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Solid Waste Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

As a driver you will be operating an Automated truck collecting solid waste and transporting it to appropriate disposal sites. This Position requires you to work independently, in addition Drivers ...

... reduce waste and rework. * Complete additional tasks and special assignments as directed by the ... Solid experience in managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. * Full ...

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Solid Waste Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$26

$31

How much do solid waste operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for solid waste operator in Riverside, CA is $26.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a solid waste operator?

Solid Waste Operators are professionals responsible for the collection, transportation, and disposal of municipal solid waste. They operate equipment such as garbage trucks, compactors, and loaders to ensure that waste is handled safely and efficiently. Their role also includes sorting recyclables, maintaining sanitation standards, and complying with local environmental regulations. Solid Waste Operators play a crucial part in keeping communities clean and supporting public health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solid waste operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solid Waste Operator, you need knowledge of waste management procedures, basic mechanical skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent along with a commercial driver's license (CDL). Familiarity with heavy equipment operation, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like OSHA training are commonly required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills help operators work efficiently and safely with team members and the public. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, compliant, and effective waste collection and disposal services.

What are the most common challenges faced by solid waste operators, and how can they be addressed?

Solid Waste Operators often encounter challenges such as handling hazardous materials, working in varying weather conditions, and managing heavy or bulky loads. These challenges can be addressed through comprehensive safety training, proper use of personal protective equipment, and adherence to established protocols for waste handling. Additionally, teamwork and clear communication with supervisors and other crew members help ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Solid Waste Operator vs Waste Collection Driver?

AspectSolid Waste OperatorWaste Collection Driver
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), safety trainingCDL, safety training
Work EnvironmentLandfills, transfer stations, recycling centersResidential and commercial routes, streets
Job DutiesOperate heavy equipment, manage waste processingDrive collection trucks, pick up waste

Both roles require a CDL and safety training, often working in similar environments. The main difference is that Solid Waste Operators focus on operating equipment and managing waste processing facilities, while Waste Collection Drivers primarily drive trucks and collect waste from customers' locations.

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Solid Waste Operator jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Solid Waste Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Solid Waste Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,225 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

SENIOR SOLID WASTE OPERATOR

City of Riverside

Riverside, CA • On-site

$66K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


City Of Riverside (California) rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 849 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Position The City of Riverside is accepting applications for the position of Senior Solid Waste Operator to fill multiple vacancies in the Solid Waste Collection Division of the Public Works Department. The eligibility list established may be used to fill the current and/or upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to six (6) months. We offer paid holidays, potential overtime, and a rich benefits package, including optional health, dental, and vision packages, as well as CalPERS retirement, and much more.

Senior Solid Waste Operator average total compensation (salary + benefits) is $89,061. City Council Approved and scheduled COLA adjustment: 4.5% increase to base salary, effective the first pay period following July 1, 2027 The Senior Solid Waste Operator drives and operates equipment and performs manual labor in the daily collection of trash and recyclable and green waste materials for the City. Provides customer service, identifies and reports damaged containers, and regularly operates automated or roll off trucks

Work Performed Management reserves the rights to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of various positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job. Typical duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Drive and operate various trucks and equipment to pick up and empty trash and recyclable and green waste materials into large collection containers; empty containers into refuse truck; gather other debris and operate mechanism for loading, compressing, and dumping trash and recyclable and green waste materials. Regularly use and operate automated refuse truck and roll off truck; dispose of collected materials at designated transfer stations or locations.

Direct driver in some movement of refuse truck in alleys, driveways and other locations; provide navigation and direction for efficient and effective work-flow. Complete pre-trip and post trip Daily Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR); identify and report mechanical or other problems to the Fleet Department and Solid Waste Supervisor. Operate, use, and apply scooter and rear loader truck for daily refuse collection activities.

Tag trash and recycling when necessary to inform customers of proper collection procedures; engage courteously with customers and general public. Respond to hazmat clean up and fluid spills; adhere and apply safety standards; perform weekly homeless camp clean ups and maintenance. Clean, monitor, and provide general maintenance for assigned vehicle daily.

Prepare simple reports and documents May fulfill service orders for can repairs and replacements; perform stenciling and other work in the care and servicing of cans. 11. Participate in special City events as required.

Train personnel. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications Recruitment Guidelines: Education: High School graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED).

Experience: One (1) year of experience comparable to that of a Solid Waste Operator in the City of Riverside or one year of experience operating an automated refuse truck. Licenses and Certifications: Possession of an appropriate, valid class B California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Physical Demands and Working Conditions: Work is done outside in the field with exposure to inclement weather, hazards, chemicals, equipment, construction materials, solid waste, traffic, and fumes.

Employees may interact with staff and/or public and private representatives and will provide professional customer service Selection Process DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION: 1) Completed Employment Application 2) Completed Supplemental Questionnaire PLEASE NOTE: FOR DIRECTIONS ON ATTACHING A DOCUMENT TO AN ON-LINE APPLICATION, OR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION, CLICK HERE: (Application Guide). IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON SCHEDULING ASSESSMENTS: If you are selected to move forward in the assessment process, you may be required to self-schedule your appointment. You will be notified via email of your status and provided with self-scheduling instructions.

Please check your email regularly following the closing date of this recruitment. The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening, with the best qualified candidates being invited to participate further in the assessment process. This process may include any combination of written, performance, and oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification. Positions that require, or may require, a California Commercial Driver's License are considered Safety Sensitive and are monitored by the U.S. Department of Transportation

Any candidate being considered for a Safety Sensitive position must submit authorization forms to the City immediately upon request to begin the pre-employment process. It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment. Appointment may be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, drug screen, and/or medical/physical examination.

NOTE: The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards. Candidates may reapply when there is a posting to establish an eligibility list. EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Proof of education listed in your application will be requested at the time of conditional offer.

Acceptable documentation consists of transcripts or degree, if applicable, by the accredited U.S. college or university. Education obtained outside the United States (US) require one of the following options: An equivalency statement from an evaluation company certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at Members - NACES or the Association of International Credential Evaluators Inc

(AICE) at http://aice-eval.org/members/. An advanced-level degree from an accredited US college or university. All applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone of their application status and the assessment dates/times/locations after the closing date of this announcement

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.


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