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Refuse Collector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Refuse Collector picks up refuse from homes, businesses and other locations and deposits those items in the Refuse vehicle. The Refuse Collector falls under Roads and Grounds and as such your ...

The Refuse Collector picks up refuse from homes, businesses and other locations and deposits those items in the Refuse vehicle. The Refuse Collector falls under Roads and Grounds and as such your ...

Refuse collector

Hubert, NC · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Coastal Sanitation of NC LLC is looking for a dependable and hardworking Refuse Collector to join our team in Hubert, NC! This is a great opportunity to work outdoors, stay active, and play a vital ...

Refuse collector

Hubert, NC · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Coastal Sanitation of NC LLC is looking for a dependable and hardworking Refuse Collector to join our team in Hubert, NC! This is a great opportunity to work outdoors, stay active, and play a vital ...

Refuse collector

Hubert, NC · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Coastal Sanitation of NC LLC is looking for a dependable and hardworking Refuse Collector to join our team in Hubert, NC! This is a great opportunity to work outdoors, stay active, and play a vital ...

JOB SUMMARY The Refuse Collector performs manual work of a routine nature that involves heavy physical labor as a member of a sanitation crew. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Maneuvers and positions garbage ...

Refuse Collector

Frederick, MD · On-site

$24.11 - $28.21/hr

Under general supervision, the Refuse Collector collects curbside and containerized refuse and places it into the collection vehicle. An employee in this position is considered "essential personnel ...

Refuse Collector

Frederick, MD · On-site

$24.11 - $28.21/hr

Under general supervision, the Refuse Collector collects curbside and containerized refuse and places it into the collection vehicle. An employee in this position is considered "essential personnel ...

Refuse Collector

Boca Raton, FL · On-site

$22.05/hr

Picks up refuse containers, trash, recyclable's, etc. from residence or business establishments and dumps into truck * Operates packer equipment * Replaces lids, cleans area around cans * Picks up ...

Collects refuse along assigned route; rides on back of rear-loading sanitation truck; retrieves trash bin, containers, or bags from along route; empties trash bins and containers into truck; operates ...

TRASH/REFUSE COLLECTOR

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$36K - $58K/yr

As a Trash/Refuse Collector, you will play a critical role in maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of our city streets and neighborhoods by collecting and disposing of refuse and recyclable ...

Performs manual work in the collection and disposal of refuse, recyclables, and bulky items from residential and commercial locations. Work includes loading materials into collection vehicles ...

TRASH/REFUSE COLLECTOR

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$36K - $58K/yr

As a Trash/Refuse Collector, you will play a critical role in maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of our city streets and neighborhoods by collecting and disposing of refuse and recyclable ...

Collects refuse along assigned route; rides on back of rear-loading sanitation truck; retrieves trash bin, containers, or bags from along route; empties trash bins and containers into truck; operates ...

Refuse Collector

Roswell, GA · On-site

$13.80 - $17.93/hr

... refuse; reports questions and complaints to direct supervisor. · Operates packer on garbage truck or other tools as necessary to complete essential functions, to include the use of shovels ...

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Refuse Collector information

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How much do refuse collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for refuse collector in the United States is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a refuse collector?

Refuse collectors remove trash from their assigned locations. They typically work for municipalities or private refuse companies to empty garbage and recycling bins along a public route. Some positions require you to drive from house to house and empty trash cans manually into the garbage truck. Other refuse collectors are trained to operate vehicles equipped with a crane-like mechanism that grabs and dumps the contents of the trash receptacle into the truck. Once all the trash bins along the route have been empties the refuse collector drives the trash to the dump or recycling facility.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refuse collector?

To thrive as a Refuse Collector, you need good physical fitness, stamina, and basic knowledge of waste management procedures, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with refuse collection vehicles, safety equipment, and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) are typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for efficiently handling routes and maintaining safety. These skills ensure timely waste removal, compliance with safety standards, and effective service to the community.

What are some common challenges faced by refuse collectors, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Refuse Collectors often face challenges such as working outdoors in varying weather conditions, handling heavy or awkward loads, and maintaining safety around traffic and machinery. New hires can prepare by building physical stamina, familiarizing themselves with proper lifting techniques, and reviewing safety protocols provided during training. Open communication with team members and supervisors is also important to ensure a smooth workflow and address any issues that arise during collection rounds.

What is the difference between Refuse Collector vs Waste Management Technician?

AspectRefuse CollectorWaste Management Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; valid driver’s licenseHigh school diploma; may require certifications in waste handling or safety
Work EnvironmentOn-route collection, residential/commercial areasWaste processing facilities, maintenance sites
Industry UsagePrimarily in waste collection servicesIn waste processing and environmental services

Refuse Collectors focus on collecting waste from residential and commercial areas, operating trucks and following collection routes. Waste Management Technicians often work in waste processing facilities, handling waste treatment, recycling, and safety procedures. While both roles involve waste management, their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

How much do refuse collectors get paid in the US?

Refuse collectors in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $37,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $55,000 depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work full-time schedules and may require physical stamina and knowledge of safety procedures.

Is there a demand for refuse collectors?

Refuse collectors are in steady demand due to ongoing waste management needs in many communities. Employment opportunities often depend on local government budgets, population size, and waste collection schedules, with physical stamina and knowledge of safety procedures being important for the role.

What cities are hiring for Refuse Collector jobs?

Cities with the most Refuse Collector job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Refuse Collector jobs?

The top employers for Refuse Collector jobs are:

What states have the most Refuse Collector jobs?

States with the most job openings for Refuse Collector jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Refuse Collector jobs?

For Refuse Collector jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Refuse Collector job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,191 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Refuse Collector

New Braunfels, TX • On-site

$16.23 - $19.48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


City Of New Braunfels rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Department:

Solid Waste Residential Services

FLSA Status:

Nonexempt

Hiring Salary:

Refuse Collector I range: $16.23 - $19.48

Refuse Collector II range: $16.88 - $20.26

Refuse Collector III range: $18.26 - $21.92

Welcome, 'ist das Leben schon!' (Life is good!) At the City of New Braunfels, we seek out people ready to serve the community, plan for the future, and preserve our well-renowned natural beauty. Our five Core Values serve as a cornerstone of our work: Integrity, Service, Visionary Leadership, Stewardship of Resources, and Cultural Heritage. Do our values speak to you?

What we're looking for: A motivated and collaborative individual to join the Solid Waste division. You will continue to successfully serve the current and future needs of the New Braunfels community. Under general supervision, performs a variety of customer service and manual labor tasks associated with the operation of the City's recycling center drop off facility and assists with maintenance of recycle center vehicles and equipment in accordance with safety regulations and procedures.

Benefits & Total Rewards:

Our City team members are our most valuable asset! We offer Total Rewards when you join our team.

  • Competitive medical, dental and vision insurance

  • 2:1 match on retirement contribution

  • Paid volunteer time off - 16 hours per year

  • Vacation accrual starts at date of hire - up to 120 hours annually your first year

  • Get paid to stay - longevity pay on top of your regular pay after one full year

  • Tuition reimbursement program

  • Bilingual pay offered

  • Keep learning - professional and personal development training available

The responsibilities you'll be trusted with:

The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.

Refuse Collector I

  • Assists customers with unloading recyclable materials at assigned City recycling facility.

  • Operates a hydraulic unit to compact waste materials and an electric processing machine to densify plastic foam.

  • Assists in the manual collection of solid waste, green waste and recyclable materials from residential and commercial sites on established routes; picks up, carries and empties and returns small garbage cans and designated recycling and green waste containers or maneuvers large garbage containers to collection vehicle and back without damage to containers or vehicle; operates mechanism(s) for loading and dumping into collection vehicle; picks up litter and debris caused during collection from roadway and/or right-of-way and deposits in collection vehicle.

  • Directs traffic and guides the deposit of waste into proper containers.

  • Directs and instructs customers on various division recycling services and policies.

  • Monitors and enforces rules and procedures with respect to division requirements for acceptable materials and customer activities at assigned City recycling facility.

  • Acts as a City representative and main point of contact for on-site customer needs, concerns and emergencies.

  • Assists Solid Waste Coordinator with outreach and education efforts such as tours, demonstrating equipment usage, wearing of recycling mascot uniform, etc.

  • Maintains records and logs for recycling facility activity reports.

  • Performs routine operator maintenance on assigned stationary and mobile equipment and performs manual labor tasks as assigned.

  • Maintains a clean, orderly, organized, and safe public recycling facility.

  • Physically loads, unloads, manipulates, and manages a variety of materials.

  • Utilizes appropriate safety equipment and procedures.

  • Identifies and reports maintenance and safety needs of equipment and facilities.

  • Recognizes, avoids, and reports unsafe acts, conditions, accidents and injuries.

  • Successfully complete 6-month probation period

  • Demonstrate proper use and care of all personal protective equipment (PPE)

  • Demonstrates mastery of safe vehicle mounting, riding, dismounting, and guiding techniques for a rear load collection vehicle

  • Consistently demonstrates reliability and punctuality and follows through with tasks, completing them in a timely manner.

  • Consistently demonstrates the willingness and ability to work as part of a team, supporting colleagues and contributing to group efforts

  • Consistently demonstrates the willingness and ability to learn new tasks and master various job requirements while maintaining professionalism and a positive, team-first attitude

  • Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Refuse Collector II

In addition to responsibilities and behaviors of a Refuse Collector I:

  • Demonstrates an increasing knowledge of the City's geography and proficiency to assist in at least two of the following operational areas within SWRD: commercial rear-load, residential green waste, and recycling center operations

  • Demonstrates proficiency in correct and safe operation for servicing all containers used in rear-load operations, packing of the waste, and dumping of various rear load collection vehicles

  • Demonstrates the willingness and ability to learn new skills for the betterment of the team, which may include basic welding and forklift operation

  • Continues to consistently display attributes of Refuse Collector I

Refuse Collector III

In addition to responsibilities and behaviors of a Refuse Collector III:

  • Obtains a minimum Class B CDL

  • Proficiently assists in all three of the following areas within SWRD: commercial rear-load, residential green waste, and recycling center operations

  • Maintains proficiency in either basic welding, forklift operations, OR both

  • Safely and efficiently performs duties as a Solid Waste Operator when needed

  • Continues to consistently display attributes of Refuse Collector I and II

Your areas of knowledge and expertise that matter most for this role:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

High School diploma or GED equivalent, AND a strong background in general labor, with a proven ability to perform physically demanding tasks and work outdoors in various environments.

Required Licenses or Certifications:

  • Must possess a valid Texas Driver's License.

Required Knowledge of:

  • Knowledge of the basic safety procedures for vehicle backing, safe conduct around heavy equipment, safe lifting and pulling techniques, and ensuring personal safety while working in a dynamic, outdoor environment.

  • Basic customer service skills

  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a team

  • City policies and procedures.

  • City safety rules and regulations, occupational hazards and safety precautions.

Required Skill in:

  • Safety awareness and the ability to follow safety protocols and properly use personal protective equipment

  • Effective communication and the ability to work well with team members and supervisors

  • Adaptability to learn and master varying job requirements as needed

  • Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with City employees and the public

Your Work Environment:

  • Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions frequently while riding on the Collector's step of a collection vehicle, with exposure to hazardous equipment, dust, pollen, damp/wet surfaces and high noise levels, fumes, odors; may work in cramped spaces and conditions with poor lighting and ventilation; susceptible to mechanical hazards associated with equipment and other safety hazards due to working in and around traffic. Performs bending, squatting, kneeling, climbing, twisting, crawling and reaching both to ground level and overhead; may be required to lift and carry up to 100 pounds and/or push and pull up to 150 pounds; use of fine motor skills, must hold and grip objects. Subject to working in awkward positions and periods of prolonged walking, standing or sitting.

  • Employee is required to wear PPE such as but not limited to: steel toe boots, hard hat with chin strap, gloves, safety glasses, and high visibility uniforms.

  • Employee may be required to work weekends, holidays and other irregularly scheduled times.

  • May be required to work immediately before, during or immediately after an emergency or disaster.

  • NOTE: This position is designated safety and/or security sensitive.

The City of New Braunfels is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, order of protection status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state, or local law.


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