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Refuse Jobs in California (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 ...

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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Refuse Equipment Mechanic

Hayward, CA · On-site

$34 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Be Seen First

Refuse Equipment Mechanic

Hayward, CA · On-site

$34 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Solid Waste Truck Operator II

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$61K - $72K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The ideal candidate will possess recent experience in refuse collection including the operation of a 3-axle automated refuse packer. The successful candidate will be dependable, take initiative ...

SOLID WASTE TRUCK OPERATOR

Burbank, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $21.50/hr

Under supervision, to operate various types of solid waste collection trucks; to perform heavy manual labor in the collection, trucking, and disposal of refuse and recyclable materials; and to do ...

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SENIOR SOLID WASTE OPERATOR

Riverside, CA

$66K - $77K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Regularly use and operate automated refuse truck and roll off truck; dispose of collected materials at designated transfer stations or locations. Direct driver in some movement of refuse truck in ...

SENIOR SOLID WASTE OPERATOR

Riverside, CA · On-site

$66K - $77K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Direct driver in some movement of refuse truck in alleys, driveways and other locations; provide navigation and direction for efficient and effective work-flow. * Complete pre-trip and post trip ...

SENIOR SOLID WASTE OPERATOR

Riverside, CA · On-site

$66K - $77K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Direct driver in some movement of refuse truck in alleys, driveways and other locations; provide navigation and direction for efficient and effective work-flow. * Complete pre-trip and post trip ...

Sanitation Worker

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$63K - $70K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Learn and apply laws, rules, and regulations related to refuse and disposal * Understand and follow department policies and procedures * Learn to operate vehicles and heavy equipment, and power and ...

Work around dust, dirt, odors, and refuse. Work in loud or noisy areas. Work around machinery and equipment with moving parts. Work in enclosed tight spaces. Work various shifts, overtime, weekends ...

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Showing results 1-20

Refuse information

See California salary details

$12

$18

$26

How much do refuse jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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 is a refuse worker?

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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Refuse job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,964 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Refuse Driver

United Pacific Waste

Los Angeles, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 22 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