-site

Remove garbage regularly * Sanitize the kitchen area, including the floor, walls, doors and handles Ingredients for Thriving: Demonstrates attributes of * Ability to follow instructions and help with ...

Kay Jay's Irish Pub

Dishwasher

Shelby Township, MI

$13/hr

On occasion, you will be asked to help in other departments. Our goal is to employ a person with ... Rinsing garbage cans Dishwasher Job Requirements: * Must have minimal work experience as a ...

FJH Investment Company

Busser

Grosse Pointe Woods, MI · On-site

While also helping keep the service running in smooth fashion. Your primary duties are cleaning ... Bring tableware to dish area, when possible assist dishwasher by clearing food into garbage and ...

FJH Investment Company

Busser

Birmingham, MI · On-site

While also helping keep the service running in smooth fashion. Your primary duties are cleaning ... Bring tableware to dish area, when possible assist dishwasher by clearing food into garbage and ...

FJH Investment Company

Busser

Southfield, MI · On-site

While also helping keep the service running in smooth fashion. Your primary duties are cleaning ... Bring tableware to dish area, when possible assist dishwasher by clearing food into garbage and ...

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All JobsGarbage Helper JobsGarbage Helper Jobs in Detroit, MI

Garbage Helper information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$9

$17

$22

How much do garbage helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage helper in Detroit, MI is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $19.52 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 Detroit, MI are hiring for Garbage Helper jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Garbage Helper job openings:

Garbage Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Helper job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,128 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Cook Helper

Detroit, MI • On-site

Serrato Corporation
Education Programs Administration • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Serrato Corporationexternal

$17.70/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Primary Position Objectives
Assists the Cooks in preparing, serving, and sanitation of the dining facility, equipment, and surfaces.
Brief Description of Duties
  • Responsible for the set up and breakdown of serving line.
  • Responsible to help keep the dining and kitchen area clean and organized.
  • Notify staff of items that need to be replenished and restocked.
  • Responsible for helping to rotate perishable items at the end of the shift, to help ensure fresh product.
  • Responsible for serving students, staff, and guests in a pleasant, efficient, courteous and professional manner.
  • Responsible for assisting with dishes when necessary.
  • Responsible for the changing and emptying of trash receptacles.
  • Responsible for coming to work neat and clean and in proper attire.
  • Be familiar with the communication system in the event of an emergency.
  • Responsible for assisting with some programming and activity events when required.
  • Assists workers engaged in preparing foods by performing any combination of duties to include washing, peeling, cutting, and seeding vegetables and fruits.
  • Cleans, cuts, and grinds meats, poultry, and seafood.
  • Dips food items in crumbs, flour, and batter to bread them.
  • Stirs and strains soups and sauces. weighs or measures designated ingredients.
  • Carry pans, kettles, and trays of food to and from workstations, stove, and refrigerator.
  • Stores foods in designated areas, utilizing knowledge of temperature requirements and food spoilage.
  • Clean and sanitize kitchen and commons area(s), equipment and utensils, segregates and removes garbage, and steam-cleans or hoses garbage containers.
  • Distributes supplies, utensils, and portable equipment, using hand truck.
  • Assists in inventory of expendable and non-expendable supplies and materials.
  • Operate kitchen equipment including dishwasher, slicer, mixer, etc.
  • Know and follow all safety and sanitary rules and regulations related to food handling.
  • Works towards meeting performance standard goals.
  • Follows CDSS plan and Code of Conduct system daily.
  • Adheres to required property control policies and procedures.
  • Maintains good housekeeping/sanitation in all areas and complies with safety practices.
  • Complies with all DOL guidelines, OFCCP regulation, Quality Assurance Plan (QAP) Serrato policies and procedures, Job Corps notices and bulletins, and Center policies and procedures.
  • Demonstrates and abides by Serrato Corporation's core values and operating principles.
  • Models, mentors, and monitors appropriate career success skills.
  • Helps students become more employable through continuous reinforcement.
  • Participation in PRH mandated staff training is mandatory. Failure to participate may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
  • Knowledge of basic sanitation and cleaning procedures.
  • Knowledge of general kitchen equipment and appliances.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work under direction of senior personnel.
  • High level of organization, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Experience
One to three months food service/preparation experience or related experience.
Education
High School Diploma or equivalent.
Certificates/Licenses/Registration
  • NRA Food Service Sanitation or equivalent/Safe Serve.
  • Valid State Driver's License

Benefits Offered
  • Paid Short Term / Long Term Disability and Basic Life Insurance.
  • Health care insurance available (medical, dental, vision, critical illness, accident, HSA, and FSA)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Counseling Service Programs Available

Disclaimers
  • Serrato Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer

  • Serrato Corporation conducts background checks and drug screens.

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