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Refuse Collector Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

Receives and responds to customer questions and complaints regarding problems pertaining to refuse; reports questions and complaints to direct supervisor. * Operates packer on garbage truck or other ...

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 information

See Georgia salary details

$8

$16

$28

How much do refuse collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for refuse collector in Georgia is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.40 and $19.71 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 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.

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.
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Infographic showing various Refuse Collector job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,781 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

REFUSE COLLECTOR

City Of Douglasville

Douglasville, GA • On-site

$19.54/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

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 carts; loads refuse, yard waste, and approved bulk or special materials into sanitation trucks using manual methods or mechanized equipment; cleans debris from collection sites; and completes assigned routes in accordance with daily schedules and safety procedures;

Rides on or assists the sanitation truck during assigned routes; supports the driver with navigation, safe operations, and efficient route completion; and responds courteously to basic customer questions related to collection services when encountered;

Operates non-CDL equipment, including boom or mechanized collection attachments, as assigned, and assists with special refuse, appliance, or oil collection activities as directed by supervision;

Cleans sanitation trucks and related equipment as instructed to maintain operational readiness and safety;

Provides refuse collection support at City facilities, parks, and community events, and assists with event setup, cleanup, or related services as needed;

Assists the Maintenance Department, Keeping Douglasville Beautiful, or other City divisions with labor support tasks as assigned;

May provide guidance or on-the-job instruction to new or less experienced employees related to assigned equipment or route procedures, when directed;

May be required to work after hours, weekends, or special events based on operational needs;

Performs other related duties as required.


MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

High School Diploma or equivalent; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.


CERTIFICATION, LICENSE, AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Requires a Valid State of Georgia Driver’s License.

Must be willing to obtain Flaggers License Within six (6) months of hire.

Must be willing to obtain CPR certification within three (3) months of hire.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of City and departmental policies and procedures;

Knowledge of occupational hazards, safety rules, and regulations;

Knowledge of refuse collection procedures and applicable codes pertaining to refuse collection;

Skilled in performing general equipment maintenance duties;

Ability to interpret instructions and efficiently carry them out with minimal supervision;

Ability to perform heavy manual labor;

Ability to deal courteously and tactfully with residential customers and the general public;

Ability to follow necessary safety precautions in all areas of assignment.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work requires the ability to perform heavy physical labor, including prolonged standing and walking; frequent bending, stooping, crouching, kneeling, crawling, climbing, pushing, pulling, lifting, and carrying. Duties require maintaining balance, reaching, repetitive motion, and frequent use of hands and fingers for grasping, handling, and fine manipulation. The position also requires adequate visual, auditory, and verbal acuity and sustained focus to safely perform field operations, including lifting or moving materials or equipment as required by the duties of the position.


WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work is typically performed outdoors in all weather conditions and in environments involving heavy equipment, sanitation vehicles, and moving traffic. The incumbent is routinely exposed to noise, debris, odors, and potentially hazardous materials, and must exercise constant awareness to prevent injury to self, co-workers, and the public.