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Refuse Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Refuse Driver to join our team! You will be responsible for safely operating a truck with a capacity of at least 26,000 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). Responsibilities: * Safely ...

Duties include driving and operating semi-automated refuse collection vehicles and collects residential refuse along city streets from residences and businesses. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: • ...

We are seeking a Refuse Driver to join our team! You will be responsible for safely operating a truck with a capacity of at least 26,000 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). Responsibilities: * Safely ...

REFUSE DRIVER

Lakewood, OH · On-site

$29.91 - $30.46/hr

The City of Lakewood is currently seeking qualified candidates to fill the position of (1) one Refuse Driver in the Refuse and Recycling Division. This is a full‐time, AFSCME Bargaining Unit ...

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We are looking for a full time rear-loader refuse driver. Qualification: * Must have 1 year of Commercial driving experience. * Clean driving record * Able to pass a random drug test * Live within 30 ...

Be Seen First

We are looking for a full time rear-loader refuse driver. Qualification: * Must have 1 year of Commercial driving experience. * Clean driving record * Able to pass a random drug test * Live within 30 ...

Be Seen First

We are looking for a full time rear-loader refuse driver. Qualification: * Must have 1 year of Commercial driving experience. * Clean driving record * Able to pass a random drug test * Live within 30 ...

Be Seen First

We are looking for a full time rear-loader refuse driver. Qualification: * Must have 1 year of Commercial driving experience. * Clean driving record * Able to pass a random drug test * Live within 30 ...

Be Seen First

We are looking for a full time rear-loader refuse driver. Qualification: * Must have 1 year of Commercial driving experience. * Clean driving record * Able to pass a random drug test * Live within 30 ...

The Refuse Collector falls under Roads and Grounds and as such your time maybe split between ... Valid CDL or willing to obtain CDL within a year of acceptance of position * Valid Drivers License

The Refuse Collector falls under Roads and Grounds and as such your time maybe split between ... Valid CDL or willing to obtain CDL within a year of acceptance of position * Valid Drivers License

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;

Refuse Collector II

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$48K - $81K/yr

Conducts CDL Pre-Trip and Post-Trip Inspections. * Interacts with citizens and customers by explaining refuse collection codes and procedures. Education/Experience Work requires the ability to read ...

TRASH/REFUSE COLLECTOR

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$36K - $58K/yr

As a Trash/Refuse Collector, you will play a critical role in maintaining the cleanliness and ... Possession of a valid driver's license Physical Demands: 1. The physical activity of this position ...

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Refuse Driver information

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$12

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How much do refuse driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for refuse driver in the United States is $17.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a refuse driver?

To thrive as a Refuse Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a good driving record, and knowledge of safe waste collection procedures. Familiarity with refuse collection vehicles, hydraulic controls, and route management systems is typically required. Excellent time management, reliability, and strong communication skills help drivers work efficiently and interact positively with the public. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring timely, safe, and effective waste removal, supporting public health and community cleanliness.

What is the difference between Refuse Driver vs Recycling Driver?

AspectRefuse DriverRecycling Driver
CredentialsValid driver's license, CDL often preferredValid driver's license, CDL optional
Work EnvironmentResidential/commercial waste collectionRecycling collection from homes/businesses
Industry UsageWaste management, sanitation servicesRecycling services, environmental companies
Job Search IntentJobs in waste collection and sanitationJobs in recycling and environmental services

Refuse Drivers primarily handle waste collection, focusing on garbage and trash removal, while Recycling Drivers specialize in collecting recyclable materials. Both roles require similar licenses and work in waste management industries, but their focus and the materials they handle differ.

What is a refuse driver?

Refuse Drivers, also known as garbage truck drivers or waste collection drivers, are professionals responsible for operating vehicles that collect and transport waste and recyclables from homes, businesses, and public areas to disposal or recycling facilities. Their job involves driving specialized trucks along designated routes, safely loading waste materials, and ensuring proper disposal in compliance with local regulations. Refuse Drivers play an essential role in maintaining public health and cleanliness by ensuring that waste is collected regularly and efficiently.

What are common challenges faced by refuse drivers, and how can they be managed?

Refuse Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating congested or narrow streets, handling heavy bins, and working in varying weather conditions. Effective communication with team members and route planners can help address logistical issues and ensure safety. Staying vigilant about safety protocols and maintaining good physical fitness are also important for managing the physical demands of the role. Additionally, building good relationships with colleagues and residents can make daily tasks smoother and more rewarding.
More about Refuse Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Refuse Driver jobs? Cities with the most Refuse Driver job openings:
What states have the most Refuse Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Refuse Driver jobs include:
Infographic showing various Refuse Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,242 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Refuse Driver

United Pacific Waste

Los Angeles, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a Refuse Driver to join our team! You will be responsible for safely operating  a truck with a capacity of at least 26,000 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW).

Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate a heavy Garbage Truck
  • Properly track and document activity log
  • Report any issues or incidents to dispatch
  • Inspect truck before and after trip
  • Pick up trash containers, load truck and go to the dump

Qualifications:

  • Previous experience in truck driving or other related fields (preferred but not mandatory)
  • Commercial driver's license Class B only
  • Ability to handle physical workload
  • Strong work ethic