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Garbage Waste Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Residential Driver

Sterling Heights, MI · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Job Purpose In your role as a Residential Truck Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a garbage truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling debris ...

Residential Driver

Sterling Heights, MI · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

Job Purpose In your role as a Residential Truck Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a garbage truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling debris ...

Job Purpose In your role as a Residential Truck Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a garbage truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling debris ...

$27 - $28/hr

Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. Waste experience preferred, but not required. Ability to read route sheets and service each customer identified ...

$27 - $28/hr

Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. Waste experience preferred, but not required. Ability to read route sheets and service each customer identified ...

Lead Technician

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$41K - $53K/yr

... waste management operations. This role is critical in ensuring that all fleet vehicles, including garbage trucks and roll-offs are in optimal working condition to ensure efficiency and safety in ...

Lead Mechanic

Hamtramck, MI · On-site

$26.25 - $34.75/hr

... waste management operations. This role is critical in ensuring that all fleet vehicles, including garbage trucks and roll-offs are in optimal working condition to ensure efficiency and safety in ...

Lead Technician

Romulus, MI · On-site

$42K - $54K/yr

... waste management operations. This role is critical in ensuring that all fleet vehicles, including garbage trucks and roll-offs are in optimal working condition to ensure efficiency and safety in ...

$27 - $28/hr

Ability to safely operate a garbage truck on specified routes to collect solid waste. Waste experience preferred, but not required. Ability to read route sheets and service each customer identified ...

Showing results 21-40

Garbage Waste information

See Michigan salary details

$9.6K

$63.5K

$98.1K

How much do garbage waste jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for garbage waste in Michigan is $63,532.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,100.00 and $81,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by garbage waste collectors, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Garbage waste collectors often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling heavy or hazardous materials, and adhering to strict safety protocols. It's important for applicants to be physically fit, attentive to safety guidelines, and comfortable working early mornings or during holidays. Teamwork is essential, as collectors coordinate closely with drivers and fellow crew members to complete routes efficiently. Building good communication skills and a strong work ethic will help new employees adapt and succeed in this role.

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

To thrive as a Waste Collector, you need physical stamina, attention to safety, and a valid driver's license, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, basic mechanical knowledge, and safety equipment are commonly required. Dependability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are standout soft skills in this field. These skills are crucial to ensure efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible waste management in communities.

What does a garbage waste collector do?

A garbage waste collector is responsible for picking up, transporting, and disposing of residential, commercial, and industrial waste and recyclables. They operate garbage trucks along designated routes, ensure proper handling of waste materials, and sometimes sort recyclable items. The role is essential for maintaining public health and cleanliness in communities by ensuring waste is managed safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Garbage Waste vs Recycling Technician?

AspectGarbage WasteRecycling Technician
CertificationsNone required or basic waste management certificationsRecycling certifications or environmental training often preferred
Work EnvironmentWaste collection sites, landfills, residential/commercial routesRecycling centers, collection routes, sorting facilities
Industry UsageMunicipal waste collection, waste management companiesRecycling programs, environmental services

Garbage Waste workers focus on collecting and disposing of general waste, often working at landfills or residential routes. Recycling Technicians handle sorting and processing recyclable materials, often requiring specialized environmental knowledge. Both roles are essential in waste management but differ in their focus and certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Garbage Waste jobs in Michigan? For Garbage Waste jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Garbage Waste jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Garbage Waste job openings:
Infographic showing various Garbage Waste job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,532 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Residential Refuse Specialist

Priority Waste

Saginaw, MI • On-site

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago


Priority Waste rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Company Summary
Priority, headquartered in Clinton Township, MI, is a pioneering technology company transforming the logistics industry with our innovative solutions & commitment to exceptional customer service. We are seeking Team Players who excel in a collaborative environment, embrace change, & understand the impact their quality of work has on others. Our company has experienced rapid growth since its founding in 2018. This growth has allowed us to continually expand our workforce. Priority operates out of several facilities across 3 states. Priority maintains a diversified business model providing service to both municipal solid-waste, construction & demolition customers. Our biggest priority is providing outstanding customer service & revolutionizing the industry through the use of the latest technology.
Job Purpose
In your role as a Residential Truck Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a garbage truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling debris from customers.
Duties and Responsibilities
Duties include but are not limited to:
  • Performs pre and post trip inspections of truck
  • Operates truck in accordance with OSHA and DOT requirements as well as all local, municipal, state, and federal laws
  • Mounts and dismounts a heavy-duty truck many times each day
  • Completes assigned residential route daily, leaving the customers location free of debris
  • Professionally communicates with customers as needed
  • Notifies Route Manager/Dispatch of any accidents, injuries, property damage, or any other incidents
  • Notifies Route Manager/Dispatch of any service interruptions such as closed lots, blocked containers, safety hazards etc
  • Identifies and reports all containers in need of repair/replacement
  • Attends training programs, briefings, and meetings as required
  • Communicates customer requests to Route Manager/Dispatch
  • Immediately communicates mechanical problems to Mechanic and Supervisor
  • Maintains cleanliness of vehicle
  • Maintains professional appearance

What Priority Waste employees say

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