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Waste Collection Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

City of Ottawa

Waste Collection Operator

Ottawa, ON

CA$61K - CA$72K/yr

Waste collection practices * Ontario Highway Traffic Act and related regulations involved in equipment operation * Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA) * Understanding of mechanical and ...

BABCOCK CENTER INC

$17/hr

We are currently seeking dedicated and compassionate Crew Chiefs at the Lexington County Collection Sites. This entry-level position requires no prior experience, as we provide all necessary training ...

Waste Connections Inc

DZ Spare Driver

Ottawa, ON

CA$33.26/hr

We are Waste Connectionsof Canada,an integrated services company that provides solid waste collection, transfer, disposal and recycling services to local residents and businesses throughout the U.S ...

New

Waste Connections Inc

Equipment Operator

London, ON

CA$23.50/hr

We are Waste Connectionsof Canada,an integrated services company that provides solid waste collection, transfer, disposal and recycling services to local residents and businesses throughout the U.S ...

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Waste Collection information

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$10

$19

$31

How much do waste collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for waste collection in Ontario is $19.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.63 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.

How much do waste collectors make?

Waste collectors typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $30,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work early morning or overnight shifts and may need a valid driver's license and physical stamina for the job.

What do you need to be a waste collection?

To work as a waste collection worker, you typically need a valid driver's license, physical stamina, and the ability to operate collection vehicles. Some positions may require a high school diploma or equivalent, and safety training is often provided on the job.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Ontario are hiring for Waste Collection jobs?

Cities in Ontario with the most Waste Collection job openings:

Waste Collection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waste Collection job openings in Ontario as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,455 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Waste Collection Operator

Ottawa, ON

City of Ottawa
See more jobs at City of Ottawaexternal

CA$61K - CA$72K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Requisition ID: 23415 
Department: Public Works Dept. 
Service: Solid Waste Services 
Employment Type: Multiple Full-time Permanent
Work Hours: 40.00/hours per week
Affiliation: CUPE 503 - In/Out/Curbside Waste 
Salary Information: $61,863.36- $72,377.76 annually (2024 rates of pay)
Location: 2799 Swansea Crescent 
Job Category: Labourer Jobs
Application Close: 31/12/2026

JOB SUMMARY

The Collections Operations Unit oversees residential waste collection programs and services, including garbage, recycling, organics, yard and leaf waste, for the city's designated collection zone, which currently serves 70,000 homes.

You are responsible for operating vehicles and equipment and performing general labor in the collection and disposal of trash, brush, organics, solid waste, or recycling materials (blue/black bins).

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of Grade 10.

Minimum of two (2) years of recycling and refuse collection experience. Additional years of driving heavy road equipment may offset years of experience in the waste collection industry.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENCES
Valid Ontario unrestricted DZ class driver's licence (or provincial equivalent) with no more than 6 demerit points accumulated
KNOWLEDGE
  • Waste collection practices
  • Ontario Highway Traffic Act and related regulations involved in equipment operation
  • Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA)
  • Understanding of mechanical and hydraulic systems to safely operate waste collection equipment
  • Hazards, precautions, and safe operating practices for operating waste collection vehicles and equipment
  • Performance capabilities of equipment used for waste collection activities 
  • Proper lifting techniques
  • WHMIS, First Aid and Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
  • Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers
COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Operation of heavy equipment used for solid waste collection
  • Read and follow route maps, drawings, and street signs
  • Understand and follow written and oral instructions
  • Able to successfully complete a Post-Offer Employment Test 
  • Able to keep detailed, accurate records concerning materials received, processed, and disbursed as well as required equipment service records
  • Able to work independently and unsupervised while on assigned route
  • Understand and demonstrate safe working practices
  • Establish and maintain a good working relationship with management, other employees, and the public
  • Ability to interact effectively with members of the public 
  • Able to climb to and from the operator's position and possess the manual dexterity and coordination to use both hands and feet simultaneously to operate a machine
  • Ability to work in a physical demanding environment, including the ability to lift up to 75lbs
  • Use a high-pressure water hose to clean solid waste equipment
  • Work in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to the outdoor elements

Core Behaviours

Core behaviours define the City's expectations of the behaviours employees should demonstrate in performing their work.  They are reflective of the City's culture and values and guide all our present and future activities.  Every employee is encouraged to learn, embody and demonstrate these core behaviours.

Review the Core Behaviours.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

  • Language Requirement: English oral, reading, writing
  • Driver's License Requirement:  A valid Ontario unrestricted DZ class driver's license (or provincial equivalent) with no more than 6 demerit points accumulated.
  • You may initially be paid 95% of your starting rate of pay, in accordance with the collective agreement.
  • Experience and formal training combined with demonstrated performance and ability may substitute for stipulated academic requirements. 
  • Please save a copy of the job poster. Once the closing date has passed, it will no longer be available. 

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. 

The City of Ottawa promotes the principles of diversity and inclusion and adheres to the tenets of the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We encourage applications from members of Indigenous, Black and other racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women and non-binary persons, persons of all ethnic origins, religions, sexual orientations, classes, gender identities and expressions. 
Candidates are encouraged to self-identify as a member of one or more designated employment equity groups in the self-identification questionnaire.

The City of Ottawa provides accommodation to applicants during all parts of the hiring process, upon request. If contacted to proceed to the selection process, please advise us if you require any accommodation.

 

Accessible formats and communication supports are available upon request. Please contact the Employee Service Centre at 613-580-2424 extension 12211 or via email at esc-cse@ottawa.ca.

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