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Solid Waste Collector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Solid Waste Collector

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$46K - $64K/yr

This Solid Waste Collector position supports the Core and Special Services divisions within the Solid Waste Services Department. Depending on the assignment, this position provides labor required to ...

The Solid Waste Collector is responsible for the collection, sorting, transportation, and disposal of waste materials generated within the solar manufacturing plant. This role ensures compliance with ...

Solid Waste Collector

Tolleson, AZ · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

The Solid Waste Collector is responsible for the collection, sorting, transportation, and disposal of waste materials generated within the solar manufacturing plant. This role ensures compliance with ...

Solid Waste Collector

Tolleson, AZ · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

The Solid Waste Collector is responsible for the collection, sorting, transportation, and disposal of waste materials generated within the solar manufacturing plant. This role ensures compliance with ...

SOLID WASTE COLLECTOR

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$38K - $50K/yr

Rides with a refuse truck to collect waste; pushes carts to the refuse truck, empties cart into truck, and returns carts to curb; collects trash from residents that are unable to place waste to the ...

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Waste Collector

York, PA · On-site

$16.50/hr

What you'll be doing as a Waste Collector ... Ride on the back of a garbage collection truck, collecting solid waste on a designated route.

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Solid Waste Collector information

See salary details

$12

$18

$26

How much do solid waste collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for solid waste collector 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 are some common challenges Solid Waste Collectors face in their daily work, and how are they typically addressed?

Solid Waste Collectors often encounter challenges such as exposure to extreme weather conditions, heavy lifting, and handling potentially hazardous materials. Teams usually address these by following strict safety protocols, using protective equipment, and rotating tasks to prevent fatigue. Additionally, regular training is provided to ensure proper handling of waste and equipment, which helps minimize injuries and maintain a safe working environment. Communication and teamwork are also emphasized to efficiently manage routes and respond to unexpected issues during collection.

What is the difference between Solid Waste Collector vs Recycling Truck Driver?

AspectSolid Waste CollectorRecycling Truck Driver
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; CDL often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; CDL required
Work EnvironmentResidential and commercial waste collection routesRecycling collection routes, often same as waste collection
Industry UsageMunicipal waste management servicesRecycling programs within waste management
Job FocusCollecting and disposing of solid wasteCollecting recyclable materials

Both roles involve waste collection and require CDL licenses, but Solid Waste Collectors focus on general waste, while Recycling Truck Drivers specialize in recyclable materials. The roles often overlap in work environment and employer industry, making them closely related but distinct in their specific duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Solid Waste Collector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solid Waste Collector, you need physical stamina, attention to safety procedures, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, hydraulic lift systems, and safety gear is typically required, and some positions may ask for a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are essential soft skills for maintaining consistent and effective service. These skills ensure safe, efficient waste collection, protect public health, and contribute to a clean environment.

What are solid waste collectors?

Solid waste collectors, also known as garbage collectors or sanitation workers, are responsible for collecting and transporting household, commercial, and industrial waste to disposal or recycling facilities. They operate garbage trucks, load waste containers, and ensure proper handling and disposal of refuse according to local regulations. This role is essential for maintaining community cleanliness and preventing health hazards. Solid waste collectors often work early hours and in various weather conditions, requiring physical stamina and attention to safety.
More about Solid Waste Collector jobs
What cities are hiring for Solid Waste Collector jobs? Cities with the most Solid Waste Collector job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Solid Waste Collector jobs? The top employers for Solid Waste Collector jobs are:
What states have the most Solid Waste Collector jobs? States with the most job openings for Solid Waste Collector jobs include:
Infographic showing various Solid Waste Collector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,468 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

$46K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Description Would you like an opportunity to join one of the many teams dedicated to maintaining high-quality public services within a city that has been ranked as one of the best places to live year over year. If so, the City of Raleigh Solid Waste Services Department is seeking a highly resourceful, adaptable, multi-tasker with solid critical thinking and communications skills for our Solid Waste Collector position. This Solid Waste Collector position supports the Core and Special Services divisions within the Solid Waste Services Department.

Depending on the assignment, this position provides labor required to load garbage, recycling and yard waste materials into vehicles for disposal.About Us: Solid Waste Services collects and processes residential garbage, recycling, yard waste materials, and several specialized collection services. Our department is committed to providing high-quality waste management, disposal, and recycling services for all our valued customers. As an essential and critical service, we take great pride in preserving and protecting the community's natural resources and sustainable growth

Duties and Responsibilities The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description. Loads waste on daily routes into the back of a collection truck; loads recyclable materials into recycling truck; and loads yard waste into rear loader vehicles Assist equipment operator with backing up the vehicle, provides route support for directions and turns, and communicates any spotted hazards or obstacles Delivers, repairs, assembles and removes collection carts as needed Communicates with residents as needed regarding questions about collection dates and acceptable materials that can be collected.

Properly tags any waste items left curbside that are not acceptable for pick-up Assist in preventative maintenance, cleaning, and upkeep of vehicles Collects waste from backdoor service locations and curbside containers for loading into rear loader trucks May be asked to operate non-CDL vehicles such as pup trucks and alley trucks Typical Qualifications Education and Experience High School diploma or G.E.D. equivalency; Less than 1 year experience in construction, maintenance or related work OR Any equivalent combination of training and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities may be substituted Licenses or Certifications: Valid North Carolina Class C Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record, or the ability to obtain within 60 days of hire Additional Information Knowledge Of: Acceptable materials that can be collected Standard practices, methods and materials of assigned work Occupational hazards and applicable safety principles and practices Uses and properties of supplies and equipment Skill In: Customer Service Following directions and meeting standards Providing attention to detail in assignments Ability To: Communicate with coworkers, supervisors, the general public and others to sufficiently exchange or convey information and to receive work directions Operate assigned tools and equipment Comprehend maps and directions ADA and Other Requirements: Work Environment and Physical Effort: Heavy: Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Work Environment: Work is typically performed in an outdoor or street environment (near moving traffic), at a construction site and in or around vehicles

Employees may occasionally work in an office or similar indoor environment. Work Exposures: There is frequent exposure to moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles and loud noises. Employees may occasionally be exposed to individuals who are hostile or irate, individuals with known violent backgrounds, extreme cold (below 32 degrees), extreme heat (above 100 degrees), communicable diseases, and toxic or caustic chemicals or substances.

City of Raleigh is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are provided upon request.