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Side Load Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rear load, front load, side load, roll off trucks. Class II Driver: Demonstrates the ability to complete assigned route sheet for 2 Lines of Business as well as ability to complete tasks necessary as ...

The Commercial Rear/Side Load Driver will be responsible for safely, efficiently, and courteously providing waste removal services to commercial customers. The driver will collect solid waste or ...

The Commercial Rear/Side Load Driver will be responsible for safely, efficiently, and courteously providing waste removal services to commercial customers. The driver will collect solid waste or ...

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Side Load Driver information

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$14

$37

$89

How much do side load driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for side load driver in the United States is $37.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a side load driver?

Side load drivers are professional truck drivers who operate vehicles equipped with side-loading mechanisms, commonly used for waste collection and recycling. These drivers are responsible for safely operating the specialized trucks, navigating residential and commercial routes, and ensuring that waste bins are properly emptied using the mechanical side arm. In addition to driving, side load drivers perform safety checks, maintain accurate records, and adhere to local regulations regarding waste disposal. This role requires attention to detail, good driving skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a side load driver?

To thrive as a Side Load Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), good driving record, and knowledge of safe waste collection procedures. Familiarity with hydraulic controls, side-loading refuse trucks, and basic vehicle maintenance is typically required. Strong customer service orientation, attention to detail, and reliability are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and courteous waste collection services while maintaining public safety and operational standards.

What are common challenges side load drivers face during their daily routes?

Side Load Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating narrow or congested streets, handling heavy bins in varying weather conditions, and maintaining strict adherence to collection schedules. Additionally, they must be vigilant about safety protocols while operating the side-loading mechanism and interacting with pedestrians or other vehicles. Effective communication with dispatchers and route planners is also key to resolving unexpected issues like blocked access or equipment malfunctions during their shift.

What is the difference between Side Load Driver vs Box Truck Driver?

AspectSide Load DriverBox Truck Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), possibly specialized certificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), standard for delivery
Work EnvironmentLoading/unloading from side of vehicle, often in industrial or warehouse settingsDriving and delivering goods in enclosed box trucks, often in urban areas
Employer & Industry UsageLogistics, freight, construction industriesParcel delivery, moving services, retail distribution
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Side Load Driver and a Box Truck Driver lies in their loading methods and work environment. Side Load Drivers specialize in loading and unloading from the side of the vehicle, often requiring specific certifications and working in industrial settings. Box Truck Drivers primarily operate enclosed trucks for delivery, focusing on urban routes. Both roles require a CDL but serve different logistics needs.

More about Side Load Driver jobs

What job categories do people searching Side Load Driver jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Side Load Driver jobs are:

Infographic showing various Side Load Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $78,621 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Driver - Commercial Side Load

GFL Environmental

Hillsboro, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


GFL Environmental rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 176 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 92 rated recycling and waste


Job description

The Commercial Rear/Side Load Driver will be responsible for safely, efficiently, and courteously providing waste removal services to commercial customers. The driver will collect solid waste or recyclables from commercial buildings, and transporting to post-collection facilities.
Key Responsibilities:
• Operate a Commercial Waste / Recycling collection vehicle, side-load and/or rear-load truck, ancillary equipment, and hydraulic system to collect solid waste and/or recyclables on specified collection route.
• Load solid waste, or recyclables into the rear or side of waste collection vehicle.
• Operate equipment on truck to compact product into vehicle.
• Operate truck and equipment using prescribed techniques to eliminate driver-induced mechanical failures.
• Complete pre-trip and post-trip safety lane inspections and reports, daily truck report, route sheets and other documentation requested by supervisor daily.
• Communicate vehicle mechanical problems to mechanic and supervisor immediately.
• Maintain route quality standards as predetermined by management.
• Follow all safety standards, equipment checks and precautions in the performance of all duties. Comply with all federal, provincial, local and company rules on safety and vehicle operation.
• Maintain clean vehicle by cleaning cab interior and exterior of vehicle.
• Identify and tag prohibited waste items and remove the items from the waste cart or can.
• Manage assigned Helper(s) if applicable.
• Conform in all respects with applicable federal, provincial, and local laws, regulations, ordinances and other orders and to all company policies, procedures and directives from supervisors.
• Ensure that all required personal protective equipment and uniform be worn at all times (i.e., gloves, reflective vest, safety glasses, work boots, etc.).
• Report all accidents or incidents to supervisor(s) immediately.
• Exhibit a professional demeanor, manner, and appearance at all times (i.e., meeting customers and/or the general public while on route or in uniform.)
• Maintain accurate records of services performed.
• Work closely with supervisor to improve routing efficiencies.
• May be required to work overtime.
• Attend safety and branch meetings.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as required or requested by management.
Requirements:
• High school diploma or general education degree (GED) desired.
• Must possess a Class 3 Commercial Driver's License.
• Minimum one (1) year of commercial driving experience.
• Must be able to meet relevant criteria for safety sensitive functions according to Company standards.
• Must be able to demonstrate the ability to safely drive the truck and operate the equipment.
Knowledge, Skills and Competencies:
• Knowledge of the truck and its components and the basic maintenance Requirements: for safe operation.
• Ability to control operations of equipment; maneuvering truck into and out of minimum clearance spaces, using mirrors to back distances of approximately 120 feet or more.
• Ability to recognize unacceptable waste (such as gasoline or other flammable materials).
• Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external customers.
• Ability to read, write, and comprehend associated documents and maps.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Flexibility to accept and adapt to change as well as the commitment to seek continuous improvement.
• Ability to exert muscle force to lift, push, pull or carry objects up to 50 pounds repetitively using proper lifting techniques.
• Ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example: two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting or standing.
• Ability to follow all company safety policies and procedures.
Physical/Mental Demands:
• Ability to stand, walk, use hands and fingers, reach, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, talk, hear, climb, balance, and smell.
• Visual Requirements: include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus due to the constant maneuvering of vehicle in tight and high traffic areas.
• Ability to regularly lift/move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift/move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift/move up to 100 pounds.
• Sitting may be required up to 75% of the time due to the primary function of driving.
• Ability to work in usually loud conditions.
Working Conditions:
• Frequently exposed to loud noise, humidity, rainy/stormy, extreme hot and cold weather conditions (depending on season), moving mechanical parts, vibration, toxic and caustic chemicals, fumes and airborne particles.
• Work in outdoor environment up to 100% of the time.
• Works route away from branch location on a continuous basis throughout the day.
• Work in motor vehicle traffic conditions constantly.
• Work environment is usually loud.
#GFLTalent
We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
GFL is committed to equal opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact myworkdayrecruitment@gflenv.com
Please note that GFL does not provide visa sponsorship for this position. Valid work authorization in the country where the job is located is required. Successful candidates will be required to provide valid documentation confirming their eligibility to work in the country where the job is located prior to their start date.
This hiring process may utilize machine-based systems to assist in screening and assessing applicants. Final selection decisions are made by our recruitment team.

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