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Garbage Truck Driver Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

Residential Garbage 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 Connections

Residential Garbage 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 Connections

Residential Garbage 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 Connections

Garbage Driver

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

Waste Connections is looking for a Rear Load Garbage Truck Driver at our site in Corpus Christi, TX. The position will be responsible for driving a Garbage Truck servicing our customers on specified ...

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Garbage Truck Driver Trainee information

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$28

How much do garbage truck driver trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage truck driver trainee 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 trainee do?

A Garbage Truck Driver Trainee assists with the collection and disposal of waste and recyclables by learning to operate garbage trucks under the supervision of an experienced driver. Their duties typically include riding along collection routes, helping load refuse into the truck, and learning safety protocols and equipment operation. Over time, the trainee receives hands-on training in driving the garbage truck and handling its machinery, with the goal of becoming a fully qualified garbage truck driver.

What can I expect during the training period as a garbage truck driver trainee?

As a Garbage Truck Driver Trainee, you can expect a hands-on training period where you'll learn both the technical and safety aspects of operating refuse collection vehicles. You'll typically be paired with an experienced driver who will guide you through routes, proper loading and unloading procedures, and essential maintenance checks. The training also emphasizes safe driving practices and adherence to company protocols for waste handling. Throughout the program, you'll gradually take on more responsibility until you are fully prepared to operate a truck independently. This supportive environment helps build your confidence and skills before transitioning to a full driver role.

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

AspectGarbage Truck Driver TraineeWaste Management Operator
Required CertificationsDriver's license, CDL trainingOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentDriving and operating garbage trucks, outdoorLoading, sorting, and managing waste, outdoor
Industry UsageEntry-level training for waste collectionHandling waste processing and disposal

The Garbage Truck Driver Trainee is primarily focused on learning to operate trucks and perform collection routes, often requiring a CDL. Waste Management Operator roles involve more hands-on waste processing and disposal tasks. Both roles are essential in waste management, but the trainee position is an entry point into truck operation, while the operator handles broader waste management functions.

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

To excel as a Garbage Truck Driver Trainee, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver's license (often a commercial driver's license permit), and basic knowledge of safety regulations. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, GPS routing tools, and vehicle inspection checklists is typically required. Strong work ethic, dependability, and good communication skills help trainees adapt quickly and work effectively in a team. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient waste collection and maintaining public health and environmental standards.

How hard is it to become a garbage truck driver trainee?

Becoming a garbage truck driver trainee typically requires a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) or training to obtain one. The process involves on-the-job training to learn safe driving, equipment operation, and route management, which can vary in duration but generally takes a few weeks to months. Physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are also important.

What cities are hiring for Garbage Truck Driver Trainee jobs?

Cities with the most Garbage Truck Driver Trainee job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Garbage Truck Driver jobs?

The most popular types of Garbage Truck Driver jobs are:

What states have the most Garbage Truck Driver Trainee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Garbage Truck Driver Trainee jobs include:

Garbage Truck Driver Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Truck Driver Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,460 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Garbage Truck Driver

AAA Carting & Rubbish Removal, Inc.

Cortlandt Manor, NY

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 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

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