ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Trash Collector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ally Waste Services

Trash Valet (SaLock)

Lockport, IL · On-site

$70/day

Trash Collector Ally Waste Services is currently hiring for a part-time Trash Collector to join our team! This trash valet position works part-time starting at 7 pm and earns a competitive wage of ...

Ally Waste Services

Trash Valet (1630)

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$70/day

Trash Collector Ally Waste Services is currently hiring for a part-time Trash Collector to join our team! This trash valet position works part-time starting at 8 pm and earns a competitive wage of ...

Ally Waste Services

Trash Valet (SaLock)

Lockport, IL

$70/hr

Trash Collector Ally Waste Services is currently hiring for a part-time Trash Collector to join our team! This trash valet position works part-time starting at 7 pm and earns a competitive wage of ...

Ally Waste Services

Trash Valet (Linc)

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$35/hr

Trash Collector Ally Waste Services is currently hiring for a part-time Trash Collector to join our team! This trash valet position works part-time starting at 7 pm and earns a competitive wage of ...

Ally Waste Services

Trash Valet (Linc)

Valparaiso, IN

$35/hr

Trash Collector Ally Waste Services is currently hiring for a part-time Trash Collector to join our team! This trash valet position works part-time starting at 7 pm and earns a competitive wage of ...

Ally Waste Services

Trash Valet (1630)

Plainfield, IL

$70/hr

Trash Collector Ally Waste Services is currently hiring for a part-time Trash Collector to join our team! This trash valet position works part-time starting at 8 pm and earns a competitive wage of ...

Ally Waste Services

Trash Valet (ASE)

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$85/day

Trash Collector Ally Waste Services is currently hiring for a part-time Trash Collector to join our team! This trash valet position works part-time starting at 7 pm and earns a competitive wage of ...

Ally Waste Services

Trash Valet (S@LCC)

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$55/day

Trash Collector Ally Waste Services is currently hiring for a part-time Trash Collector to join our team! This trash valet position works part-time starting at 7 pm and earns a competitive wage of ...

Ally Waste Services

Trash Valet (S@LCC)

Deerfield, IL

$55/hr

Trash Collector Ally Waste Services is currently hiring for a part-time Trash Collector to join our team! This trash valet position works part-time starting at 7 pm and earns a competitive wage of ...

BUTLER PLUS

Part-Time Doorstep Trash Pick Up

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$2.2K/mo

Butler Plus is a leading provider of doorstep trash, bulk & junk removal, sustainability solutions, porter services, and pressure washing for multifamily communities across the country. We currently ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTrash Collector JobsTrash Collector Jobs in Chicago, IL

Trash Collector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$15

$26

How much do trash collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for trash collector in Chicago, IL is $15.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trash collector?

Trash collectors, also known as garbage collectors or sanitation workers, are responsible for collecting and disposing of waste and recyclables from homes, businesses, and public areas. They typically operate garbage trucks, lift and empty bins, and ensure that waste is transported to landfills, recycling centers, or waste processing facilities. Their work is essential for maintaining public health and cleanliness in communities.

What does a trash collector do?

As a trash collector, you drive a large collection truck along a designated route. You dump garbage and recyclable materials from each residence or commercial property into the back of your truck and transport it to a municipal waste management facility. Trash collectors make an important contribution to a city’s health and sanitation. Your duties and responsibilities include completing your route each day as well as maintaining your vehicle, communicating with a dispatcher regarding accidents and other traffic hazards, and operating compactors, hoists, and other heavy equipment. You also adhere to safety procedures and regulations as required by your employer or by law.

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 a valid driver's license, often with a clean driving record. Familiarity with garbage trucks, hydraulic lift systems, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are key soft skills that help in maintaining schedules and handling the job’s demands. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient waste collection, personal safety, and dependable municipal services.

What are some common challenges faced by trash collectors, and how are they addressed on the job?

Trash collectors often encounter challenges such as inclement weather, heavy or hazardous loads, and navigating busy routes. To address these, teams typically provide safety equipment, thorough training, and follow strict safety protocols. Regular communication with team members and supervisors helps manage route changes and unexpected obstacles, ensuring both efficiency and safety. Working closely with a partner or crew also fosters a supportive environment for tackling daily challenges together.

What is the difference between Trash Collector vs Recycling Worker?

AspectTrash CollectorRecycling Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; valid driver’s licenseHigh school diploma or equivalent; valid driver’s license; may require recycling-specific training
Work EnvironmentResidential and commercial areas, outdoors, physically demandingRecycling facilities, outdoor and sometimes residential areas, physically active
Industry UsageMunicipal waste collection servicesRecycling centers, waste management companies
Common Search IntentJobs, duties, salary, requirementsRecycling processes, job roles, salary, certifications

While both Trash Collectors and Recycling Workers are essential for waste management, Trash Collectors primarily focus on collecting general waste from residential and commercial areas. Recycling Workers handle the collection and processing of recyclable materials. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but their specific duties differ within the waste management industry.

How much do you make as a trash collector?

Trash collectors typically earn an average annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and union status. They often work early morning shifts and may require a valid driver's license and physical stamina for the job.

Is it hard to become a trash collector?

Becoming a trash collector typically requires a valid driver's license, physical stamina, and the ability to operate collection trucks. The job often involves early morning hours and physical labor, but formal education requirements are minimal. Training is usually provided on the job to learn safety procedures and equipment use.

What qualifications do you need to be a trash collector?

Trash collectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must be physically capable of lifting heavy objects and performing manual labor. A valid driver's license is often required, especially for routes involving driving collection trucks, and good communication skills are beneficial for safety and teamwork.
More about Trash Collector jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Trash Collector jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Trash Collector jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Trash Collector jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Trash Collector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Trash Collector jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Trash Collector jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Trash Collector jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Trash Collector job openings:

Trash Collector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trash Collector job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 34% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,113 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Trash Valet (ASE)

Ally Waste Services

Saint Charles, IL

$85/hr

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Trash Collector

Ally Waste Services is currently hiring for a part-time Trash Collector to join our team! This trash valet position works part-time starting at 7 pm and earns a competitive wage of $85 per night (not hourly) depending on location. We are industry leaders and believe that hard work can also be fun.

In addition to industry-leading pay and our inspiring culture, we offer our Trash Collector the following benefits and perks:

  • Immediate openings
  • No experience required
  • Part-time schedule
  • Night shifts
  • All major holidays off

So, now that you've learned the who, what, where, and why, you may be wondering HOW? It's easy! Just fill out our initial mobile-friendly online application. We hope to meet you soon!

OUR IDEAL TRASH COLLECTOR

  • Respectful - respects those in the community, property, and our business
  • Thorough - doesn't cut corners
  • Self-motivated - able to work independently
  • Pride in your work - desire to ensure customer satisfaction

If these ideal apartment trash valet traits describe you, please continue reading!

ABOUT ALLY WASTE SERVICES

We are a premium valet trash and recycling provider servicing properties throughout the United States. Our service promotes cleaner communities and happier residents. We are an established and stable company that is continually growing nationwide.

We hire professional and highly-trained valets. Our team represents a winning combination of knowledgeable individuals, passionate workers, and those committed to our clients. We believe that your employment with us will be both rewarding and inspiring. Your personal growth is very important to us, and we offer a lot of potential for career growth and advancement!

REQUIREMENTS

As a trash valet, you are one of our main workers and without you, we could not meet our client's needs. You work at an apartment complex, collecting trash bags from apartment doorsteps and taking them to the dumpster. Don't worry about the mess, bags are already tied and we provide personal protective equipment (PPE). You take and email pictures for daily reports. You enjoy the physical activity of walking up and down stairs each day. Your hard work and self-motivation can lead to future management opportunities!

  • Have a smartphone
  • Ability to be on your feet for at least 2 hours
  • Ability to carry up to 30 lbs
  • Truck Required

Can you represent our company in a professional manner? Are you service-oriented? Are you proud of your hard work and effort? If yes, give us the chance to review your information.

ARE YOU READY?

If you are excited about this part-time trash valet opportunity, don't delay. Apply today!

Apply