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Garbage Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Custodian (part-time)

Saint John, IN

$13 - $16.50/hr

Collecting garbage * General Maintenance * Light bulbs * Paint touch-ups as needed * Identify & correct anything that is out of place * Assist with cleaning of the store (i.e., upkeep with bathroom ...

Custodian (part-time)

Saint John, IN · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

Collecting garbage * General Maintenance * Light bulbs * Paint touch-ups as needed * Identify & correct anything that is out of place * Assist with cleaning of the store (i.e., upkeep with bathroom ...

Custodian (OPS)

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Assists in efforts to keep the grounds free from rubbish, litter, snow, and ice. * Changes light bulbs as needed. * Performs all other duties as assigned.

Custodian (OPS)

New Lenox, IL · On-site

$18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Assists in efforts to keep the grounds free from rubbish, litter, snow, and ice. * Changes light bulbs as needed. * Performs all other duties as assigned.

Dishwasher - Skokie

Skokie, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

... garbage for restaurant supplies such as silverware and ramekins before disposal; empty garbage regularly and maintain a clean, covered garbage area. 9. Return and restock all cleaned items to the ...

Showing results 41-60

Garbage information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$16

$30

How much do garbage jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage in Chicago, IL is $16.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.12 and $15.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How do you get a job as a garbage collector?

To become a garbage collector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license. Employment often involves passing a physical exam, background check, and training on safety procedures and waste collection equipment. Job openings are usually posted by local government or waste management companies, and experience with driving large vehicles can be beneficial.

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.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Garbage jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Garbage jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Garbage jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Garbage jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Garbage jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Garbage jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Garbage job openings:

Infographic showing various Garbage job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,978 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Custodian (part-time)

Schillings

Saint John, IN

$13 - $16.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Great news! Schillings is looking to hire a part-time employee as the Maintenance Custodian for four of our current locations, including St. John, IN, Valparaiso, IN, Cedar Lake, IN, and Mokena, IL. The position will consist of working up to 28 hours a week. The hours will vary Monday through Saturday. If you are interested, please read the job description below and apply for the position today!

Duties:

  • Routine Maintenance Checks
    • Fire safety equipment
    • Fire System Drips
    • HVAC Filter change
  • Collecting garbage
  • General Maintenance
    • Light bulbs
    • Paint touch-ups as needed
  • Identify & correct anything that is out of place
  • Assist with cleaning of the store (i.e., upkeep with bathroom supplies, paper towels, garbage, soap/hand sanitizer dispensers, etc.)
  • Keep track and stock supply closets at all locations
  • Assist with store remodel/demos by keeping the area clean and organized for crew
  • Any other requests made by management

Areas to tend to:

  • Bathrooms
  • Break Rooms
  • Showrooms
  • Offices & Departments
  • Entryways
  • Conference rooms/training room
  • Storage rooms (kitchen & bath sample room, rear flooring sample cabinets, brochure room, under stairs, etc.

Goals:

  • To maintain a clean and safe environment
  • Provide excellent service and make recommendations
  • Our stores are to be clean and presentable to our customers
  • Use the provided cleaning supplies

Required experience:

  • General maintenance background
  • Attention to Detail
  • Ability to communicate effectively and follow instructions
  • Lift 25 lbs, bend, climb steps & ladder

Required license or certification:

  • Driver's License
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent

Benefits:

  • Competitive pay
  • Never work evenings or Sundays
  • Opportunities for advancement available

MISSION - Give our customers what they want, on time and error-free

Schillings provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, military status, unfavorable discharge from military status, sex, marital status, disability, order of protection status, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local laws. Schillings is a drug-free workplace.