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Garbage Waste Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 1. Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specified routes often done manually or by pushing toter to tipper. Lifts and carries trash ...

Waste Pro has immediate Openings for Energetic CDL Drivers! Everyday thousands of Waste Pro trucks ... Collects and dumps garbage and refuse into refuse trucks while covering a designated route in a ...

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Garbage Waste information

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$11K

$72.9K

$112.5K

How much do garbage waste jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for garbage waste in the United States is $72,892.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $93,500.00 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 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.

More about Garbage Waste jobs
What cities are hiring for Garbage Waste jobs? Cities with the most Garbage Waste job openings:
What states have the most Garbage Waste jobs? States with the most job openings for Garbage Waste jobs include:
Infographic showing various Garbage Waste job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,892 per year, or $35 per hour.
Garbage Truck Helper

Garbage Truck Helper

Waste Pro

Rockledge, FL • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Waste Pro rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 72 rated recycling and waste


Job description

SUMMARY OF POSITION:
The Helper is responsible for assisting the refuse truck driver on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage, yard waste, or recycling.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
1. Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specified routes often done manually or by pushing toter to tipper. Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items and containers to the truck for disposal. Climbs onto and off of the rear truck step to load refuse, waste and carts. Operates packing mechanism to compact waste into the truck.
2. Provides a safe and Distinguishably Different level of service through courteous and expeditious customer service in all aspects of refuse operation to the general public and customers. Exhibits a positive attitude towards company, customer and municipal goals.
3. Ensures garbage and recyclables at residences are picked up and transferred properly; pick up may require using back door.
4. Answers questions for residents and directs them to contact Customer Service or appropriate government office for additional information.
5. Must comply with all ANSI (American National Standards Institute), OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and company safety polices including Waste Pro Absolute Guidelines.
6. Assists Driver in safely backing up the truck by directing the Driver from the ground.
7. Cleans behind the compactor blade with shovel and hoe when directed. Sprays and cleans the hopper and truck at the end of each shift or as needed.
8. Reports any safety or customer service related issues to driver and supervisor, immediately.
9. Performs a variety of manual duties in the clean-up of scattered refuse; Cleans up the area around accidental waste spills and ensures customers containers are replaced properly.
10. May be required to work during emergency situations.
11. Assists other routes as needed to complete daily work.
12. Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
OTHER JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Employees in this job classification must attend and participate in corporation sponsored training courses as assigned.
* Employees in this job classification are responsible for keeping up to date on current technology, as job appropriate, being used by Waste Pro .
* Any additional job duties that may be assigned by the Supervisor.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Works in a variety of environment conditions, including wide temperature and weather variations including heat, cold, snow, rain, wind; noise and vibrations, fumes, odors and dust.
QUALIFICATIONS:
* Be able to follow safe operating practices.
* Be able to learn and use interpersonal skills relating to good customer service
* Be able and willing to work in a team environment
* Be able to read, write and comprehend reports well enough to complete daily assignments.
Special Considerations/Physical Work Requirements: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
1. Physically able to push or pull independently (unassisted) 50 pounds between 800 and 1000 times a day
2. Physically able to lift independently (unassisted) 50 pounds from the ground to waist height between 800 and 1000 times a day
3. Physically able to get up and down from the cab of a commercial motor vehicle between 800 and 1000 times a day
4. Physically able to bend at the waist and knees between 800 and 1000 times a day
5. Physically able to work 8 to 12 hours in extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, rain and snow)
6. Ability to ride on the outside of the truck while servicing residential customers in low MPH areas.

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