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Garbage Man Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bon Appetit

DISHWASHER (FULL TIME)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Steam cleans or hoses out garbage cans. * Transfers supplies and equipment between storage and work areas. * Helps load and unload supplies and product. * Performs other duties as assigned.

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Garbage Man information

See California salary details

$5

$16

$28

How much do garbage man jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage man in California is $16.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $14.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a garbage man do?

A garbage man, also known as a sanitation worker or refuse collector, is responsible for collecting and disposing of residential and commercial waste. They operate garbage trucks, lift and empty trash bins, and transport waste to disposal sites or recycling facilities. Their work helps keep communities clean, sanitary, and safe by managing waste efficiently and following local regulations for disposal.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a garbage man, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Garbage Man, you need physical stamina, attention to safety, and a valid driver's license, often with a commercial driving endorsement. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, hydraulic lift systems, and basic maintenance tools is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for efficiently coordinating routes and handling public interactions. These skills ensure the safe, timely, and environmentally responsible collection and disposal of waste in the community.

What are some common challenges faced by garbage collectors on the job, and how can they be managed?

Garbage collectors often work in varying weather conditions and may encounter heavy lifting, unpleasant odors, or hazardous waste. Staying physically fit, using proper lifting techniques, and consistently wearing protective gear are important for safety. Communication with team members and following established safety protocols help manage risks and ensure efficient collection routes. Many companies also provide training to handle hazardous materials and encourage teamwork to address daily challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Garbage Man vs Waste Collector?

AspectGarbage ManWaste Collector
CredentialsHigh school diploma, CDL license often preferredHigh school diploma, CDL license often preferred
Work EnvironmentResidential and commercial areas, outdoorResidential and commercial areas, outdoor
Industry UsageCommonly used in municipal waste managementCommonly used in waste management services
Job TasksCollects and transports household wasteCollects and transports waste from various sites

Both Garbage Man and Waste Collector roles involve collecting and transporting waste, often requiring similar credentials and working environments. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, but 'Garbage Man' is more colloquial, while 'Waste Collector' is more formal and industry-standard.

Do garbage men actually make good money?

Garbage collectors, or sanitation workers, typically earn a median annual salary that is around the national average for public service jobs, with wages varying by location and experience. They often receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and the job may require physical strength and operating specialized equipment. Salaries can increase with overtime, seniority, or supervisory roles.

How hard is it to get a job as a garbage man?

Getting a job as a garbage man typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and the ability to perform physical labor. The hiring process can be competitive, often involving background checks and physical fitness assessments, but opportunities are generally available in many areas due to ongoing demand for waste collection services.

What cities in California are hiring for Garbage Man jobs?

Cities in California with the most Garbage Man job openings:

Garbage Man jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Man job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 35% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,483 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Heavy Equipment/Class 8 Truck Mechanic B

Fresno, CA

CAGLIA ENVIRONMENTAL
Environmental Consulting Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about CAGLIA ENVIRONMENTALexternal

$25 - $32/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

POSITION: Heavy Equipment/Class 8 Truck Mechanic, B

LOCATION: Fresno, CA

REPORTS TO: Fleet Maintenance Manager

SALARY: $25.00 to $32.00/ per hour, DOE

COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Caglia Environmental is a family-owned and operated company with a proud legacy of over 80 years in the Central Valley. We provide essential environmental services, including recycling, waste collection, and landfill management, with a strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community. Our team plays a vital role in helping to build cleaner, greener communities, and we're always looking for motivated individuals who want to make a meaningful impact through their work.

BASIC FUNCTIONS:

Maintain Heavy Equipment & Over the road Truck fleet. Ensure that equipment meets all safety and regulatory requirements before releasing into service. Assist with all daily fleet maintenance activities, and all other assigned duties.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Works with Fleet Manager and Leadman to determine daily workload.
  • Performs daily routine and repair maintenance on heavy landfill equipment, garbage collection vehicles, and satellite collection trucks.
  • Assists with maintaining a clean and orderly parts and materials inventory.
  • Communicates repair issues with Fleet Manager and/or Lead man in a timely manner.
  • Complies with all maintenance and facility rules, regulations, policies, procedures.
  • Reports any unsafe working conditions and/or practices.
  • Ensures work areas and equipment are kept neat, clean, and orderly each day.
  • Attends all safety training and meetings as required for all shop and facility employees.
  • Able to complete and submit all required daily reporting/paperwork to management in a timely manner.
  • Performs general maintenance of company buildings and facilities.
  • All other special projects, implementations, and tasks as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES

  • Set high work standards and motivate others
  • Ability to communicate with management
  • Focus on safety, quality, timely repairs, and attention to detail.
  • Use of technical and professional knowledge and acquired skills

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS (SKILLS, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE)

  • High School Diploma
  • Minimum 3-years related maintenance experience
  • Ability to utilize engine, transmission & other diagnostic software
  • Ability to utilize maintenance tracking software
  • Trouble shot & repair electrical components
  • Repair steering & suspension systems
  • Preform minor transmission & engine repairs, including tune-ups
  • Preform PM inspections & repairs
  • Ability to pass a random drug screen
  • Ability to read and write English
  • 2 or more years hydraulic experience

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • ASE Certifications a plus
  • ASE Air Brake a plus
  • Valid Class A or B Drivers License with clean driving record
  • Welding Certificate a plus
  • 2 or more years MIG and or stick welding experience

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