ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Refuse Collector Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

City of Bowie

Solid Waste Driver- Public Works

Bowie, MD · On-site

$23.49/hr

... refuse and/or recycling on assigned routes. Incumbents in this role will be required to serve as a Collector on some occasions. As such, this position may require heavy manual work, as well as the ...

City of Bowie, Maryland

Solid Waste Driver

Bowie, MD · On-site

$23.49/hr

... refuse and/or recycling on assigned routes. Incumbents in this role will be required to serve as a Collector on some occasions. As such, this position may require heavy manual work, as well as the ...

All JobsRefuse Collector JobsRefuse Collector Jobs in Washington, DC

Refuse Collector information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$22

$38

How much do refuse collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for refuse collector in Washington, DC is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $26.39 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 refuse collectors?

Refuse collectors, also known as garbage collectors or sanitation workers, are responsible for collecting and transporting household waste, recyclables, and sometimes commercial refuse from homes and businesses to disposal or processing sites. They typically work as part of a crew, riding on waste collection vehicles, lifting and emptying bins, and ensuring that neighborhoods remain clean and hygienic. The job requires physical stamina, attention to safety, and knowledge of local waste disposal regulations.

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 a Refuse Collector job description?

A refuse collector, also known as a waste collector, is responsible for collecting and disposing of trash and recyclables from residential, commercial, or industrial areas. The job involves operating collection vehicles, following safety procedures, and working outdoors on a scheduled basis. Physical stamina and attention to safety regulations are important for this role.

What do refuse collectors get paid?

Refuse collectors typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $30,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work early morning or evening shifts and may need a valid driver's license and physical stamina for the job.

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, and why are they important?

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.

How do I become a garbage collector?

To become a refuse collector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license. On-the-job training is common, and physical stamina is important for handling heavy loads and working outdoors. Some positions may require a commercial driver's license (CDL) or specialized certifications depending on the employer.

What qualifications do you need to be a garbage collector?

To become a refuse collector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical stamina, and the ability to operate collection vehicles. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and knowledge of safety procedures; training is often provided on the job.
More about Refuse Collector jobs
What are popular job titles related to Refuse Collector jobs in Washington, DC? For Refuse Collector jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refuse Collector jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Refuse Collector jobs in Washington, DC are:
Refuse Collector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refuse Collector job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,635 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Solid Waste Driver- Public Works

City of Bowie

Bowie, MD • On-site

$23.49/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

The City of Bowie is seeking motivated, responsible, and reliable individuals who have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and a safe driving record, to join our Public Works Team as a Solid Waste Driver.
The primary duty of this position is to drive rear-loading refuse trucks, while leading small crews in the collection of residential refuse and/or recycling on assigned routes. Incumbents in this role will be required to serve as a Collector on some occasions. As such, this position may require heavy manual work, as well as the ability to operate mechanisms for loading, compacting, and dumping refuse and recyclables.
This is a 40-hour per week position; however actual work time is based on task completion.
Additional requirements include:
  • Willingness to work in all weather
  • Ability to serve as Crew Leader, and work well within a team
  • Ability to develop and maintain an excellent work attendance
  • Ability to work in a physically strenuous environment, which may include repetitive lifting up to 50 lbs., and walking for long periods.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Possession of valid Class B restricted license with air brake endorsement, issued from the state by which the incumbent resides.
  • Good driving

Preferred Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or
  • Experience driving large refuse vehicles and/or similar
  • Two or more years of experience in solid waste

RATE OF PAY: $23.49 per hour
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS: Excellent medical, dental, vision, life and long-term care insurance; 401(k) with employer match; 457 savings plans. Task work is available for this position.
HOW TO APPLY: Please visit the City of Bowie website at www.cityofbowie.org
All applicants MUST submit a completed City of Bowie employment application in order to be considered for this opportunity.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: July 31, 2026
Applicants for this position MUST register FOR THE Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. (https://clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov/) Applicants not registered will not be considered.
A proud Equal Opportunity Employer, the City of Bowie is committed to providing a fair and inclusive work environment where all employees are valued and respected.
This commitment is a vital part of the City's organizational culture and values.

Apply