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Trash Collector Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Trash Collector information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$5

$15

$25

How much do trash collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for trash collector in Elgin, IL is $15.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $15.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

How much do trash collectors earn?

Trash collectors typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $30,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work early morning or evening shifts and may need 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 high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license. The job involves physical labor, operating collection trucks, and following safety protocols, but it generally does not require extensive training or advanced education.

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 qualifications do you need to be a trash collector?

To become a trash collector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check. Physical stamina and the ability to operate collection vehicles are important, and a valid driver's license is usually required. Some positions may require training on safety procedures and equipment handling.

How much does a trash collector earn?

A trash collector typically earns between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a public or private company. Many positions require physical stamina and the ability to operate collection vehicles safely.

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.
More about Trash Collector jobs
What are popular job titles related to Trash Collector jobs in Elgin, IL? For Trash Collector jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Trash Collector jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Trash Collector job openings:
Trash Collector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trash Collector job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,775 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Part-Time Doorstep Trash Collection Specialist - Nights

Valet Living

Naperville, IL

$21/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Valet Living rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 90 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Earn reliable extra income close to home with a consistent evening schedule.

No long-distance driving. No off-site dumping. Just local apartment communities, steady evening work, and a routine you can count on.

Important: To perform this role, you must have either:

  • Your own open-bed pickup truck, or

  • A vehicle capable of towing a trailer and a trailer you'll use for the job.

We're hiring part-time Doorstep Trash Collection Specialists (Service Valets) to help keep apartment communities clean, safe, and welcoming for the people who live there.

This role is ideal if you're looking for reliable extra income, a second job, and consistent evening work close to home.

What You'll Do

Every service night, you'll help keep apartment communities clean and welcoming by collecting bagged trash and cardboard recycling from residents' doorsteps, so it's gone by morning.

  • Collect bagged trash and cardboard from apartment doorsteps and transport it to the on-site compactor using your open-bed pickup truck or tow vehicle with utility trailer.

  • Service one or more nearby apartment communities during your shift, all within the same local area.

  • Stay active by walking apartment communities, climbing stairs, and working outdoors.

  • No long-distance driving, bulk item collection, or off-site dumping.

  • Use our mobile app to check in, track your work, and take photos when needed.

Why You'll Like This Role

  • Truck Pay Rate: $21 per hour

  • Non-Truck Pay Rate: $20 per hour

  • Consistent Evening Schedule: Typically, 10-15+ hours per week

  • No Weekends: Most schedules run Sunday-Thursday starting after 7:00 or 8:00 PM

  • Steady Work: Consistent work and reliable hours

  • Fast Pay: Get paid quickly with DailyPay

  • Extra Income: Ideal for a second job or supplemental earnings

  • Stay Local: Assigned to a community near where you live

  • Fast Hiring Process: Apply today and get started quickly

Qualifications

  • Own either (1) an open-bed pickup truck or (2) a vehicle paired with an open utility trailer used for the job; vehicles without an open bed or trailer (including SUVs, sedans, and vans) do not qualify.

  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

  • Active auto insurance for the vehicle being used

  • Must be 18 years of age or older

  • Smartphone with a data plan to download and use our work app, and willingness to receive SMS/text communications throughout the pre-employment process and employment, including updates, scheduling, and work-related information

  • Authorized to work in the U.S. (proof required)

  • Ability to work independently and follow a consistent routine

Physical Requirements

  • Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

  • Walk long distances and climb multiple flights of stairs

  • Work around bagged trash and waste

  • Work outdoors in various weather conditions

Why Service Valets Choose This Role

  • Stay Active: Get paid to move instead of sitting at a desk

  • Consistent Evening Schedule: Easy to fit around a full-time job, school, or family schedule

  • Career Growth: We believe in developing talent from within. Half of our Area Leaders were promoted from Service Valet positions.

  • Referral Bonuses: Earn extra when you refer others to join the team

  • Safety First: Gloves, safety vests, and equipment provided

  • Make a Difference: Help keep apartment communities clean and welcoming every service night

Apply today!

The application window for this opportunity is ongoing.

Are you a current Valet Living employee? If so, click here to apply.

Valet Living is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values the strength diversity brings to the workplace. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

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About Valet Living

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Valet Living is the largest nationally recognized full-service amenities provider to the multifamily housing industry, performing more than 470 million amenity services annually, encompassing 1.8 million apartment homes in 40 states. Valet Living uses specialized technology that empowers its trusted associates to deliver standard-setting amenities in communities where people want to live. Valet Living has been setting the standard for residential living since 1995 and has been proven to increase property value. Valet Living is a portfolio company of the private equity group GI Partners.

Industry

Real estate

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tampa, FL, US

Year founded

1995

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