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Garbage Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Dishwasher

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$11.75 - $15/hr

Remove trash and garbage to dumpster. * Set up or break down dishwashing area. * Clean and roll/unroll mats if applicable to your location. * Fill/empty soak tubs with cleaning/sanitizing solutions.

Dishwasher

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$11.75 - $15/hr

Remove trash and garbage to dumpster. * Set up or break down dishwashing area. * Clean and roll/unroll mats if applicable to your location. * Fill/empty soak tubs with cleaning/sanitizing solutions.

Dishwasher

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$11.75 - $15/hr

Remove trash and garbage to dumpster. * Set up or break down dishwashing area. * Clean and roll/unroll mats if applicable to your location. * Fill/empty soak tubs with cleaning/sanitizing solutions.

Building Custodian

Millbrook, AL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

The building custodian will also collect trash and empty garbage. This position maintains the grounds surrounding the building. Applicant should have considerable knowledge of cleaning methods as ...

$1.0K - $1.6K/yr

Not counting school, Straight Truck, Garbage Truck, Dump Truck experience Long Haul OTR Reefer- $1000-$1625+ Weekly! Owner Operator- Lease Purchase, Company Drivers. Sap Friendly* *Sap Drivers must ...

Showing results 21-40

Garbage information

See Alabama salary details

$4

$14

$26

How much do garbage jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage in Alabama is $14.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $13.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a garbage collector?

Garbage collectors, also known as sanitation workers or refuse collectors, are responsible for collecting waste and recyclables from homes, businesses, and public areas. They load trash into garbage trucks and transport it to landfills, recycling centers, or waste treatment facilities. Their work helps keep communities clean, prevents the spread of disease, and supports environmental sustainability. Garbage collectors must follow safety guidelines and often work early hours or in all weather conditions.

What are different types of jobs that work with garbage?

People that work with garbage may work at a waste management or recycling facility, a garbage disposal service, or a municipal job. Common duties are to collect trash and recycling and transport it to a trash facility or landfill. Waste removal work is typically divided between drivers, technicians, operations managers, and administrative positions, such as customer support, sales, and compliance specialists. They ensure that garbage disposal protocols follow all municipal, state, and federal health and safety requirements.

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

To thrive as a Garbage Collector, you need physical stamina, attention to safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring a commercial driver's license (CDL). Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, hydraulic lift systems, and safety protocols is typically necessary. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are standout soft skills for this position. These skills ensure efficient waste collection, personal safety, and effective collaboration, which are vital for maintaining public health and cleanliness.

What are some common challenges faced by garbage collectors and how can they be managed effectively?

Garbage collectors often work early hours and in various weather conditions, which can be physically demanding. They may encounter hazardous materials or heavy loads, requiring proper safety gear and adherence to safety protocols. Effective communication with team members and staying organized helps ensure routes are completed efficiently and safely. Many organizations provide regular training to help collectors manage these challenges and maintain a healthy work environment.

What is the difference between Garbage vs Waste Management Worker?

AspectGarbageWaste Management Worker
CredentialsNo formal certification requiredTypically requires OSHA training and safety certifications
Work EnvironmentResidential and commercial trash collectionCollection, transportation, and disposal of waste
Industry UsageCommonly used in everyday languageIndustry-specific job title

Garbage refers to household or commercial waste, often used informally. Waste Management Worker is a formal job title for professionals involved in collecting and managing waste. While both deal with waste, Waste Management Worker implies a specific role with industry standards and certifications, whereas garbage is a general term for waste material.

How hard is it to get a job as a garbage collector?

Getting a job as a garbage collector typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license. The hiring process often involves physical fitness assessments and background checks, with opportunities available through local waste management companies or public sanitation departments. Experience with operating trucks or heavy equipment can be advantageous but is not always mandatory.

What qualifications do you need to be a garbage collector?

Garbage collectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must be physically fit to handle lifting and long periods of standing. Some employers require a valid driver's license and may provide on-the-job training; certifications are generally not required but can be beneficial for safety and efficiency.

What are the most commonly searched types of Garbage jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Garbage jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Garbage jobs in Alabama?

For Garbage jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Garbage jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Garbage job openings:

Infographic showing various Garbage job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $30,752 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

2026-A Sanitation Solid Waste Equipment Operator I (4/2026)

City of Prattville

Prattville, AL

$45K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY The purpose of this position is to operate heavy equipment in the collection of solid waste. Job duties consist of related equipment operation duties. Successful performance contributes to the provision of efficient and effective services to customers.

FLSA status is Non-Exempt. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES The following duties are normal for this classification. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or logical assignments for this classification.

Other duties may be required and assigned. Specific duties listed may not be required for all positions in this classification, but are determined by the normal requirements for this particular position. EQUIPMENT OPERATION DUTIES (70%) Operates a truck on an assigned route to collect solid waste.

Operates truck packing device to compress the garbage. Removes spilled garbage, trash, or debris from curbs, streets, storm drains, and rights-of-way. Handles garbage cans, trash receptacles, and trash bags; returns permanent containers to the original location.

Notifies supervisor of containers in need of replacement. Operates a knuckle-boom truck as needed. Operates a tractor-type limb loader and/or trash compactor vehicle.

Communicates with co-workers and management over the radio. Travels to the landfill and transfer station to dispose of full trucks multiple times a day. EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE DUTIES (10%) Performs pre- and post-trip equipment inspections.

Cleans equipment interior and exterior. Performs minor maintenance and repair duties. Reports major repair needs to supervisor.

Keeps trucks fueled as needed. CUSTOMER SERVICE RESPONSIBILITIES (10%) Posts notices as required regarding collection policies. Refers customer complaints and concerns to appropriate supervisor.

Ensures that all trash is collected and that each site is clean. Rides back of rear platform collecting solid waste, yard debris, and recyclables as needed. Ensures garbage cans are emptied safely and in accordance with the City of Prattville policies and procedures.

OTHER RELATED DUTIES (10%) Maintains any required records. Performs other duties as needed or assigned. Removes dead animals from the rights of way.

Participates in the training of new employees. Works at the Recycle Center periodically throughout the week and some Saturdays throughout the year. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS One (1) year of experience in the operation and maintenance of heavy equipment.

Must be twenty-one (21) years of age or older. Must have a Class "A" Drivers' License. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS The following requirements are normal for this classification.

Specific requirements may not apply to all positions within this classification but are determined by the normal requirements for the particular position. The following list was developed through job analysis; however, it is not exhaustive and other duties may be required and assigned. Job duties are typically performed while sitting, standing, bending, crouching, or stooping.

Employees occasionally lift light and heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, and utilizes the sense of smell. Job duties are typically performed outdoors, occasionally in extreme or inclement weather. Employees are exposed to dust, dirt, grease, and machinery with moving parts.

Job duties require the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, or gloves. Job duties require the ability to deal with and relate to people beyond giving and receiving instructions. Job duties require the ability to talk, express, or exchange ideas by means of spoken words and/or hear and perceive the nature of sounds by ear.

Job candidates must be able to adapt to and perform under moderate stress. Job duties require regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: City of Prattville employees are required to obtain knowledge of the City of Prattville Policies and Procedures, and knowledge of their specific department rules, policies, and procedures.

This job description does not necessarily include all the duties which may be required of individual employees in the classification. Job descriptions may be revised as needed. Knowledge of department and city policies and procedures, and relevant federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

Knowledge of the techniques, equipment, and supplies used in the collection and transport of solid waste. Knowledge of the geography of the city, including street names and locations. Knowledge of work safety principles and practices.

Skill in the operation of assigned vehicles, trucks, and heavy equipment. Skill in oral and written communication. Skill in using independent judgment and discretion.

Skill in working under pressure and meeting deadlines. Skill in the use of hand and power tools. Skill in prioritizing and organizing work.

Skill in interpersonal relations. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION: Must provide proof of your legal right to work in the United States. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly. High School Diploma/GED preferred. Willing to work overtime.

Willing to cooperate with the workload of the department. Willing to attend continuing education courses. Willing to comply with City of Prattville rules and regulations.

Must submit to drug screenings for this safety sensitive position. Must accomplish the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations, in a timely manner. EEOC COMMITMENT: The City of Prattville is committed to maintaining equal employment opportunity by considering job applicants and employees for hiring and advancement on the basis of job-pertinent individual differences and not on the basis of extraneous factors such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, genetics, status as current or former uniformed service member, or any other classifications protected by law.