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Recycle Route Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Route Driver

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

Customer Service Representative (Route Driver) Closed Loop Recycling (CLR) is seeking a hard-working, self-motivated Route Driver to join our production team in St. Louis, MO. This position will ...

Route Driver- IN

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

ARCA Recycling is seeking an experienced Route Driver to join our team. We are an innovative company dedicated to preserving the environment through energy efficiency and proper appliance disposal.

Route Driver- IN

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

ARCA Recycling is seeking an experienced Route Driver to join our team. We are an innovative company dedicated to preserving the environment through energy efficiency and proper appliance disposal.

Route Driver- IN

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

ARCA Recycling is seeking an experienced Route Driver to join our team. We are an innovative company dedicated to preserving the environment through energy efficiency and proper appliance disposal.

Route Driver- IN

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

ARCA Recycling is seeking an experienced Route Driver to join our team. We are an innovative company dedicated to preserving the environment through energy efficiency and proper appliance disposal.

Route Driver- IN

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Route Driver- IN ARCA Recycling - Indiana - Indianapolis, IN 46219 Overview Position Type: Full Time Job Shift: Day Education Level: High School Travel Percentage: Road Warrior Category:

Route Driver

Azle, TX · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Specializing in used oil, filter, and antifreeze recycling, we serve a diverse clientele--from ... The Route Driver will be responsible for performing a variety of routine and complex transportation ...

Union CDL Driver

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$33.35/hr

Waste Connections is looking for a safety-minded Union CDL Recycle Route Driver to join our team in Vancouver, WA . Shift is Monday-Friday, with occasional Saturdays as needed. Start time is 5:30 AM ...

Route Driver Class A/B CDL

Worthing, SD

$21 - $26.50/hr

As a Route Driver with Roo's Sanitation, you will be responsible for safely operating a Class A/B CDL vehicle to collect and transport garbage and recycling along designated routes. Key ...

Liberty Tire Recycling is a high-growth company and the premier provider of tire recycling services ... The driver works as part of a two‑person team with a Route Helper and is responsible for both ...

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Recycle Route Driver information

See salary details

$11

$20

$29

How much do recycle route driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycle route driver in the United States is $20.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recycle route driver?

To thrive as a Recycle Route Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a good driving record, and basic knowledge of waste collection procedures. Familiarity with route navigation systems, hydraulic truck equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong customer service skills, reliability, and attention to detail help drivers interact positively with clients and ensure proper waste sorting. These abilities are essential for safe, efficient operations and maintaining community environmental standards.

What is a recycle route driver?

Recycle Route Drivers are professionals responsible for collecting recyclable materials from residential, commercial, or industrial locations along established routes. They operate specialized trucks, load recyclables, and ensure materials are transported safely to recycling centers or processing facilities. These drivers often interact with customers, follow schedules, and adhere to safety and environmental guidelines. Their work helps communities manage waste sustainably by diverting recyclable materials from landfills.

What is the difference between Recycle Route Driver vs Trash Collector?

AspectRecycle Route DriverTrash Collector
CredentialsValid driver’s license, commercial driver’s license (CDL) often preferredValid driver’s license, CDL optional depending on vehicle size
Work EnvironmentDriving specialized recycling trucks, handling recyclable materialsDriving trash trucks, collecting waste from residential/commercial sites
Industry UsagePart of waste management and recycling servicesPart of waste collection and disposal services

The Recycle Route Driver and Trash Collector roles both involve driving and waste management, but the Recycle Route Driver specifically handles recyclable materials and often requires a CDL. Trash Collectors focus on waste collection without necessarily handling recyclables. Both roles are essential in waste services and share similar work environments, but their primary responsibilities differ based on the type of waste managed.

How to become a recycle route driver?

To become a recycle route driver, candidates typically need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and experience operating commercial vehicles or trucks. Some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent and may provide on-the-job training for route navigation and safety procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by recycle route drivers, and how can they be effectively managed?

Recycle Route Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating varying traffic conditions, managing tight schedules, and handling heavy or improperly sorted recyclable materials. Effective time management and route planning are essential for staying on track, while maintaining open communication with dispatch can help address unexpected issues. Staying physically fit and following proper ergonomic techniques also helps reduce the risk of injury during loading and unloading. Building familiarity with the route and fostering good relationships with customers can further enhance efficiency and job satisfaction.
What cities are hiring for Recycle Route Driver jobs? Cities with the most Recycle Route Driver job openings:
What states have the most Recycle Route Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Recycle Route Driver jobs include:

Union Residential Route Driver

Waste Connections Inc

Opa Locka, FL

$34.30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 264 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Arrow Sanitary, a Waste Connections Company, is looking to hire asafety conscious Union Residential Route Driver to join the team in Portland, Oregon.

Shift is Monday-Friday.

Start time is 5:30 AM and ends when route is complete, generally 9-11 hrs/day.

Union starting rate of pay is $34.30/hour

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Ability to comprehend route tablet and service each customer identified or assigned by the dispatcher.
  • Perform routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking fluids, safety equipment, and tires.
  • Ability to perform a physically demanding job, loading and unloading, at times with no helpers 700+ customers per day.
  • Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load recycle containers at designated facilities.
  • Courteous interaction with our customers and perform other miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
  • A typical schedule for this position is Monday-Friday 5:30am to 3:30 or later, with an occasional Saturday's as needed, Standard 45 hour work week.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:

  • Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds.
  • Work environment involves some exposure to physical risks such as moving mechanical parts. Which require following basic safety precautions.
  • The employee is exposed to outside weather, including frequent wet and/or humid conditions, as well as exposure to fumes and vibration. Noise level is usually moderate.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

  • Valid Class A or B CDL with air brakes endorsement as a minimum.
  • Ability to read, write, comprehend and communicate in English. High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Minimum 2-years of experience that is directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
  • Basic knowledge of truck components in order to complete pre- and post-trip inspections.

WHAT WE OFFER:

  • Union Benefits Include Medical, Dental, Vision plans
  • Pension plan.
  • Yearly Boot Allowance of $400.00 Per Year
  • Yearly Safety Bonus of up to $1,750

To be considered for any of our current openings you must complete an application at www.wasteconnections.com.

Application information and additional instructions can be found once you select your position of interest.

Waste Connections is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer (Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran).


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