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Garbage Loader Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

United Pacific Waste

Refuse Driver

Los Angeles, CA

Safely operate a heavy Garbage Truck * Properly track and document activity log * Report any issues or incidents to dispatch * Inspect truck before and after trip * Pick up trash containers, load ...

United Pacific Waste

Refuse Driver

Los Angeles, CA

Safely operate a heavy Garbage Truck * Properly track and document activity log * Report any issues or incidents to dispatch * Inspect truck before and after trip * Pick up trash containers, load ...

Kettner Exchange

Dishwasher

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $18/hr

Load and unload dishwashing machines * Wash specific items by hand (e.g. wooden cutting boards ... Remove garbage regularly * Follow all safety and sanitation policies * Preferred qualifications:

The Grass Skirt

Dishwasher

San Diego, CA · On-site

$16.30 - $20/hr

Load and unload dishwashing machines * Wash specific items by hand (e.g. wooden cutting boards ... Remove garbage regularly * Follow all safety and sanitation policies * Preferred qualifications:

Waverly

Dishwasher

Cardiff, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $19/hr

Load and unload dishwashing machines * Wash specific items by hand (e.g. wooden cutting boards ... Remove garbage regularly * Follow all safety and sanitation policies * Preferred qualifications:

Whaling Bar

Dishwasher

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$16.85 - $19/hr

Load and unload dishwashing machines * Wash specific items by hand (e.g. wooden cutting boards ... Remove garbage regularly * Follow all safety and sanitation policies * Preferred qualifications:

Flagship Facility Services

Dishwasher

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$29.30/hr

Must be able to load and unload the dish-washing machine * Stock supplies such as food and utensils in serving stations, cupboards, refrigerators, and salad bar * Clean garbage cans with water or ...

Flagship Facility Services

Dishwasher

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$29.30/hr

Must be able to load and unload the dish-washing machine * Stock supplies such as food and utensils in serving stations, cupboards, refrigerators, and salad bar * Clean garbage cans with water or ...

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All JobsGarbage Loader JobsGarbage Loader Jobs in California

Garbage Loader information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do garbage loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage loader in California is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a garbage loader do?

A garbage loader, also known as a sanitation worker or refuse collector, is responsible for collecting and loading waste materials onto garbage trucks for disposal. They typically work in teams to pick up trash, recyclables, and yard waste from residential, commercial, and public areas. Their work helps ensure communities remain clean and free of waste, and they often follow specific routes and safety procedures. Garbage loaders may also assist with sorting recyclables and handling bulky items. The job requires physical strength, attention to safety, and the ability to work in various weather conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a garbage loader?

To thrive as a Garbage Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to safety, and the ability to follow instructions, typically requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, hydraulic lifts, and basic safety equipment is common in this role. Teamwork, reliability, and a strong work ethic are crucial soft skills for succeeding in demanding and often outdoor conditions. These skills ensure efficient waste collection, prevent injuries, and contribute to public health and cleanliness.

What are the typical physical demands and safety practices involved in working as a garbage loader?

Garbage Loaders routinely engage in physically demanding tasks such as lifting heavy bags, maneuvering bins, and working in various weather conditions. Safety is paramount, so workers are trained to use proper lifting techniques, wear protective gear like gloves and reflective vests, and follow specific procedures to avoid injuries from sharp objects or hazardous materials. The role often requires early morning starts and close collaboration with drivers and other crew members to ensure efficient and safe waste collection. Adhering to safety protocols and being prepared for physical challenges are key to success in this position.

What is the difference between Garbage Loader vs Waste Collector?

AspectGarbage LoaderWaste Collector
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, valid driver’s licenseHigh school diploma or equivalent, valid driver’s license
Work EnvironmentResidential and commercial areas, operating trucksResidential neighborhoods, waste collection routes
Industry UsageMunicipal waste management, private waste servicesMunicipal waste management, private waste services

Garbage Loaders and Waste Collectors often perform similar roles in waste management, operating trucks to collect and dispose of waste. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Garbage Loader' is commonly used in specific regions or companies, while 'Waste Collector' is a broader term. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, focusing on residential and commercial waste collection within municipal or private sectors.

What are popular job titles related to Garbage Loader jobs in California?

For Garbage Loader jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Garbage Loader jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Garbage Loader jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Garbage Loader jobs?

Cities in California with the most Garbage Loader job openings:

Garbage Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Loader job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,648 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Local Garbage Route Driver- Colfax,WA

Empire, CA • On-site

Waste Connections Inc

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 265 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 91 rated recycling and waste

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Waste Connections Incexternal

$29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Empire Disposal, a Waste Connections Company in Colfax, WAIs looking to Hire a Local CDL RearLoad Garbage Truck Driver

Schedule: Monday-Thursday, 4:00 AM-2:00 PM (Occasional OT)

Pay: $29.00/hr CDL $26.90/hr NonCDL Average Hours: ~45 per week

Position Overview

Empire Disposal is seeking a safetyfocused Local CDL Garbage Truck Driver to service residential and commercial rearload routes. This is a laborintensive role requiring continuous movement in and out of the truck, manual collection of solid waste, and safe operation of rearload equipment. Drivers transport collected waste to designated disposal facilities while maintaining strict safety, environmental, and customerservice standards.

Key Responsibilities

  • Route Navigation - Read route sheets or driver tablets to service all assigned customers.
  • Vehicle Inspections - Perform routine pretrip and posttrip inspections, checking fluids, tires, and safety equipment.
  • Manual Waste Collection - Load and unload waste manually, often without helpers, requiring heavy lifting and repetitive movement.
  • Hydraulic Equipment Operation - Operate rearload hydraulic controls to lift, load, and dispose of refuse safely.
  • Customer Interaction - Provide courteous service and communicate professionally with customers and dispatch.
  • Safety Compliance - Follow all company, DOT, and environmental safety protocols.
  • Perform additional jobrelated duties as assigned by management.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

  • Heavy physical labor including lifting, pushing, and pulling 50+ lbs.
  • Frequent entry and exit from the truck throughout the shift.
  • Exposure to outdoor weather, wet/humid conditions, fumes, vibration, and moderate noise.
  • Work around moving mechanical parts, requiring strict adherence to safety procedures.

Minimum Requirements

  • Valid Class A or B CDL with Air Brake Endorsement.
  • Ability to read, write, and communicate in English; high school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • 2+ years of related driving or wasteindustry experience.
  • Basic knowledge of truck components to complete DOTcompliant inspections.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding labor daily.

Why Join Empire Disposal?

  • Medical, Dental, Vision benefits
  • Highly competitive wages
  • 401(k) company plan
  • $300 annual boot allowance
  • Up to $1,000 annual safety bonus
  • Strong company culture built on integrity, teamwork, and empowerment
  • Local routes - home daily
  • Career growth within a GROWING Waste Connections company

To be considered for any of our current openings you must complete an application at www.wasteconnections.com . Application information and additional instructions can be found once you select your position of interest.

We offer excellent benefits including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long term & short term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement and unlimited opportunities to "Connect with Your Future". A link to our benefits overview can be found here: https://careers.wasteconnections.com/us/en/benefits

Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status. WA state wage Range $29.00/HR-29.00/HR

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