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Refuse Collection Truck Operator Jobs in California

City of Burbank, CA

SOLID WASTE TRUCK OPERATOR

Burbank, CA · On-site

$4.6K - $6.4K/mo

... collection, trucking, and disposal of refuse and recyclable materials; and to do related work as ... of Solid Waste Truck Operator. This Supplemental Questionnaire is considered part of your ...

City of Burbank

SOLID WASTE TRUCK OPERATOR

Burbank, CA

$18.75 - $21.50/hr

Under supervision, to operate various types of solid waste collection trucks; to perform heavy manual labor in the collection, trucking, and disposal of refuse and recyclable materials; and to do ...

CRH

Boom Truck Operator

Redding, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Boom Truck Operator Infrastructure Products Group Redding, California, United States Job ID: 527790 ... We are a collection of hundreds of family businesses, regional companies and large enterprises that ...

CRH

Boom Truck Operator

Redding, CA

$30 - $35/hr

Load truck with materials * Verify load for accuracy * Unload truck at site - this involves using ... We are a collection of hundreds of family businesses, regional companies and large enterprises that ...

Oldcastle Infrastructure

Boom Truck Operator

Redding, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Load truck with materials * Verify load for accuracy * Unload truck at site - this involves using ... We are a collection of hundreds of family businesses, regional companies and large enterprises that ...

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Refuse Collection Truck Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$17

$22

How much do refuse collection truck operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for refuse collection truck operator in California is $17.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a refuse collection truck operator?

Refuse Collection Truck Operators are professionals responsible for collecting, transporting, and disposing of waste and recyclables from residential, commercial, or industrial locations. They operate specialized vehicles designed to pick up garbage, recyclables, or yard debris according to assigned routes and schedules. Their duties often include lifting and loading waste containers, ensuring proper disposal methods, and maintaining safety and cleanliness standards. These operators play a crucial role in keeping communities clean and promoting environmental health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refuse collection truck operator?

To thrive as a Refuse Collection Truck Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), physical stamina, and a solid understanding of safety protocols. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, route management software, and basic vehicle maintenance is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and communication skills help operators work efficiently and safely with crew members and the public. These abilities are essential for ensuring timely waste collection, public safety, and reliable municipal services.

What are some common challenges faced by refuse collection truck operators, and how can they be managed on the job?

Refuse Collection Truck Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight urban streets, dealing with inclement weather, and managing heavy or hazardous loads. To manage these, operators typically receive thorough training in route planning, vehicle safety, and proper lifting techniques. Communication with dispatchers and team members is crucial for handling unexpected obstacles or schedule changes, ensuring the job is completed efficiently and safely. Operators are also encouraged to adhere strictly to safety protocols and use personal protective equipment to mitigate risks.

What is the difference between Refuse Collection Truck Operator vs Waste Management Technician?

AspectRefuse Collection Truck OperatorWaste Management Technician
CredentialsDriver's license, CDL often requiredEnvironmental or waste management certifications
Work EnvironmentDriving and operating trucks in urban or rural areasHandling waste processing, site inspection, or recycling facilities
Industry UsagePublic sanitation services, waste collection companiesWaste treatment plants, recycling centers

The Refuse Collection Truck Operator primarily focuses on driving and operating trucks to collect waste from designated areas, often working outdoors in various weather conditions. In contrast, Waste Management Technicians typically work at waste processing or recycling facilities, handling waste materials directly and performing maintenance or inspection tasks. Both roles are essential in waste management but differ in work environment and specific responsibilities.

How to become a refuse collection truck operator?

To become a refuse collection truck operator, candidates typically need a valid driver's license, often a commercial driver's license (CDL), and a clean driving record. Some employers require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training is usually provided to learn safe driving and waste collection procedures.

What are popular job titles related to Refuse Collection Truck Operator jobs in California?

For Refuse Collection Truck Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refuse Collection Truck Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Refuse Collection Truck Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Refuse Collection Truck Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Refuse Collection Truck Operator job openings:

Refuse Collection Truck Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refuse Collection Truck Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,362 per year, or $18 per hour.

SOLID WASTE TRUCK OPERATOR

City of Burbank, CA

Burbank, CA • On-site

$4.6K - $6.4K/mo

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Salary : $4,691.98 - $6,467.96 Monthly
Location : Burbank, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 260737B1
Department: Public Works
Division: Sanitation
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
Closing Date: 8/28/2026 5:00 PM Pacific
OPEN COMPETITIVE RECRUITMENT
Open to all qualified candidates.
Tentative examination dates for this recruitment:
Week of 09/14/26 - Blind application & supplemental scoring
Week of 09/28/26 - Performance examination
Dates may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Candidates who pass each phase of the recruitment process will be notified of the official examination dates.
Under supervision, to operate various types of solid waste collection trucks; to perform heavy manual labor in the collection, trucking, and disposal of refuse and recyclable materials; and to do related work as required.
Essential Functions
Operates various types of solid waste collection trucks, including front loader, side loader, rear loader, bin handling unit, forklift, bin delivery truck-and-trailer, and automated unit, on an assigned route; picks up and loads refuse and recyclable materials into the truck; operates mechanism for loading, compressing, and dumping refuse and recyclable materials; drives to designated area to deliver refuse and recyclable materials; safely operates the solid waste collection truck; safely operates the packing and dumping apparatus; assures that solid waste collection truck is properly fueled, equipped, lubricated, and serviced; washes interior and exterior of solid waste collection truck; reports needed repairs immediately; answers citizen complaints; responds to inquiries from the business community regarding potential service; maintains required written records, including documenting field issues in writing; may supervise solid waste field crews; may have the opportunity to participate in related cross-training opportunities.
Minimum Qualifications
Employment Standards:
Knowledge of traffic laws involved in equipment operations; safe operations of and safety precautions necessary in operation of equipment, including various types of solid waste collection trucks.
Skill in physical stamina to engage in heavy manual type of work.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; understand and carry out written and oral instructions; establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, and the public.
License & Certificates: A valid California Class "B" driver's license or equivalent without air brake restriction at time of appointment.
Supplemental Information
None.
This job title is represented by the Burbank City Employees' Association (BCEA)
The City of Burbank offers excellent employee benefits, please click on the following link for additional information regarding employee benefits: https://www.burbankca.gov/web/management-services/employee-benefits
Additionally, there are Benefit Summary Sheets for each represented and unrepresented employee group that provide a more detailed summary of benefits. There are also some Benefit Summary Sheets for specific job titles. To access the Benefit Summary Sheets, please click here: https://www.burbankca.gov/web/management-services/benefits-summary-sheets
Please note, employee benefits vary based on employment status - full-time or part-time; regular or temporary, and many benefits are not applicable to temporary employees.
01
You must answer the following question in order to be considered for the position. The purpose of this Supplemental Questionnaire is to give you an opportunity to provide additional information regarding your specific qualifications for the position of Solid Waste Truck Operator. This Supplemental Questionnaire is considered part of your application process and will be evaluated along with your application on a competitive basis to determine which applicants will proceed to the next step in the selection process.INSTRUCTIONSAnswer should be complete, specific, and precise. Incomplete, illegible, vague, or excessively long responses to any question may disqualify you from being considered further for the position. Please be specific in answering the Supplemental Questions, as they will be used to evaluate which applicants will be given further consideration in the process. DO NOT answer, "see resume" or "see application" as these are not valid answers. Click "Yes" to reflect that you have read and understand this statement.
  • Yes
  • No

02
I certify that the Supplemental Questionnaire responses are my own and were not generated by artificial intelligence (AI) or any other automated tool. I understand that submitting responses that are not my own may result in disqualification from the selection process or removal from employment consideration.
  • Yes, I certify that the responses provided are my own.

03
Do you currently possess a California Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License with air brake endorsement?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you possess a valid Medical Card as issued through the Department of Motor Vehicles?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have a High School Diploma or GED Certificate?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Which of the following best describes your experience driving an Automated Side Loader Refuse Collection Vehicle?
  • None
  • None to six (6) months of experience
  • Six (6) months to a year of experience
  • One (1) to two (2) years of experience
  • Two (2) to three (3) years of experience
  • Three (3) or more years of experience

07
Which of the following best describes your experience driving a Front-loading refuse collection vehicle?
  • None
  • None to six (6) months of experience
  • Six (6) months to a year of experience
  • One (1) to two (2) years of experience
  • Two (2) to three (3) years of experience
  • Three (3) or more years of experience

08
Which of the following best describes your experience driving a Rear-loading refuse collection vehicle?
  • None
  • None to six (6) months of experience
  • Six (6) months to a year of experience
  • One (1) to two (2) years of experience
  • Two (2) to three (3) years of experience
  • Three (3) or more years of experience

09
Which of the following best describes your experience driving a bin maneuvering vehicle also known as a "scout truck"?
  • None
  • None to six (6) months of experience
  • Six (6) months to a year of experience
  • One (1) to two (2) years of experience
  • Two (2) to three (3) years of experience
  • Three (3) or more years of experience

10
Which of the following best describes the last time you performed a Pre-Trip vehicle inspection test on a Class A or Class B commercial vehicle?
  • None
  • One (1) month to a year
  • One (1) to two (2) years
  • Two (2) to three (3) years
  • Three (3) or more years

11
I understand that all requested information must be furnished on the application itself. Resumes and/or attachments may be included, but CANNOT BE SUBSTITUTED for a completed application form. A resume submitted in lieu of an application will not be sufficient. Furthermore, "See resume" is not an acceptable response under Duties. An application containing this response may be deemed incomplete. If I do not provide information on my application under Education, Experience, and/or License and Certificates sections that I meet the minimum qualifications for the position I am applying for, I will be deemed "not qualified" and may not proceed in the recruitment.
  • YES

Required Question

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