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Trash Compactor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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A local company is seeking an individual to take out the trash and use the trash compactor. Additionally, you will be pulling orders using a cherry picker and loading and unloading 200 to 300 pieces ...

Compactor Operator A Compactor Operator works in a high traffic warehouse and will operate various industrial equipment and machines, such as a trash compactor and bailer. The Compactor Operator also ...

A local company is seeking an individual to take out the trash and use the trash compactor. Additionally, you will be pulling orders using a cherry picker and loading and unloading 200 to 300 pieces ...

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 ...

Collect trash and recycling bags from residents' doorsteps within an apartment community and transport them to the on-site trash compactor. No heavy lifting of bulk items, off-site driving, or ...

Responsibilities 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. No heavy ...

Trash Collector (Nights)

Spring, TX · On-site

$270 - $325/wk

Transport trash to the compactor area * Perform scheduled bin swaps throughout the week * Assist with maintaining chute rooms and compactor areas * Ensure service standards are met each night

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Trash Compactor information

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$11

$15

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How much do trash compactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for trash compactor in the United States is $15.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in waste management?

In waste management, the highest paying roles are often supervisory or managerial positions such as Waste Management Director or Operations Manager, which require extensive experience and knowledge of environmental regulations. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to increased responsibilities and leadership requirements.

Who is allowed to operate the trash compactor?

Trash compactor operators are typically trained and authorized personnel responsible for safely operating the equipment. They should follow safety protocols, use personal protective equipment, and have knowledge of the machine's operation and maintenance. In some workplaces, certification or specific training may be required before operating a trash compactor.

How do I get into a trash compactor?

To access a trash compactor as a worker, ensure you have proper training on safety procedures and lockout/tagout protocols. Typically, you need to turn off the power supply, follow lockout procedures, and use appropriate tools to open or inspect the unit safely. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and wear protective equipment when working with or entering a trash compactor.

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

To thrive as a Trash Compactor, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial trash compacting machines and adherence to safety protocols are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work well independently are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe operation, efficiency, and consistent waste management in industrial or commercial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by trash compactor operators, and how can they be addressed?

Trash compactor operators often encounter challenges such as handling hazardous waste, managing equipment malfunctions, and ensuring proper sorting of recyclable materials. These challenges can be addressed by following strict safety protocols, staying current with equipment maintenance schedules, and receiving regular training on waste segregation. Team communication is also important, as operators frequently coordinate with custodial staff, facility managers, and recycling teams to ensure efficient waste management. Adapting to these challenges helps maintain a safe and productive work environment.

What qualifications do you need to be a garbage man?

To become a trash compactor or garbage collector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and the ability to operate collection vehicles. Physical stamina and strength are important, as the job involves lifting and handling heavy waste containers. Some employers may require background checks and safety training certifications.

What is the difference between Trash Compactor vs Waste Management Technician?

AspectTrash CompactorWaste Management Technician
Primary RoleOperates and maintains trash compactors to reduce waste volumePerforms waste collection, disposal, and recycling services
CredentialsMay require OSHA safety training, CDL license in some casesRequires CDL license, safety certifications, and sometimes specialized waste handling training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, outdoor, or facility-based settingsOutdoor, on-road, and facility environments
Industry UsageUsed mainly in waste disposal facilities and large-scale waste managementEmployed by waste collection companies, municipalities, and recycling centers

While both roles involve waste handling, a Trash Compactor primarily focuses on operating equipment to compress waste, whereas a Waste Management Technician handles the collection, transportation, and disposal of waste materials. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What does a trash compactor do?

A trash compactor is responsible for operating machines that compress waste materials to reduce their volume, making disposal and recycling more efficient. The role often involves monitoring the compactor for safe operation, loading waste materials, and ensuring the equipment is maintained properly. Trash compactors help keep facilities clean and organized by managing waste more effectively. They may also be required to observe safety standards and report any equipment malfunctions.
More about Trash Compactor jobs
What cities are hiring for Trash Compactor jobs? Cities with the most Trash Compactor job openings:
What states have the most Trash Compactor jobs? States with the most job openings for Trash Compactor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Trash Compactor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Trash Compactor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Trash Compactor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,958 per year, or $15.8 per hour.
Warehouse/Trash Compactor - LM

Warehouse/Trash Compactor - LM

Area Temps, Inc.

Walton Hills, OH • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

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Job description

A local company is seeking an individual to take out the trash and use the trash compactor.  Additionally, you will be pulling orders using a cherry picker and loading and unloading 200 to 300 pieces of furniture each day.  Work hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.


Qualified candidates must have previous warehouse experience, must be able to use a two-wheeled dolly to load and unload furniture on trucks and a cherry picker to pull orders, must be safety-conscious, must have own reliable transportation, must have steel toed boots, must have the ability to show up to work every day on time and ready to work, and must have a solid work history with no attendance issues. Only candidates that can pass a drug screen will be considered.  Forklift/Cherry Picker experience is preferred.


To get a complete list of current Area Temps job openings, please visit our Job Board by using this link: http://jobs.areatemps.com. 

Company Description

With over 35 years experience in Greater Cleveland and thousands of people employed successfully each year, Area Temps still believes that the best way to serve both our employees and our customers is through personal service. When you apply online, we'll review your work skills and location preferences within 24 hours. Qualified candidates will be contacted to arrange for a personal interview, and our personnel supervisors will work with you to find the perfect assignment.
Full-Service Staffing:
Every year we match thousands of quality employees with rewarding office, industrial, professional, technical and skilled trades opportunities.
City Search Applicant Network:
Our interactive centralized network links our six branch locations, providing unprecedented access to over 80,000 personally interviewed and performance-rated applicants. Clients are guaranteed the best candidates - and job seekers have access to the best opportunities - in the Greater Cleveland area.
Please copy and paste this link into your browser to visit our Job Board and get a complete list of current Area Temps job openings: http://jobs.areatemps.com.

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About Area Temps

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

For over 35 years, Area Temps has been committed to providing Northeast Ohio companies with office staffing services, technical, skilled trades, industrial and professional staffing solutions. We measure our success by the thousands of people who have accepted permanent positions with our client companies, either through a direct hire or after successfully completing an initial temporary assignment.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Independence, OH, US

Year founded

1987

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