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Waste Collection Jobs in Columbus, GA (NOW HIRING)

Amwaste Careers

Diesel Mechanic / Technician

Lagrange, GA · On-site

$26 - $50/hr

Our Diesel Mechanics are responsible for maintaining the engine and equipment on our waste collection trucks, and providing courteous service to our truck drivers who operate these trucks daily. Our ...

Amwaste

Driver - Roll Off (CDL Required)

Lagrange, GA · On-site

$18.75 - $24/hr

Our CDL drivers are responsible for safely operating waste collection trucks, and providing courteous waste removal services for customers who reside on a designated route. Our drivers engage with ...

WIN Waste Innovations

Laborer

GA · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

WIN Waste Innovations is a vertically integrated business with a platform of 50 strategically located collection, transfer, and disposal assets. These include waste-to-energy facilities, transfer ...

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All JobsWaste Collection JobsWaste Collection Jobs in Columbus, GA

Waste Collection information

See Columbus, GA salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do waste collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for waste collection in Columbus, GA is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $21.73 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 Columbus, GA?

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

What job categories do people searching Waste Collection jobs in Columbus, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Waste Collection jobs in Columbus, GA are:

What cities near Columbus, GA are hiring for Waste Collection jobs?

Cities near Columbus, GA with the most Waste Collection job openings:

Waste Collection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waste Collection job openings in Columbus, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, and 47% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,177 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Waste Collection Worker - G112 - Solid Waste Collections

Columbus Consolidated Government

Columbus, GA • On-site

$15.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Salary: $15.60 Hourly
Location : Public Works, 1152 Cusseta Rd, Columbus, GA
Job Type: Full-Time Regular
Job Number: 2026-00000510
Department: Public Works
Division: Solid Waste Collections
Opening Date: 08/28/2026
Closing Date: 9/28/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Major Duties and Responsibilities
This position is responsible for emptying trash into the refuse vehicle, cleaning the fleet yard, distributing waste and recycling carts, and maintaining the wash rack.
  • Rides the back of the truck; grabs cans; empties cans into the truck.
  • Washes the truck twice a week.
  • Cleans fleet yard twice a week.
  • Assists in resolving complaints.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of safety precautions.
  • Knowledge of department policies and procedures.
  • Skill in oral communication.
  • Ability to read, write, and perform basic mathematical calculations.
  • Ability to operate a motor vehicle.

Minimum Educational and Training Requirements
Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with the completion of specialized training in the occupational field, in addition to basic skills typically associated with a high school education. Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years. Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of Georgia for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
Physical Requirements
The work is typically performed while standing, walking, bending, crouching, or stooping. The employee frequently lifts heavy objects. Additionally, the following physical abilities are required:
  • Balancing - maintain equilibrium to prevent falling while walking, standing, or crouching.
  • Climbing - ascending, descending ladders, stairs, ramps, requires body agility.
  • Crouching - bending body forward by bending leg, spine.
  • Feeling - perceiving attributes of objects by touch with skin, fingertips.
  • Grasping - applying pressure to object with fingers, palm.
  • Handling - picking, holding, or working with whole hand.
  • Hearing 1 - perceiving sounds at normal speaking levels, receive information.
  • Kneeling - bending legs at knee to come to rest at knees.
  • Lifting - raising objects from lower to higher position, moving objects side to side, using upper extremities, back.
  • Manual Dexterity - picking, pinching, typing, working with fingers rather than hand.
  • Mental Acuity - ability to make rational decisions through sound logic, deductive reasoning.
  • Pulling - use upper extremities to exert force, haul or tug.
  • Pushing - use upper extremities to press against objects with force, or thrust forward, downward, outward.
  • Reaching - extending hands or arms in any direction.
  • Repetitive Motion - substantial movements of wrists, hands, fingers.
  • Speaking - expressing ideas with spoken word, convey detailed, important instructions accurately, concisely.
  • Standing - for sustained periods of time.
  • Stooping - bending body downward, forward at waist, with full motion of lower extremities and back.
  • Talking 1- expressing ideas by spoken word.
  • Visual Acuity 1 - prepare, analyze data, transcribing, computer terminal, extensive reading.
  • Visual Acuity 3 - determine accuracy, neatness, observe facilities/structures.
  • Visual Acuity 4 - operate motor vehicles/heavy equipment.
  • Visual Acuity 5 -close acuity for inspection of small defects, machines, use measurement devices, or fabricate parts.
  • Walking - on foot to accomplish tasks, long distances, or site to site.
The work is typically performed outdoors where the employee may be exposed to dust, dirt, grease, and cold or inclement weather. The work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, or gloves.
The Columbus Consolidated Government is proud to offer an exceptional compensation and benefits package. Benefits include the following:
  • Low-cost Medical Insurance
  • Prescription Drug Plan
  • Dental Plan
  • Vision Plan
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life Insurance
  • Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Long Term Disability
  • Credit Union
  • Direct Deposit
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • Vacation Leave
  • Sick Leave
  • PERK Time Off
  • Retirement Plan
  • Supplemental Retirement Plan
  • Free and Discounted Services
  • Employee Assistance Program

Take advantage of these free and discounted City Services offered to all City Employees.
  • Discounted Movie Tickets
  • Free Notary Services
  • Ride a Metra Bus for Free
  • Free Mulch
  • Free Fire/Safety Home Inspection
  • Driver's Training for Employee Dependents
  • Oxbow/Bull Creek Golf Course discounts
  • River Center Discounts
  • Cell Phone Carrier Discounts

Retirement Plan
The Columbus Consolidated Government offers a defined benefit retirement plan to eligible employees who work in General Government and in Public Safety. Employees in the pension plan must meet both age and years of service requirements to qualify for retirement. The current vesting period is ten years, and the current pension contribution rate is 8% of your gross salary.
Supplemental Retirement Plan
The Columbus Consolidated Government offers a Deferred Compensation Plan or supplemental retirement plan that is tax deferred. This plan allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary, before federal and state taxes, to a retirement account. Your compensation is more than a paycheck, it allows you to plan for your financial future as well.
01
Which best describes your level of education? (You will be asked to provide documentation)
  • No High School Diploma
  • GED
  • High School Diploma
  • Technical College
  • Some College
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree
  • Doctorate's Degree

02
How many years of experience in this area do you have?
  • None
  • 0 - 1
  • 1 - 3
  • 3 - 5
  • 5 years or more

03
Do you possess a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Please list and explain any work experience you have with safety precautions.
Required Question

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