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Refuse Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Athens Services

Utility Driver

City Of Industry, CA

$38.61 - $39.11/hr

Working in Windy/Hot/Cold/Wet environments, working around heavy equipment, working among refuse ... Valid Class A or B Driver's License. * 3+ years of experience operating a commercial vehicle.

Athens Services

Utility Driver

La Puente, CA · On-site

$38.61 - $39.11/hr

Working in Windy/Hot/Cold/Wet environments, working around heavy equipment, working among refuse ... Valid Class A or B Driver's License. * 3+ years of experience operating a commercial vehicle.

Athensservices

Utility Driver

City Of Industry, CA

$38.61 - $39.11/hr

Working in Windy/Hot/Cold/Wet environments, working around heavy equipment, working among refuse ... Valid Class A or B Driver's License. * 3+ years of experience operating a commercial vehicle.

Athens Services

Driver Helper

Irwindale, CA · On-site

$20.62 - $21.37/hr

Summary All Driver's Trainees ("Trainees") employed by Athens Services are responsible for all ... Working in Windy/Hot/Cold/Wet environments, working around heavy equipment, working among refuse ...

Waste Connections Inc

$17.50 - $21.25/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.

New

Athens Services

Driver Helper

Irwindale, CA

$20.62 - $21.37/hr

Summary All Driver's Trainees ("Trainees") employed by Athens Services are responsible for all ... Working in Windy/Hot/Cold/Wet environments, working around heavy equipment, working among refuse ...

Waste Connections of Canada

$17.50 - $21.25/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.

New

County of Sacramento

Sanitation Worker

Sacramento, CA

$63K - $70K/yr

... disposal of refuse. Some positions in this classification are temporary and part-time only ... A valid Driver License, Class C or higher, is required at the time of appointment. Incumbents in ...

Sacramento County, CA

Sanitation Worker

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$63K - $70K/yr

Learn and apply laws, rules, and regulations related to refuse and disposal * Understand and follow ... A valid Driver License, Class C or higher, is required at the time of appointment. Incumbents in ...

Republic Services

Driver - CDL (B)

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$31.92/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... refuse, operate compactor and dispose of collected material at the designated facility.

Republic Services

Driver - CDL (B)

Imperial, CA · On-site

$22.60/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... refuse, operate compactor and dispose of collected material at the designated facility.

Republic Services

Driver - CDL (B)

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$22.40 - $30.80/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... refuse, operate compactor and dispose of collected material at the designated facility.

Republic Services

Driver CDL B

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$31.92/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... refuse, operate compactor and dispose of collected material at the designated facility.

Republic Services

Driver - CDL (B)

Anaheim, CA

$31.92/hr

A Driver- CDL (B) is responsible for safely operating a collection truck, and providing prompt ... refuse, operate compactor and dispose of collected material at the designated facility.

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All JobsRefuse Driver JobsRefuse Driver Jobs in California

Refuse Driver information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do refuse driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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 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:
Refuse Driver jobs near you
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.

Utility Driver

Athens Services

City Of Industry, CA

$38.61 - $39.11/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 hours ago

Athens Services rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 89 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Summary

Ignite your career as a Commercial Driver with Athens Services! Seize the opportunity to power environmental responsibility by skillfully navigating a heavy-duty truck on thrilling recycling and commercial routes. As a vital member of our dynamic transportation team, you'll be at the forefront of efficient customer service, all while adhering to local, state, and federal transportation regulations and championing company policies.
We offer a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401K, life insurance, and professional development opportunities. Ready to steer your career towards excitement and impact? Apply now and be the driving force behind a sustainable future with Athens Services!
The Driver is responsible for safely operating a heavy-duty truck to perform assigned duties on container delivery, recycling, residential, commercial, or industrial (roll-off) routes. This position is responsible for efficiently servicing assigned customers, while complying with all local, state, and federal transportation regulations and with Company policies.

Job Description

  • Operates vehicle in accordance with Occupational and Safety Health Act (OSHA)/Department of Transportation (DOT) requires as well as all local, state and federal requirements.
  • Performs pre- and post-trip inspections of assigned vehicle utilizing standard Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR). Responsible for reporting any vehicle deficiencies prior to and after each route day.
  • Ensures vehicle is operating correctly while on the route and notifies Route Supervisor/Dispatch/Maintenance of any concerns.
  • Understands and practices all policies and procedures as described per Athens Services Safety Rules. Makes use of standard tools and resources provided by the Company.
  • Clean area around any accidental waste spill, ensuring adherence to all applicable safety standards and policies.
  • Identify unsatisfactory waste barrels and tag containers due to contamination of waste streams.
  • Follow all applicable rules and protocols when disposing at the Material Recovery Facility (MRF).
  • Maintain a clean and safe vehicle. Clean waste from the packer blade and truck body (where appropriate) on each disposal trip.
  • Ensure all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is worn while operating specific machinery.
  • Participates and cooperates in all scheduled training, briefings, and Safety meetings as required by the Company.
  • Works closely with Route Supervisors to improve route efficiencies and identify problem or unsafe accounts.
  • Performs all duties as scheduled by Route Supervisor or Dispatch, assisting operations as directed.
  • Immediately notifies Route Supervisor of any incidents/accidents/injures/property damages.
  • Communicates customer requests/issues to Dispatch/Route Supervisor.
  • Completely dumps all containers and leaves the customer's location clean and free of debris. Properly positions containers on the customer's property.
  • Follows route assignments throughout the day and completes all documentation when checking-in at the end of the route.
  • Provides a positive and professional attitude when dealing with customers.
  • Working in Windy/Hot/Cold/Wet environments, working around heavy equipment, working among refuse and exposed to dusty conditions.
  • Frequent exposure to traffic, being aware of all your surroundings, maintain a high level of communication with others.
  • Continuously grasping, bending, pushing, pulling, lifting, stretching, twisting, stooping, walking on uneven surfaces and lifting < 50 lb. frequently in all weather conditions. Ability to work independently and together as a team.
  • Able to work standing and/or sitting for long periods of time.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Valid Class A or B Driver's License.
  • 3+ years of experience operating a commercial vehicle.
  • Clean Driving Record.
  • Able to meet all DOT requirements.
  • Able to provide exceptional customer service always.
  • Good time management skills.
  • Able to follow through multiple challenges as they arise.
  • Ability to perform all physical requirements of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bilingual English / Spanish
  • Work experience in the waste, environmental services, energy, or transportation industry.

Physical/Environmental Demands:

  • Physical:
    • Standing, walking, seeing, hearing, & smelling continuously.
    • Problem solving, oral/written communication, analytical ability, concentration, & interpersonal abilities continuously.
    • Eye/hand coordination, handling, & wrist motion continuously.
    • Bending, reaching, stretching, frequently, pushing, pulling and lifting 50 Lbs. continuously.
  • Environmental:
    • Exposure to dust, smoke, fumes, odors, grease, oil, chemicals, wet/hot conditions, & noise continuously.
    • Works outside only.

Salary: $38.61 - $39.11 per hour

Benefits:
  • Competitive wages
  • Comprehensive benefit package Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401K
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Sick Time
  • Career plan
  • Recognition programs
  • Professional development learning
  • An exceptional work environment

Athens will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance and any other applicable state, federal or local laws. EEO/M/F/disability/veteran

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