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Waste Collection Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Solid Waste Weighmaster

Wilson, NC · On-site

$35K - $59K/yr

SOLID WASTE Opening Date: 04/09/2026 Closing Date: Continuous FLSA: Non-Exempt Description Wilson ... Valid driver's license in the State of North Carolina. * Possession of or ability to obtain ...

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Waste Collection Driver information

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How much do waste collection driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 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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What cities are hiring for Waste Collection Driver jobs? Cities with the most Waste Collection Driver job openings:
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What states have the most Waste Collection Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Waste Collection Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Waste Collection Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Waste Collection Driver jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Waste Collection Driver jobs? For Waste Collection Driver jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Waste Collection Driver job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 81% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,001 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Solid Waste Weighmaster

Wilson County, NC

Wilson, NC • On-site

$35K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Salary : $35,136.00 - $59,388.00 Annually
Location : 2400 Hwy 42 E. Wilson, NC
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 01154
Department: SOLID WASTE
Opening Date: 04/09/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Description
Wilson County Solid Waste Services is seeking an experienced Weighmaster. This is a full-time position with all applicable benefits. Benefits include Health, Dental, Vision, Retirement, 401K, paid Holidays, Accrued Sick and Vacation Leave, and more (select Benefits at top of screen to view in more detail).
The Salary range shown depends upon qualifying for the position and salary may be based on years of experience listed on the application itself, not upon supplemental documents attached.
Bilingual Spanish/English skills would be helpful. The work schedule will typically include working Monday through Friday, rotating Saturdays, and on Sundays during emergency conditions - this is Non-Negotiable. This position requires considerable public contact with users of the Landfill. The work requires firmness in enforcing Solid Waste rules. The worker is subject to fumes, odors, dusts, and mists. Work is performed under the limited supervision of the Solid Waste Assistant Director and is reviewed by observation and review of records and reports.
Please Note: Final candidates subject to pre-employment drug screening and background check (includes motor vehicle records).
After the completion of Probationary Period, Employee will need to complete NC SWANA Landfill Specialist training to receive 2.5% Salary Increase.
Description of Work
  • Observes, evaluates, directs, and inspects loaded vehicles entering Landfill and Convenience Center.
  • Weighs vehicles entering and exiting using computer-operated scales and billing system daily to compute net weight of Solid Waste materials to be disposed of and user fees.
  • Rejects hazardous and/or liquid waste.
  • Enforces Federal, State, and local regulations related to disposal of Solid Waste.
  • Provides general information regarding Solid Waste disposal according to departmental standard operating procedures.
  • Answers phones and responds to customer questions and gives directions.
  • Prepares and maintains reports and files and enters information into the computer system as needed.
  • Maintains cleanliness of Scale House and equipment.
  • Processes payments received, providing change as necessary; balances cash drawer at the end of each day and reconciles cash amounts with computer records; secures cash box daily.
  • Performs other related work as required.

Minimum Education and Experience
High school diploma or GED and moderate experience in administrative support work including data entry and customer service, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Valid driver's license in the State of North Carolina.
  • Possession of or ability to obtain Weighmaster License and Completion of NC SWANA Landfill Specialist training once Probationary Period completed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS OR STANDARDS REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Physical Requirements: Must be physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including computers, printers, calculators, vehicle scales, etc. Must be able to operate motor vehicles. Must be able to exert up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Light Work usually requires walking or standing to a significant degree. Considerable work is outside, and the employee will be exposed to hot and cold temperatures, dust, pollen, and adverse weather conditions. However, if the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light Work.
Data Conception: Requires the ability to compare and/or judge the readily observable, functional, structural or composite characteristics (whether similar or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people, or things.
Interpersonal Communication: Requires the ability to speak and/or signal people to convey or exchange information. Includes receiving instructions, assignments, or directions from superiors.
Language Ability: Requires the ability to read customer applications, scrap tire certifications, checks, forms, etc. Requires the ability to prepare reports, forms, receipts, etc., using prescribed formats. Requires the ability to speak to people with poise, voice control, and confidence.
Intelligence: Requires the ability to apply rational systems to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables where only limited standardization exists; to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagrammatic, or schedule form.
Verbal Aptitude: Requires the ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures, to follow oral and written instructions. Must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in Standard English.
Numerical Aptitude: Requires the ability to utilize mathematical formulas; to add and subtract; to multiply and divide.
Form/Spatial Aptitude: Requires the ability to inspect items for proper length, width, and shape.
Motor Coordination: Requires the ability to coordinate hands and eyes rapidly and accurately in using office equipment.
Manual Dexterity: Requires the ability to handle a variety of items such as office equipment. Must have minimal levels of eye/hand/foot coordination. Must be able to climb ramps and/or ladders during load inspections.
Color Discrimination: Requires the ability to differentiate between colors and shades of color.
Interpersonal Temperament: Requires the ability to deal with people beyond giving and receiving instructions. Must be adaptable to performing under moderate levels of stress and when confronted with persons acting under stress.
Physical Communication: Requires the ability to talk and hear: Talking: expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words; Hearing: perceiving nature of sounds by ear. Must be able to communicate via telephone.
Supplemental Information
KNOWLEDGE. SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Working knowledge of the operation of a solid waste scale and the associated peripheral equipment used in weighing, charging, and classifying waste of vehicles delivering waste to the landfill.
  • Working knowledge of pertinent ordinances, policies and procedures associated with waste disposal systems.
  • Working knowledge of basic clerical and bookkeeping principles.
  • Ability to accurately read scales and record data.
  • Ability to calculate figures rapidly using a calculator or adding machine.
  • Ability to operate popular computer-driven data entry and file maintenance programs.
  • Ability to analyze and record information and to balance figures.
  • Ability to exercise independent judgment and initiative in applying standards to a variety of situations.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form.
  • Ability to deal tactfully, courteously, and firmly with the public.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as necessitated by work assignments.

Special Note: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Application Process: All applicants must complete a Wilson County application form. A resume may be attached but is not a substitute. Incomplete or unsigned applications will not be processed.
*Please document all work history relevant to the position for which you are applying. Determination of qualifying for the position and salary are based on years of experience. Failure to document complete work history may affect qualification determination and salary. Electronic applications cannot be amended once submitted.
The benefit package available for Wilson County Government includes group medical, dental, vision, disability, life, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and accident insurance plans. Wilson County Government is also a participating member of the North Carolina Local Governmental Employees' Retirement System.
Wilson County Government develops strategies to control Health Insurance costs while at the same time, is committed to providing affordable health care options that meet you and your family's needs to stay healthy. More information about our benefit plans can be found at:
01
Are you familiar with Solid Waste regulations?
  • Yes
  • No

02
How would you characterize your level of computer skills?
03
Do you have a valid NC Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Can you provide a current copy of your driving record and criminal background information if called for an interview?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Employment is contingent upon your successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening and a criminal background check.
  • I Understand

Required Question