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Waste Management Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$500 - $950/wk

Waste Management Specialist SEASON: Austral Summer (October - February) LOCATION : South Pole ... Valid Driver's License and passport valid for six months after end of contract. OTHER : US ...

$500 - $800/wk

Waste Management Specialist SEASON: Austral Summer (October - February) LOCATION : South Pole ... Valid Driver's License and passport valid for six months after end of contract. OTHER : US ...

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Waste Management Driver information

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$28.5K

$55.6K

$75K

How much do waste management driver jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for waste management driver in the United States is $55,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Is there a demand for garbage truck drivers?

Waste management driver positions are in steady demand due to ongoing need for waste collection services. The job typically requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) and involves operating large trucks in urban and suburban environments, with employment opportunities often increasing as waste disposal needs grow.

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.

More about Waste Management Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Waste Management Driver jobs? Cities with the most Waste Management Driver job openings:
What states have the most Waste Management Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Waste Management Driver jobs include:
Infographic showing various Waste Management Driver job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,621 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
Waste Management Specialist (Summer 2026-2027) - South Pole SPRI

Waste Management Specialist (Summer 2026-2027) - South Pole SPRI

Gana-A'Yoo, Limited - Antarctic Program

On-site

$500 - $950/wk

Temporary

Posted 20 hours ago


Job description

POSITION: Waste Management Specialist
SEASON: Austral Summer (October - February)
LOCATION: South Pole Station, Antarctica
SECTOR/DEPT: Six Mile, LLC Antarctica
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Coordinate with Managers to set priority and schedule for the season
Coordinate with other departments to ensure efficient pick up and processing of waste
Attend weekly meetings associated with position
Conduct community Waste Briefs or other informational sessions
Troubleshoot any issues that arise and elevate them as needed
Pick up hazardous waste and associated paperwork from various departments on station, assuring quality of information on Hazardous Waste Identification Sheet (HWIS)
Process waste accordingly. This includes marking, weighing, and storing the drums or items into a shipping container. Updating the HWIS form with any required information and determining disposition of solid waste
Perform certain classification qualitative testing on items (pH testing, flash point testing, etc.)
Assist with Hazardous Waste Labpacking under direction of Hazardous Waste Manager
Safe operation of skid steer
Quality check all shipping containers and correct discrepancies immediately
Follow all JHAs, and update them if needed
Assume Spill Lead role:
Respond to all spills safety and appropriately
Clean up or coordinate clean up of all spills and write spill reports
Regular use of drum dollies, cargo straps, banding, shovels, pallet jacks, power tools and other tools
Position requires regular physical activity, including bending, consistently lifting and carrying, reaching and gripping
Able to participate in a team unit composed of diverse personalities
Displays self-motivation in physically challenging and atypical work environment; position is comprised of approximately 70% outdoor tasking
Able to maintain flexibility and positive attitude in a dynamic, fast-paced work setting
Performs duties in support of Operations Division metrics (as provided by supervisor)
Supports the achievement of ASC metrics, whether metrics are directly or indirectly, effected by this position's work activities
Complies with all ASC Environmental Health & Safety, and Quality Assurance, requirements and goals. Provides documentation to these divisions as necessary to ensure adequate and legal documentation
Works to achieve ASC goals and contractual commitments
Responsible for maintaining a safe workplace and ensuring that safety is the highest priority in the workplace
Perform other duties as required
Reports to Hazardous Waste Manager and Solid Waste Manager
REQUIREMENTS:
Previous Antarctic deployment
High school diploma or equivalent
Proficient computer skills, including Excel and Outlook
Able to lift 50 pounds consistently
Familiarity with power tools and machinery
Equipment operating experience
Valid Driver's License and Passport valid for six months after contract end
Physically able to be active for 9 hours daily
Must be able to lift the safety regulation maximum
Must pass physical qualification assessment
Able to deploy to Antarctica for length of contract
PREFERRED
Previous USAP Waste Management experience
1 year of Hazardous Materials shipping/characterization or reporting experience ' OR ' 2 years of Environmental remediation.
1 quarter of college General Chemistry
College degree in Chemistry or Environmental Science
OSHA HazWOPER 40-Hour, current
EDUCATION: High School diploma or equivalent
CERTIFICATIONS AND/OR LICENSING REQUIREMENTS: Valid Driver's License and passport valid for six months after end of contract.
OTHER: US citizenship or permanent residency required
Gana-A'Yoo, Limited (GYL), an Alaska Native Corporation, offers services with ongoing contracts in many facility types, such as, military training facilities, emergency management centers and temporary field sites.
We are committed to ensuring that our online application process provides an equal employment opportunity to all job seekers.
If you require assistance in the application process, please contact us at:
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer that considers applicants without regard to race, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.