1

Garbage Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Roll-Off Garbage Truck Driver - Tampa Hauling (Tampa, FL) Starting Pay: $23-$25/hr (based on experience) Monday-Friday + Occasional Saturdays | Year-Round OT Available Waste Connections is looking ...

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. ...

Showing results 21-40

Garbage information

See Florida salary details

$3

$12

$21

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.

Commercial Front Load Driver (Garbage Truck Driver Miami FL)

Waste Connections

Miami, FL • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago


Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 265 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 92 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Waste Connections is hiring Front Load Drivers in Miami, FL!
Do you have a passion for driving, career growth, and share our #1 value: SAFETY? If so, we want you to join our team!
Pay: $25-$30/hr, depending on experience
Work Week: 50-60 hours per week, with occasional weekends as needed
POSITION SUMMARY:
In this position, you will operate a garbage truck on a specified route. This role requires regular heavy lifting and climbing in and out of the truck. You will be responsible for providing safe, efficient, and courteous service to customers. This is a full-time, year-round position. A typical schedule is Monday to Friday, with occasional weekends as needed, totaling approximately 50-60 hours per week.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Valid CDL (Class A or B) for 1+ years
  • At least 2 years of stable work history, with your most recent position being a CDL driver
  • Less than 2 incidents or moving violations on your MVR in the last 5 years
  • Able to lift 50+ pounds
  • Able and willing to work outside in all weather conditions
  • Bilingual candidates preferred (does not need to be fluent in both languages)
  • Previous Front Load experience preferred!
  • VETERANS are encourage to apply.

WHAT WE OFFER:
  • Competitive pay!
  • Excellent benefits, including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long-term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement
  • Garbage collection is a stable, year-round industry with growth opportunities
  • If you have any questions or need help with your application feel free to call the Recruiter, Pete Carreon at 832-510-5681.

Apply today and Connect with Your Future!
Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.

What Waste Connections employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom