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Garbage Loader Jobs in Buffalo, NY (NOW HIRING)

Applegreen

Overnight Custodian

Corfu, NY · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Removes trash and garbage to designated areas. * Thoroughly sweeps, mops, scrubs, and buffs floors ... Loads and unloads supply trucks. * Follows all security, sanitation, and safety procedures ...

Applegreen US

Overnight Custodian

Corfu, NY · On-site

$18/hr

Removes trash and garbage to designated areas. * Thoroughly sweeps, mops, scrubs, and buffs floors ... Loads and unloads supply trucks. * Follows all security, sanitation, and safety procedures ...

All JobsGarbage Loader JobsGarbage Loader Jobs in Buffalo, NY

Garbage Loader information

See Buffalo, NY 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 Buffalo, NY is $19.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $21.63 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 Buffalo, NY?

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

What job categories do people searching Garbage Loader jobs in Buffalo, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Garbage Loader jobs in Buffalo, NY are:

Garbage Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Loader job openings in Buffalo, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,897 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Construction Equipment Operator

Buffalo, NY • On-site

University at Buffalo
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

388th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about University at Buffaloexternal

$40K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Fiscal Year
2026-2027
Position Title
Construction Equipment Operator
Classification Title
Construction Equipment Operator
Department
Grounds
Posting Number
C260080
Posting Link
https://www.ubjobs.buffalo.edu/postings/64086
Employer
State
Bargaining Unit
03 - CSEA (Oper)
Appointment Type
Classified Appointment Term
Permanent
Classified Position Type
Non-Competitive Classified
Temporary Until
Salary Grade
SG08
Posting Detail Information
Position Summary
The University at Buffalo is currently seeking Construction Equipment Operators within Campus Operations. In this role as a Construction Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the operation, routine servicing, loading and unload of large motor vehicles as well as the removal of snow and ice during the snow season.
In this position, you will be responsible for the following:
  • Operating large garbage packers, backhoes, dump trucks, loaders, tractors, snow & ice removal equipment, and other grounds maintenance equipment at least one third of the work time.
  • Assisting with spraying, turf repair, fertilizing, grass cutting, pruning and planting projects
  • Driving large delivery vehicles, loading and unloading, and transporting freight
  • Routine service on motorized/ non-motorized vehicles and equipment which includes changing tires, lubrication, check and add fluids, install/remove snow plows, and perform minor repairs
  • Moving cargo on and off vehicles
  • Removing snow and ice from paved surfaces
  • Performing manual labor associated with maintaining campus grounds

This position is defined as safety-sensitive, and as such, is subject pre employment and random alcohol and drug testing under the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991.
Learn more:
  • Our benefits, where we prioritize your well-being and success to enhance every aspect of your life.
  • Being a part of the University at Buffalo community.

University at Buffalo is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and, in keeping with our commitment, welcomes all to apply including veterans and individuals with disabilities
Departmental Operating Needs
  • Maintain a valid NYS CDL B driver license w tanker/airbrake endorsement.
  • Ability to operate a forklift, front loader and a vehicle with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds; including moving loads or equipment, traveling and maneuvering of vehicle and safety pre-operation inspections of vehicles.
  • Operating riding lawn mower equipment, front loaders, dump trucks and tractors in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Seasonal changes in duties will cause shift changes based on seniority, and may potentially result in individuals being placed on second and/or third shift.
  • Must be willing to work overtime for snow removal and other seasonal requirements

Minimum Qualifications
  • Must have a valid class B Commercial Drivers License without an air brake restriction.
  • Must have tanker endorsement by the time of employment.
  • You are required to create aClearinghouse account as part of your application
  • One year of full-time experience in the operation of appropriate equipment in support of grounds maintenance, highway maintenance, parks maintenance, or similar operation.
  • Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States by their start date. The University at Buffalo does not guarantee that it will sponsor, support, or otherwise assist with obtaining work authorization.

Preferred Qualifications
Our University Community
Prodig+
No
Executive Position
No
Physical Demands
Will be exposed to outdoor weather conditions. Frequently transports boxes, materials, and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds across campus utilizing provided tools.
Must be able to perform medium to heavy physical tasks, including frequent work in various weather conditions.
Driving Requirements
A CDL is a required minimum qualification for this position. Employees must operate university owned vehicles for business purposes and be enrolled in the LENS and Clearinghouse programs to verify a valid CDL appropriate for the vehicle operated.
Salary Range
$40,391
Additional Salary Information
Work Days
Weekdays - Monday - Friday
Work Hours
6:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Scheduled Work Days
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Job Type
Full-Time
Campus
As Assigned
Posting Alerts
Special Instructions Summary
Applicants will be required to provide their driver's license information and create a Clearinghouse account to enable participation in the License Event Notification Service (LENS) and Clearinghouse for Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
The FMCDS Commercial Driver's License Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a secure online database that will allow the University at Buffalo to request access from applicants to identify drivers who commit drug and alcohol program violations.
Additional Information
Is a background check required for this posting?
Yes
Background Check Notification
For non-internal applicants: a selected candidate will have to complete and pass a background check prior to appointment.
Contact Information
Contact's Name
John White
Contact's Pronouns
Contact's Title
Supervisor of Grounds
Contact's Email
jpwhite3@buffalo.edu
Contact's Phone
716-264-3299
Posting Dates
Posted
08/28/2026
Deadline for Applicants
Open Until Filled
Date to be Filled
10/08/2026

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