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Garbage Loader Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Priority Waste

Rear Load - Residential Driver

Flint, MI · On-site

Through our yellow fleet of residential, roll off, and front load trucks and containers, Priority ... garbage truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling debris from ...

Priority Waste

Rear Load - Residential Driver

Flint, MI · On-site

Through our yellow fleet of residential, roll off, and front load trucks and containers, Priority ... garbage truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling debris from ...

Moore Advanced Inc

Scalehouse Attendant

Lenox, MI · On-site

$18/hr

Ensures that incoming garbage loads are safe and do not contain any inappropriate material. . Ensures that customers and employees conduct all business in a safe manner and wear all required Personal ...

Builders FirstSource

Load Builder I

Rudyard, MI · On-site

Loads and unloads materials onto or from pallets, trucks or customer vehicles and installs strapping, bracing or padding to prevent shifting or damage in transit. * Performs load-building ...

Royal Oak, City of (MI)

Seasonal Laborer

Royal Oak, MI · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Operate manual and powered landscape maintenance equipment including shears, blowers Load dirt, leaves, construction and other materials. Collect garbage, rubbish and other waste materials. Unload ...

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$9

$17

$24

How much do garbage loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage loader in Michigan is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.47 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 Michigan? For Garbage Loader jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Loader jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Loader jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Garbage Loader jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Garbage Loader job openings:
Garbage Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Loader job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,899 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Rear Load - Residential Driver

Rear Load - Residential Driver

Priority Waste

Flint, MI

Other

Posted 13 hours ago

Priority Waste rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 71 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Rear Load - Residential Driver

Flint - Flint, MI 48505

Description

Priority Waste, headquartered in Clinton Township, Michigan, provides waste hauling services. Our company has experienced rapid growth since its founding in 2018. This growth has allowed us to continually expand our workforce. The Company operates out of several facilities, including two transfer stations. Priority Waste maintains a diversified platform providing service to both municipal solid-waste, construction and demolition customers. Through our yellow fleet of residential, roll off, and front load trucks and containers, Priority Waste makes the customer experience our #1 priority.

Job Purpose: In your role as a Residential Truck Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a garbage truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling debris from customers. Duties include but are not limited to:

  • Performs pre and post trip inspections of truck
  • Operates truck in accordance with OSHA and DOT requirements as well as all local, municipal, state, and federal laws
  • Mounts and dismounts a heavy-duty truck many times each day
  • Completes assigned residential route daily, leaving the customers location free of debris
  • Professionally communicates with customers as needed
  • Notifies Route Manager/Dispatch of any accidents, injuries, property damage, or any other incidents
  • Notifies Route Manager/Dispatch of any service interruptions such as closed lots, blocked containers, safety hazards etc
  • Identifies and reports all containers in need of repair/replacement
  • Attends training programs, briefings, and meetings as required
  • Communicates customer requests to Route Manager/Dispatch
  • Immediately communicates mechanical problems to Mechanic and Supervisor
  • Maintains cleanliness of vehicle
  • Maintains professional appearance
Qualifications

The successful candidate profile includes:

  • Must possess a valid CDL A or B
  • 1-year experience operating a residential waste truck preferred
  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Must be able to pass criminal background check, physical and DOT drug screen
  • Must have safe driving record, including no avoidable accidents in the past five years
  • Must have ability to communicate professionally with customers, dispatch and internal customer service
  • Must be able to sit, kneel, crouch, stoop, crawl, balance, hear, talk and smell
  • Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds
  • May be required to work in emergency situations

Equal Opportunity Employer: Priority proudly stands as an equal opportunity employer. We earnestly invite and encourage individuals from all walks of life to apply for our open positions. Every eligible applicant will be given fair and impartial consideration for employment, free from any form of discrimination. Regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information, we pledge to uphold the principles of fairness and equity.

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