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Waste Collection Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of St. Peters

$28.46 - $30.19/hr

Peters Solid Waste Department is seeking a motivated refuse truck driver with ASL, Rear-Load, Front ... Service, clean, and make minor repairs to collection equipment; report significant maintenance ...

Burrtec Waste

Driver

Azusa, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Driver The Driver will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles ... Follow designated routes and schedules for waste collection and transport * Collect waste materials ...

New

Burrtec Waste

Driver

Duarte, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Driver The Driver will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles ... Follow designated routes and schedules for waste collection and transport * Collect waste materials ...

Burrtec Waste

Driver

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Driver The Driver will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles ... Follow designated routes and schedules for waste collection and transport * Collect waste materials ...

New

Burrtec Waste

Driver

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Driver The Driver will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles ... Follow designated routes and schedules for waste collection and transport * Collect waste materials ...

Waste Connections

Driver

Marina, CA · On-site

We are Waste Connections, an integrated services company that provides solid waste collection ... As a driver with us the minimum responsibilities are: * Safely operating a garbage truck on ...

Burrtec

Driver

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Driver The Driver will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles ... Follow designated routes and schedules for waste collection and transport * Collect waste materials ...

Burrtec

Driver

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Driver The Driver will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles ... Follow designated routes and schedules for waste collection and transport * Collect waste materials ...

Burrtec

Driver

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Driver The Driver will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles ... Follow designated routes and schedules for waste collection and transport * Collect waste materials ...

Burrtec

Driver

Azusa, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Driver The Driver will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles ... Follow designated routes and schedules for waste collection and transport * Collect waste materials ...

Burrtec

Driver

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Driver The Driver will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles ... Follow designated routes and schedules for waste collection and transport * Collect waste materials ...

Caglia Environmental

Commercial Driver

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Commercial Driver LOCATION: Chowchilla, CA REPORTS TO: Route Manager SALARY: $21.00 to $23.00/ per ... We provide essential environmental services, including recycling, waste collection, and landfill ...

Caglia Environmental

Commercial Driver

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Commercial Driver LOCATION: Chowchilla, CAREPORTS TO: Route ManagerSALARY: $21.00 to $23.00/ per ... We provide essential environmental services, including recycling, waste collection, and landfill ...

Caglia Environmental

Commercial Driver

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Commercial Driver LOCATION: Chowchilla, CA REPORTS TO: Route Manager SALARY: $21.00 to $23.00/ per ... We provide essential environmental services, including recycling, waste collection, and landfill ...

Waste Connections

Operations Supervisor

San Jose, CA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Lead and assign daily work to solid waste collection crews. * Monitor operations and adjust ... Class B CDL (or ability to obtain within 90 days). * Willingness to relocate for future promotional ...

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All JobsWaste Collection Driver JobsWaste Collection Driver Jobs in California

Waste Collection Driver information

See California salary details

$15

$21

$28

How much do waste collection driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for waste collection driver in California is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a waste collection driver do?

A Waste Collection Driver is responsible for operating garbage trucks to collect waste and recyclables from homes, businesses, and public areas. They follow assigned routes, ensure the safe and efficient loading and unloading of materials, and transport them to designated disposal or recycling facilities. Waste Collection Drivers also inspect their vehicles for safety, maintain proper records, and comply with local regulations regarding waste handling. The role is essential for keeping communities clean and supporting environmental sustainability.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a waste collection driver?

To thrive as a Waste Collection Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), good driving record, and knowledge of safety and waste handling protocols. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, GPS navigation systems, and hydraulic equipment is typically required. Reliability, physical stamina, and strong communication skills are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and timely waste collection, contributing to public health and community cleanliness.

What challenges do waste collection drivers face during their routes?

Waste Collection Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating narrow streets, dealing with inclement weather, and managing heavy or improperly disposed waste. Companies usually provide regular safety training, route optimization technology, and support from dispatch teams to help drivers overcome these issues. Teamwork and clear communication with route supervisors and maintenance staff are also essential for addressing equipment malfunctions or unexpected obstacles efficiently.

What is the difference between Waste Collection Driver vs Recycling Truck Driver?

AspectWaste Collection DriverRecycling Truck Driver
CredentialsDriver's license, CDL often preferredDriver's license, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentResidential/commercial waste pickupRecycling material collection from neighborhoods or facilities
Industry UsageMunicipal waste management, private waste servicesRecycling programs, environmental services
Job Search IntentWaste disposal, trash collectionRecycling collection, environmental sustainability

Both Waste Collection Drivers and Recycling Truck Drivers operate in waste management, often requiring similar licenses and working in residential or commercial settings. The main difference lies in their focus: Waste Collection Drivers handle general trash, while Recycling Truck Drivers specialize in collecting recyclable materials. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and interests.

What cities in California are hiring for Waste Collection Driver jobs?

Cities in California with the most Waste Collection Driver job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Waste Collection Driver jobs in CA?

For Waste Collection Driver jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Waste Collection Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waste Collection Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,399 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

REFUSE COLLECTION TRUCK OPERATOR

City of St. Peters

$28.46 - $30.19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary: The City of St. Peters Solid Waste Department is seeking a motivated refuse truck driver with ASL, Rear-Load, Front-Load, and Roll-Off truck experience. The starting pay range is $28.46-30.19 based on experience, with competitive salary growth beyond the starting pay through our market-based pay plan. We offer new trucks, Routeware-equipped routes, all automated collections, and benefits that are second to NONE. We are seeking an energetic and motivated driver capable of running 1,400 route stops per day who is dedicated to the team with great character and a can-do attitude. If this tips your interest, drop your application here in the hopper! Our business is picking up, come be a part of the accelerating team and see the new Single Stream Recycling plan unfold.

Normal Shift: Schedule varies Mon-Sat; shifts range 6am-2pm/4pm, with some weekends/holidays required.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Collect and handle solid waste, yard waste, and recyclables using safe and efficient work practices.
  • Operate heavy equipment, power tools, and motorized vehicles with advanced skill.
  • Service, clean, and make minor repairs to collection equipment; report significant maintenance needs.
  • Deliver, assemble, and repair solid waste containers.
  • Assist in training coworkers in safe equipment use and effective collection methods.
  • Respond professionally to resident concerns, inquiries, and service requests.
  • May perform duties at Recycle City, as needed.
  • Follow all established City safety procedures and participate in maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully authorized alien worker.
  • High School graduate or GED certificate.
  • One (1) year of applicable experience.
  • Class "B" CDL with air brakes valid in the state of Missouri, or obtain within 120 days of employment. Commercial drivers instruction permit (CDIP) must be obtained within 60 days of employment.
  • Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 75 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 lbs.

Why Join Us: As a Solid Waste Technician - Collections, you'll be part of a dedicated team that provides essential services to the residents of St. Peters. We offer a stable work environment, opportunities for skill development, and the chance to make a visible difference in your community every day.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive Salary:Market-based pay structure with step placement determined by qualifications and experience
  • Retirement & Financial security:Missouri LAGERS L-6 defined benefit pension plan (with Rule of 80), 457 deferred compensation plan, Roth retirement savings option, and retiree health coverage
  • Leave & Holiday benefits: Vacation (up to 6 weeks), sick leave, 12 paid holidays and 1 personal day
  • Health & Wellness:Medical, dental and vision coverage options; City-paid Life and AD&D insurance ($50,000); long-term disability; voluntary supplemental insurance options, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and Preventative Care Time Off
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA):medical and dependent care options
  • Education Support:Tuition reimbursement (up to 6-8 classes per year)

Apply Today Use your skills to support a cleaner, safer city-join the team that keeps St. Peters moving forward.


All candidates for this position will be subject to a comprehensive background check and drug screening. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of these checks. The City is committed to maintaining a safe and drug-free work environment and requires all employees to adhere to these standards.

Apply