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Waste Collection Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Driver to join our team in Hobart, Oklahoma. The successful candidate will be responsible for the ... Waste Collection and Transportation : * Operate trash trucks to collect garbage, recycling, and ...

... Driver to join our team in Hobart, Oklahoma. The successful candidate will be responsible for the ... Waste Collection and Transportation : * Operate trash trucks to collect garbage, recycling, and ...

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Waste Collection Driver information

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$15

$22

$28

How much do waste collection driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for waste collection driver in the United States is $22.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are some common challenges Waste Collection Drivers face during their routes, and how are these typically addressed?

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Waste Collection Driver, and why are they important?

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.
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Infographic showing various Waste Collection Driver job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,001 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Auto Refuse Collection Driver, Semi

Auto Refuse Collection Driver, Semi

City of Springfield

Springfield, MA

$27.53/hr

Other

Posted 24 days ago


City Of Springfield (Missouri) rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

409th of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Purpose/Summary *Please note that this is a Civil Service position. This position is not currently open, should there become an opening we will hire off of the list of applicants starting with the oldest application date.* APPLICATION FOR CITY OF SPRINGFIELD LABOR SERVICE Applicants must be at least 16 years of age at the time of filing application. Incomplete applications will not be processed

The name of an applicant will remain on the Labor Service register for the job title which he or she is registered for a period of not more than 5 years from the date of registration, subject to a renewal of registration as provided in Section 28, Chapter 31 of the General Laws, and subject to compliance with other applicable provisions of the Civil Service law and rules. Responsible for the collection of refuse from roll out containers and transport of refuse to the Resources Recovery Plant at BondiIsland or other designated disposal site. Work requires a considerable amount of stop and go driving.

Requires a high degree of manual dexterity and must load the refuse collection vehicle at a specific rate of productivity. Work is performed under the supervision of a Department of Public Works supervisor, who reviews work through inspections and conferences. No supervision is ordinarily exercised over the other employees.

Essential Functions Operates the semi-automated refuse collection vehicle. Collects refuse from properly placed roll out container carts. Exits the vehicle to properly position the container or perform other duties such as, but not limited to, issuing warning/violation notices.

Loads the refuse from roll out container carts into the truck by use of the semi-automated flipper. Controls flipper by levers or buttons on a control panel. Loads loose rubbish outside of the container into the truck as may be necessary.

Transports loaded vehicle to the Resource Recovery Plant at BondiIsland. Returns to the route, if needed, where left off for completion of daily work assignment. Assists other operators, as may be necessary, in order to maintain collection schedules.

Performs routine vehicle maintenance. Checks to make sure vehicle is operating properly and safely; cleans, greases, and washes truck daily, or as required. Fills out daily drive sheet and submits to office as required.

Keeps simple daily activity record. Issues warning notices or information along assigned routes to repeat ordinance violators. Performs other related duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Considerable knowledge of the operations, care of and minor maintenance to semi-automated collection vehicles, or the ability to follow City provided training on the operations, care of and minor maintenance to the semi-automated collection vehicles. Considerable knowledge of defensive drive theory and traffic laws, ordinances, rules and regulations. Ability to perform tasks of loading and operating vehicles which require considerable agility.

Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. Ability to follow assigned routing systems for refuse collection. Ability to provide daily written reports of work performed and problems encountered.

Ability to deal with residents in a professional manner in order to resolve problems or answer questions regarding work performed. Education and Experience High school diploma or equivalent. Minimum of one year of experience in driving large vehicles on the streets and highways within the City of Springfield.


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