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Waste Helper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Residential Helper for Waste Pick-Up

Concord, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

The Helper is responsible for assisting the refuse truck driver on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage, yard waste, or recycling. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 1. Picks up solid waste and ...

Waste Leveler

Denver, CO · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

About the Role As a Waste Leveler, you'll help keep apartment communities clean and prevent dumpster overflow before the hauler arrives. This fast-paced, physical role includes driving daily routes ...

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Waste Helper information

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$10

$18

$23

How much do waste helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for waste helper in the United States is $18.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are waste helpers?

Waste helpers, also known as refuse collectors or sanitation workers, assist in the collection and disposal of garbage and recyclables from homes, businesses, and public spaces. They typically work as part of a team, riding on garbage trucks, lifting and emptying bins, and ensuring that waste is properly disposed of according to local regulations. This job is physically demanding and requires attention to safety procedures. Waste helpers play an essential role in keeping communities clean and protecting public health.

What are some common challenges Waste Helpers face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Waste Helpers often encounter physically demanding tasks, such as lifting heavy bins and working in various weather conditions. Adhering to proper safety protocols and using personal protective equipment can help prevent injuries. Additionally, Waste Helpers may need to adapt to early morning shifts and work efficiently as part of a team to ensure timely waste collection. Open communication with supervisors and fellow crew members helps address any issues that arise during routes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Waste Helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Waste Helper, you need physical stamina, attention to safety, and the ability to follow instructions, typically with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection tools, protective equipment, and sometimes basic vehicle operation or safety certifications is beneficial. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible waste collection and disposal.

What is the difference between Waste Helper vs Waste Collector?

AspectWaste HelperWaste Collector
Required CredentialsMinimal; often on-the-job trainingValid driver's license; may require certification
Work EnvironmentWaste management facilities, recycling centers, or on-site at businessesOn-road, residential, or commercial routes
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by waste management companies for assisting with waste sorting and handlingUsed by municipal and private waste collection services for collecting waste from various locations

Waste Helper roles typically involve assisting with waste sorting, handling, and supporting waste collection processes, often requiring minimal credentials. Waste Collectors are responsible for physically collecting waste from designated areas, usually requiring a valid driver's license. Both roles are essential in waste management but differ mainly in responsibilities and work environment.

More about Waste Helper jobs
What cities are hiring for Waste Helper jobs? Cities with the most Waste Helper job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Waste jobs? The most popular types of Waste jobs are:
What states have the most Waste Helper jobs? States with the most job openings for Waste Helper jobs include:
Residential Helper for Waste Pick-Up

Residential Helper for Waste Pick-Up

Waste Pro

Concord, NC • On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Waste Pro rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 70 rated recycling and waste


Job description

SUMMARY OF POSITION: Now hiring for the greater Concord market.
The Helper is responsible for assisting the refuse truck driver on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage, yard waste, or recycling.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
1. Picks up solid waste and places it in the back of a rear load garbage truck on specified routes often done manually or by pushing toter to tipper. Lifts and carries trash bags, bulk items and containers to the truck for disposal. Climbs onto and off of the rear truck step to load refuse, waste and carts. Operates packing mechanism to compact waste into the truck.
2. Provides a safe and Distinguishably Different level of service through courteous and expeditious customer service in all aspects of refuse operation to the general public and customers. Exhibits a positive attitude towards company, customer and municipal goals.
3. Ensures garbage and recyclables at residences are picked up and transferred properly; pick up may require using back door.
4. Answers questions for residents and directs them to contact Customer Service or appropriate government office for additional information.
5. Must comply with all ANSI (American National Standards Institute), OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and company safety polices including Waste Pro Absolute Guidelines.
6. Assists Driver in safely backing up the truck by directing the Driver from the ground.
7. Cleans behind the compactor blade with shovel and hoe when directed. Sprays and cleans the hopper and truck at the end of each shift or as needed.
8. Reports any safety or customer service related issues to driver and supervisor, immediately.
9. Performs a variety of manual duties in the clean-up of scattered refuse; Cleans up the area around accidental waste spills and ensures customers containers are replaced properly.
10. May be required to work during emergency situations.
11. Assists other routes as needed to complete daily work.
12. Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
OTHER JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Employees in this job classification must attend and participate in corporation sponsored training courses as assigned.
* Employees in this job classification are responsible for keeping up to date on current technology, as job appropriate, being used by Waste Pro .
* Any additional job duties that may be assigned by the Supervisor..
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Works in a variety of environment conditions, including wide temperature and weather variations including heat, cold, snow, rain, wind; noise and vibrations, fumes, odors and dust.
QUALIFICATIONS:
* Be able to follow safe operating practices.
* Be able to learn and use interpersonal skills relating to good customer service
* Be able and willing to work in a team environment
* Be able to read, write and comprehend reports well enough to complete daily assignments.
Special Considerations/Physical Work Requirements: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
1. Physically able to push or pull independently (unassisted) 50 pounds between 800 and 1000 times a day
2. Physically able to lift independently (unassisted) 50 pounds from the ground to waist height between 800 and 1000 times a day
3. Physically able to get up and down from the cab of a commercial motor vehicle between 800 and 1000 times a day
4. Physically able to bend at the waist and knees between 800 and 1000 times a day
5. Physically able to work 8 to 12 hours in extreme weather conditions(heat, cold, rain and snow)
6. Ability to ride on the outside of the truck while servicing residential customers in low MPH areas

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