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Garbage Truck Helper Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections Inc

Local CDL Route Driver

Ontario, CA · On-site

$23.50/hr

You will be cross trained in Automated Side Load Garbage Trucks, Front Load Garbage Trucks, and ... with no helpers. * Operateshydraulic hand controlsto lift/load refuse, operate compactor and ...

Sprouts Farmers Market

Dairy Clerk

Tustin, CA

$17.15 - $22.30/hr

... garbage disposals, pallet jacks, and hand trucks * Uses knowledge of scales and weight measures to ... Benefits In addition to a rewarding career, Sprouts offers a comprehensive program to help support ...

Sprouts Farmers Market

Dairy Clerk

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$17.15 - $22.30/hr

... garbage disposals, pallet jacks, and hand trucks * Uses knowledge of scales and weight measures to ... Benefits In addition to a rewarding career, Sprouts offers a comprehensive program to help support ...

Sprouts Farmers Market

Dairy Clerk

Tustin, CA · On-site

$17.15 - $22.30/hr

... garbage disposals, pallet jacks, and hand trucks * Uses knowledge of scales and weight measures to ... Benefits In addition to a rewarding career, Sprouts offers a comprehensive program to help support ...

Sprouts Farmers Market

Dairy Clerk

Tustin, CA · On-site

$17.15 - $22.30/hr

... garbage disposals, pallet jacks, and hand trucks * Uses knowledge of scales and weight measures to ... Benefits In addition to a rewarding career, Sprouts offers a comprehensive program to help support ...

Sprouts Farmers Market

Dairy Clerk

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$17.15 - $22.30/hr

... garbage disposals, pallet jacks, and hand trucks * Uses knowledge of scales and weight measures to ... Benefits In addition to a rewarding career, Sprouts offers a comprehensive program to help support ...

Sprouts Farmers Market

Dairy Clerk

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$17.15 - $22.30/hr

... garbage disposals, pallet jacks, and hand trucks * Uses knowledge of scales and weight measures to ... Benefits In addition to a rewarding career, Sprouts offers a comprehensive program to help support ...

Sprouts Farmers Market

Dairy Clerk

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$17.15 - $22.30/hr

... garbage disposals, pallet jacks, and hand trucks * Uses knowledge of scales and weight measures to ... Benefits In addition to a rewarding career, Sprouts offers a comprehensive program to help support ...

Sprouts Farmers Market

Dairy Clerk

Tustin, CA · On-site

$17.15 - $22.30/hr

... garbage disposals, pallet jacks, and hand trucks * Uses knowledge of scales and weight measures to ... Benefits In addition to a rewarding career, Sprouts offers a comprehensive program to help support ...

WinCo Foods

Produce Clerk

Pomona, CA · On-site

$17.15 - $29.90/hr

... refunds, help in locating items throughout the store and willingly taking them to the item ... garbage disposals, hand trucks, pallet jacks, fork lift and ladder For minors hired, hours may ...

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All JobsGarbage Truck Helper JobsGarbage Truck Helper Jobs in Riverside, CA

Garbage Truck Helper information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$20

$30

How much do garbage truck helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage truck helper in Riverside, CA is $20.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Garbage Truck Helper, you need physical stamina, reliability, and an understanding of basic safety protocols, often requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hydraulic lift systems, basic hand tools, and sometimes experience with route management software is helpful. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly with drivers and the public are valuable soft skills. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and timely waste collection, which is crucial for public health and sanitation.

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

AspectGarbage Truck HelperWaste Collection Driver
CredentialsNone required, physical ability importantDriver's license typically required
Work EnvironmentAssist with loading and collection on trucksOperate vehicle and collect waste from routes
Employer & IndustrySanitation companies, waste managementSanitation companies, waste management

The main difference is that a Garbage Truck Helper assists with waste collection tasks without driving, while a Waste Collection Driver operates the truck and manages the route. Both roles are essential in waste management, but the Driver role requires a valid driver's license and more responsibility for vehicle operation.

What does a garbage truck helper do?

A garbage truck helper assists a driver with the collection of trash. Your duties vary depending on the procedures of your employer and the type of waste that you collect. A garbage truck helper can help the driver navigate to each site and record each pick-up. You also exit the truck and manually empty garbage cans or connect them to a mechanical arm that performs the emptying. As a helper, you may help recycle material by separating it from the trash. Your duties include assisting with emptying the truck at a landfill or waste processing facility.

What is a garbage truck helper?

Garbage Truck Helpers, also known as refuse collectors or sanitation workers, assist with the collection and disposal of waste and recyclables. They typically ride on the back of garbage trucks, collect trash from homes, businesses, or public spaces, and load it into the truck for transport to disposal sites. Their duties may include sorting recyclables, ensuring safety during collection, and helping to maintain the cleanliness of vehicles and equipment. This job requires physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

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

Garbage Truck Helpers often work early mornings and in various weather conditions, which can be physically demanding. Managing these challenges involves wearing proper protective gear, staying hydrated, and maintaining good physical fitness. Additionally, safety is a top priority, so helpers must be attentive when working around moving vehicles and heavy equipment. Teamwork is essential, as helpers regularly coordinate with drivers to ensure efficient and safe collection routes.
More about Garbage Truck Helper jobs
What job categories do people searching Garbage Truck Helper jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Truck Helper jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Garbage Truck Helper jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Garbage Truck Helper job openings:
Garbage Truck Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Truck Helper job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,210 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Local CDL Route Driver

Waste Connections of Canada

Ontario, CA

$23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Ontario Sanitary Service,a Waste Connections company, is looking for a safety-consciousLocal CDL Garbage Truck Driverto join our team inPayette, ID!

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  • Monday - Friday, 5:00am-Ending when the route is complete (generally 8-11 hour days)
  • Occasional Saturdays
  • Year-Round Work! No Seasonal Layoffs. Home Every Night.

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Competitive Compensation: $23.50+/hour (DOE)

  • Yearly Safety Bonuses $$
  • Yearly Boot Allowance $$
  • Generous Paid Time Off
  • Growth opportunities - We pride ourselves on promoting from within
  • Customizable benefits to meet your family's needs (medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, supplemental voluntary plans, wellness programs, and online discounts)
  • 401K retirement with company match
  • Company Paid Life Insurance

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As a driver you will be operating an Automated truck collecting solid waste and transporting it to appropriate disposal sites. This Position requires you to work independently, in addition Drivers are expected to deliver excellence incustomer serviceat all times. You will be cross trained in Automated Side Load Garbage Trucks, Front Load Garbage Trucks, and Roll Off Trucks.

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DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste.
  • Ability to read route sheets and service each customer identified on the sheet or assigned by the dispatcher.
  • 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, moving waste bins to positions accessible by truck, and closing all enclosure gates as necessary, at times with no helpers.
  • Operateshydraulic hand controlsto lift/load refuse, operate compactor and dispose of collected material at the designated facility.
  • Cleans up the area around accidental waste spills.
  • Completes daily reports on pre and post trip inspections of equipment;
  • Fuels vehicle daily
  • Maintains the physical appearance of the equipment, including routine washing
  • Monitors over and under filled carts/containers to assess changing service requirements;
  • Monitors the condition and repair needs of existing carts/containers;
  • Follows all safety policies and procedures.
  • Courteous interaction with our customers and perform other miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

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WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:

  • Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds.
  • Ability to mount and dismount the truck multiple times every day while on route.
  • Work environment involves some exposure to physical risks such as moving mechanical parts which require following basic safety precautions.
  • The employee is exposed to outside weather, including frequent wet and/or humid conditions, as well as exposure to fumes and vibration. Noise level is usually moderate.

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Job Requirements:

  • Valid Class A or B CDL license withAir Brake Endorsement(Required
  • Clean Driving Record (MVR)
  • Pass Criminal Background Check, Drug panel Screening
  • Perform routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles
  • Minimum 1 year of experience related to the specified duties and responsibilities
  • Working knowledge of D.O.T. laws
  • Ability to work a physically demanding job
  • Ability to read, write, and comprehend reports to complete daily assignments in English

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CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

Candidates for employment must meet position requirements and successfully pass post offer employment examinations including:

Background Check

MVR Check (Clean Driving Record)

Drug screen

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To be considered for any of our current openings you must complete an application atwww.wasteconnections.com.Application information and additional instructions can be found once you select your position of interest.

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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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