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Garbage Truck Operator information

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How much do garbage truck operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage truck operator 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 operator do?

A Garbage Truck Operator is responsible for collecting, transporting, and disposing of waste and recyclables from residential, commercial, or industrial locations. They drive specialized trucks along assigned routes, operate hydraulic lifts or compactors, and ensure waste is safely loaded and unloaded. Operators must follow safety regulations, perform basic truck maintenance, and interact courteously with the public. Their work helps keep communities clean and supports proper waste management procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a garbage truck operator?

To thrive as a Garbage Truck Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a good driving record, and physical fitness for handling heavy loads. Familiarity with hydraulic lift systems, GPS routing devices, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication with team members and the public are valuable soft skills. These skills ensure safe, efficient waste collection and contribute to public health and community cleanliness.

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

Garbage Truck Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight urban streets, working in varying weather conditions, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Managing these challenges requires strong situational awareness, effective communication with team members, and ongoing training in safe driving and lifting techniques. Many employers also provide regular safety briefings and support to ensure operators can handle unexpected obstacles and maintain efficiency throughout their routes.

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

AspectGarbage Truck OperatorWaste Collection Driver
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), safety trainingCommercial driver's license (CDL), safety training
Work EnvironmentOperating garbage trucks, urban or suburban routesDriving collection trucks, residential or commercial pickups
Industry UsageMunicipal waste management, private waste companiesMunicipal waste services, private waste collection

Both Garbage Truck Operators and Waste Collection Drivers require a CDL and safety training. They work in similar environments, operating trucks to collect waste in urban or suburban areas. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Garbage Truck Operator' emphasizes operating the vehicle, while 'Waste Collection Driver' highlights the driving aspect of waste collection services.

How much do garbage truck operators make?

Garbage truck operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and operate heavy-duty trucks in waste collection routes, sometimes working early mornings or weekends.

Is it hard to become a garbage truck operator?

Becoming a garbage truck operator typically requires a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), knowledge of safety procedures, and physical ability to handle the job. Training is usually provided on the job, and experience with driving large vehicles can be beneficial. The job involves working outdoors and following a set schedule, but it generally does not require extensive formal education.
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What are popular job titles related to Garbage Truck Operator jobs?

For Garbage Truck Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Garbage Truck Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Truck Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $40,460 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Class B Swing Garbage Truck Driver

Danbury, CT • On-site

Interstate Waste Services
Environmental Consulting Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Interstate Waste Servicesexternal

$25 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Interstate Waste Services rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Interstate Waste Services is Now Hiring CDL B SWING Garbage Truck Drivers in Danbury, CT!

Safety is our first Priority!

 $25.00 to $32.00 / Hour

 1 year experience driving multiple different Garbage Trucks is REQUIRED

Must be able to drive a Manual Transmission

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In order to be considered, include a resume or list job history when applying.

Highlights:

  • Monday thru Friday with occasional Saturday hours
  • Early start time - 4am or 5am
  • Hourly pay - $25.00 -$32.00
  • Year Round-Steady work
  • Full Benefits packet with Paid Time Off
  • 1 Year verifiable CDL driving experience within the last 7 years required

Interstate Waste Services is the most progressive and innovative provider of solid waste and recycling services in the greater New York, New Jersey and Connecticut markets with a rail-served landfill in Ohio.  IWS is committed to delivering high-quality waste, recycling and environmental services, while prioritizing the safety of our employees, customers and communities. We cater to a diverse range of industrial, medical and commercial/residential customers. 

Founded in 1998, IWS has grown over the years through acquisitions, many of which were family-owned businesses that remain a part of our team today. We’re proud to combine the resources of a large company with the values and care of a family-run business. 


Job Highlights:

  • Drivers are Responsible for Safely Operating Front, Side, or Rear-Loading Trucks, for the Pick-Up Service of Bags or Containers Filled with Waste or Recyclable Material.  Drivers transport the material to a disposal, transfer or recycle facility, and may make one or more trips throughout the shift
  • Drivers Transport the Material to a Disposal, Transfer or Recycling Facility, & May Make One or More Trips Throughout the Shift
  • We Deploy Both Manual & Automatic Trucks
  • The Driver Position May Be Required to Repeatedly Lift up to 50 Pounds, & Move & Maneuver up to 100 Pounds, As Well As Mount & Dismount the Truck Multiple Times Every Route

Requirements:

  • 21 Years of Age & Legally Eligible to Work in the United States
  • Valid Class A or B CDL
  • Airbrake Endorsement
  • 1-year CDL driving experience in the last 7 years.
  • Great Safety Record and Clean MVR
  • Experience as a Driver or Helper for a Refuge Company is Highly Preferred
  • Working Knowledge of DOT, OSHA & Applicable Traffic Regulations
  • Ability to Speak & Read English to Converse with the General Public, understand Highway Traffic & Signals, Respond to Official Questions & Make Legible Entries on Reports & Records
  • Read & Understand a Map
  • Meet Physical & Safety Requirements of the Position.
  • Willing & Able to Work Required Worked Hours as Allowed Under DOT Regulation & May Include Weekend, Night &/Or Holiday Work

Additional Job Requirements:

  • Routes may require Drivers to navigate through congested communities and confined or tight areas in city locations.
  • Highly skilled backing maneuvers are essential to successfully perform this job.
  • Our drivers routinely climb in and out of the truck cab to service customer accounts.
  • Driver pre and post inspections required. Drivers are responsible for ensuring their truck is in compliance with IWS’s safety standards as well as OSHA and DOT regulations, and local traffic laws, prior to and while operating the vehicle.

IWS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.


USD $25.00/Hr.
USD $32.00/Hr.

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