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Garbage Truck Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections

Garbage Truck Driver

Austin, TX · On-site

Waste Connections is looking to hire a Local Garbage Truck Driver at our site in Austin, TX. The position will be responsible for driving a Residential Garbage Truck with another driver on specified ...

Waste Pro

Garbage Truck Driver

Rockledge, FL · On-site

Waste Pro has immediate Openings for Energetic CDL Drivers! Everyday thousands of Waste Pro trucks ... Collects and dumps garbage and refuse into refuse trucks while covering a designated route in a ...

Waste Connections

Garbage Driver

Edinburg, TX · On-site

Waste Connections is looking to hire a Local Garbage Truck Driver at our site in Edinburg, TX. The position will be responsible for driving a Residential Garbage Truck with another driver on ...

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How much do garbage truck driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage truck driver in the United States is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Garbage Truck Driver Do?

As a garbage truck driver, your job is to drive a large vehicle and collect trash, recycling, or yard waste from cans and dumpsters on a set route. You then take the load to a landfill or recycling center. Most drivers operate a front-end loader truck that lifts the waste into a container behind the vehicle, though other collection vehicles exist. Aside from driving through your route, you may need to perform a daily pre-trip inspection of your vehicle, do preventative maintenance, regularly clean the inside and outside of the vehicle, and maintain a log of your activities. On some routes, you may need to carry garbage out by hand, assist disabled residents, or report unusual sanitation problems so the city can dispatch someone to deal with it.

What company in Texas is paying truckers $14000 a week?

There are no widely reported or verified companies offering garbage truck drivers or similar truckers $14,000 a week. Such high earnings are uncommon in the waste management industry and may be associated with specialized or owner-operator roles that require significant experience, equipment, or contractual arrangements. Job seekers should verify offers and consider industry standards for compensation and safety requirements.

Is it hard to be a garbage truck driver?

Being a garbage truck driver involves operating large vehicles, often early in the morning or late at night, and requires physical stamina and attention to safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and may involve exposure to unpleasant odors and waste, but it generally follows a structured schedule and may require a commercial driver's license (CDL).

What does a Garbage Truck Driver do?

A Garbage Truck Driver is responsible for operating a garbage truck to collect waste and recyclables from residential, commercial, or industrial locations. They follow assigned routes, ensure proper and safe collection of materials, and may assist with loading waste into the truck. Additionally, they inspect their vehicles for safety, maintain records of pickups, and follow local regulations regarding waste disposal.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Garbage Truck Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Garbage Truck Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), good driving record, and knowledge of local routes and safety regulations. Familiarity with hydraulic truck systems, GPS navigation, and vehicle inspection tools is typically required. Reliability, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help ensure timely collection and safe interaction with the public. These skills are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction in waste management operations.

Can a truck driver make $5000 a week?

Garbage truck drivers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with weekly earnings around $600 to $1,200 for full-time work. Making $5,000 a week is uncommon in this role and would generally require additional overtime, bonuses, or working in specialized or high-demand areas. Most drivers do not reach that level of weekly income solely through standard hourly wages.

What is the difference between Garbage Truck Driver vs Waste Collection Operator?

AspectGarbage Truck DriverWaste Collection Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)CDL often preferred, may vary by employer
Work EnvironmentDriving and operating garbage trucks in urban or suburban areasCollecting waste from residential or commercial locations
Industry UsageMunicipal waste management, private waste companiesMunicipal and private waste collection services

Garbage Truck Drivers and Waste Collection Operators both work in waste management, often requiring a CDL and operating in similar environments. The main difference is that Garbage Truck Drivers focus on operating trucks and ensuring safe transportation, while Waste Collection Operators may be more involved in the physical collection process. Both roles are essential in waste collection services and share overlapping skills and certifications.

What do garbage truck drivers get paid?

Garbage truck drivers typically earn an average annual salary between $35,000 and $55,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Many drivers work full-time, often with overtime opportunities, and may need a commercial driver's license (CDL) to operate the vehicles.

What are some common challenges faced by garbage truck drivers, and how can they be managed?

Garbage truck drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating tight residential streets, handling early morning schedules, and dealing with unpredictable weather conditions. Effective route planning and strong communication with dispatch and crew members are key to overcoming these obstacles. Regular safety training and adherence to local regulations also help drivers manage risks and maintain efficiency in their daily routes.
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Garbage Truck Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Truck Driver job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $40,460 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Garbage Truck Driver

Garbage Truck Driver

AAA Carting & Rubbish Removal Inc

Cortlandt Manor, NY • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Garbage truck driver needed for 5 day a week commercial routes.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off

Schedule:

  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

Experience:

  • Commercial driving: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Required)
  • Air Brake Endorsement (Required)
  • CDL B (Required)

Work Location: One location