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Garbage Helper Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

A & Associates

PA-Sanitation Helper

Bristol, PA · On-site

$18.50/hr

Waste Collector Helper A & Associates is a reputable staffing agency with a proven track record in ... Employees in this class perform routine work as part of a crew in collecting garbage, refuse ...

A & Associates

PA-Sanitation Helper

Bristol, PA · On-site

$18.50/hr

... Helpers. SUMMARY: Under direct supervision, collects residential and commercial refuse on ... Employees in this class perform routine work as part of a crew in collecting garbage, refuse ...

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All JobsGarbage Helper JobsGarbage Helper Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Garbage Helper information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

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$17

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How much do garbage helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage helper in Philadelphia, PA is $17.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $19.90 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 are the most commonly searched types of Garbage jobs in Philadelphia, PA? The most popular types of Garbage jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Garbage Helper jobs? Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Garbage Helper job openings:
Garbage Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Helper job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,826 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

PA-Sanitation Helper

A & Associates

Bristol, PA • On-site

$18.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Waste Collector Helper

A & Associates is a reputable staffing agency with a proven track record in screening and recruiting as well as job placement and career development. With more than ten (10) offices throughout the United States, A & Associates is a company that can be trusted to provide a diverse level of services with excellence, diligence and integrity. "Quality In Everything We Do" is far more than our mantra, it is our standard!!

Explore a career with A & Associates, one of the leading providers for temporary, temp-to-hire, permanent placement services and security guard services.

A & Associates is looking for eager and professional candidates to work as full time and part time Waste Collector Helpers.

Summary:

Under direct supervision, collects residential and commercial refuse on designated routes and assists in completion of all routes; and perform related duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

Eighth grade. Must be able to lift and handle 50 pounds and work four ten-hour days and all holidays.

Nature Of Work:

This is heavy manual labor in the collection and disposal of refuse and recyclable material, including yard trash. Employees in this class perform routine work as part of a crew in collecting garbage, refuse, recyclables, yard trash and other waste materials, and in transporting them to the designated disposal and recycling locations. Work is characterized by the necessity for considerable physical exertion and by close daily contact with unpleasant materials. Employees are expected to work out-of-doors regardless of weather. All work is closely supervised by the truck driver in charge of the crew.

Illustrative Tasks:

Performs waste, recyclable, and yard trash pickup at garbage disposal areas of commercial, residential, and other designated locations. Performs curbside pickup in residential areas. Uses pitchforks, shovels, and similar hand tools to pick up general refuse, garbage, recyclables, trash, and yard trash from curbside and other areas as instructed. Rides with truck to disposal locations and/or recycling centers; assists truck operator and disposal personnel in off-loading. Assists truck driver in fueling and checking all fluid levels of assigned truck, including spares; cleans out trucks, including cab interior, daily, upon route completion. Performs related work as required.

Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:

Ability and willingness to work with unpleasant waste materials. Ability to use simple hand tools. Sufficient physical strength and ability to lift, move, and carry very heavy objects. Willingness to work under all conditions of weather.

Compensation:

Pay for this position starts at $18.50 per hour

Eeo Statement:

A & Associates, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $18.50 per hour

Schedule:

  • 10 hour shift
  • 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person

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