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Garbage Picker Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

GK Development Inc

Part-Time Housekeeper

Peru, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

Cleaning restrooms Empty trash and garbage containers Maintaining cleanliness of common areas ... Picking up grounds, run compactors and other duties as assigned. Requirements One to three years ...

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All JobsGarbage Picker JobsGarbage Picker Jobs in Illinois

Garbage Picker information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$16

$19

How much do garbage picker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage picker in Illinois is $16.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a garbage picker do?

Garbage pickers, also known as waste pickers or sanitation workers, are individuals who collect, sort, and remove waste materials from public and private spaces. Their main responsibility is to keep communities clean by picking up trash, recyclables, and sometimes hazardous materials from streets, parks, and other areas. Garbage pickers often help in separating recyclable items from general waste, contributing to environmental sustainability. This job can be physically demanding and requires attention to safety and hygiene. In many places, garbage pickers play a crucial role in waste management and recycling processes.

Is it hard to become a garbage picker?

Becoming a garbage picker generally requires minimal formal education and physical stamina, as the job involves collecting waste from designated areas. Some positions may require knowledge of safety procedures and the use of tools like grabbers or trucks, but overall, it is accessible with basic physical ability and adherence to safety guidelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a garbage picker?

To thrive as a Garbage Picker, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of waste sorting and safety procedures, often requiring no formal education but sometimes a high school diploma. Familiarity with personal protective equipment (PPE), waste collection tools, and sometimes handheld data devices is typical in this role. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills that help individuals excel. These abilities ensure efficient, safe waste collection and contribute to public health and environmental cleanliness.

What is the difference between Garbage Picker vs Waste Collector?

AspectGarbage PickerWaste Collector
CredentialsNone typically requiredMay require a valid driver’s license
Work EnvironmentResidential or commercial areas, often manual laborOn-road, operating trucks, handling larger waste loads
Industry UsageCommonly used in local sanitation servicesUsed by municipal waste management companies

Garbage Picker and Waste Collector roles often overlap, but Waste Collectors usually operate larger vehicles and handle bigger waste loads, often requiring a driver’s license. Garbage Pickers typically perform manual collection in neighborhoods. Both roles are essential in waste management and share similar credentials and work environments, but Waste Collectors tend to have more responsibilities related to vehicle operation and larger-scale collection.

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

Garbage pickers often encounter challenges such as exposure to hazardous materials, unpredictable weather conditions, and physically demanding tasks. To address these, employers typically provide protective gear, safety training, and guidelines for handling dangerous items. Teamwork and clear communication also play a key role in ensuring safety and efficiency while on route. Staying vigilant and following established protocols helps garbage pickers minimize risks and maintain a safer work environment.
What are popular job titles related to Garbage Picker jobs in Illinois? For Garbage Picker jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Picker jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Picker jobs in Illinois are:
Garbage Picker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Picker job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,130 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Class A CDL Driver - Waste Hauler

Feldkamps Towing

Urbana, IL • On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Feldkamps Towing is partnering with Tysons Disposal to offer Roll off dumpsters and residential garbage pick up. Due to our growth we are looking for 1 full time person to join this team. WE offer full benefits, including Life, Health, Vision, and Dental insurance. 401K and vacation.
Key responsibilities:
  • Operate a Class A Commercial vehicle on assigned residential and commercial waste collection routes.
  • Perform pre- and post-trip inspections on your vehicle to ensure it is in safe working condition.
  • Collect and transport solid waste, recyclables, and other materials to designated disposal or processing facilities.
  • Follow all traffic laws, DOT regulations, and company safety protocols.
  • Provide professional and courteous service to all customers.
  • Effectively communicate any service issues or vehicle problems to the dispatch team.

Qualifications:
  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License with an air brake endorsement.
  • Proven experience operating heavy-duty vehicles; waste collection experience is a plus.
  • Clean driving record.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasks and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.