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Garbage Route Driver Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections

Union CDL Driver

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$33.35/hr

Start time is 5:30 AM and ends when route is complete; generally 9-10 hours/day. Union rate of pay ... Ability to operate hydraulic lift (from inside the cab) to service 900+ garbage carts and dispose ...

COR Disposal and Recycling

Driver Supervisor

Portland, OR · On-site

$40 - $42/hr

... garbage truck. OUR VISION While we've seen incredible growth, we always prioritize people and ... Confirm the daily game plan (routes, assignments, truck/driver pairings) is set and communicated ...

Waste Connections of Canada

Union CDL Driver

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$33.35/hr

Start time is 5:30AM and ends when route is complete; generally 9-10 hours/day. Union rate of pay ... Ability to operate hydraulic lift (from inside the cab) to service 900+ garbage cartsand dispose of ...

Waste Connections Inc

Union CDL Driver

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$33.35/hr

Start time is 5:30AM and ends when route is complete; generally 9-10 hours/day. Union rate of pay ... Ability to operate hydraulic lift (from inside the cab) to service 900+ garbage cartsand dispose of ...

Waste Connections of Canada

Union CDL Driver

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$33.35/hr

Start time is 5:30AM and ends when route is complete; generally 9-10 hours/day. Union rate of pay ... Ability to operate hydraulic lift (from inside the cab) to service 900+ garbage cartsand dispose of ...

Waste Connections Inc

Union CDL Driver

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$33.35/hr

Start time is 5:30AM and ends when route is complete; generally 9-10 hours/day. Union rate of pay ... Ability to operate hydraulic lift (from inside the cab) to service 900+ garbage cartsand dispose of ...

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Garbage Route Driver information

See Portland, OR salary details

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How much do garbage route driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage route driver in Portland, OR is $20.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a garbage route driver?

Garbage Route Drivers are professionals responsible for collecting, transporting, and disposing of residential or commercial waste along designated routes. They operate garbage trucks, ensure timely pickup of waste, and often interact with customers to address service issues or concerns. Their role is essential for maintaining public health and cleanliness by ensuring that trash is properly removed and disposed of in accordance with safety and environmental regulations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a garbage route driver?

To thrive as a Garbage Route Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), physical stamina, and a good driving record. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, route navigation systems, and safety compliance protocols is essential. Dependability, attention to detail, and strong customer service skills help drivers maintain schedules and interact positively with the community. These abilities ensure efficient, safe waste collection and contribute to public health and environmental safety.

What challenges do garbage route drivers face?

Garbage Route Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating traffic congestion, inclement weather, and safely maneuvering large vehicles through narrow or crowded streets. They must also adhere to strict schedules while ensuring all collection points are serviced efficiently and safely. Additionally, physical demands like lifting heavy bins and handling hazardous materials require attention to safety protocols and personal protective equipment. These challenges are typically managed through thorough training, teamwork, and support from supervisors and dispatchers.

What is the difference between Garbage Route Driver vs Recycling Collection Driver?

AspectGarbage Route DriverRecycling Collection Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often preferredCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often preferred
Work EnvironmentResidential and commercial waste collectionResidential and commercial recycling pickup
Employer & IndustryWaste management companiesRecycling service providers

Both roles involve operating trucks to collect waste or recyclables, often requiring similar licenses and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in the type of material collected: garbage versus recyclables. While their duties overlap, recycling drivers focus on sorting and collecting recyclable materials, whereas garbage drivers handle general waste.

How much do garbage route drivers make?

Garbage route drivers in Florida typically earn between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company. Overtime, union benefits, and working conditions can also influence overall compensation.
Garbage Route Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Route Driver job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,908 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Union CDL Driver

Vancouver, WA • On-site

Waste Connections
See more jobs at Waste Connectionsexternal

$33.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 267 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 92 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Waste Connections is looking for a safety-minded Union CDL Recycle Route Driver to join our team in Vancouver, WA.
Shift is Monday-Friday, with occasional Saturdays as needed.
Start time is 5:30 AM and ends when route is complete; generally 9-10 hours/day.
Union rate of pay is $33.35/HR.
Safety Sensitive: Yes
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Ability to safely drive large, heavy vehicles in residential neighborhoods requiring high awareness of pedestrians, traffic, and tight spaces to collect recycle on specific routes.
  • Ability to read an electronic route tablet and service each customer identified on the route or assigned by the dispatcher.
  • Ability to operate hydraulic lift (from inside the cab) to service 900+ garbage carts and dispose of trash at designated facilities.
  • Perform routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking fluids, safety equipment, and tires.
  • Ability to perform a physically demanding job, loading and unloading, at times with no helpers.
  • Courteous interaction with our customers and perform other miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:
  • Extensive physical activity. Require strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds many times throughout an 8+ hour shift.
  • Work environment involves exposure to physical risks such as moving mechanical parts. This requires following basic safety precautions.
  • The employee is exposed to outside weather, including frequent wet conditions, as well as exposure to fumes and vibration. Noise level is usually moderate.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Valid Class B CDL with air brakes endorsement REQUIRED as a minimum.
  • Must have a CLEAN DRIVING RECORD.
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Basic knowledge of truck components in order to complete DOT pre- and post-trip inspections.
  • Employment contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment requirements Iincluding criminal background check, motor vehicle report and drug panel screening.

WHAT WE OFFER:
  • Yearly Boot Voucher of up to $450.00 a Year
  • Yearly Safety Bonus of up to $1,750
  • Company uniforms, High Visibility PPE gear and Safety gear.

Benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage through the applicable union benefit plan
  • Pension and/or retirement benefits as provided under the collective bargaining agreement
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Paid sick leave
  • Company-paid life insurance (if applicable)
  • Additional benefits available under the collective bargaining agreement

To be considered for any of our current openings you must complete an application at www.wasteconnections.com.
Application information and additional instructions can be found once you select your position of interest.
Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.
Washington State pay range is $26.65-$35.00/HR.

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