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Trash Picking Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Cleaner McKinney

Mckinney, TX · On-site

$12.25 - $14.25/hr

Duties include, but are not limited to:/Duties include, but are not limited to" Picking up Trash/Picking up and littering Dusting and Vacuuming/Cleaning dust and vacuuming carpets Cleaning Offices ...

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PT Grounds Porter

Tampa, FL · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

Responsible for general maintenance of the garage and surface lots - sweeping, wiping down surfaces and equipment, emptying trash, picking up trash, etc. Performs other duties as assigned Great ...

Grounds Tech I

Springfield, MO

$13 - $16.75/hr

Perform waste removal including, but not limited to picking up trash and pet waste, emptying exterior trash cans and pet stations. * Perform light landscaping duties including, but not limited to ...

PT Grounds Porter

Tampa, FL

$14.50 - $17/hr

... trash, picking up trash, etc. • Performs other duties as assigned • Great customer service • Attention to detail • MUST HAVE PRIOR CLEANING EXPERIENCE. • Must eligible to work in the United ...

PT Grounds Porter

Tampa, FL · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

... trash, picking up trash, etc. • Performs other duties as assigned • Great customer service • Attention to detail Qualifications • MUST HAVE PRIOR CLEANING EXPERIENCE. • Must eligible to ...

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Trash Picking information

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$10

$16

$20

How much do trash picking jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for trash picking in the United States is $16.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are trash picking jobs?

Trash picking jobs involve collecting and properly disposing of litter, waste, or recyclables from public spaces, streets, parks, or designated areas. Workers may use tools like grabbers, gloves, and bags to safely gather debris. These jobs help maintain cleanliness, improve public health, and enhance the appearance of communities. Trash pickers may work independently, as part of a municipal team, or volunteer in community clean-up events. The work can be physically demanding and often requires attention to safety and environmental guidelines.

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 good physical stamina, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of waste sorting and safety procedures, often acquired through on-the-job training. Familiarity with protective gear, waste collection tools, and sometimes municipal waste management systems is important. Reliability, a strong work ethic, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible waste collection, which is crucial for public health and community cleanliness.

What are some common challenges faced by trash pickers and how can they be managed safely on the job?

Trash pickers often encounter challenges such as exposure to hazardous materials, unpredictable weather, and physically demanding tasks. To manage these safely, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, boots, and reflective vests is essential. Workers are usually trained to identify and avoid dangerous items, such as sharp objects or biohazardous waste, and to follow safe lifting techniques to prevent injuries. Teamwork and clear communication with supervisors and colleagues also help ensure a safer and more efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Trash Picking vs Recycling Collection Worker?

AspectTrash PickingRecycling Collection Worker
CredentialsNone typically requiredMay require a valid driver’s license and some certifications
Work EnvironmentResidential and commercial areas, outdoorsResidential, commercial, and industrial sites, outdoors
Industry UsageCommon in waste management servicesPart of waste management, focusing on recyclables
Job FocusCollecting general wasteCollecting recyclable materials

Trash Picking involves collecting general waste from various locations, often with minimal certifications. Recycling Collection Workers focus on gathering recyclable materials and may require specific licenses. Both roles operate outdoors within waste management services but differ in the type of waste handled and certifications needed.

More about Trash Picking jobs
What cities are hiring for Trash Picking jobs? Cities with the most Trash Picking job openings:
What states have the most Trash Picking jobs? States with the most job openings for Trash Picking jobs include:

Doorstep Trash Collection (PT Nights)

G & H Trash Valet

Houston, TX • On-site

$150 - $300/wk

Part-time

Posted 19 days ago

Be an early applicant


Key responsibilities

  • Collect household trash bags and flattened boxes placed outside apartment doors.

  • Transport collected trash to the on-site compactor using a pickup truck.

  • Walk up and down flights of stairs to collect and carry trash as needed.


Job description

Description:

Part-time evening work from $150 to $300 per week depending on the size of the property. MUST HAVE A TRUCK.


8 p.m. start, work can be completed in about 1-3 hour most nights.


Door to door trash pickup at apartment community.

Work independently in a low stress environment and collect only household trash bags and flattened boxes placed outside the apartment door. We do not pick up bulk items, furniture, appliances, etc.


Must have:

Valid Drivers License, Good work ethic, PICK UP TRUCK.

Must pass a background check.

Must be able to:

Work Sunday-Thursday starting at 8 p.m. (Fridays and Saturdays off)

Walk up/down flights of stairs, put bags in bed of truck and take to compactor on site. A few buildings have elevators.

Carry up to 75 lbs

Work in outside elements

Requirements: