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Waste Management Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Waste Management Driver

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

Be part of Waste Management Driver and keep routes running smoothly and customers informed. In this role, youll load items, follow a route plan, and deliver on time with care, staying on schedule and ...

Waste Management Driver

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$51K - $61K/yr

Be part of Waste Management Driver and keep routes running smoothly and customers informed. In this role, youll load items, follow a route plan, and deliver on time with care, staying on schedule and ...

Waste Management Driver

Riverside, CA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Be part of Waste Management Driver and keep routes running smoothly and customers informed. In this role, youll load items, follow a route plan, and deliver on time with care, staying on schedule and ...

Waste Tech

San Diego, CA

$21.50 - $22.50/hr

Pay $21.50 - $22.50 / hr. (Depending on experience) Waste Tech Driver Responsibilities: * Drive a ... Communicate service issues, property concerns, or access problems to management promptly. * Build ...

Pay $21.00-$24.00 / hr. (Depending on experience) Waste Tech Driver Responsibilities: * Drive a ... Communicate service issues, property concerns, or access problems to management promptly. * Build ...

Waste Tech

Canoga Park, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $22.50/hr

Pay $21.50 - $22.50 / hr. (Depending on experience) Waste Tech Driver Responsibilities: * Drive a ... Communicate service issues, property concerns, or access problems to management promptly. * Build ...

Waste Tech

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Pay $21.00-$24.00 / hr. (Depending on experience) Waste Tech Driver Responsibilities: * Drive a ... Communicate service issues, property concerns, or access problems to management promptly. * Build ...

Waste Tech

San Jose, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Overtime may be required * Pay $21-$24/ hr. (Depending on experience) Waste Tech Driver ... Communicate service issues, property concerns, or access problems to management promptly. * Build ...

Waste Tech

Canoga Park, CA

$21.50 - $22.50/hr

Pay $21.50 - $22.50 / hr. (Depending on experience) Waste Tech Driver Responsibilities: * Drive a ... Communicate service issues, property concerns, or access problems to management promptly. * Build ...

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Waste Tech

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $22.50/hr

Pay $21.50 - $22.50 / hr. (Depending on experience) Waste Tech Driver Responsibilities: * Drive a ... Communicate service issues, property concerns, or access problems to management promptly. * Build ...

Waste Tech

Martinez, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Valid non-CDL driver's license with at least 2 consecutive years of licensed driving. * Clean ... Prior experience in waste management, facilities, landscaping, or a similar outdoor labor role.

Waste Tech

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $24.50/hr

Valid non-CDL driver's license with at least 2 consecutive years of licensed driving. * Clean ... Prior experience in waste management, facilities, landscaping, or a similar outdoor labor role.

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Waste Management Driver information

See California salary details

$28.1K

$54.9K

$74K

How much do waste management driver jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for waste management driver in California is $54,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,400.00 and $56,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a waste management driver do?

A Waste Management Driver is responsible for operating garbage trucks and other vehicles to collect, transport, and dispose of waste and recyclables from homes, businesses, and other locations. They follow designated routes, ensure safe handling of waste materials, and comply with local regulations. In addition to driving, they may also inspect vehicles, maintain records, and provide customer service during pickups.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a waste management driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Waste Management Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a good driving record, and knowledge of safety regulations and local routes. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, hydraulic lift systems, and route management software is also essential. Reliability, attention to detail, and strong customer service skills help drivers interact positively with the public and ensure timely service. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance in daily waste collection operations.

What are some common challenges waste management drivers face on their routes, and how can they effectively manage them?

Waste Management Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating tight residential streets, unpredictable traffic, and varying weather conditions. Additionally, handling large or improperly disposed waste can pose safety risks. To manage these challenges, drivers rely on thorough route planning, regular safety training, and clear communication with dispatchers and team members. Adaptability and attention to safety protocols are essential for ensuring both personal safety and efficient service.

What is the difference between Waste Management Driver vs Recycling Truck Driver?

AspectWaste Management DriverRecycling Truck Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentResidential, commercial waste collectionRecycling collection, often same routes as waste drivers
Employer & IndustryWaste management companies, municipalitiesRecycling facilities, waste management companies

Both Waste Management Drivers and Recycling Truck Drivers require a CDL and operate in waste collection environments. The main difference lies in the type of materials collected: waste drivers handle general waste, while recycling drivers focus on recyclable materials. Their roles often overlap, but their specific routes and materials differ, making each position specialized within the waste management industry.

How much does a waste management driver make?

The average waste management driver salary in the United States is around $40,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and company. In Florida, salaries typically range from $35,000 to $45,000 annually, with some positions offering additional benefits such as overtime pay and health insurance.

Is driving for waste management worth it?

Driving for waste management involves operating large trucks, often requiring a commercial driver's license (CDL), and working in outdoor environments with physical demands. The job offers steady employment, benefits, and the opportunity to work in a vital industry, but it also includes long hours and safety risks associated with heavy vehicle operation.

What are popular job titles related to Waste Management Driver jobs in California?

For Waste Management Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Waste Management Driver jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Waste Management Driver jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Waste Management Driver jobs?

Cities in California with the most Waste Management Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Waste Management Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,893 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Waste Management Driver

TradeJobsWorkforce

Jurupa Valley, CA • On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Be part of Waste Management Driver and keep routes running smoothly and customers informed. In this role, youll load items, follow a route plan, and deliver on time with care, staying on schedule and working with care. Success comes from people who bring a safe mindset, strong time management, and reliability Build dependable skills with a supportive team and clear expectations.