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Garbage Truck Driver Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections

Residential Garbage Truck Driver

Alvin, TX · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

  • Retirement

We are looking for Front Load Garbage truck Driver to join the team at our location in Alvin, TX The ideal driver will have a self-motivated, go getting attitude, that is looking to excel and grow ...

Waste Connections of Canada

Rear Load Garbage Truck

Orlando, FL · On-site

$26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We are looking for Commercial Drivers (Garbage Truck Drivers) to join the team at our location in Altamonte Springs, FL. $22-$26/hr. depending on experience. Working 55-60 hour weeks. POSITION ...

Waste Pro

Grapple Garbage Truck Driver

Orlando, FL · On-site

The Grapple Driver Operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick ... Collects and dumps garbage and refuse into refuse trucks while covering a designated route in a ...

New

DC DISPOSAL LLC

GARBAGE TRUCK DRIVER

Winfield, MO · On-site

$1.0K - $1.3K/wk

  • PTO

Must have a clean MVR no accident's Class B CDL with Air Brakes We have competitive pay Free Trash service for drivers Vacation & Sick Pay Driver will run a set route Monday-Friday Saturday and ...

Waste Connections Inc

Garbage Driver

Corpus Christi, TX

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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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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.

Residential Garbage Truck Driver

Waste Connections

Alvin, TX • On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 264 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 90 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Waste Connections is looking for individuals who have a passion for driving, career growth and share our #1 value: SAFETY!We are looking for Front Load Garbage truck Driver to join the team at our location in Alvin, TX
The ideal driver will have a self-motivated, go getting attitude, that is looking to excel and grow with our GROWING company!
Click here to view A Day in the Life of a Waste Connections Driver - YouTube
💰 What We Offer:
  • Competitive Compensations
  • Safety Bonuses - Get rewarded for your safe habits
  • Yearly Boot Stipend - Get your boots covered
  • Benefits Plans - Keep yourself healthy
  • Matching 401(K) - Connect to your future
  • $24 - 26/hour based on experience

️
🛠️ Job Duties:
We provide trash and disposal services to the local community. You, a vital piece of the team, would be responsible for safely operating a CDL Truck while providing the best service in the industry.
  • Safely driving a Commercial CDL Truck into a variety of environments (Residential, Construction, Commercial, etc.).
  • Cautiously operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load Dumpster on/off truck.
  • Secure the Dumpster Load, cover appropriately and account for weight shift before departing.
  • Ability to read route sheets and service each customer identified on the sheet or assigned by the dispatcher.
  • Perform daily pre and post trip inspections.
  • Interact courteously with your customers.
  • Other miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT: Trash is heavy! Sometimes we have machines aid our efforts. Other times we do not. And this is a service provided year-round - Rain, snow or shine. Hot or cold. Be prepared to work in all environments, around heavy diesel equipment. Not to mention dirty ones. Plan for the following labor:
  • Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work with consistent walking; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 75 pounds. Exiting/exiting high set truck. Walking. Moderate noise level.
  • Work environment involves some exposure to physical risks such as moving mechanical parts. Which require following basic safety precautions.
  • Exposure to outside weather, including frequent wet and/or humid conditions, as well as exposure to fumes and vibration.

At the end of the day, we go home knowing we leave a smiling customer!
✅ Requirements:
  • Must be at least 21 years of age with a satisfactory driving record.
  • Class A or B CDL
  • Ability to work Monday - any day of the week starting as early as midnight.
  • Physically comfortable with demands of the job

Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.

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