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Refuse Jobs (NOW HIRING)

REFUSE DRIVER

Lakewood, OH · On-site

$29.91 - $30.46/hr

The City of Lakewood is currently seeking qualified candidates to fill the position of (1) one Refuse Driver in the Refuse and Recycling Division. This is a full‐time, AFSCME Bargaining Unit ...

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Regional Sales Representative - Refuse & Heavy Equipment Company: GS Products (GSP Marketing) Location: Remote (Covering the Northeast / Mid-Atlantic Territory) Job Type: Full-Time About Us At GS ...

Be Seen First

Regional Sales Representative - Refuse & Heavy Equipment Company: GS Products (GSP Marketing) Location: Remote (Covering the Northeast / Mid-Atlantic Territory) Job Type: Full-Time About Us At GS ...

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Refuse information

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$12

$18

$26

How much do refuse jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for refuse in the United States is $18.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $20.91 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.
More about Refuse jobs

What cities are hiring for Refuse jobs?

Cities with the most Refuse job openings:

What states have the most Refuse jobs?

States with the most job openings for Refuse jobs include:

Infographic showing various Refuse job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,468 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

$29.91 - $30.46/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


City Of Lakewood (Colorado) rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

119th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The City of Lakewood is currently seeking qualified candidates to fill the position of (1) one Refuse Driver in the Refuse and Recycling Division. This is a full‐time, AFSCME Bargaining Unit position with an hourly rate of $29.91 - $30.46. Normal working hours are Monday - Friday 6:30AM – 2:30PM.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Must have the knowledge and ability to operate a packer truck, automated and semi- automated trucks, recycling truck and Kubota; must have the ability to work alone as an automated recycle and garbage Operator; must have the ability to lift heavy objects (up to 50 lbs.) frequently throughout the course of the workday; must have the ability to complete the daily assignment in a timely manner; must have good oral and written communication skills; must possess the ability to get in and out of a vehicle frequently throughout the workday; must have the ability to work in extreme weather conditions; must have full use of arms and hands; must have the ability to perform routine vehicle maintenance; must have the knowledge of safe work practices; must have the ability to work with garbage and pungent odors throughout the workday.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must be able to work independently with little to no supervision.
  • Must have a good work record.
  • Must be a high school graduate or possess a GED.
  • Must have a valid Class B Commercial Driver’s License with less than eight (8) points.
  • May be required to participate in testing at the discretion of the City.
  • Must satisfactorily complete a physical examination and police background investigation.
GENERAL INFORMATION:

This is a union position, and the employee may be required to work overtime pursuant to the provisions of Article 5 and Article 15 of the current negotiated agreement. Applicants may be reassigned as required.

The City of Lakewood is an Equal Opportunity Employer


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