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Garbage Loader Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Front Load Commercial Driver - Waste Connections Pay: $26.00 per hour Why Choose Us? We are Waste Connections, an integrated solid waste services company providing collection, transfer, disposal, and ...

Front Load Driver

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste * Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities. * Regularly ...

Solid Waste Worker III

Winter Garden, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Description WORK OBJECTIVE This is skilled and manual labor in the operation of a Commercial Front End, Rear Load, or Side Load vehicle collecting garbage and related refuse, and in transporting them ...

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Garbage Loader information

See Florida salary details

$8

$14

$21

How much do garbage loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage loader in Florida is $14.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $16.68 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, 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 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.

Is garbage collecting a good job?

Garbage collection is a physically demanding job that involves handling waste and operating heavy equipment, often outdoors and in various weather conditions. It typically offers stable employment with benefits, but may include early hours and exposure to health hazards. Job satisfaction depends on individual preferences for manual labor and environmental conditions.
What are popular job titles related to Garbage Loader jobs in Florida? For Garbage Loader jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Loader jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Loader jobs in Florida are:
Infographic showing various Garbage Loader job openings in Florida as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,779 per year, or $14.8 per hour.
Residential Garbage Truck Driver

Residential Garbage Truck Driver

Waste Connections

Okahumpka, FL

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Waste Connections rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 254 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 71 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Garbage Truck Driver


📍 Location: Okahumpka, FL | Lake County Area
💰 Pay: $22–$24+/hr. Based on Experience + Overtime!

🕕 Schedule: Monday – Friday, Occasional Saturdays | 55-60 Hours/Week
 

Are you an experienced CDL Driver with a passion for safety and a strong work ethic? Join a team that values hard work, community, and long-term stability. Waste Connections in Okahumpka, FL is hiring a Garbage Truck Driver to help keep Lake County clean and moving!

We pride ourselves on putting SAFETY first, offering reliable, year-round work, and providing outstanding career growth opportunities in the essential waste management industry.

🔧 The Job:

  • Operate a Garbage Truck safely on a set local route

  • Follow route sheets or dispatcher instructions

  • Load, transport, and dump waste containers at disposal sites

  • Perform daily vehicle inspections (fluids, tires, safety equipment)

  • Maintain a clean, safe vehicle

  • Interact courteously with customers and represent Waste Connections with professionalism

  • Driver to Driver role throwing thrash and driving the truck rotation.

Requirements:

  • Must have a Valid Class A or B CDL License

  • No Restrictions on License (Must drive BOTH Automatic & Manual)

  • 2+ years of CDL Driving Experience

  • Clean Driving Record

  • Solid work ethic & ability to thrive in a team

  • Ability to lift 50+ lbs. and work outdoors in all conditions

🛠️ What’s in It for You:

  • $22–$24+/hr. + Overtime!

  • Boot Allowance + Safety Bonuses

  • Stable, Year-Round work – we don’t slow down with the seasons!

  • Career growth with one of the top companies in the Waste Industry 🚀

💼 Full Benefits Package:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

  • 401(k) with Company Match, up to 5%

  • Life Insurance & Disability Coverage

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

  • Legal & Travel Assistance Plans

  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Ready to roll? Join a team that gets it.
We’re hiring now – apply today and start your next chapter in Okahumpka, FL!

Waste Connections is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer (Minorities/Female/Disabled/Veterans)

#ACDriver


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