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Trash Collection Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Solid Waste Route Operator

Daphne, AL · On-site

$22 - $27.18/hr

... collection vehicles at designated disposal facilities; picks up debris outside of trash containers; rakes, sweeps, shovels, and cleans ground around trash disposal areas. Operates a variety of ...

Recycling Crew Chief

Northport, AL · On-site

$41K - $62K/yr

Supervises the collection of recyclables, and any other assigned employees, and ensures that crews ... Ability to operate recycling, garbage and trash trucks safely and in accordance with applicable ...

Recycling Crew Chief

Northport, AL · On-site

$41K - $62K/yr

Supervises the collection of recyclables, and any other assigned employees, and ensures that crews ... Ability to operate recycling, garbage and trash trucks safely and in accordance with applicable ...

Showing results 41-60

Trash Collection information

See Alabama salary details

$5

$14

$23

How much do trash collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for trash collection in Alabama is $14.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.21 and $13.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by trash collection workers, and how can these be managed on the job?

Trash collection workers often encounter challenges such as adverse weather conditions, lifting heavy or awkward loads, and exposure to unpleasant odors or potentially hazardous materials. To manage these challenges, workers are typically provided with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), adhere to safety protocols, and use specialized tools or vehicles designed to make the job safer and more efficient. Additionally, teamwork and good communication with colleagues are essential for maintaining safety and ensuring routes are completed on time.

What is a trash collector?

Trash collectors, also known as garbage collectors or sanitation workers, are responsible for collecting and removing waste and recyclables from homes, businesses, and public areas. They operate garbage trucks, follow designated routes, and ensure that waste is properly disposed of at landfills or recycling centers. This job is important for maintaining public health and cleanliness in communities, and often requires physical labor and adherence to safety protocols.

How do you become a trash collection worker?

To become a trash collection worker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license. On-the-job training is common, and workers often operate garbage trucks and use safety equipment; some positions may require a commercial driver's license (CDL).

What is the difference between Trash Collection vs Recycling Collection?

AspectTrash CollectionRecycling Collection
CredentialsNone typically requiredNone typically required
Work EnvironmentResidential, commercial areasResidential, commercial areas
Industry UsageWaste disposal servicesRecycling and waste diversion services
Job FocusCollecting general wasteCollecting recyclable materials

Both Trash Collection and Recycling Collection involve waste management in similar environments, often performed by the same companies. The main difference lies in the materials handled: Trash Collection focuses on general waste, while Recycling Collection specializes in recyclable materials. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify job roles and expectations within waste management services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trash collector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trash Collector, you need physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, safety equipment, and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) is typically required. Dependability, teamwork, and strong work ethic are crucial soft skills for handling demanding routes and maintaining schedules. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable waste collection services for communities.

What qualifications do you need to be a trash collection?

To work in trash collection, individuals typically need a valid driver's license, physical stamina, and the ability to lift heavy objects. Some positions may require a high school diploma or equivalent, and safety training is often provided on the job.
What are popular job titles related to Trash Collection jobs in Alabama? For Trash Collection jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trash Collection jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Trash Collection jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Trash Collection jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Trash Collection job openings:
Infographic showing various Trash Collection job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,135 per year, or $14 per hour.

Sanitation Worker (Grade 7/7) (Continuous)

City of Huntsville

Huntsville, AL

$35K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


City Of Huntsville (Alabama) rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

620th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Nature of Work THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE'S SANITATION DEPARTMENT WANTS YOU. The City of Huntsville's Sanitation department is seeking qualified applicants to fill our Sanitation Worker position(s). Exciting Career Opportunities for Smart and Talented People.

Come join our growing Sanitation Team. Apply today. About our Department: The Sanitation Division is charged with the responsibility of providing garbage collection to residential and commercial solid waste customers.

It is also responsible for the collection of trash and yard waste as well as bulky waste for Huntsville's residential solid waste customers. Sanitation Worker Position Overview: This is manual work in the collection of residential garbage, trash, and other solid waste, in containers, bags and cans. Work requires frequent heavy lifting and occasional exposure to bad weather conditions.

Work is performed as a member of a team assigned to a truck and under the general supervision of the crew leader. Qualifications and Necessary Special Requirements: Experience in heavy manual work; or any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the following: Some knowledge of the methods of refuse and trash collection. For More Information Regarding the Sanitation Job Duties, Please Visit the Websites Below: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/huntsville/classspecs/81799 Minimum Education, Training and Experience Applicants May Obtain a Copy of the City of Huntsville's EEOP Short Form Upon Request


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