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Waste Management Driver Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Operations Manager

Atwater, CA · On-site

$74K - $80K/yr

Driver's License Valid Driver's License Upon Hire B. Preferred Qualifications * Successful ... Previously known as Waste Management and based in Houston, Texas, WM is driven by commitments to ...

New

Commercial Driver

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Commercial Driver LOCATION: Chowchilla, CAREPORTS TO: Route ManagerSALARY: $21.00 to $23.00/ per ... including recycling, waste collection, and landfill management, with a strong commitment to ...

Commercial Driver

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Commercial Driver LOCATION: Chowchilla, CA REPORTS TO: Route Manager SALARY: $21.00 to $23.00/ per ... including recycling, waste collection, and landfill management, with a strong commitment to ...

Accurately ordering and managing inventory to reduce waste and prevent theft * Ensuring cash ... Valid Driver's License and Proof of Vehicle Insurance is required. LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER The ...

Accurately ordering and managing inventory to reduce waste and prevent theft * Ensuring cash ... Valid Driver's License and Proof of Vehicle Insurance is required. LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER The ...

Accurately ordering and managing inventory to reduce waste and prevent theft * Ensuring cash ... Valid Driver's License and Proof of Vehicle Insurance is required. LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER The ...

Accurately ordering and managing inventory to reduce waste and prevent theft * Ensuring cash ... Valid Driver's License and Proof of Vehicle Insurance is required. LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER The ...

Accurately ordering and managing inventory to reduce waste and prevent theft * Ensuring cash ... Valid Driver's License and Proof of Vehicle Insurance is required. LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER The ...

Accurately ordering and managing inventory to reduce waste and prevent theft * Ensuring cash ... Valid Driver's License and Proof of Vehicle Insurance is required. LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER The ...

Accurately ordering and managing inventory to reduce waste and prevent theft * Ensuring cash ... Valid Driver's License and Proof of Vehicle Insurance is required. LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER The ...

Accurately ordering and managing inventory to reduce waste and prevent theft * Ensuring cash ... Valid Driver's License and Proof of Vehicle Insurance is required. LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER The ...

Notify managers concerning the need for repairs or additions to building operating systems. Clean ... driver's license at time of application and maintain. Essential Functions Perform cleaning, waste ...

Store Manager

Merced, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $23.74/hr

... waste • Develop well trained Team Members by following Thorntons' training processes as ... management in retail and/or food and beverage industries • Experience with the following ...

Store Manager

Merced, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $23.74/hr

... waste • Develop well trained Team Members by following Thorntons' training processes as ... management in retail and/or food and beverage industries • Experience with the following ...

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Waste Management Driver information

See Merced, CA salary details

$30.1K

$58.7K

$79.2K

How much do waste management driver jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for waste management driver in Merced, CA is $58,737.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,700.00 and $60,700.00 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 Merced, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Waste Management Driver jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Waste Management Driver jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Waste Management Driver jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Waste Management Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Waste Management Driver job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,737 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Operations Manager

Waste Management

Atwater, CA • On-site

$74K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Waste Management rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 651 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 91 rated recycling and waste


Job description


I. Job Summary
This role is responsible for Onboarding, Developing, Coaching, Mentoring, and Performance Management of all drivers and helpers. Establish and maintain positive relationships with all front-line employees. Spends the majority of the day in the field with frontline employees.
II. Essential Duties and Responsibilities
 

  • Ensuring new frontline employees have tools, instruction, and feedback for successful daily duties
  • Meet with new frontline employees daily to ensure consistent communication and support of onboarding
  • Provide timely and consistent touchpoints with frontline employees.
  • Regular review of best practices to enhance daily performance
  • Focus on understanding and progress of frontline employee career goals
  • Identify and address improvement opportunities and collaborate with frontline employees to ensure continued success
  • Actively practice and seek feedback on coaching conversations.
  • Lead by example to ensure safety practices are paramount with each employee and
  • Teaching and developing an understanding of the WM Way
  • Conducts Root Cause Investigations for all injuries and incidents, ensuring consistent discipline and retraining.
  • Documents and maintains records required by regulatory agencies such as the Department of Transportation.
  • Reviews and audits documentation related to route operations daily (e.g., DVIRs, driver time and attendance, open tickets), following up where appropriate.
  • Visits customers and customer sites to evaluate and resolve safety issues, seeking service alternatives where appropriate.


III. Qualifications 
A. Required Qualifications 

  • Associate's Degree (accredited) or in lieu of a degree,
  • High School Diploma (accredited) and two (2) years of relevant work experience.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age and
  • Legally eligible to work in the country where the position is located
  • Driver's License Valid Driver's License Upon Hire


B. Preferred Qualifications 
 

  • Successful completion of the WM Operations Manager Trainee program


IV. Physical Requirements
Listed below are key points regarding physical demands, physical and occupational risks, and the work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Combination: This job operates in a mix between an office environment and plant/field environment and routinely requires the use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, copy machines, etc.
 

PAY: The expected base pay range for this office/on-site position is $74,580 - $80,000. This range represents a good faith estimate for this position. The specific salary offered to a successful candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate's relevant experience, education, training, certifications, qualifications, and work location.
V. Benefits 
At WM, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short-term disability. In addition, we offer a stock purchase plan, company matching on a 401(k), and more. Employees also receive paid vacation, holidays, and personal days. Please note that benefits may vary by site. 

If this sounds like the opportunity that you have been looking for, please click Apply.

ABOUT WM

WM (WM.com) is North America's leading provider of comprehensive environmental solutions. Previously known as Waste Management and based in Houston, Texas, WM is driven by commitments to put people first and achieve success with integrity. The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to millions of residential, commercial, industrial, medical and municipal customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. With innovative infrastructure and capabilities in recycling, organics and renewable energy, WM provides environmental solutions to and collaborates with its customers in helping them pursue their sustainability goals. WM has the largest disposal network and collection fleet in North America, is the largest recycler of postconsumer materials and is a leader in beneficial use of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gastoelectricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks - the largest heavyduty natural gas truck fleet in the industry in North America. Healthcare Solutions provides collection and disposal services of regulated medical waste, as well as secure information destruction services, in the U.S., Canada and Western Europe. To learn more about WM and the company's sustainability progress and solutions, visit Sustainability.WM.com.

Equal Employment Opportunity

For United States:  WM is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

For Canada:  WM is committed to the principle of equal employment for all applicants and employees, without discrimination on the basis of all grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please notify us if you require accommodation.

Real ID

In order to travel by air or access federal property, federal law requires individuals have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative. This position may require the successful candidate to travel by air for business reasons or service federal property. Accordingly, successful candidates must have, or be willing to obtain, a REAL ID or TSAapproved alternative.

What is the value of a WM job? At WM we know that the value of a WM job is more than a paycheck. It's a way to create opportunities for you and your family. This is why we are constantly working to make WM a great place to work and grow a career. We Are WM is what defines the perks of being in the WM family - from benefits, to resources and engagement activities. 

We are People First. We are Committed to Your Growth. We Are Investing in You. We are a Family. We are Stable. We are Always Working for a Sustainable Tomorrow. 

What Waste Management employees say

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About WM

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Environmental consulting services and water, sewage, waste, steam, air heating and cooling systems

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US