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Garbage Truck Driver Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections

CDL Driver

Lower Lake, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

... Driver to support local routes in Lower Lake, CA ! Schedule is Monday - Friday, 4AM start time ... Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect waste or recycle items.

FA-Facilities

Truck Driver

Bodega Bay, CA

$33.02 - $48.05/hr

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Truck Driver within the Facilities division.Working under the general direction of the Transportation Logistics Supervisor, you will perform on- and ...

SBI Materials - Windsor

Truck Driver

Windsor, CA · On-site

$21.59 - $27.45/hr

The CDL Class A Driver is responsible for safely operating commercial vehicles to deliver products to customer locations or job sites, ensuring timely and accurate deliveries while following all DOT ...

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All JobsGarbage Truck Driver JobsGarbage Truck Driver Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Garbage Truck Driver information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$13

$21

$31

How much do garbage truck driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage truck driver in Santa Rosa, CA is $21.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $25.24 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 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 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.

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.

Is it hard to become a garbage truck driver?

Becoming a garbage truck driver typically requires a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and sometimes additional training or certification. The job involves operating large vehicles, working outdoors, and following safety protocols, which can require physical stamina and attention to detail.
More about Garbage Truck Driver jobs

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For Garbage Truck Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Garbage Truck Driver jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Garbage Truck Driver job openings:

Garbage Truck Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Truck Driver job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, and 94% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,236 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Commercial and Residential Driver

Sonoma Garbage Collectors

Sonoma, CA

$28 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Department: Operations
Location: Sonoma, CA
Reports To: Operations Manager
About Sonoma Garbage Collectors: Sonoma Garbage Collectors (SGC), a third generation expanding leader in waste and recycling services throughout Sonoma County since 1954. At SGC, we pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence in every facet of our operations, from hauling to handling. Serving Sonoma Valley since 1954, we are known for our exceptional customer service, outstanding safety record, and innovative use of technology—including truck-mounted camera systems and high-speed, efficient waste processing solutions. Join us in our mission to redefine industry standards and make a tangible impact on our community and environment.Job Summary:Residential and Commercial Driver is responsible for operating heavy trash trucks (front load or rear load) to collect and transport waste safely and efficiently. Emphasizing safety and customer service, the driver will ensure compliance with all regulatory and company standards while maintaining a professional and courteous relationship with customers.
Key Responsibilities:
  • 1. Operate heavy trash trucks (front load) to collect and transport waste as scheduled.
  • 2. Ensure the safety of operations, adhering to all traffic and waste management laws.
  • 3. Perform pre- and post-trip inspection of vehicles, noting any necessary repairs or maintenance.
  • 4. Maintain accurate records of routes, deliveries, and disposal activities.
  • 5. Provide exceptional customer service, addressing and resolving customer concerns on the route.
  • 6. Adhere to all safety policies and procedures, participating in safety trainings as required.
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to sit for extended periods while driving.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical tasks such as pulling, pushing, bending, and lifting.
  • Ability to operate equipment under varying weather conditions.
Required Qualifications:·
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent.·
  • Experience: Previous experience in commercial driving preferred.·
  • Skills: Excellent driving skills and familiarity with local streets and routes.·
  • Licenses/Certifications: Valid Class-B CDL and Medical Card required. Must have a clean driving record for the past 5 years.
Employment Type: Full-Time Hourly
Work Hours: Typical work hours may vary, including early mornings, late evenings, and weekends as required by route schedules.
We Pay 100% of Employee Medical and Dental Insurance.
SEP Retirement
Vacation Time
Sick Leave
Bonus
Equal Opportunity Statement: Sonoma Garbage Collectors is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions at Sonoma Garbage Collectors are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex, age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Sonoma Garbage Collectors will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.
Disclaimer: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $28.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 – 50 per week
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Overtime
  • Weekends as needed
Ability to Relocate:
  • Sonoma, CA 95476: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person