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Waste Collection Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

GFL Environmental

CDL-Residential ASL Driver

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Load solid waste, yard waste and/or recyclables into the rear or side of waste collection vehicle. Operate equipment on truck to compact trash into vehicle. Operate truck and equipment using ...

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Waste Collection information

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$14

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$26

How much do waste collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for waste collection in Tennessee is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Waste Collection jobs in Tennessee?

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Waste Collection jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Waste Collection job openings:

Waste Collection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waste Collection job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,752 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Utility Equipment Operator-Dump Truck

Metropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson County

Nashville, TN

$53K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Metropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson County rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

753rd of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Position Description This position located at Metro Water Services (MWS) includes required operation of gasoline and/or diesel-powered vehicles and/or equipment of moderate size and complexity (dump trucks) to transport, move, and/or dump loose materials. The average work shift involves moderate to heavy manual labor. Employees at Metro Water Services (MWS) work around the clock to supply, treat, manage, and protect our water resources in a sustainable manner for the benefit of all who live, work, and play in our community.

Our dedicated, diverse workforce provides high quality drinking water and the best in wastewater treatment, storm water management, and waste collection services for our customers in the Nashville-Davidson County area. Our employees work together to service more than 210,000 water and 216,000 sewer accounts along with over 150,000 curbside waste collection customers. We are looking for highly engaged individuals to join our team.

*Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.* Typical Duties Operates gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles and/or machinery and equipment in a variety of services and construction activities. Maintains and operates equipment and tools. Performs skilled duties necessary to assist with the construction and maintenance of inlet boxes, roadside ditches, driveway pipes, storm sewers, bridges and other related areas

Assists in the repair and installation of water and sanitary sewer lines, manholes, valves, etc. May transport various pieces of equipment to the appropriate work site. May transport and/or dump sand, gravel, crushed rock, slate bituminous paving materials, and other related materials.

May lead work of other employees. Minimum Qualifications Eighth (8th) grade education and two (2) years related construction experience including one (1) year verifiable experience in operating light gasoline or diesel powered equipment or vehicles. Must have successfully demonstrated competence operating vehicles and/or equipment associated with this classification as specified in the position announcement.

Candidates with accreditations earned in a foreign institute are encouraged to apply. Note: Per Metro Ordinance No. SO94-1078.

All employees of the Metropolitan Government shall be residents of the State of Tennessee or become residents of the state within six (6) months of employment as a prerequisite to employment with the Metropolitan Government. LICENSE REQUIRED: Valid Class "A" Driver License with or without a 57 restriction. Preferred Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to work out-doors under extreme weather conditions.

Ability to lift up to 100 lbs. Ability to work 2nd/3rd shift or weekends Required to work On- Call schedule High School Diploma We are an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.

Metro Nashville Government respects the religious beliefs and practices of all employees and will make, on request, an accommodation for such observances when a reasonable accommodation is available that does not create an undue hardship on business operations. Requests for ADA accommodation for the recruitment process should be directed to 615-862-6640.

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