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Garbage Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Schillings

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 ...

City Colleges of Chicago

Janitor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.56/hr

Spot cleaning or complete washing of all walls, files, desk tops, office glass, partitions, doors, chairs, blackboards, mirrors, waste baskets and garbage cans, office machines and ash trays.

Will County ROE

Custodian (OPS)

New Lenox, IL · On-site

$18.75/hr

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.

City Colleges of Chicago

Janitor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.56/hr

Spot cleaning or complete washing of all walls, files, desk tops, office glass, partitions, doors, chairs, blackboards, mirrors, waste baskets and garbage cans, office machines and ash trays.

Parker Hospitality

Dishwasher - Burr Ridge

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/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 ...

City Colleges of Chicago

Janitor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.56/hr

Spot cleaning or complete washing of all walls, files, desk tops, office glass, partitions, doors, chairs, blackboards, mirrors, waste baskets and garbage cans, office machines and ash trays.

Parker Hospitality

Dishwasher - Streeterville

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.05 - $18/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 ...

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All JobsGarbage JobsGarbage Jobs in Chicago, IL

Garbage information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$16

$30

How much do garbage jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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 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.
More about Garbage jobs

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:

Garbage jobs near you
Infographic showing various Garbage job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 31% 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.

Janitor - Temporary (6:00am to 2:30pm)

City Colleges of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$16.20/hr

Full-time, Temporary

Re-posted 6 days ago

City Colleges Of Chicago rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

237th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

JANITOR - TEMPORARY (6:00AM TO 2:30PM)

MALCOLM X COLLEGE


A Janitor - Temporary is responsible for performing all traditional janitorial work in and around the buildings. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

  • Dust all ledges, counter tops, files, office equipment, desk and walls.
  • Dust mop all hard surfaces.
  • Spot cleaning or complete washing of all walls, files, desk tops, office glass, partitions, doors, chairs, blackboards, mirrors, waste baskets and garbage cans, office machines and ash trays.
  • Thorough cleaning of all bathroom fixtures and partitions.
  • Polishing furniture.
  • Metal polishing.
  • Hosing and sweeping of sidewalks.
  • Trash removal.
  • Dismantling and cleaning of light fixtures.
  • Operation of vacuum cleaners.
  • Cleaning of Venetian blinds (washing & vacuuming).
  • Policing of facility and grounds (inside& outside).
  • Washing of exterior walls.
  • Scraping of gum and other objects form hard surfaces and carpet.
  • Spot cleaning furniture or carpet, but not more than 2 hours per day.
  • Setting up and /or take down of chairs and tables.
  • Wet mopping or spot mopping public corridors, washrooms, classrooms and any hard surfaces.
  • Operation of compactors and /or balers.
  • Maintenance of outside ground (raking, grass cutting, watering, garbage, etc.).
  • Adheres to CCC Customer Service Excellence standards.
  • Performs other duties as assigned 
 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Completion of a high school diploma or the equivalent preferred.
  • Preference will be given to current temporary janitors at City Colleges of Chicago.
  • Must be able to perform all duties listed above.
  • The ideal candidate will be available to work 6:00am to 2:30pm, including weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
 

Malcolm X College has been named a 2024 Most Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges award winner! NISOD joins Diverse: Issues in Higher Education in recognizing Malcolm X College's best-in-class student and staff recruitment and retention practices, inclusive learning and working environments, and meaningful community service and engagement opportunities.


We are an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. 

Thank you for your interest in City Colleges of Chicago! 

Additional Information
  • Salary Range: Salary $16.20 per hour

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