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Trash Picker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Warehouse Order Picker Starting Rate - $20.50 per hour Who We Are: With a rich history rooted in ... Maintain your area clean and dispose of all trash to be able to work in a safe environment.

Janitorial Associate

Madera, CA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Duties also include trash pick-up in and outside of the facility. The ideal candidate has a great work ethic, some experience with cleaning and supplies, and takes pride in a job well done.

Landscape Maintenance

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Landscape maintenance , mowing, weeding , trimming, edging, blowing, trash pick up, Irrigation maintenance and knowledge of landscape fertilizers and chemicals. Good customer service skills. Friendly ...

Landscape Maintenance

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Landscape maintenance , mowing, weeding , trimming, edging, blowing, trash pick up, Irrigation maintenance and knowledge of landscape fertilizers and chemicals. Good customer service skills. Friendly ...

Sanitation Worker

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Monday- Friday; 7:00am- 3:30pm & 8am-4:30pm with over time available Dry pick up on production floors and trash pick-up and cardboard bailing. Clean restrooms and washdown scales and dividers. The ...

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Trash Picker information

See California salary details

$10

$16

$19

How much do trash picker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for trash picker in California is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a trash picker do?

A trash picker is responsible for collecting and disposing of litter and waste from public areas, such as streets, parks, and event venues. Their work helps keep environments clean, safe, and visually appealing. Trash pickers may use tools like grabbers, bags, and carts to gather trash efficiently. They play a crucial role in maintaining public health and promoting community well-being.

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

To thrive as a Trash Picker, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of waste management procedures, usually requiring no formal education but sometimes a high school diploma. Familiarity with safety gear, waste collection tools, and occasionally handheld tracking devices is typically needed. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills for success in this role. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible waste collection, supporting community cleanliness and public health.

What are some common challenges faced by trash pickers on a daily basis, and how can they be addressed?

Trash pickers often encounter challenges such as exposure to hazardous materials, unpredictable weather conditions, and physical strain from repetitive lifting and walking. To address these, it’s important to use proper protective gear like gloves, sturdy boots, and reflective vests. Adhering to safety protocols and working in teams can also help reduce risks and make the job more manageable. Regular breaks and proper lifting techniques further contribute to a safer and more sustainable work experience.

What is the difference between Trash Picker vs Waste Collector?

AspectTrash PickerWaste Collector
CredentialsNo formal certification typically requiredHigh school diploma often preferred; CDL license may be needed
Work EnvironmentPrimarily outdoor, on foot or using small toolsOutdoor, operating trucks and heavy equipment
Industry UsageCommonly used in residential or small-scale waste removalUsed in municipal, commercial, and industrial waste management
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing entry-level waste jobsIndividuals exploring professional waste management roles

Trash Picker and Waste Collector roles both involve waste removal but differ mainly in scope and equipment. Trash Pickers typically work in residential areas with minimal certifications, focusing on manual collection. Waste Collectors often operate trucks, may require licenses, and serve larger-scale waste management needs. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit in the waste removal industry.

What are popular job titles related to Trash Picker jobs in California?

For Trash Picker jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Trash Picker jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Trash Picker jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Trash Picker jobs?

Cities in California with the most Trash Picker job openings:

Infographic showing various Trash Picker job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,760 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Part-Time Doorstep Trash Pick Up

San Mateo, CA • On-site

$70/day

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Who We Are:

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 service more than 340,000 units nationwide and are known for delivering reliable service, strong operational support, and elevated experience for both residents and property teams. Butler Plus has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, TIME Magazine, and on CNBC. We take pride in hiring professional team members who make a difference every day and in fostering a culture built around our five Core Values: Figure It Out, Champion of Change, Do the Right Thing, Never “Not My Job,” and Expect Excellence.

Who You Are:

Ready to make an impact? As a Butler Plus team member, you'll be the face of our nightly doorstep trash and recycling collection, playing an important role in our multifamily communities we service.

We are looking for aspiring and energetic individuals eager to contribute to the success of Butler Plus, offering a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a commitment to delivering excellent doorstep valet trash services.

No prior experience? No problem! We provide all the training you need to excel.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive Pay: $70.00 per day. 
  • Incentive Programs:
    • Employee Referral Program
    • Sales Lead Referral Program
    • Next Day Pay Option
  • Available Friday to Monday evenings.
  • Available to work from 8:00pm until finished (approximately 1-2 hours on average).
  • Growth Opportunities: Be a part of a growing company with a reputation for excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Ensure satisfactory completion of nightly doorstep trash/recycling collection during service evenings.
  • Utilize the assigned trash tote or cart to collect bagged trash from each resident doorstep.
  • Utilize Butler Plus’s cutting-edge field app for efficient timekeeping, check-in/out, and reporting.
  • Safely transport collected trash using your open-bed pickup truck or cart and dispose of it in the on-site dumpsters, compactors or chute rooms.
  • Perform additional services as needed at assigned communities, which may include but are not limited to: porter service, bulk item hauling, pet station waste removal, pressure washing, compactor clean-up, and light community cleanliness tasks.
  • Maintain daily communication with your supervisor/manager to ensure a streamlined and effective workflow.
  • Work quietly and efficiently, minimizing noise to avoid disturbance to residents.
  • Adhere to the company's core values: Figure It Out, Champion of Change, Do the Right Thing, Never, ‘Not My Job’, and Expect Excellence.
  • Other duties as assigned by the supervisor/manager.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Lift up to 25 lbs. and use hands and arms repetitively.
  • Climb stairs in apartment buildings.
  • Work outdoors and be exposed to various weather conditions.
  • Own an open bed pick-up truck (required at most properties).
  • Possess a valid driver’s license and auto insurance in your name or listed as an authorized driver on the insurance (mandatory for properties requiring a truck).
  • Have a cell phone (Smart Phone) to download and use the company's app.
  • Demonstrate self-motivation and reliability.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Work efficiently without sacrificing the quality of service.

Education & Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Customer service experience is a plus.

Apply Now!

Join a team where your work makes a daily difference, not just to our clients but to the environment. Be part of Butler Plus - where your career, growth, and service all come together. Apply today and embark on a journey with a company that values you!

Offer of employment is contingent upon the candidate successfully passing a pre­employment criminal background check and clean driving history.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are using E-Verify and are a participant in Right to Work.