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Waste Collection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Burbank

SOLID WASTE TRUCK OPERATOR

Burbank, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $21.50/hr

Under supervision, to operate various types of solid waste collection trucks; to perform heavy manual labor in the collection, trucking, and disposal of refuse and recyclable materials; and to do ...

New

City of Burbank, CA

SOLID WASTE TRUCK OPERATOR

Burbank, CA · On-site

$4.6K - $6.4K/mo

Under supervision, to operate various types of solid waste collection trucks; to perform heavy manual labor in the collection, trucking, and disposal of refuse and recyclable materials; and to do ...

New

Burrtec Waste

Driver

Pomona, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Follow designated routes and schedules for waste collection and transport * Collect waste materials from residential, commercial, or industrial sites by completing all routes in a timely manner while ...

New

Burrtec Waste

Driver

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $34/hr

Follow designated routes and schedules for waste collection and transport * Collect waste materials from residential, commercial, or industrial sites by completing all routes in a timely manner while ...

New

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 staffing as needed to meet service goals. * Conduct field inspections and safety audits to ensure ...

Caglia Environmental

Commercial Driver

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

We provide essential environmental services, including recycling, waste collection, and landfill management, with a strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community. Our team plays a ...

Caglia Environmental

Commercial Driver

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

We provide essential environmental services, including recycling, waste collection, and landfill management, with a strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community. Our team plays a ...

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All JobsWaste Collection JobsWaste Collection Jobs in California

Waste Collection information

See California salary details

$15

$21

$28

How much do waste collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for waste collection 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 is a waste collection worker?

Waste collectors, also known as garbage collectors or sanitation workers, are responsible for collecting and transporting garbage, recyclables, and other waste materials from homes, businesses, and public places to disposal sites or recycling centers. Their work ensures that communities remain clean, safe, and hygienic. Waste collectors may operate trucks, lift heavy bins, and follow specific routes to complete their tasks efficiently. This job often requires physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and knowledge of local waste disposal regulations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a waste collection worker?

To thrive as a Waste Collection Worker, you need physical stamina, reliability, and a basic understanding of safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, hydraulic equipment, and possibly a commercial driver's license (CDL) are typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and attention to detail help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring efficient, safe, and timely waste removal services that support public health and community cleanliness.

What are common challenges faced by waste collection workers, and how can they be managed?

Waste collection workers often encounter challenges such as exposure to unpleasant odors, heavy lifting, and working in varying weather conditions. These challenges are typically managed through the use of personal protective equipment, adherence to safety protocols, and proper lifting techniques. Teamwork and clear communication with colleagues are also essential for efficiently navigating busy routes and ensuring safety. Many employers offer regular safety training and ergonomic support to help workers stay healthy and productive.

What is the difference between Waste Collection vs Waste Disposal Worker?

AspectWaste CollectionWaste Disposal Worker
CredentialsDriver's license, safety trainingSafety training, possibly CDL
Work EnvironmentResidential/commercial neighborhoods, streetsLandfills, waste processing facilities
Industry UsageCollects waste from sourcesProcesses or disposes of waste

Waste Collection involves gathering waste from homes and businesses, focusing on transportation to disposal sites. Waste Disposal Workers handle the actual processing or disposal of waste at landfills or treatment plants. While both roles are essential in waste management, Waste Collection is primarily about collection and transportation, whereas Waste Disposal Workers focus on waste processing and disposal activities.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Waste Collection jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Waste Collection jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Waste Collection jobs?

Cities in California with the most Waste Collection job openings:

Waste Collection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waste Collection job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,399 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

SOLID WASTE TRUCK OPERATOR

City of Burbank

Burbank, CA • On-site

$18.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

City Of Burbank rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

572nd of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

OPEN COMPETITIVE RECRUITMENT Open to all qualified candidates. Tentative examination dates for this recruitment: Week of 09/14/26 - Blind application & supplemental scoring Week of 09/28/26 - Performance examination Dates may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Candidates who pass each phase of the recruitment process will be notified of the official examination dates.

Under supervision, to operate various types of solid waste collection trucks; to perform heavy manual labor in the collection, trucking, and disposal of refuse and recyclable materials; and to do related work as required. Essential Functions Operates various types of solid waste collection trucks, including front loader, side loader, rear loader, bin handling unit, forklift, bin delivery truck-and-trailer, and automated unit, on an assigned route; picks up and loads refuse and recyclable materials into the truck; operates mechanism for loading, compressing, and dumping refuse and recyclable materials; drives to designated area to deliver refuse and recyclable materials; safely operates the solid waste collection truck; safely operates the packing and dumping apparatus; assures that solid waste collection truck is properly fueled, equipped, lubricated, and serviced; washes interior and exterior of solid waste collection truck; reports needed repairs immediately; answers citizen complaints; responds to inquiries from the business community regarding potential service; maintains required written records, including documenting field issues in writing; may supervise solid waste field crews; may have the opportunity to participate in related cross-training opportunities. Minimum Qualifications Employment Standards: Knowledge of traffic laws involved in equipment operations; safe operations of and safety precautions necessary in operation of equipment, including various types of solid waste collection trucks.

Skill in physical stamina to engage in heavy manual type of work. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; understand and carry out written and oral instructions; establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, and the public. License & Certificates: A valid California Class "B" driver's license or equivalent without air brake restriction at time of appointment.

Supplemental Information None.

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