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 ...
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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
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
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 ...
Quick apply
Refuse Driver
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
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 ...
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Class A or Class B CDL DRIVER
Fresno, CA · On-site
$23 - $25/hr
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 ...
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Class A or Class B CDL DRIVER
Fresno, CA · On-site
$23 - $25/hr
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 ...
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Class A or Class B CDL DRIVER
Auberry, CA · On-site
$23 - $25/hr
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 ...
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Class A or Class B CDL DRIVER
Auberry, CA · On-site
$23 - $25/hr
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 ...
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Class A or Class B CDL DRIVER
Clovis, CA · On-site
$23 - $25/hr
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 ...
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Class A or Class B CDL DRIVER
Clovis, CA · On-site
$23 - $25/hr
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 ...
Extra Help - Refuse Site Attendant
Visalia, CA · On-site
$21.27/hr
One (1) year of full-time paid experience equivalent to a Refuse Site Attendant. OR two (2) years ... Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Additional ...
Extra Help - Refuse Site Attendant
Visalia, CA · On-site
$21.27/hr
One (1) year of full-time paid experience equivalent to a Refuse Site Attendant. OR two (2) years ... Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Additional ...
Extra Help - Refuse Site Attendant
Visalia, CA · On-site
$21.27/hr
One (1) year of full-time paid experience equivalent to a Refuse Site Attendant. OR two (2) years ... Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Additional ...
Extra Help - Refuse Site Attendant
Visalia, CA · On-site
$21.27/hr
One (1) year of full-time paid experience equivalent to a Refuse Site Attendant. OR two (2) years ... Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Additional ...
Heavy Truck Driver I
San Diego, CA · On-site
... 6300 series refuse packer trucks, and 9000 series five-cubic yard dump trucks equipped with a ... Heavy Truck Driver I employees may be required to work weekends, extended periods of night or ...
Heavy Truck Driver I
San Diego, CA · On-site
... 6300 series refuse packer trucks, and 9000 series five-cubic yard dump trucks equipped with a ... Heavy Truck Driver I employees may be required to work weekends, extended periods of night or ...
Heavy Truck Driver I
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
Heavy Truck Driver II Heavy Truck Driver I positions drive single-unit two or three-axle heavy ... 6300 series refuse packer trucks, and 9000 series five-cubic yard dump trucks equipped with a ...
Heavy Truck Driver I
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
Heavy Truck Driver II Heavy Truck Driver I positions drive single-unit two or three-axle heavy ... 6300 series refuse packer trucks, and 9000 series five-cubic yard dump trucks equipped with a ...
Heavy Truck Driver I
San Diego, CA · On-site
$54K - $65K/yr
... including refuse barrels from City beaches and parks; perform unskilled construction and ... Heavy Truck Driver I employees may be required to work weekends, extended periods of night or ...
Heavy Truck Driver I
San Diego, CA · On-site
$54K - $65K/yr
... including refuse barrels from City beaches and parks; perform unskilled construction and ... Heavy Truck Driver I employees may be required to work weekends, extended periods of night or ...
Heavy Truck Driver I
San Diego, CA · On-site
$54K - $65K/yr
... 6300 series refuse packer trucks, and 9000 series five-cubic yard dump trucks equipped with a ... Heavy Truck Driver I employees who operate commercial vehicles are required by California State Law ...
Heavy Truck Driver I
San Diego, CA · On-site
$54K - $65K/yr
... 6300 series refuse packer trucks, and 9000 series five-cubic yard dump trucks equipped with a ... Heavy Truck Driver I employees who operate commercial vehicles are required by California State Law ...
Heavy Truck Driver I
San Diego, CA · On-site
$54K - $65K/yr
... including refuse barrels from City beaches and parks; perform unskilled construction and ... Heavy Truck Driver I employees may be required to work weekends, extended periods of night or ...
Heavy Truck Driver I
San Diego, CA · On-site
$54K - $65K/yr
... including refuse barrels from City beaches and parks; perform unskilled construction and ... Heavy Truck Driver I employees may be required to work weekends, extended periods of night or ...
Driver Helper
Marina, CA · On-site
$17.25 - $21/hr
Waste Connections is looking for a safety conscience Driver Helper to join our growing team in ... Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.
Driver Helper
Marina, CA · On-site
$17.25 - $21/hr
Waste Connections is looking for a safety conscience Driver Helper to join our growing team in ... Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.
Solid Waste Truck Operator II
Pasadena, CA · On-site
$61K - $72K/yr
Communicates with dispatcher, supervisor, and other drivers via two-way radio. * Operates and drives loaded truck to disposal area and unloads refuse. * Keeps supervisor informed on operations and ...
Solid Waste Truck Operator II
Pasadena, CA · On-site
$61K - $72K/yr
Communicates with dispatcher, supervisor, and other drivers via two-way radio. * Operates and drives loaded truck to disposal area and unloads refuse. * Keeps supervisor informed on operations and ...
CDL Driver
San Jose, CA · On-site
$47.20 - $59/hr
... L Driver to join our team in San Jose, CA! This is a union position with union benefits. The ... Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.
CDL Driver
San Jose, CA · On-site
$47.20 - $59/hr
... L Driver to join our team in San Jose, CA! This is a union position with union benefits. The ... Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.
CDL Driver
San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site
$24 - $35/hr
... Driver to join the team at our Hauling location in San Luis Obispo, CA . Monday-Friday day shift ... Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.
CDL Driver
San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site
$24 - $35/hr
... Driver to join the team at our Hauling location in San Luis Obispo, CA . Monday-Friday day shift ... Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.
Maintenance Assistant
Claremont, CA · On-site
$22.45 - $27.13/hr
Sanitation Division Maintenance Assistants assigned to the Sanitation Division will assist commercial refuse drivers with moving bins and navigating clearance zones. They will pick-up and deliver ...
Maintenance Assistant
Claremont, CA · On-site
$22.45 - $27.13/hr
Sanitation Division Maintenance Assistants assigned to the Sanitation Division will assist commercial refuse drivers with moving bins and navigating clearance zones. They will pick-up and deliver ...
Truck Driver Front Loader
San Clemente, CA · On-site
$30 - $33.15/hr
Education, Training & Experience 1. Current and valid commercial driver's license and DOT medical card. 2. One year of refuse truck driving experience required. 3. Experience in the resource recovery ...
Truck Driver Front Loader
San Clemente, CA · On-site
$30 - $33.15/hr
Education, Training & Experience 1. Current and valid commercial driver's license and DOT medical card. 2. One year of refuse truck driving experience required. 3. Experience in the resource recovery ...
Truck Driver Front Loader
San Clemente, CA · On-site
$30 - $33.15/hr
Education, Training & Experience 1. Current and valid commercial driver's license and DOT medical card. 2. One year of refuse truck driving experience required. 3. Experience in the resource recovery ...
Truck Driver Front Loader
San Clemente, CA · On-site
$30 - $33.15/hr
Education, Training & Experience 1. Current and valid commercial driver's license and DOT medical card. 2. One year of refuse truck driving experience required. 3. Experience in the resource recovery ...
Refuse Driver information
See California salary details
$11.86 - $12.85
5% of jobs
$12.85 - $13.85
1% of jobs
$13.85 - $14.84
2% of jobs
$14.84 - $15.83
14% of jobs
$15.94 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.83 - $16.82
25% of jobs
The median wage is $16.97 / hr.
$16.82 - $17.81
18% of jobs
$17.81 - $18.81
6% of jobs
$19.21 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.81 - $19.80
8% of jobs
$19.80 - $20.79
9% of jobs
$20.79 - $21.78
5% of jobs
$21.78 - $22.77
5% of jobs
$11
$17
$22
How much do refuse driver jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for refuse driver in California is $17.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
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 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 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.
What is the difference between Refuse Driver vs Recycling Driver?
| Aspect | Refuse Driver | Recycling Driver |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Valid driver's license, CDL often preferred | Valid driver's license, CDL optional |
| Work Environment | Residential/commercial waste collection | Recycling collection from homes/businesses |
| Industry Usage | Waste management, sanitation services | Recycling services, environmental companies |
| Job Search Intent | Jobs in waste collection and sanitation | Jobs 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 are popular job titles related to Refuse Driver jobs in California?
For Refuse Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refuse Driver jobs in California look for?
The top searched job categories for Refuse Driver jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Refuse Driver jobs?
Cities in California with the most Refuse Driver job openings:
Full-time
Re-posted 3 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