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Refuse Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

TX-Sanitation Helper (DALLAS)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Under direct supervision, collects residential and commercial refuse on designated routes and assists in completion of all routes; and perform related duties as assigned. $15.21 PHYSICAL MINIMAL ...

TX-Sanitation Helper (DALLAS)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Under direct supervision, collects residential and commercial refuse on designated routes and assists in completion of all routes; and perform related duties as assigned. $15.21 PHYSICAL MINIMAL ...

Sanitation Operator

Deer Park, TX · On-site

$21.42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

None. PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Collects refuse, including household garbage, green waste, white goods and waste oil. • Operates packer control on truck. • Cleans and empties ...

Starts hoisting device that raises refuse bin attached to rear truck * Dumps contents into opening in enclosed truck body * Gathers separated recycling materials and dumps them into recycling bins on ...

SHOP FOREMAN

Houston, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with garbage/refuse trucks is a plus but not required. This position is key to maintaining the safety, reliability, and performance of our fleet. Key Responsibilities * Team Supervision ...

Starts hoisting device that raises refuse bin attached to rear truck * Dumps contents into opening in enclosed tuck body * Gathers separated recycling materials and dumps them into recycling bins on ...

Showing results 21-40

Refuse information

See Texas salary details

$11

$17

$25

How much do refuse jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for refuse in Texas is $17.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.65 and $19.47 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 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 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 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.

Infographic showing various Refuse job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,839 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Sanitation Operator II (CDL Driver)

City of Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


City Of Corpus Christi rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Overview
The Sanitation Operator II is responsible for operating tractor trailer units to support Transfer Station and disposal operations. This position is responsible for safe collection of residential refuse, recycling, brush, and sludge. Sanitation Operator II will train and operate refuse, disposal, composting and recycling equipment.
Responsibilities
• Performs routine maintenance of assigned equipment such as greasing joints and bushings, checking/adding motor oil, DEF, hydraulic fluids, tire pressure, blow out filters and other items required on individual equipment
• Requires operation of heated pressure washer, airless sprayer and chemical cleaners
• Utilizes maps and navigation tools and problem-solving skills
• Provides physical labor in area of the transfer station, landfill, and solid waste yards and other locations in the city
• Operates two or more types of sanitation equipment including fix axle semi-trailer and (Class A) construction equipment
• Tracks dozer D-6 equivalent or large, excavator, motor grade, 18-yard dump truck and forklift
• Trains and operates refuse and recycling collection vehicles to include the automated side loader (right- steer vehicle), semi-automated rear loader, debris and brush collection vehicles including rear steer loader, self-loader, grapple truck, roll off truck and other types
• Requires professional communication with public to provide them with Solid Waste services
• Attends public events and community outreach events
• Operates tablet, takes photos, documents labor hours and materials used and complete reports
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work
• Non - Exempt - Full-Time - 40 hours a week as follows - please note, positions and schedules are dependent on vacancies and department needs:
- Brush division: Monday-Thursday, 7:00am - 6:00pm
- Refuse/Recycle division: Monday-Friday, 7:30am - 3:30pm
- Transfer Station division: Rotating Monday-Saturday, 7:00am - 6:00pm
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays is a schedule requirement
• In the event of an emergency, employees are required to work to provide for the safety and well-being of the public, including the delivery and restoration of vital services
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified in this position. This job description is subject to change as the needs and requirements of the job change.
Minimum Qualifications
• High School Diploma/GED
• Three (3) year of experience
Certifications, Licenses or other requirements
Required
• Class A Driver's license - Transfer Station
• Class A or B Driver's License - Refuse/Recycling/Brush
Employment Testing
Employment is contingent on passing any post-offer pre-employment screening as listed below:
• Criminal Background Check: Yes
• Motor Vehicle Record Check: Yes
• Drug Screening: Yes
• Physical Exam: Yes
• FBI Background Check: No
• Police Background Check: No
• Clearing House Query (CDL): Yes
Basis of Rating
A recruitment consultant will evaluate all applications against the posted qualifications. The city may also conduct additional skill assessment tests, in addition to the panel interview
Supplemental Information
• Any position that lists a minimum qualification for education level and/or license/certification will require the applicant to provide proof of documentation if selected for hire into the position with the City of Corpus Christi
The City of Corpus Christi is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). If you require an accommodation in order to apply for a position, please request assistance from the Human Resources Department.

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