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Garbage Waste Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

$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

Romulus, MI

$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 ...

Lead Mechanic

Hamtramck, MI

$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

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 ...

Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specific routes, often done manually or by pushing the tote to the tipper * Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items ...

Loader

Port Huron, MI · On-site

$20.85/hr

Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specific routes, often done manually or by pushing the tote to the tipper * Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items ...

Loader

Port Huron, MI · On-site

$20.85/hr

Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specific routes, often done manually or by pushing the tote to the tipper * Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items ...

Loader

Port Huron, MI · On-site

$20.85/hr

Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specific routes, often done manually or by pushing the tote to the tipper. * Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items ...

Loader

Bad Axe, MI · On-site

$20.85/hr

Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specific routes, often done manually or by pushing the tote to the tipper * Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items ...

Loader

Bad Axe, MI · On-site

$20.85/hr

Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specific routes, often done manually or by pushing the tote to the tipper * Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items ...

Loader

Bad Axe, MI · On-site

$20.85/hr

Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specific routes, often done manually or by pushing the tote to the tipper * Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items ...

Loader

Bad Axe, MI · On-site

$20.85/hr

Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specific routes, often done manually or by pushing the tote to the tipper * Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items ...

Showing results 41-60

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 22, 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 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 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 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 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, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,532 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Lead Technician

Priority Waste

Romulus, MI • On-site

$42K - $54K/yr

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago


Priority Waste rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 91 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
The Lead Technician is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair, and operation of all vehicles used in 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 daily operations. The Lead Technician will lead a team of mechanics and technicians overseeing preventive maintenance programs and coordinating repairs as needed.
Duties and Responsibilities
Duties include but are not limited to:
  • Supervise and manage the maintenance and repair of all waste collection and recycling vehicles, equipment, and machinery, ensuring they are operational and compliant with safety regulations.
  • Perform diagnostics, troubleshoot mechanical issues, and make timely repairs on a wide range of mechanical and electrical systems.
  • Ensure preventive maintenance schedules are adhered to, reducing downtime and extending the life of the fleet and equipment.
  • Lead, train, and mentor a team of mechanics and technicians, ensuring high performance, safety, and skill development.
  • Assign tasks, monitor work progress, and provide coaching and corrective action as necessary.
  • Ensure that team members follow company procedures, safety protocols, and best practices for equipment maintenance.
  • Ensure that all repairs and maintenance activities comply with federal, state, and local safety regulations and industry standards.
  • Promote a culture of safety in the workplace, ensuring all team members are trained in safety practices and the proper use of equipment.
  • Conduct regular safety inspections of vehicles and facilities.
  • Respond to and address emergency repair situations as they arise, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
  • Be on-call for after-hours emergency mechanical issues that may impact the ability to operate.

The successful candidate profile includes:
  • Commercial Driver's License is a plus but not required
  • Minimum 5-7 years of experience in vehicle and equipment maintenance, with at least 2-3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
  • Previous experience in a waste management or fleet management environment is preferred.
  • Understands work orders and labor time standards
  • Experience with maintenance to be performed on refuse trucks and heavy machinery
  • ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Certifications are a plus but not required
  • Minimum two years experience as a heavy-duty technician
  • Must be able to perform basic inspections of the following: brakes, drivetrain, emissions, hydraulics, emissions, transmissions, general engine, steering and suspension

At Priority Waste, there are fundamental qualities that we look for in all our employees:
  • People who excel in a collaborative environment (team players)
  • A willingness to do whatever the situation calls for
  • An excitement to be part of a growing organization
  • A genuine understanding that the quality of your work has a direct impact on the company's success

What Priority Waste employees say

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