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Waste Collector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Waste Collector information

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How much do waste collector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for waste collector in Chicago, IL is $21.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a waste collector?

Waste collectors are workers responsible for gathering, transporting, and disposing of garbage, recyclables, and other waste materials from homes, businesses, and public areas. They operate garbage trucks, collect bins or bags of waste, and ensure that materials are properly sorted and delivered to waste management facilities or recycling centers. Waste collectors play a crucial role in maintaining public health and cleanliness in communities.

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

To thrive as a Waste Collector, you generally need physical stamina, attention to safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, basic safety equipment, and occasionally a commercial driver's license (CDL) are typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, efficient waste removal and to maintain cleanliness and public health in communities.

What are some common challenges waste collectors face on the job, and how are they typically addressed?

Waste Collectors often encounter challenges such as exposure to adverse weather conditions, handling hazardous materials, and maintaining a fast-paced work schedule. To address these, companies provide proper protective equipment, thorough safety training, and guidelines for handling dangerous waste. Teamwork and communication are also essential, as collectors coordinate closely with drivers and supervisors to ensure routes are completed efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Waste Collector vs Sanitation Worker?

AspectWaste CollectorSanitation Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; CDL often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentOn trucks, streets, and waste disposal sitesOn streets, parks, and public spaces
Industry UsageMunicipal waste collection servicesPublic sanitation and environmental services
Job FocusCollecting and transporting wasteCleaning and maintaining public spaces

Waste Collectors and Sanitation Workers often share similar credentials and work environments, focusing on waste management and public cleanliness. While Waste Collectors primarily handle waste collection from residential or commercial areas, Sanitation Workers may focus more on cleaning public spaces. Both roles are essential for community health and environmental protection.

Is it hard to become a waste collector?

Becoming a waste collector typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and the ability to operate collection vehicles. Physical stamina, good driving skills, and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) are important; training is usually provided on the job. The job involves physical labor and working outdoors in various weather conditions, but entry requirements are generally straightforward for those meeting the basic criteria.

What are popular job titles related to Waste Collector jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Waste Collector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Waste Collector jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Waste Collector jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Waste Collector jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Waste Collector job openings:

Waste Collector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waste Collector job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,011 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Part-Time Evening Trash Collector

Greenway Waste & Recycling

Evanston, IL • On-site

$400 - $1.3K/mo

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 16 hours ago

Job description

Description:

Evening Side Job – Trash Porter | Earn $400–$1300 per Month | 2-4 Hours Per Night


Looking for a reliable way to earn extra income in the evenings?

We are hiring Part-Time Evening Trash Porters to service communities in the Evanston, IL 60201. This is a great opportunity for anyone looking for a consistent side job that only takes a few hours each night.

Most team members work about 2-4 hours per evening and earn between $400 and $1300 per month.

Immediate openings available. Paid training provided.


Compensation

  • $400 to $1300 per month
  • $20 to $65 per service night
  • Flat-rate pay structure
  • Contractor position
  • Paid training provided

Schedule

  • Sunday-Thursday Working days, enjoy Fridays and Saturdays off.
  • Start time: 8:00 PM
  • Typically 2-4 hours per night
  • Most team members finish between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM

What You’ll Do

  • Collect bagged trash and recycling from residents’ doorsteps
  • Transport waste to the on-site dumpster or compactor area
  • Walk the apartment community during service hours

Why This Is a Great Side Job

  • Short evening shifts
  • Consistent weekly schedule
  • Work independently
  • Stay active while working outdoors
  • Reliable supplemental income
  • Opportunities for additional communities and increased earnings
  • Opportunity for growth within the company

Perfect For

This position works well for people looking for extra income outside of their daytime schedule, including:

  • People with full-time daytime jobs
  • Students
  • Gig workers and delivery drivers
  • Retirees
  • Anyone looking for a dependable side hustle

Location

Service takes place at communities in the Evanston, IL 60201 area.


Apply Today

If you are looking for a flexible evening side job with a reliable income, apply today to get started.


Requirements:

Requirements

  • Reliable transportation
  • Smartphone for work communication
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
  • Ability to follow company policies and safety procedures
  • Ability to pass a background check and drug screening

Greenway Waste & Recycling is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values the strength diversity brings to the workplace. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.