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Volunteer Solid Waste Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Volunteer Solid Waste information

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$8

$19

$33

How much do volunteer solid waste jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer solid waste in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a volunteer solid waste?

Volunteer Solid Waste workers are individuals who offer their time and effort to assist in the management of solid waste within a community or organization. Their tasks can include helping with recycling programs, participating in community cleanups, educating the public about proper waste disposal, and supporting waste reduction initiatives. Volunteers play a crucial role in promoting environmental sustainability and keeping public spaces clean and safe. Typically, they work alongside municipal staff or nonprofit organizations and may participate in one-time events or ongoing programs. Volunteering in this field also helps raise awareness about the importance of responsible waste management.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a volunteer solid waste?

To thrive as a Volunteer Solid Waste worker, you need a basic understanding of waste management practices, safety procedures, and often a willingness to undergo site-specific training. Familiarity with personal protective equipment (PPE), recycling protocols, and sometimes data entry systems is beneficial. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and a proactive attitude help volunteers effectively support collection efforts and community engagement. These skills ensure efficient, safe operations and promote environmental sustainability in waste management projects.

What are common challenges faced by volunteer solid waste workers, and how can they be addressed?

Volunteer Solid Waste workers often encounter challenges such as handling unpleasant odors, heavy lifting, and ensuring proper sorting of recyclables and waste. To address these, it's important to use personal protective equipment, follow safety protocols, and work collaboratively with other volunteers and staff. Regular communication and training sessions can help volunteers stay informed about best practices and improve efficiency. Embracing a team-oriented mindset also makes it easier to manage workloads and maintain a positive attitude.

What is the difference between Volunteer Solid Waste vs Solid Waste Technician?

AspectVolunteer Solid WasteSolid Waste Technician
CredentialsTypically none or minimal; volunteer-basedHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentCommunity cleanup events, waste collection sites, outdoor settingsMunicipal waste facilities, landfills, recycling centers
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, local government volunteer programsPublic waste management agencies, private waste companies
Search & Comparison IntentVolunteering opportunities, community waste programsCareer development, job requirements in waste management

Volunteer Solid Waste roles focus on community service and cleanup activities without formal credentials, often in volunteer settings. Solid Waste Technicians are paid professionals working in waste management facilities, requiring specific certifications and technical skills. While both work in waste-related environments, their responsibilities, credentials, and employment types differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Volunteer Solid Waste jobs?

Cities with the most Volunteer Solid Waste job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Solid Waste jobs?

The most popular types of Solid Waste jobs are:

What states have the most Volunteer Solid Waste jobs?

States with the most job openings for Volunteer Solid Waste jobs include:

Infographic showing various Volunteer Solid Waste job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

SOLID WASTE COLLECTOR

City of Vero Beach, FL

Vero Beach, FL • On-site

$22.67 - $23.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Salary: $22.67 - $23.13 Hourly
Location : 1053 20th Place, Vero Beach, FL
Job Type: FULL-TIME
Job Number: 00951
Department: PW - SOLID WASTE
Opening Date: 08/25/2026
PRIMARY FUNCTIONS
Under close supervision of driver, collects residential garbage, trash and other designated materials from customers, assists driver with commercial collection; and performs related duties as assigned.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES
The following duties have been provided as examples of the essential types of work performed by positions within this job classification. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind work assignments as needed.
  • Collects residential garbage, trash and other designated materials from customers on assigned route using approved containers furnished for this purpose.
  • Transports refuse to route truck; dumps refuse into hopper and compacts it in the truck body.
  • Assists driver with commercial collection; guides driver, opens and closes gates, cleans around dumpsters, picks-up trash, and reports dumpster maintenance issues.
  • Locates driver(s) of vehicle(s) blocking dumpsters.
  • Cleans, sanitizes and washes vehicles, equipment, dumpsters, and material used for collections.
  • Observes standard operating procedures and safety practices at all times.
  • Assists other routes in completion of work.
  • Cleans and maintain wash rack area.
  • When not assigned to a route, may be required to clean and maintain City owned dumpsters to include preparation and painting containers.
  • Assists in collection and disposal of dead animals and refuse from public rights-of-way.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS
  • Knowledge of City and departmental polices and procedures.
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety practices related to solid waste collection and disposal.
  • Knowledge of City maps, routes and geography.
  • Knowledge of operation of garbage trucks.
  • Knowledge of customer service practices.
  • Ability to safely operate assigned hand tools and equipment.
  • Ability to perform heavy manual tasks (including stooping, lifting up to 100 lbs., carrying and climbing) for extended periods of time in good and bad weather.
  • Ability to follow oral and written directions.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted during the course of work including the general public.
OTHER JOB CHARACTERISTICS:
  • Exposure to potential physical harm, dangerous machinery, moving traffic, infectious disease, wild and/or domestic animals, and hazardous chemicals.
  • May be required to work independently.
  • Requires constant awareness of surrounding activities.
  • May be required to work weekends, holidays, or irregular hours.
  • Must be able to wear PPE required to perform the essential functions of the job.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT:
  • Waste cans, pitchforks, rakes, chainsaws and hand tools.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Experience in performing heavy manual labor outdoors for extended periods; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:
Possession of a valid Florida Driver's License. Commercial Driver's License, Class B (with air brake endorsements) preferred.
The City of Vero Beach provides a wide array of benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Our comprehensive benefit programs include medical, dental and vision plans; life insurance coverage for you and your dependents; employee long term disability coverage; flexible spending plans for medical reimbursement and dependent care; an employee assistance program for you and your dependents; a voluntary 401a Retirement Plan with generous employer contribution, and voluntary 457(b) tax-deferred compensation and ROTH IRA plans to supplement your retirement. We also provide an extensive wellness program that includes health fairs and much more!