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Garbage Loader Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Waverly

$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:

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:

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:

Santa Cruz Seaside Company

Grounds Crew

Santa Cruz, CA

$18.50 - $23/hr

Class B Drivers: - Perform all of above job tasks - Regularly drive and/or operate: - Garbage Truck - Forklifts - Beach Cleaner - Tennant Sweepers - Tennant Scrubbers - Cat Loader - Masco Air Sweep ...

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 ...

SANTA CRUZ SEASIDE COMPANY

Grounds Crew

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $22.25/hr

Regularly drive and/or operate: - Garbage Truck - Forklifts - Beach Cleaner - Tennant Sweepers - Tennant Scrubbers - Cat Loader - Masco Air Sweep - Swap Bed Truck - John Deere Crawler - Bobcat (Skid ...

Waste Connections

Driver Helper

Marina, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Ability to safely operate on and around a garbage truck on ... load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities. • Courteous interaction with our ...

mybakemark

02202A -Production Worker

Fresno, CA

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Load and label pallets correctly. * Distinguish acceptable product from unacceptable product ... End of shift requires removal of any waste and garbage generated during the shift. Ensure proper ...

mybakemark

02202A -Production Worker

Fresno, CA

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Load and label pallets correctly. * Distinguish acceptable product from unacceptable product ... End of shift requires removal of any waste and garbage generated during the shift. Ensure proper ...

mybakemark

02202A -Production Worker

Fresno, CA

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Load and label pallets correctly. * Distinguish acceptable product from unacceptable product ... End of shift requires removal of any waste and garbage generated during the shift. Ensure proper ...

mybakemark

02202A -Production Worker

Fresno, CA

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Load and label pallets correctly. * Distinguish acceptable product from unacceptable product ... End of shift requires removal of any waste and garbage generated during the shift. Ensure proper ...

mybakemark

02202A -Production Worker

Fresno, CA

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Load and label pallets correctly. * Distinguish acceptable product from unacceptable product ... End of shift requires removal of any waste and garbage generated during the shift. Ensure proper ...

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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 Jun 11, 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.

Can a garbage man make 100K?

Garbage loaders, also known as sanitation workers, typically earn salaries below 100,000 dollars annually. However, with overtime, union benefits, or working in high-cost areas, some experienced or supervisory workers can approach or exceed this amount. Advancement to supervisory roles or specialized positions may also increase earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Garbage Loader, and why are they important?

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include high-level positions such as specialized surgeons, corporate executives, or successful entrepreneurs. Certain freelance or consulting roles in finance, law, or technology may also reach this level with significant experience and client base. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, or extensive industry experience.

How hard is it to become a garbage collector?

Becoming a garbage collector typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license. The job involves physical labor, operating collection trucks, and following safety protocols, but it generally does not require extensive formal education or specialized certifications.

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 highest paid garbage man?

The highest paid garbage collectors typically earn salaries above $50,000 annually, with some experienced workers in certain regions earning over $70,000. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, union membership, and the complexity of the route or equipment used.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,648 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
On-Call Dishwasher

On-Call Dishwasher

Skirball Cultural Center

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

The Hospitality and Private Events department of the Skirball Cultural Center seeks a capable Dishwasher. Reporting to the Executive Chef, the Dishwasher is responsible for cleaning a wide variety of food preparation and service items in accordance with Health Department sanitation and safety standards. The Dishwasher will also help with routine food preparation.

Starting salary: $19 per hour

Responsibilities

  • Washes and dries dishes, glasses, utensils, pots and pans, and related food preparation/serving items and equipment
  • Loads and operates the dishwasher per approved guidelines
  • Maintains all cleaning/washing equipment at proper temperature and in proper operating order; loads equipment correctly; checks temperature per approved schedule and adjusts as needed; disassembles, inspects, cleans, performs maintenance on, and reassembles equipment properly
  • Checks all items for cleanliness and stores clean, dry items and equipment in proper places
  • Cleans floor area of any water spillage, detergent, and/or foodstuffs per safety and sanitation guidelines
  • Disposes of garbage in proper waste/refuse containers
  • Assists with some food preparation, as needed
  • Sweeps/mops the kitchen floor; wipes down surfaces to ensure high standards of cleanliness
  • Responds to requests for service from other team members in a friendly, responsive manner

Qualifications

  • Physical ability to stand/walk most of the working day, perform physical labor, and lift and carry heavy pots, trays, and other items
  • Ability to read, comprehend, and accurately follow usage instructions for cleaning products and equipment
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination to operate equipment
  • Routine housekeeping/cleaning skills
  • Ability to interact in a friendly, professional manner with other team members