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Garbage Jobs in Florida (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 ...

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 ...

Collects and dumps garbage and refuse into refuse trucks while covering a designated route in a residential zone. Unloads refuse trucks at the landfill, transfer station, or similar facility. 2. ...

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We are seeking a reliable CDL Front Load Garbage Driver to operate front-end garbage trucks on an early morning shift from 2am to 10am. This role involves independent work navigating variable routes ...

Collects and dumps garbage and refuse into refuse trucks while covering a designated route in a residential zone. Unloads refuse trucks at the landfill, transfer station, or similar facility.

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Garbage information

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How much do garbage jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage in Florida is $12.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.52 and $10.96 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 Florida?

The most popular types of Garbage jobs in Florida are:

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

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

What cities in Florida are hiring for Garbage jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Garbage job openings:

Infographic showing various Garbage job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $25,354 per year, or $12.2 per hour.

Garbage Truck Helper

Waste Pro

Rockledge, FL • On-site

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Waste Pro rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 92 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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