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Garbage Truck Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections

Residential Garbage Driver

Austin, TX · On-site

This job is extremely physical taking turns working on the back of the garbage truck. You will be on a driver/driver team for 6-12 months before having the opportunity to get promoted in to our other ...

Waste Pro

Garbage Truck Driver

Rockledge, FL · On-site

It takes professional, experienced, hardworking and dedicated people, working together, to ... 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

This job is extremely physical taking turns working on the back of the garbage truck. You will be on a driver/driver team for 6-12 months before having the opportunity to get promoted in to our other ...

Waste Connections

Garbage Driver

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

... a Garbage Truck servicing our customers on specified routes to collect solid waste and transport it to appropriate disposal sites. This is a very physical job working outside in all weather ...

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Garbage Truck Worker information

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How much do garbage truck worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage truck worker 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 is a garbage truck worker?

Garbage truck workers, also known as sanitation workers or refuse collectors, are responsible for collecting trash, recyclables, and sometimes yard waste from homes, businesses, and public areas. They operate or assist with garbage trucks, ensuring waste is properly loaded, transported, and disposed of at designated facilities. These workers play a vital role in maintaining public health and cleanliness by efficiently managing waste removal services in communities.

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

To thrive as a Garbage Truck Worker, you need physical stamina, attention to safety, and a clean driving record, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection equipment, hydraulic systems, and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) are typically required. Dependability, teamwork, and strong communication help workers excel in this physically demanding and fast-paced environment. These skills are vital for ensuring efficient, safe, and timely waste collection services in the community.

What are some common challenges faced by garbage truck workers, and how are they addressed on the job?

Garbage truck workers often encounter physical challenges such as lifting heavy loads, working in various weather conditions, and maintaining safety around moving vehicles and equipment. To address these challenges, workers receive safety training, use protective gear, and follow established protocols to minimize injury. Additionally, many teams emphasize communication and teamwork to ensure efficient routes and safe waste collection, making the work environment supportive and collaborative.

What is the difference between Garbage Truck Worker vs Waste Management Technician?

AspectGarbage Truck WorkerWaste Management Technician
CredentialsDriver's license, CDL often preferredEnvironmental certifications may be required
Work EnvironmentOn-road, outdoor, physically demandingIndoor/outdoor, technical and maintenance tasks
Industry UsageSanitation, waste collection companiesEnvironmental services, waste management firms

While both roles involve waste handling, Garbage Truck Workers primarily operate collection trucks on routes, focusing on physical collection. Waste Management Technicians often perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and environmental compliance tasks. The roles overlap in industry and credentials but differ in daily duties and work environment.

How much do garbage truck workers make?

Garbage truck workers, also known as waste collectors or sanitation workers, typically earn an average annual salary between $30,000 and $50,000, depending on experience, location, and union membership. Many work full-time hours, often with early morning shifts, and may require physical strength and knowledge of safety procedures.

How to be a garbage truck worker?

To become a garbage truck worker, you typically need a valid driver's license, often a commercial driver's license (CDL), and a clean driving record. The job involves operating garbage collection trucks, often early morning shifts, and may require physical strength and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Some employers provide on-the-job training for specific equipment and safety procedures.
More about Garbage Truck Worker jobs

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Cities with the most Garbage Truck Worker job openings:

What states have the most Garbage Truck Worker jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Garbage Truck Worker jobs?

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

Garbage Truck Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Truck Worker 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.

Garbage Truck Helper

Milledgeville, GA

Ryland Environmental Inc
See more jobs at Ryland Environmental Incexternal

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Garbage Truck HelperLocation: Milledgeville, GA 31061Job Summary

We are seeking a reliable and hardworking Garbage Truck Helper to join our waste management team in Milledgeville, GA. The ideal candidate will assist the driver in collecting residential and commercial waste, ensuring timely and efficient service while maintaining safety standards.

Key Responsibilities
  • Assist the garbage truck driver in collecting trash, recyclables, and other waste materials from designated routes.
  • Load and unload waste containers safely and efficiently.
  • Ensure proper handling and disposal of waste materials according to company policies and local regulations.
  • Maintain cleanliness and upkeep of the garbage truck and equipment.
  • Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to ensure smooth operations.
  • Follow all safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries on the job.
  • Report any equipment malfunctions or safety hazards to the supervisor promptly.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Ability to perform physical labor, including lifting heavy objects and working outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Strong work ethic and reliability.
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.
  • Valid driver’s license is a plus but not required.
  • Previous experience in waste collection or a similar role is beneficial but not mandatory.
Work Environment

This position involves working outdoors in all weather conditions and requires physical stamina. The role includes frequent lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods.

How to Apply

If you are interested in joining our team as a Garbage Truck Helper in Milledgeville, GA, please submit your application and resume to our hiring department.

Apply