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Refuse Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Hanford

Refuse Collector - Part Time

Hanford, CA · On-site

$35K - $42K/yr

Under supervision to perform a variety of skilled and semi-skilled refuse collection duties on assigned residential or commercial routes; and to perform related duties as required. The working hours ...

United Pacific Waste

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 ...

United Pacific Waste

Refuse Driver

Los Angeles, CA

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 ...

Haaker Equipment

Refuse Equipment Mechanic

Hayward, CA · On-site

$34 - $45/hr

Job Title: Refuse Equipment Mechanic Department: Service Reports to: General Manager Job Summary: This position must have general mechanical experience. Requires individual to work under the ...

City of Redlands

Solid Waste Truck Driver

Redlands, CA · On-site

$51K - $62K/yr

Under supervision, operates equipment on assigned routes; performs commercial and residential refuse collection and recycling activities; and performs minor maintenance on vehicles and equipment.

Owen Equipment Sales

Demo Driver

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$30/hr

Safely operate refuse trucks, sweepers and vactors during on-site and off-site customer demonstrations * Conduct product demonstrations highlighting key features, performance, and safety ...

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Refuse information

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How much do refuse jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for refuse in California is $18.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs are expected to decline?

Jobs involving routine manual tasks, such as assembly line work and data entry, are expected to decline due to automation and technological advancements. Additionally, roles in sectors like retail and administrative support may decrease as online services and AI tools become more prevalent. Workers in these fields may need to develop new skills to adapt to changing job markets.

What are refuse workers?

Refuse workers, also known as garbage collectors or sanitation workers, are responsible for collecting, transporting, and disposing of waste and recyclable materials from homes, businesses, and public areas. They typically operate garbage trucks, lift and empty bins, and ensure that waste is properly sorted and managed according to local regulations. Refuse workers play a vital role in maintaining public health and cleanliness in communities.

What is the difference between Refuse vs Waste Collector?

AspectRefuseWaste Collector
Primary RoleDisposing of household or commercial wasteCollecting and transporting waste from various locations
Work EnvironmentLandfills, waste processing facilities, residential areasOn the road, residential and commercial areas, waste collection sites
CredentialsMay require a valid driver’s license, safety trainingDriver’s license, physical fitness, safety certifications

Refuse generally refers to the waste material itself, while Waste Collector is the job responsible for collecting and transporting that waste. Both roles are essential in waste management, with Refuse being the material and Waste Collector being the worker handling it.

What are some common challenges faced by refuse collectors, and how can they be managed on the job?

Refuse collectors often face physical challenges such as lifting heavy bins, exposure to varying weather conditions, and navigating traffic during collection routes. Managing these challenges typically involves adhering to safety protocols, using proper lifting techniques, and wearing protective gear. Teams usually work closely to support each other, and many organizations provide regular training on safety and equipment handling to minimize risks and improve efficiency.

What jobs pay 250 an hour?

High-paying jobs that can reach $250 an hour include specialized roles such as experienced surgeons, anesthesiologists, corporate lawyers, and certain consulting or freelance professionals with advanced skills. These positions often require extensive education, certifications, or significant experience, and may involve working in private practice, consulting firms, or specialized industries.

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 generally need physical stamina, attention to safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, compactors, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining public health, ensuring efficient waste removal, and supporting a safe working environment.

What is a refuse job?

A refuse job involves collecting, transporting, and disposing of waste and recyclables from residential, commercial, or industrial sites. Workers in this field typically operate garbage trucks, follow safety protocols, and may need a commercial driver's license (CDL).
What are popular job titles related to Refuse jobs in California? For Refuse jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refuse jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Refuse jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Refuse jobs? Cities in California with the most Refuse job openings:
Refuse jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refuse job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,964 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Refuse Collector - Part Time

City of Hanford, CA

Hanford, CA • On-site

$35K - $42K/yr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Salary : $35,360.00 - $42,640.00 Annually
Location : Public Works 900 S. 10th Avenue, Hanford, CA 93230, CA
Job Type: Part Time
Job Number: 26/27-03
Department: Public Works
Division: Refuse
Opening Date: 07/13/2026
Closing Date: 7/28/2026 4:00 PM Pacific
DESCRIPTION
The City of Hanford is seeking to fill one (1) part-time vacancy in the Public Works Department - Refuse Division.
Under supervision to perform a variety of skilled and semi-skilled refuse collection duties on assigned residential or commercial routes; and to perform related duties as required.
The working hours will vary depending upon working assignment; position may be assigned to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Please note this is a part-time position not to exceed 1,000 hours per fiscal year and affords no benefits aside from sick leave.
A current DMV driving printout (less than one month old) must be submitted with a completed City application.
DMV record request link: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/customer-service/request-vehicle-or-driver-records/online-driver-record-request/
EXAMPLE OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
May serve as a helper on a waste disposal truck on an assigned route.
Inspect truck and equipment before beginning daily route.
Work with partner to move, service, and empty refuse containers into hopper of truck.
Lift and compact material in hopper by operating basic machine controls.
Report unsatisfactory containers to immediate supervisor.
Assemble, repair, and deliver refuse containers.
Explain disposal service to property owners.
Wash, clean and service trucks.
Receive customer complaints and refer them to supervisor.
May work various workday assignments.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Basic machine operation;
Basic spoken and written English.
Skill in:
Carrying out oral and written instructions;
Tactfully accepting complaints;
Working cooperatively with others;
Performing heavy manual labor.
Experience and Education Any combination of training and experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
General work experience, preferably including some outdoor physical labor experience.
Education:
Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade or completion of formal or informal education sufficient to assure the ability to read and write at the level required for successful job performance.
License Required
Possession of a valid and appropriate California Driver license with a good driving record.
A current DMV driver's record (less than one-month-old) MUST be submitted with a completed City application
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A current DMV driving printout (less than one month old) must be submitted with a completed City application. DMV record request link: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/customer-service/request-vehicle-or-driver-records/online-driver-record-request/
Screening will consist of a competitive assessment of relevant education, training and work experience to be followed by a written examination and/or an interview before an Oral Board to determine the most qualified candidates. Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement to an interview, and the decision of the screening committee is final. Those candidates who are determined eligible for appointment to the position will be placed on the City's Certified Eligibility List. Applicants will receive written notification regarding the results of all phases of the recruitment process up to the establishment of the Eligibility List, if applicable.
Paid Sick Leave
Employees are eligible to accrue paid sick leave beginning with their first day of employment. Employees accrue paid sick leave at the rate of one (1) hour for every thirty (30) hours of work, subject to the maximum annual benefit of forty (40) hours. Unused accrued paid sick leave hours will carry over from one year to the next.
457 Deferred Compensation Plan
Part-Time employees are enrolled in a 457 deferred compensation retirement plan ("PTS Plan") and will contribute 7.5% of their salary. The City is contracted with Mission Square Retirement.
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