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Refuse Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CDL Driver

Tehama, CA · On-site

$27 - $29/hr

... L Driver to join the team in Red Bluff, California ! This is a physical job where you will be ... Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.

CDL Driver

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$27 - $29/hr

... L Driver to join the team in Red Bluff, California ! This is a physical job where you will be ... 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

Placerville, CA · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

... Driver to join the team in Placerville, CA ! This is a physical job where you will be working ... 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

Placerville, CA · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

... Driver to join the team in Placerville, CA ! This is a physical job where you will be working ... Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.

Class A Driver

Livermore, CA · On-site

$37.90 - $50.53/hr

... Driver to join our team in Livermore, 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

Placerville, CA · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

... Driver to join the team in Placerville, CA ! This is a physical job where you will be working ... Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.

... A Driver to join our team in Livermore, CA! This is a union position with union benefits.The ... Operatehydraulic hand controlsto lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.

The Driver is responsible for safely operating a heavy-duty truck to perform assigned duties on ... Working in Windy/Hot/Cold/Wet environments, working around heavy equipment, working among refuse ...

New

Commercial Driver

Paramount, CA · On-site

$34.90/hr

The Driver is responsible for safely operating a heavy-duty truck to perform assigned duties on ... Working in Windy/Hot/Cold/Wet environments, working around heavy equipment, working among refuse ...

New

Driver

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Burrtec is a well-established refuse and recycling collection company serving over fifteen ... Driver The Driver will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles ...

Showing results 21-40

Refuse Driver information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do refuse driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 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 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Refuse Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 34% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,754 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

$27 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago


Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 264 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Green Waste of Tehama, a Waste Connections company, is looking to hire asafety minded CDL Driver to join the team in Red Bluff, California!
This is a physical job where you will be working outside in all weather conditions. Schedule is Monday-Friday with a 4:30am start time, occasional Saturdays as needed. Starting pay will be $27.00 per hour, depending on experience. Pay range for this job category is $27 - $29 per hour.
What we have to offer:
  • Competitive pay
  • Year round, full time work
  • Safety Bonuses
  • Boot Allowance
  • Great family benefits and 401k match

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Ability to safely operate a garbage truck or street sweeper truck on specified routes to collect solid waste or clean streets. Waste experience preferred, but not required.
  • Ability to read route sheets and service each customer identified on the sheet or assigned by the dispatcher.
  • Perform routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking fluids, safety equipment, and tires.
  • Ability to perform a physically demanding job, loading and unloading, at times with no helpers.
  • Operate hydraulic hand controls to lift/load refuse and dispose of trash at designated facilities.
  • Courteous interaction with our customers and perform other miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:
  • Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds.
  • Work environment involves some exposure to physical risks such as moving mechanical parts. Which require following basic safety precautions.
  • The employee is exposed to outside weather, including frequent wet conditions, as well as exposure to fumes and vibration. Noise level is usually moderate.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Class A or B CDL with air brakes endorsement
  • Clean driving record
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Minimum 1 year of experience that is directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
  • Basic knowledge of truck components in order to complete pre- and post-trip inspections.

To be considered for any of our current openings you must complete an application at www.wasteconnections.com. Application information and additional instructions can be found once you select your position of interest.
We offer excellent benefits including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long term & short term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement and unlimited opportunities to "Connect with Your Future".
Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.
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