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Refuse Collector Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Solid Waste Collector

Bowie, MD · On-site

$20.55/hr

Collecting residential refuse and/or recycling on assigned routes, this position requires heavy manual work, assisting in the collection of special pickup items, as well as operating mechanisms for ...

Refuse Collector information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$22

$38

How much do refuse collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Refuse Collector job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,635 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

LABORER I (LEAF COLLECTION)

City of Alexandria

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$19.87/hr

Temporary

Posted 19 days ago


City Of Alexandria (Louisiana) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

455th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

LABORER I (LEAF COLLECTION) OVERVIEW A Laborer I performs general, unskilled, manual work of a routine nature. The duties require physical vigor. New Laborers are given specific work instructions.

Constant supervision, however, is unnecessary for routine repetitive tasks. An incumbent may assist Laborers II and III and Equipment Operators I and II in their various tasks. An essential function of this position is the ability to perform a variety of annual labor tasks including heavy lifting and bending, in adverse weather conditions.

OPPORTUNITY Rakes leaves, works hose on leaf truck, picks up bio-degradable bags and shovels snow. Operates small hand tools such as drills, saws, blowers, and weed eaters. Performs other related tasks such as litter support, illegal dumping recovery, refuse collector assistance etc.

Wears appropriate personal protective equipment at all times including safety boots, Hi-Viz vests or shirts and safety glasses Reports to work on time, ready for duty Available to work Saturdays as season develops Able to work with group of teams, respect others and the public Performs related work as required. ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT T&ES is a community partner in shaping a livable, green, and prospering Alexandria. We plan, build, operate, and maintain transportation systems and infrastructure that improve mobility and provide people and businesses with core public services.

The work we do keeps Alexandrians moving, growing sustainability, and thriving. If you are curious for a broader view of our City, click City of Alexandria to learn more. Minimum & Additional Requirements THE IDEAL CANDIDATE To qualify for this position all candidates must have the ability to read and write and carry out simple written instructions; should have at least one year experience in related work; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Must be able to collect refuse from back of a refuse truck; ability to use common hand tools; ability to follow oral instructions; ability to perform heavy manual labor daily; and must be able to work in all kinds of weather conditions. Notes Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license may be required by some positions to operate some equipment in this class. This position requires successful completion of pre-employment background checks, physical examination and drug testing.

The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, military status, or disability.


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