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Garbage Loader Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Front Load Driver

Bunnell, FL

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

The Front Load Driver operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage. Performs pre-trip and post-trip truck check and cleaning; and performs other related ...

Front Load Driver

Trenton, FL · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

The Front Load Driver operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage. Performs pre-trip and post-trip truck check and cleaning; and performs other related ...

Front Load Driver

Alachua, FL

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

The Front Load Driver operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage. Performs pre-trip and post-trip truck check and cleaning; and performs other related ...

Front Load Driver

Bunnell, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

The Front Load Driver operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage. Performs pre-trip and post-trip truck check and cleaning; and performs other related ...

Front Load Driver

Trenton, FL

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

The Front Load Driver operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage. Performs pre-trip and post-trip truck check and cleaning; and performs other related ...

Front Load Driver

Fanning Springs, FL

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

The Front Load Driver operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage. Performs pre-trip and post-trip truck check and cleaning; and performs other related ...

Front Load Driver

Alachua, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

The Front Load Driver operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage. Performs pre-trip and post-trip truck check and cleaning; and performs other related ...

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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:
Infographic showing various Garbage Loader job openings in Florida as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,779 per year, or $14.8 per hour.
Front Load Driver

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Waste Pro rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 71 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Waste Pro has immediate Openings for Energetic CDL Drivers!
Everyday thousands of Waste Pro trucks serve millions of customers. It takes professional, experienced, hardworking and dedicated people, working together, to accomplish this task. Work with the brightest people in the industry while driving some of the finest trucks built.
Did you know that Waste Pro offers a $10,000.00 driver award? This award designed specifically for drivers is attainable every 3 years when the driver meets specific criteria. (Yes ... it happens all the time) If you are energetic, team oriented and love a challenge apply with Waste Pro and be the Distinguishable Difference!
The Front Load Driver operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage. Performs pre-trip and post-trip truck check and cleaning; and performs other related work as assigned. Work is performed under supervision and performance is reviewed while in progress and upon completion through direct observation of routes, and discussion of problems
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
* The Front Load Driver is responsible for servicing commercial business picking up Front Load Containers. Empties containers using levers inside truck cab to empty container into the truck using forks. May need to open corral doors to access containers and as needed, rolls 3-4 yard can on castors weighing up to 600 pounds into position for dumping. Picks up loose trash off truck and/or ground and cleans up spills that may occur. Transports waste to a designated local landfill/disposal area.
* Completes route / productivity sheets, records mileage, fuel consumption, log book (as required), Vehicle Condition Reports, and other forms.
* Communicates professionally with customers and reports any customer issues / complaints to appropriate internal contacts. Provides Distinguishably Different level of service through courteous and expeditious customer service in all aspects of refuse operation to the general public and customers. Exhibits a positive attitude towards company, customer and municipal goals.
* Responsible for the safe operation of the truck which includes: pre-trip and post-trip inspections, evaluation of materials left for collections, determination of whether those materials include any hazardous materials, decision making and judgment regarding what materials may be placed safely in the truck for transport, and ensures the safety of each employee encountered.
* Cleans waste from the packer blade and the truck body on each landfill run to ensure smooth and safe operations
* Maintains clean truck and washes exterior weekly. Inspect/Clean Truck: Lift hood, inspect under the hood, walk around and check under carriage; pump gas, check fluid levels and air tires - Uses air gauge, dipstick for levels, and gas pump nozzle for gas fill.
QUALIFICATIONS:
* Must have a Class A or B CDL valid for the state in which the position works. Requires a safe driving record.
* Must be at least 21 years of age or older
* Understand refuse collection policies, procedures, guidelines and practices; understanding of Department of Transportation and State requirements for operators of commercial motor vehicles.
* Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction
* See in the normal visual range with or without correction
* Exhibit normal range of body motion
* Drive a front-end, side, rear-end, or roll off loading refuse truck, including right-hand driver's position on certain equipment, observing legal and defensive driving practices.
* Manipulate heavy equipment control levers
* Follow a designated refuse collection route or work schedule;
* Understand and carry out oral and written instructions;
* Maintain written records and service responses.
* Must be able to speak and read English well enough to communicate with customers, co-workers, dispatch and super visors, understand highway and traffic signals, and be able to make legible entries on paperwork. .
OTHER JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Employees in this job classification must attend and participate in corporation sponsored training courses as assigned.
* Employees in this job classification are responsible for keeping up to date on current technology, as job appropriate, being used by Waste Pro .
* Any additional job duties that may be assigned by the Supervisor.
Special Considerations/Physical Work Requirements:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
1. Physically able to push or pull independently (unassisted) 50 pounds between 120-150 a day
2. Physically able to lift independently (unassisted) 50 pounds from the ground to waist height between 120-150 a day
3. Physically able to get up and down from the cab of a commercial motor vehicle between 120-150 a day
4. Physically able to bend at the waist and knees between 120-150 a day
5. Physically able to work 8 to 12 hours in extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, rain and snow)
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Works in a variety of environment conditions, including wide temperature and weather variations including heat, cold, snow, rain, wind; noise and vibrations, fumes, odors and dust.

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