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Refuse Collector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Goose Creek, SC

CDL Truck Driver

Goose Creek, SC · On-site

$19.57/hr

Ability to function as a Refuse Collector as needed. KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES REQUIRED * Knowledge of side loading sanitation truck operation and/or automated debris collection equipment, to include ...

City of St. Cloud, FL

Driver/Collector

Saint Cloud, FL · On-site

$20.65 - $28.51/hr

REFUSE COLLECTION Opening Date: 07/07/2026 Closing Date: 7/14/2026 5:00 PM Eastern FLSA: Non-Exempt Description Now Hiring: Driver/Collector - Public Works Department The City is seeking dependable ...

City of Shreveport

OPERATOR COLLECTOR

Shreveport, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Class Title The Operator/Collector, Public Works is responsible for the collection of backdoor and ... waste from refuse vehicles. 2. May drive and operate refuse trucks, small pick-ups, and other ...

City of Muskogee

Solid Waste Operator

Muskogee, OK · On-site

$15.38/hr

High School Diploma or equivalent preferred but not required, with two years of experience as a refuse collector or driver of a heavy commercial vehicle desired. Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills

City of Muskogee

Solid Waste Operator

Muskogee, OK · On-site

$15.38/hr

High School Diploma or equivalent preferred but not required, with two years of experience as a refuse collector or driver of a heavy commercial vehicle desired. Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills

Behavior Frontiers

Billing Collector

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

We are currently looking to hire a full-time Medical Billing Collector to support the billing team ... Escalating issues when insurances and clients refuse to pay * Other duties, as assigned Job ...

Behavior Frontiers

Billing Collector

El Segundo, CA

$23 - $29/hr

We are currently looking to hire a full-time Medical Billing Collector to support the billing team ... Escalating issues when insurances and clients refuse to pay * Other duties, as assigned Job ...

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Refuse Collector information

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How much do refuse collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 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 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.
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Refuse Collector jobs near you

Residential Refuse Collector ASL - (CDL Required)

Amwaste of Georgia LLC

Townsend, GA

$24 - $27/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Description

Don't drive past this opportunity!

You have found the perfect CDL ASL (Automated Side Loader) Driver position to develop and grow as a professional.

Our CDL drivers are responsible for safely operating automated waste collection trucks and providing courteous waste removal services for customers who reside on a designated route. Our drivers engage with customers and impact their community in a positive way.

Amwaste offers:


Competitive pay

  • Paid vacation effective day 1
  • Rich benefits offerings including 401K
  • No overnight travel for driver positions
  • Career development/advancement opportunities

Start 2026 with a rewarding CDL driver opportunity with Amwaste!



Principal Responsibilities

  • Perform complete pre- and post-operation inspection of the vehicle in accordance with Company policy to ensure tire pressure, fluid levels, safety equipment, gauges, and controls are in proper working order. Report any safety issues on standard reports.
  • Safely operate his or her heavy ASL truck along his or her designated route and to the disposal site; read route sheet, follow map and service each customer as identified on the route sheet or as assigned by the dispatcher and/or supervisor.
  • Courteously interact with all customers, dispatchers and others on a daily basis to ensure all customer routes are serviced in a timely and professional manner.
  • Identify unsatisfactory waste containers and tag containers in accordance with applicable departmental procedures.
  • Continuously monitor waste for evidence of unacceptable waste.
  • Clean area around an accidental waste spill, ensuring adherence to all applicable safety standards and policies.
  • Continuously monitor the condition of the vehicle to ensure it is operationally ready at all times to minimize down time, clean waste from the packer blade and truck body on each disposal trip.
  • Complete required route/productivity sheets, DVIR and other reports, as required.
  • Maintain adherence to required productivity standards for the department to ensure all customers are serviced in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Follow all required safety policies and procedures.
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned. The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature of work performed by this position and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Company.

Requirements

Preferred Qualifications

  • Two years of prior experience driving heavy commercial trucks.
  • Class B CDL.

Apply