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Sanitation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sanitation Worker We are looking for hard working individuals that have a commitment to customer service, great work ethic, and always work with safety as priority. If you are seeking to grow, learn ...

Overview Sanitation Specialists is a family-owned company that puts their employees first! Why Sanitation Specialists? "Because People Matter," because at our core, our people drive everything we do ...

Sanitation Worker We are looking for hard working individuals that have a commitment to customer service, great work ethic, and always work with safety as priority. If you are seeking to grow, learn ...

Sanitation Lead

Aurora, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

The Sanitation Lead will ensure all equipment, production areas, and facilities are cleaned and sanitized according to company, USDA, FDA, and GMP standards while maintaining a safe and efficient ...

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sanitation information

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$9

$17

$23

How much do sanitation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for sanitation in the United States is $17.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do sanitation workers do?

Sanitation workers perform various maintenance duties to keep public places clean. You collect and dispose of garbage around businesses, parks, homes, and on public streets. As part of a city sanitation department, trash collectors pick up what businesses and residents place on the curb each week, while other sanitation workers help customers at garbage drop-off sites and run recycling centers. Sanitation departments also run facilities to filter wastewater and provide clean drinking water to cities.

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

To thrive as a Sanitation Worker, you need physical stamina, attention to safety, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection vehicles, safety equipment, and sometimes a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and hygienic waste management, which is critical for public health and community cleanliness.

What are some common challenges faced by sanitation workers, and how can they be managed on the job?

Sanitation workers often encounter challenges such as exposure to hazardous materials, working in various weather conditions, and maintaining physical stamina due to repetitive tasks. To manage these, it's important to follow proper safety protocols, use personal protective equipment, and stay informed about best practices for handling waste. Many teams also emphasize the importance of communication and teamwork to ensure efficiency and safety during daily routes.

What is the difference between Sanitation vs Food Service Worker?

AspectSanitationFood Service Worker
Required CertificationsFood handler permits, sanitation certificationsFood handler permits, basic food safety training
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, food processing plants, cafeteriasRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Employer & Industry UsageFood industry, cleaning servicesFood service establishments, hospitality
Job FocusCleaning and sanitizing equipment and facilitiesServing customers, food preparation, customer service

Sanitation workers focus on cleaning and maintaining hygiene standards in food-related environments, ensuring safety and compliance. Food Service Workers handle food preparation and customer service. While both roles require food safety knowledge, sanitation emphasizes cleaning protocols, whereas food service emphasizes direct food handling and customer interaction.

Is it hard to become a sanitation worker?

Becoming a sanitation worker typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and physical stamina for tasks like lifting and operating equipment. Some positions may require a commercial driver's license (CDL) or specialized training, but overall, entry into the field is accessible with basic qualifications and physical fitness.

What cities are hiring for Sanitation jobs?

Cities with the most Sanitation job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Sanitation jobs?

The most popular types of Sanitation jobs are:

What states have the most Sanitation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sanitation jobs include:

Infographic showing various Sanitation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,529 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Sanitation Worker

Sanitation Specialists

Eastover, SC

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Sanitation Worker

We are looking for hard working individuals that have a commitment to customer service, great work ethic, and always work with safety as priority. If you are seeking to grow, learn, and strive as a team player we want you to join our team.

Compensation: $18/hr

BENEFITS:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • PTO

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Detailed sanitation and up-keep of the facility, ensuring that all processing equipment is properly cleaned and sanitized to established standards to prepare for client to process their product
  • Maintain facility and surrounding area in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices and recognized Food Safety Standards
  • Removal of all trash and product/soil from plant; cleaning of floors, walls, ceilings
  • Follow directions of the Sanitation Supervisor and Leads; duties to be directed by both
  • Follow all Sanitation Equipment tool and equipment guidelines
  • Wear specified company provided protective gear at all times

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Knowledge of chemical usage, proportions and regulations
  • Decision making/problem solving skills and listening skills
  • Knowledge of sanitation equipment and tools
  • Knowledge of GMPs, Food Safety and Sanitation Procedures
  • Ability to read and understand Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to handle difficult and/or sensitive situations
  • Previous experience as a janitor, custodian, cleaner, Maintenace team member, production crew member, chemical mixer, third shift, 3rd shift
  • Willing to learn and adhere to proper procedures in safety when working with moving machinery
  • Willing to accept change and work in a team-based environment
  • Minimum 1 year sanitation experience required.

PHYSICAL REQUIRMENTS:

  • Required to lift up to 50 lbs (garbage removal) and/or up to 70 lbs (if using power hoses)
  • Exposure to chemical cleaning solutions (chlorine, acid and detergents) and adherence to safety protocols with these chemicals
  • Perform repetitive tasks: stand during most of the shift, walking, stooping, bending, reaching and crouching, climbing up/down stairs and ladders
  • Work in cold and wet environment (varies; approximately 34 degrees)
  • Must have reliable transportation to arrive to/from work site
  • Must be flexible with schedule, as shift times could change at customer's request, weekends and overtime may be required or part of the normal work schedule
  • Must be able to read and understand company documents pertinent to your position

Ameri-Kleen, dba Sanitation Specialists ("Sanitation Specialists") Is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer! Our company participates in E-Verify. Please refer to the links below for more information about your E-Verify and your rights. https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/everify/posters/IER_RightToWorkPoster%20Eng_Es.pdf

https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/everify/posters/EVerifyParticipationPoster.pdf