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Trash Truck Driver Helper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

J.P. Mascaro & Sons

Drivers Helper

Colliers, WV · On-site

$12/hr

Driver Helper Solid Waste Services of West Virginia is looking for reliable and dependable Driver ... of a trash truck and perform several essential roles, such as assisting the driver to safely ...

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Truck Driver Helper

Paris, TX

$12 - $14.50/hr

An internationally recognized non-profit, faith-based organization,has an opening fora Truck Driver Helper for Paris Corps located in Paris, TX Job Summary Assists the Truck Driver in the loading and ...

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Trash Truck Driver Helper information

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How much do trash truck driver helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for trash truck driver helper in the United States is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trash truck driver helper?

Trash Truck Driver Helpers, also known as refuse collectors or garbage truck helpers, assist the driver in collecting and disposing of residential or commercial waste. Their main duties include loading garbage bags, bins, or recyclables onto the truck, operating hydraulic lifts, and ensuring that all assigned areas are serviced efficiently and safely. They often work early morning hours and must follow safety procedures while handling heavy or potentially hazardous materials. The role is physically demanding and requires teamwork, attention to detail, and a commitment to cleanliness and public health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trash truck driver helper?

To thrive as a Trash Truck Driver Helper, you generally need physical stamina, reliability, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, safety protocols, and sometimes basic knowledge of route management systems is important. Teamwork, communication skills, and a strong work ethic set standout helpers apart in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and timely waste collection services in a physically demanding environment.

What are some common challenges faced by trash truck driver helpers on the job?

Trash truck driver helpers often work early morning shifts in various weather conditions, which can be physically demanding. The role requires lifting heavy bins, staying alert for safety hazards, and efficiently coordinating with the driver to maintain collection schedules. Adapting to different neighborhoods, navigating tight spaces, and dealing with unexpected obstacles like blocked driveways or hazardous materials are also common challenges. Strong teamwork and communication skills help ensure safety and smooth operations.

What is the difference between Trash Truck Driver Helper vs Trash Truck Driver?

AspectTrash Truck Driver HelperTrash Truck Driver
CredentialsNone required, physical ability preferredCommercial driver's license (CDL) often required
Work EnvironmentOn the back of trash trucks, outdoor, physically demandingDriving and operating trash trucks, outdoor
Employer & IndustrySanitation services, waste management companiesSame as helper, with additional driving responsibilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Trash Truck Driver Helper and a Trash Truck Driver is that the helper assists with loading, collecting, and other tasks without driving, while the driver operates the truck, often requiring a CDL. Both roles work outdoors in waste management environments, but the driver has additional responsibilities related to vehicle operation.

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Trash Truck Driver Helper jobs near you

Trash Truck Driver's Helper

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Universal Waste Systems
Environmental Consulting Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Universal Waste Systemsexternal

$16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Description

The primary role of the Driver’s Helper is to provide assistance to the Driver to ensure timely, efficient, safe and courteous hauling service to customers along an assigned route.

Essential Responsibilities

  1. Assist the driver in staging and dumping carts, bins and bulky items.
  2. Learn geography of assigned route and surrounding areas and assist the driver in following the proper sequencing of route.
  3. Clean up spills and overflows and return bins to their proper area.
  4. Assist the driver by guiding the maneuvers of the vehicle, keeping public safety as the main priority.
  5. Utilize in-cab electronic computer systems to follow route and service requirements.
  6. Use radio to effectively communicate with dispatch and route supervisors.
  7. Observe and comply with hazardous waste and material handling and disposal procedures and regulations as set forth by local, state and federal environmental and health agencies.
  8. Report all accidents, injuries or maintenance issues in a timely manner.
  9. Observe and comply with all applicable safety regulations, rules, policies and procedures.
  10. Maintain collaborative working relationship with coworkers and customers.
  11. Participate in external, Department and Company-wide trainings to increase skill sets and improve service.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of:

  • Principles of waste and recycling collection.
  • Basic truck mechanics and parts.
  • Federal, state and local job site health and safety rules, regulations and best practices.

Ability to:

  • Maintain a positive attitude with coworkers and customers.
  • Proactively establish trust and credibility with coworkers by maintaining accountability.
  • Contribute to the team dynamic by promoting inclusion, support and collaboration amongst coworkers.
  • Take initiative, self-manage time and productivity through multitasking.
  • Effectively and concisely communicate both orally and in writing.
  • Think independently and creatively to problem solve.
  • Read and utilize on-board electronic routing system.

Education, Training & Experience

  1. Experience in the resource recovery industry preferred.
  2. High school diploma or GED preferred.

Supplemental Information

Universal Waste Systems, Inc. celebrates diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, disability or protected veteran status.