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Garbage Jobs in Salem, OR (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance Clerk

Salem, OR · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Participates in janitorial duties, cleans floors with the floor scrubbing machine, empties garbage, pulls cardboard, cleans office, break room and restrooms. Follows departmental procedures and ...

Maintenance Clerk

Albany, OR · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Participates in janitorial duties, cleans floors with the floor scrubbing machine, empties garbage, pulls cardboard, cleans office, break room and restrooms. Follows departmental procedures and ...

Dietary Aide

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

... and garbage. • Put groceries away in a safe, orderly and clean manner. • To leave the kitchen in a clean and sanitary manner and be of assistance when called upon by the cook or dietary ...

New

Food Service Assistant

Salem, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Takes garbage to the trash compactor and operates the compactor. Disassembles and deep cleans pizza oven according to department SOPs. Follows safety and security procedures. * Pulls ingredients and ...

Food Service Assistant

Albany, OR · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Takes garbage to the trash compactor and operates the compactor. Disassembles and deep cleans pizza oven according to department SOPs. Follows safety and security procedures. * Pulls ingredients and ...

Properly sort and remove trash, placing it in designated pickup areas, and clean garbage cans. Efficiently sweep, mop and scrub floors. * Understand instructions, procedures and techniques.

Caregiver

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Assists in the cleanliness of the community, including straightening resident beds, emptying resident garbage, and tidies resident rooms daily and as needed * Assists with resident laundry per shift ...

Wash dishes, assemble dishes for meal times, transport food from kitchen to centers/ classrooms and sanitize and clean the kitchen, duties such as sweeping, mopping and taking out the garbage.

Properly sort and remove trash, placing it in designated pickup areas, and clean garbage cans. Efficiently sweep, mop and scrub floors. * Understand instructions, procedures and techniques.

Caregiver

Salem, OR · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Assists in the cleanliness of the community, including straightening resident beds, emptying resident garbage, and tidies resident rooms daily and as needed * Assists with resident laundry per shift ...

Caregiver

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Assists in the cleanliness of the community, including straightening resident beds, emptying resident garbage, and tidies resident rooms daily and as needed * Assists with resident laundry per shift ...

Caregiver

Salem, OR · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Assists in the cleanliness of the community, including straightening resident beds, emptying resident garbage, and tidies resident rooms daily and as needed * Assists with resident laundry per shift ...

Caregiver

Salem, OR · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Assists in the cleanliness of the community, including straightening resident beds, emptying resident garbage, and tidies resident rooms daily and as needed * Assists with resident laundry per shift ...

Cleans and sanitizes garbage cans and keeps clean liners in cans at all times. * Maintains cleanliness and organization of utensil racks, dish storage area, mop area, and chemical storage area.

New

Maintains all aspects and cleanness of building exterior including garbage and recycling bins throughout the campus twice daily. * Responsible for trouble shooting and minor repairs throughout the ...

Showing results 21-40

Garbage information

See Salem, OR salary details

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$16

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How much do garbage jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for garbage in Salem, OR is $16.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.84 and $14.76 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 popular job titles related to Garbage jobs in Salem, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Garbage jobs in Salem, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Garbage jobs in Salem, OR are:

What cities near Salem, OR are hiring for Garbage jobs?

Cities near Salem, OR with the most Garbage job openings:

Infographic showing various Garbage job openings in Salem, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,141 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Kitchen Utility Associate Part Time

Solista Salem by Cogir

Salem, OR

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Part-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Description

THE COMPANY

Cogir Senior Living, based in Scottsdale, Arizona, proudly oversees a network of senior living communities spanning 11 states nationwide. As a trusted leader in senior housing, we are dedicated to growth while maintaining our commitment to exceptional care for our residents and a supportive, growth-focused environment for our team members.


At Cogir, our culture is rooted in the core values of human focus, creativity, and excellence, which inspire us to continuously improve and achieve excellence in all we do. Join us in our mission to enrich the lives of our residents while building a meaningful and fulfilling career!

WHAT WE OFFER

  • Competitive wages, training, and growth opportunities.
  • Early access to paycheck (pay on demand).
  • Free meals at work


POSITION SUMMARY

As a Kitchen Utility Associate (Dishwasher) in our community's restaurant, you help ensure our culinary team has clean pots to prepare delicious meals and dishware to deliver the meals to our residents. Our residents' dining experience begins with you.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Wash and sanitize dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment according to established protocols.
  • Ensure all cleaned items are properly dried and stored in their designated areas.
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the dishwashing area, including sweeping and mopping floors.
  • Promptly remove trash, recycling, and food waste to help keep the kitchen organized and free of clutter.
  • Clean mats and garbage pails.
  • Clean and sanitize food preparation surfaces, storage areas, and kitchen equipment as needed.
  • Support the kitchen staff during meal preparation and service by replenishing supplies and equipment.
  • Resupply chemicals, towel dispensers, and soap dispensers are required for sanitary operations.


Requirements

CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS

Education and certificates:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred but not required.
  • A Food Handler Card with an understanding of kitchen sanitation and food codes is a plus. 

Experience, Competencies, and Skills:

  • At least 6-12 months of experience in a dishwasher or kitchen support role is a plus, but not required. 
  • Previous experience in senior living, healthcare, or hospitality settings is highly desirable.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining cleanliness.
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.
  • Must be able to lift or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Comfortable working in hot, humid, and wet environments.
  • Availability to work flexible shifts, including weekends and holidays.