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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 Jul 22, 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:
What job categories do people searching Garbage Waste jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Garbage Waste jobs are:
Garbage Waste jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage Waste job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $72,892 per year, or $35 per hour.
Waste Services Garbage Truck Helper

Waste Services Garbage Truck Helper

Interstate Waste Services

Plainfield, NJ

$21.30/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Overview

Interstate Waste Services is hiring Garbage Truck-Collection Helpers

Plainfield, NJ

$21.30/hour

Important:  In Order to be considered for employment, you will need to include a resume/list of work history with employment dates. 

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Highlights

  • Monday - Saturday
  • Early start time -  3am
  • Year Round-Steady work
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and more......
  • Paid Time Off!

About You:

  • You take pride in the work you do & the company you work for!
  • Your work history shows steady employment!
  • You like very Physical work that helps you stay healthy!
  • You have a history of showing up and being on-time for work every day!

 

Interstate Waste Services is the most progressive and innovative provider of solid waste and recycling services in the country! We primarily service Northern New Jersey, Southern New York State, New York City, and recently expanded our operations of transfer stations into Pennsylvania and Ohio, where we also own and operate a state-of-the-art rail-served landfill. We cater to a diverse range of residential, industrial, and commercial customers. Our mission has always been to provide our customers with the highest quality waste, recycling, and environmental services, while keeping focus on employee, customer, and environmental safety.

Essential Job Functions: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other minor duties may be assigned.

The Collection Helper's main responsibility is to collect (primarily by hand) and load refuse from customer locations into a heavy-duty sanitation vehicle. Unless designated by the company as a CDL Helper, Helpers are not permitted to operate a company vehicle at any time. The position reports to the Operations Manager onsite but is also subject to supervision by Route Supervisors and Dispatchers.  

Other responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Transfer refuse in a timely and safe manner from customer stops to vehicle.
  • Assist the driver while maneuvering into positions for collection and disposal
  • Maintain and partake in daily clean-up of vehicle
  • Learn garbage routes to better assist driver
  • Attend all required training, operational meetings, and mandatory monthly Safety Meetings

Work Environment

  • Helpers spend majority of daily routine both in the cab of the truck, on the back of the truck, or moving around the truck for trash collection
  • Helpers must be able to physically mount and dismount the truck throughout the duration of the work day
  • Helpers must be able to constantly lift, push, and pull waste bags and receptacles that weigh approximately 50-75+ lbs. as part of their daily routine. The bags usually have no wheels or handles for easier maneuverability, so the employee must have the physical strength to carry out the job duties.
Requirements and Qualifications:

Requirements

  • Applicants must meet physical standards as specified above
  • Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and legally eligible to work in the United States
  • Experience from the sanitation industry is strongly preferred
  • Position requires a team-player attitude as job is spent in close quarters with other staff members that all rely on one another
  • Other duties as assigned. 
Additional Information

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.

Salary Range MinimumUSD $21.30/Hr.Salary Range MaximumUSD $21.30/Hr.Employment Type: OTHER

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