ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Refuse Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Richmond Ambulance Authority

EMT Cadet

Richmond, VA · On-site

Candidates who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with the Richmond Ambulance Authority * Candidates selected for employment are subject to a fingerprint background screening. Candidates ...

GFL Environmental

Diesel Mechanic

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

... Refuse Trucks. -Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components. -Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse ...

GFL Environmental

Diesel Mechanic

Disputanta, VA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

... Refuse Trucks. -Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components. -Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse ...

GFL Environmental

Diesel Mechanic

Richmond, VA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

... Refuse Trucks. -Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components. -Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse ...

GFL Environmental

Diesel Mechanic

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$36/hr

... Refuse Trucks. -Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components. -Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse ...

GFL Environmental

Diesel Mechanic

West Point, VA · On-site

$30/hr

... Refuse Trucks. -Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components. -Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse ...

GFL Environmental

Diesel Mechanic

West Point, VA · On-site

$30/hr

... Refuse Trucks. -Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components. -Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse ...

GFL Environmental

Diesel Mechanic

Woodford, VA · On-site

$29 - $36/hr

... Refuse Trucks. -Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components. -Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse ...

GFL Environmental

Diesel Mechanic

Richmond, VA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

... Refuse Trucks. -Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components. -Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse ...

GFL Environmental

Diesel Mechanic

Spotsylvania, VA · On-site

$29 - $36/hr

... Refuse Trucks. -Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components. -Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse ...

GFL Environmental

Diesel Mechanic

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$29 - $36/hr

... Refuse Trucks. -Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components. -Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse ...

GFL Environmental

Diesel Mechanic

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$30/hr

... Refuse Trucks. -Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components. -Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsRefuse JobsRefuse Jobs in Virginia

Refuse information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$18

$26

How much do refuse jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for refuse in Virginia is $18.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $20.72 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.

What are popular job titles related to Refuse jobs in Virginia?

For Refuse jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refuse jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Refuse jobs in Virginia are:

Refuse jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refuse job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,138 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Technician I - Sanitation

City of Harrisonburg, VA

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

$42K - $46K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Collect municipal solid waste, bulk/yard debris, and other trash by moving cans and containers, operating hydraulic mechanisms, and riding on the refuse truck.

  • Operate specialized equipment independently and perform proper handling, spill prevention, and cleanup procedures for fuels and pollutants.

  • Perform snow and ice removal using a refuse truck with a snow plow attachment and participate in rotational standby for emergency response.

Job description

Salary : $42,536.00 - $46,800.00 Annually
Location : Harrisonburg, VA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 5833 - (Aug 2026)
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 08/27/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Description
Are you seeking a meaningful career that allows you to utilize your skills to provide efficient City services while working to enhance the quality of life for the local community? If so, the Public Works Department's Technician I position in the Sanitation Division may be the right career for you!
The Technician I - Sanitation role is a full-time position with benefits and a Monday - Friday 7:00am - 3:30pm work schedule. Applicants may be considered for levels within the department at an annual rate commensurate with applicant qualifications.
Preferred Hiring Ranges*:
  • Journeyman: $19.54 - $21.00 per hour (equivalent to $40,643 - $43,680 annually)
  • Technician I: $20.45 - $22.50 per hour (equivalent to $42,536 - $46,800 annually)
*An exact salary will be determined based on the selected candidate's qualifications/experience in compliance with City policy.
As a Technician I in Sanitation, you'll:
  • Collect municipal solid waste, bulk/yard debris material, and other trash by moving cans and containers placed for collection and dumping into trucks, operating hydraulic mechanisms for compressing and dumping refuse, and riding on rear/side step of a moving refuse truck;
  • Tag refuse for noncompliance;
  • Operate specialized equipment independently in connection with the position;
  • Perform proper handling, spill prevention/response, and cleanup procedures for fuels and other pollutants to minimize entry into stormwater system;
  • Perform snow and ice removal by operating a refuse truck with a snow plow attachment and other equipment;
  • Participate in rotational standby program;
  • Operate a City vehicle in the performance of job duties;
  • Perform other related duties as needed.
A detailed list of the ideal candidate's knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position is available in the
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum Requirements for the Technician I Level:
  • Any combination of education and experience equivalent to:
    • High school diploma or GED; and
    • Moderate (1-3 years) experience in refuse collection and grounds maintenance, including the operation of motorized equipment, or comparable experience.
  • 18 years of age or older by hire date.
  • Availability to work Mondays through Fridays from 7:00am - 3:30pm.
  • Valid commercial driver's license (CDL) Class B with air brakes. (Applicants without a CDL will be considered for the Journeyman level within the department; however, to progress to the Technician I level, a CDL is required. The department provides paid, on-the-job-training.)
  • Participation in a rotating, stand-by work program for off-hours emergency response.
  • Possession of forklift certification preferred but not required.

Interested in a career within the Sanitation Division but don't meet the minimum requirements above for a Technician I? All applicants will be considered, for the level at which they qualify, at a rate commensurate with qualifications.
The selected candidate for this position will be subject to the following screenings and must receive satisfactory results:
  • Alcohol and drug testing as required by the Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA);
  • FMCSA Clearinghouse Query;
  • DMV record review;
  • Job-specific physical; and
  • Criminal background check.

Supplemental Information
To Apply: In order to be considered, all candidates must submit a complete City of Harrisonburg online employment application, including previous work experience and education history. This position may close at any time after 10 calendar days. (posted 08/27/2026)
The City provides an excellent benefits package including health insurance, retirement (VRS & MissionSquare), life insurance, paid leave and 15.5 holidays.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or veteran status.
The City of Harrisonburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including 15.5 observed holidays. More information on available benefits is listed on the City's website
01
What is your highest level of education?
  • Less than 8th Grade
  • Completed 8th Grade
  • Attended High School
  • High School Graduate
  • GED
  • Attend College
  • College Graduate
  • Attended Graduate School
  • Master's Degree
  • Graduate study beyond Master's
  • Ph.D. or professional degree

02
How many years of experience do you have in refuse collection and grounds maintenance, including the operation of motorized equipment?
  • I do not have any experience.
  • I have some experience but less than 1 year of experience.
  • I have at least 1 year but less than 3 years of experience.
  • I have 3 or more years of experience.

03
Will you be 18 years of age or older by hire date? Please note that exact recruitment timelines vary based on multiple factors; however, the anticipated hire date is at least 3 weeks after application date.
  • Yes
  • No

04
Are you available to work Mondays through Fridays from 7:00am - 3:30pm?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Which of the following driver's license do you possess?
  • No Valid Driver's License
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Valid Commercial Driver's Learner's License
  • Valid Commercial Driver's License (Class A or B)

06
Are you able and willing to participate in a rotating, stand-by work program for off-hours emergency response?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Do you have a valid forklift certification?
  • Yes
  • No

08
I understand that if I do not meet the qualifications for the Technician I level at the time of my application that I may be considered for another level within the department at a rate commensurate with my qualifications.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Apply