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Waste Collection Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Corning

Solid Waste Collector

Tolleson, AZ · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

Experience in operating waste collection vehicles or machinery is preferred. * Ability to lift and transport heavy materials. * Strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship. Work ...

City of Nashua

Collection Equipment Operator

Nashua, NH · On-site

$29.20/hr

Solid Waste Department The City of Nashua is looking for a highly motivated individual to join our Division of Public Works in the Solid Waste Department as a Collection Equipment Operator. Take your ...

Corning

Solid Waste Collector

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

Experience in operating waste collection vehicles or machinery is preferred. * Ability to lift and transport heavy materials. * Strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship. Work ...

City of Nashua

Collection Equipment Operator

Nashua, NH · On-site

$29.20/hr

The City of Nashua is looking for a highly motivated individual to join our Division of Public Works in the Solid Waste Department as a Collection Equipment Operator. Take your career to the next ...

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 ...

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Waste Collection Operator information

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How much do waste collection operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for waste collection operator in the United States is $25.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a waste collection operator?

Waste Collection Operators are professionals responsible for collecting, transporting, and disposing of waste and recyclable materials from residential, commercial, and industrial locations. They operate specialized vehicles such as garbage trucks, follow designated routes, and ensure that waste is handled safely and efficiently. Waste Collection Operators play a crucial role in maintaining public health and sanitation by preventing the accumulation of waste and supporting recycling efforts. Their work often involves early morning shifts, physical activity, and adherence to safety regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a waste collection operator?

To thrive as a Waste Collection Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license, knowledge of safety protocols, and physical fitness. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, hydraulic systems, and GPS routing devices is typically required. Dependability, teamwork, and good communication skills help operators work safely and efficiently in various environments. These skills ensure timely waste removal, public safety, and compliance with environmental regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by waste collection operators, and how can they be addressed?

Waste Collection Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating busy or narrow streets, handling heavy or hazardous materials, and adhering to strict collection schedules. To address these, operators receive specialized training in safe lifting techniques, route optimization, and the use of protective equipment. Open communication with team members and supervisors also helps ensure safety and efficiency, while ongoing training keeps operators updated on the latest regulations and best practices.

What is the difference between Waste Collection Operator vs Sanitation Worker?

AspectWaste Collection OperatorSanitation Worker
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often requiredMay require similar licenses, depending on jurisdiction
Work EnvironmentOperate trucks, collect waste from residential/commercial sitesAssist with waste collection, street cleaning, and debris removal
Employer & IndustryMunicipal waste management, private waste companiesMunicipal sanitation departments, waste management services

Waste Collection Operators primarily operate trucks to collect waste from various locations, often requiring a CDL. Sanitation Workers perform similar tasks but may also include street cleaning and debris removal. Both roles are essential in waste management, often working within municipal or private sectors, and may require overlapping certifications. The main difference lies in the scope of duties and specific job functions within waste and sanitation services.

What cities are hiring for Waste Collection Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Waste Collection Operator job openings:

What states have the most Waste Collection Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Waste Collection Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Waste Collection Operator jobs?

For Waste Collection Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Waste Collection Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,224 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Solid Waste Collector

Tolleson, AZ • On-site

Corning
See more jobs at Corningexternal

$20 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Collect and segregate solid waste materials, including recyclables, hazardous waste, and general refuse, according to established protocols.

  • Safely transport collected waste to designated disposal or recycling areas within or outside the facility.

  • Operate and maintain waste collection vehicles, compactors, and other related equipment.

Corning rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Requisition Number: 75734
The company built on breakthroughs.
Join us.
Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible.
How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations - not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.
At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.
Come break through with us.
Our Solar business delivers industry leading, U.S.-made solar components. We manufacture hyper-pure polysilicon, high-quality solar wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, leveraging our leadership in advanced manufacturing to serve growing energy demand. You will be a part of advancing critical U.S. supply chains and delivering unmatched quality and reliability to customers.
The Solid Waste Collector is responsible for the collection, sorting, transportation, and disposal of waste materials generated within the solar manufacturing plant. This role ensures compliance with environmental regulations and promotes waste management practices that support the company's commitment to sustainability and efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
Waste Collection and Segregation: Collect and segregate solid waste materials, including recyclables, hazardous waste, and general refuse, according to established protocols.
Transportation: Safely transport collected waste to designated disposal or recycling areas within or outside the facility.
Environmental Compliance: Ensure all waste handling and disposal processes comply with local, state, and federal environmental regulations.
Safety Standards: Follow strict safety protocols during waste handling to minimize risks and maintain a safe working environment.
Equipment Operation: Operate and maintain waste collection vehicles, compactors, and other related equipment.
Record Keeping: Maintain accurate logs of waste collection, transportation, and disposal activities.
Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to reduce waste, increase recycling rates, and improve overall waste management practices.
Collaboration: Work closely with other departments to ensure waste management aligns with production schedules and sustainability goals.
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Knowledge of waste management processes and environmental regulations.
  • Experience in operating waste collection vehicles or machinery is preferred.
  • Ability to lift and transport heavy materials.
  • Strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.

Work Environment:
The role involves physical labor, exposure to varying temperatures, and handling potentially hazardous materials. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided and must be used at all times.
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $20.00 hourly rate - $21.50 hourly rate. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.
A job that shapes a life.
Corning offers you the total package.
Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, Corning provides company matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan of up to 4% of pay when you contribute at least 6% of pay.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.

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