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Trash Collector Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

SOLID WASTE COLLECTOR

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$38K - $50K/yr

The purpose of this position is to perform regularly scheduled manual collections of trash, yard waste, bulky items, deceased animals, and other special waste from residential properties and small ...

People always have trash. We always have work. You'll never have to worry about a "slow season ... Tool Collector: You've got a toolbox that's your pride and joy. * Problem Solver: You don't just ...

People always have trash. We always have work. You'll never have to worry about a "slow season ... Tool Collector: You've got a toolbox that's your pride and joy. * Problem Solver: You don't just ...

People always have trash. We always have work. You'll never have to worry about a "slow season ... Tool Collector: You've got a toolbox that's your pride and joy. * Problem Solver: You don't just ...

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Trash Collector information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$5

$15

$24

How much do trash collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for trash collector in Raleigh, NC is $15.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $14.95 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 jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

A trash collector typically earns less than $10,000 per month, but some high-paying roles in related waste management or industrial services can reach that level with experience and overtime. Generally, jobs that pay $10,000 a month without a degree include skilled trades like commercial driving, sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship, which rely on experience, skills, and certifications rather than formal education.

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 do I become a garbage collector?

To become a garbage collector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license. Most positions require physical stamina, the ability to operate collection trucks, and adherence to safety protocols; some areas may require passing a background check and training on waste collection procedures.

What is the average pay of a garbage collector?

The average pay of a garbage collector in the United States is around $40,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and union membership. Many collectors work full-time, often with early morning or evening shifts, and may require a commercial driver's license (CDL) for operating collection trucks.

What are trash collectors?

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Most jobs that pay $2,000 a day are high-level positions such as specialized surgeons, corporate executives, or successful entrepreneurs. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, or ownership of a business, and often involve long hours or high responsibility. Such high daily earnings are uncommon in standard entry-level or hourly jobs like trash collection.

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 the most commonly searched types of Trash Collector jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Trash Collector jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Trash Collector jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Trash Collector jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trash Collector jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Trash Collector jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Trash Collector jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Trash Collector job openings:
Put Your Truck to Work - After 7PM. Trash Collection Side Job.

Put Your Truck to Work - After 7PM. Trash Collection Side Job.

Valet Living

Knightdale, NC

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago


Valet Living rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 72 rated recycling and waste


Job description

A personal and reliable open-bed pickup truck or vehicle hauling a trailer is REQUIRED for this position.

Are you looking for a part-time job that keeps you moving and helps you earn extra income? We're hiring part-time Trash Collectors (Service Valets) to help keep apartment communities clean and welcoming.

What you'll be doing:

  • Collect trash and recycling bags from residents' doorsteps within an apartment community and transport them to the on-site trash compactor using your truck or vehicle with trailer. No heavy lifting of bulk items, off-site driving, or dumping required.
  • Use our company's mobile app on your smartphone to log service details, including arrival, departure, tracking, and non-compliance photos.
  • This is a hands-on, physically active position that involves walking the property, climbing stairs, and working outdoors in various weather conditions.

What You'll Get:

  • Pay: Up to $20 per hour
  • Schedule: Evening shifts, typically Sunday-Thursday, starting at 7:00 or 8:00 PM
  • Part-Time: Around 10-15+ hours per week
  • Close-to-Home Assignments: We do our best to assign you to a property near where you live

What We're Looking For:

  • At least 18 years old
  • Reliable transportation: open-bed pickup truck or vehicle with trailer
  • Valid driver's license & auto insurance (with you listed as a covered driver)
  • Authorized to work in the U.S. (proof required upon hire)
  • Smartphone with a data plan to use our mobile app

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Walk long distances and climb stairs several times during a shift
  • Comfortable working around bagged trash and waste
  • Able to work outdoors in all types of weather

Why You'll Love This Job:

  • Stay Active: Get a workout while you work
  • Evenings shift: Perfect for anyone looking to earn extra income on a schedule that works for them
  • Fast Pay: Access your earnings quickly with DailyPay
  • Career Growth: Opportunities to move into leadership roles
  • Referral Bonuses: Earn extra when you refer others to join the team
  • Safety First: We provide gloves, vests, and gear

Join a team that values hard work, reliability, and making a difference in the community. 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.


What Valet Living employees say

Pay

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Get the full story on Breakroom


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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