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Refuse Collector Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

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Refuse Collector information

See Missouri salary details

$9

$18

$32

How much do refuse collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for refuse collector in Missouri is $18.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $21.88 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.
More about Refuse Collector jobs

What are popular job titles related to Refuse Collector jobs in Missouri?

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

What job categories do people searching Refuse Collector jobs in Missouri look for?

The top searched job categories for Refuse Collector jobs in Missouri are:

What are popular job titles related to Refuse Collector jobs in MO?

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

Refuse Collector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refuse Collector job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,637 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Refuse Collector Trainee (TEMPORARY)

City of Columbia, MO

Columbia, MO • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time, Temporary

Medical

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Applicant View of Posting
Posting Number
1313T
Position Title
Refuse Collector Trainee (TEMPORARY)
Department
Utilities
Job Code
008
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Union Affiliation
Unrepresented
Pay Grade
8
Job Description Summary
Learn to operate a variety of motorized equipment and perform manual laboring tasks Participate in Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training with goal of obtaining CDL.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Participate in CDL training.
Perform manual work collecting refuse and recycling.
• Operate a variety of commercial refuse collection vehicles.
• Perform manual labor.
ANCILLARY FUNCTIONS:
• Perform custodial tasks in the general housekeeping of the facility, including sweeping and, cleaning floors.
• Maintain appearance of facility grounds by clearing debris and sweeping curbs/walkways.
• Maintain work unit files and records.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
• Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.
• Ability to learn safety standards and precautions pertaining to the use and operation of motorized equipment.
• Ability to learn how to operate motorized equipment in a safe and effective manner.
• Ability to use various hand tools.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment.
• Ability to read and follow written and oral instructions.
• Ability to work cooperatively with other employees.
PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
• Ability to feel attributes of objects, grasp, push, stand, walk, drive, reach with hands/arms, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb/balance, operate mechanical equipment, and move up and down from/to sitting position on the floor.
• Must be able to have repetitive wrist, hand and/or finger movement.
• Must have clarity of vision, three-dimensional vision, ability to identify and distinguish colors, good peripheral vision, and precise hand-eye coordination.
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Regular attendance is a necessary and essential function.
Minimum Qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Ability to successfully complete CDL training and obtain CDL license within 6 months of hire.
• Ability to obtain and maintain DOT medical certification.
Supervision Exercised
None.
Starting Salary
$20/hr
Open Until Filled
No
Deadline to Apply
09/30/2026
Number of Positions Available
multiple
Notice to Applicants
Individuals needing accommodation to apply may call 573.874.7235
TTY: 711 (MO RELAY)
THE CITY OF COLUMBIA IS A MERIT, AFFIRMATIVE ACTION, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: MALE / FEMALE
THE CITY OF COLUMBIA REQUIRES PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TESTING
The City of Columbia participates in the federal E-Verify work authorization program
Special Instructions to Applicants
Position eligible for offer of health insurance.
Temporary employees shall have no other benefits except as required by law.
Hours

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