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Garbage Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Emterra Environmental USA

Loader

Port Huron, MI · On-site

$20.85/hr

Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specific routes, often done manually or by pushing the tote to the tipper. * Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items ...

Emterra Group

Loader

Port Huron, MI · On-site

$20.85/hr

Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specific routes, often done manually or by pushing the tote to the tipper * Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items ...

Emterra Environmental USA

Loader

Port Huron, MI

$20.85/hr

Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specific routes, often done manually or by pushing the tote to the tipper * Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items ...

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Garbage Loader information

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How much do garbage loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage loader in the United States is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.36 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.

How much does a garbage helper make?

Garbage helpers typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires physical stamina and the ability to operate waste collection equipment, with some positions offering benefits and overtime pay.

Can a garbage man make 100k?

Garbage loaders, also known as sanitation workers, typically earn salaries below $100,000 annually. However, with overtime, union benefits, experience, and working in high-cost areas, some may reach or exceed this level, especially in supervisory or specialized roles. Most entry-level positions start with lower wages, and reaching six figures usually requires additional responsibilities or years of experience.

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 jobs, such as waste loaders or sanitation workers, are essential for public health and environmental management. They often involve physical labor, working outdoors, and may require safety training and protective gear; pay and job stability vary by location and employer.

What jobs pay 250 an hour?

Garbage loaders typically do not earn $250 an hour; such high wages are uncommon in this role. Jobs that pay $250 an hour usually require specialized skills, advanced certifications, or executive positions, such as surgeons, anesthesiologists, or specialized consultants. These roles often involve significant experience and education.
More about Garbage Loader jobs
What cities are hiring for Garbage Loader jobs? Cities with the most Garbage Loader job openings:
What states have the most Garbage Loader jobs? States with the most job openings for Garbage Loader jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Loader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Loader jobs are:
Garbage Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Loader job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $41,188 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Class B Swing Garbage Truck Driver

Class B Swing Garbage Truck Driver

Interstate Waste Services

Stamford, CT

$33/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Interstate Waste Services is Now Hiring CDL B SWING Garbage Truck Drivers in Stamford, CT!

Safety is our first Priority!

 $33.00 / Hour

 1 year experience driving Front Load AND Rear Load Garbage Trucks is REQUIRED

Must be able to drive a Manual Transmission

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In order to be considered, include a resume or list job history when applying.

Highlights:

  • Monday thru Friday with occasional Saturday hours
  • Early start time - 4am or 5am
  • Hourly pay - $33.00
  • Year Round-Steady work
  • Full Benefits packet with Paid Time Off
  • 1 Year verifiable CDL driving experience within the last 7 years required
  • MUST HAVE FRONT LOAD AND REAR LOAD GARBAGE TRUCK DRIVING EXPERIENCE!!!

Interstate Waste Services is the most progressive and innovative provider of solid waste and recycling services in the greater New York, New Jersey and Connecticut markets with a rail-served landfill in Ohio.  IWS is committed to delivering high-quality waste, recycling and environmental services, while prioritizing the safety of our employees, customers and communities. We cater to a diverse range of industrial, medical and commercial/residential customers. 

Founded in 1998, IWS has grown over the years through acquisitions, many of which were family-owned businesses that remain a part of our team today. We’re proud to combine the resources of a large company with the values and care of a family-run business. 


Job Highlights:

  • Drivers are Responsible for Safely Operating Front, Side, or Rear-Loading Trucks, for the Pick-Up Service of Bags or Containers Filled with Waste or Recyclable Material.  Drivers transport the material to a disposal, transfer or recycle facility, and may make one or more trips throughout the shift
  • Drivers Transport the Material to a Disposal, Transfer or Recycling Facility, & May Make One or More Trips Throughout the Shift
  • We Deploy Both Manual & Automatic Trucks
  • The Driver Position May Be Required to Repeatedly Lift up to 50 Pounds, & Move & Maneuver up to 100 Pounds, As Well As Mount & Dismount the Truck Multiple Times Every Route

Requirements:

  • 21 Years of Age & Legally Eligible to Work in the United States
  • Valid Class A or B CDL
  • Airbrake Endorsement
  • 1-year CDL driving experience in the last 7 years.
  • at least 1 year of FRONT LOAD AND REAR LOAD GARBAGE TRUCK DRIVING EXPERIENCE!!
  • Great Safety Record and Clean MVR
  • Experience as a Driver or Helper for a Refuge Company is Highly Preferred
  • Working Knowledge of DOT, OSHA & Applicable Traffic Regulations
  • Ability to Speak & Read English to Converse with the General Public, understand Highway Traffic & Signals, Respond to Official Questions & Make Legible Entries on Reports & Records
  • Read & Understand a Map
  • Meet Physical & Safety Requirements of the Position.
  • Willing & Able to Work Required Worked Hours as Allowed Under DOT Regulation & May Include Weekend, Night &/Or Holiday Work

Additional Job Requirements:

  • Routes may require Drivers to navigate through congested communities and confined or tight areas in city locations.
  • Highly skilled backing maneuvers are essential to successfully perform this job.
  • Our drivers routinely climb in and out of the truck cab to service customer accounts.
  • Driver pre and post inspections required. Drivers are responsible for ensuring their truck is in compliance with IWS’s safety standards as well as OSHA and DOT regulations, and local traffic laws, prior to and while operating the vehicle.

IWS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.


USD $33.00/Hr.
USD $33.00/Hr.

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