Garbage Collector Career Guide

What is a garbage collector?

A garbage collector is someone who picks up trash to keep our neighborhoods clean and safe. But they do more than just collect trash; they also help keep our environment healthy by making sure trash is handled right. They work for city governments, waste companies, and places that care a lot about the environment. Their hard work helps us all live in nicer, cleaner places.

Duties and responsibilities

Garbage collectors have a main job of picking up trash from homes, businesses, or factories. They either lift trash bins by hand or use machines to dump the trash into their trucks. They sort out recycling and other types of waste and report any problems like trash not sorted right or illegal dumping.

After collecting the trash, they take it to places where it can be safely thrown away or recycled. They might use machines to help sort or smash the trash down. Keeping their truck clean and in good shape is also part of their job. Sometimes, they help with community clean-up days or teach people how to properly throw away trash.

Work environment

Garbage collectors work outside no matter the weather, which means they can be out in the sun, rain, or snow. It’s a tough job that involves lifting heavy bins and being around some yucky smells and sometimes dangerous stuff. They wear safety gear like gloves and boots to stay safe from cuts, chemicals, or accidents.

Typical work hours

Garbage collectors usually start their day really early in the morning so they don’t mess up traffic. They might also work on weekends or holidays depending on what their job needs. It’s a full-time job but usually doesn’t take up a full 40-hour week, though sometimes they might work extra during busy times like holidays. In big cities, they might work in shifts since trash pickup happens all day and night.

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How to become a garbage collector

Becoming a garbage collector is straightforward and involves a few key steps. Here’s how you can get started:

Step 1: Finish high school

First, you need to graduate high school or get a GED. You’ll learn basic skills, like reading and math, that you need for the job.

Step 2: Get a commercial driver’s license (CDL)

You’ll need a CDL because garbage collectors usually drive big trucks. To get this license, you might have to pass some tests about driving, health, and knowledge. You can learn to drive these big vehicles at a driving school. Sometimes, companies that pick up trash might teach you how to drive.

Step 3: Build physical strength and stamina

This job can be tough on your body. You need to be strong enough to lift heavy bins and stay on your feet for a long time. Working out regularly, like lifting weights and doing cardio, can help you get ready.

Step 4: Apply for jobs

Now you’re ready to look for a job. You can find job ads on city websites or right here on zengig. Send in your resume and a cover letter that talks about your strengths and your CDL.

Step 5: Train on the job

Once you get hired, you’ll learn the ropes from experienced workers. They’ll teach you how to safely pick up and handle trash and use the equipment. This training usually takes a few weeks.

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How much do garbage collectors make?

Garbage collector salaries will vary by experience, industry, education, location, and organization size. Certain factors like the amount and type of waste being collected, the location of waste disposal facilities, and the type of vehicles used might also impact their compensation.

Highest paying industries

• Local Government: $47,340
• Waste Treatment and Disposal: $46,200
• Other Support Services: $44,980
• Rental and Leasing Services: $43,670
• Management of Companies and Enterprises: $43,380

Browse garbage collector salary data by market

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Types of garbage collectors

Garbage collectors can specialize in different types of waste management. Here’s a look at some common jobs in this field:

Residential collector

These collectors pick up trash from homes. They work for the city or private companies and drive big trucks along specific routes to pick up everyone’s bins. Their main job is to make sure all household trash is collected on time.

Commercial collector

Commercial collectors deal with trash from businesses and shops. They might also pick up recycling and compost. Sometimes, they handle special kinds of trash like electronics or dangerous materials, so they need to know how to safely pack and get rid of these items.

Landfill operator

Landfill operators take care of places where a lot of trash is buried. They use big machines to smash down and cover up the trash. They make sure the landfill follows all the rules about safety and pollution. Understanding the bigger picture of trash disposal is important for this job.

Recycling collector

Recycling collectors focus on getting materials that can be reused, like paper, plastic, and metal. Their work is really important for helping the environment. They need to know how to sort different materials and understand what can be turned into something new.

Hazardous waste collector

This is a special kind of job because it deals with dangerous trash that could hurt people or the environment. Hazardous waste collectors need special training to handle things like toxic chemicals or radioactive materials safely.

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Top skills for garbage collectors

If you’re thinking about becoming a garbage collector, here are some key skills you’ll need to do well in this job:

Physical stamina and strength

This job is physically demanding. You’ll need to be strong enough to lift heavy trash bins and have the stamina to work in all kinds of weather. Being fit is really important because you’ll be on your feet and moving around a lot.

Attention to safety

Knowing how to stay safe on the job is super important. This means understanding the right way to lift heavy items and knowing how to deal with dangerous waste. Staying safe helps you avoid injuries and keep others safe too.

Customer service skills

Garbage collectors often talk to homeowners or business owners. Being able to communicate well and handle any issues politely is a big part of the job. Good customer service skills make these interactions smoother and more positive.

Time management

You need to be good at planning your day. They have to stick to a schedule so that all trash is picked up on time. Being organized and punctual means you won’t miss any pickups and will get through your route efficiently.

Self-motivation

The work starts early in the morning, so you need to be able to get up and get moving without someone else telling you what to do. Being able to keep yourself going and stay focused throughout the day is crucial.

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Garbage collector career path options

Starting as a garbage collector can open the door to many advancement opportunities within the waste management industry. Here’s how you can grow in this field:

Become a garbage truck driver

Once you’ve got some experience, you might move up to driving the garbage truck. This job includes more than just driving; you’ll also plan routes and might even manage other staff. It’s a step up with more responsibility.

Advance to supervisor or manager

With more experience, you could become a supervisor or manager. In these roles, you’d oversee a team of collectors, make schedules, train new employees, and ensure everyone is safe and doing their job right. These positions require good leadership skills and might need some extra schooling, like in business or environmental science.

Become a waste management Cconsultant

If you keep learning and gaining qualifications, you could become a consultant. This means you’d help design and improve systems for throwing away trash, recycling, and saving the environment. It’s a big role that can have a real impact on how cities handle waste.

Explore careers in other fields

The skills you learn in waste management can also help you in other careers. Some people use this job as a starting point to move into public health, environmental policy, or city planning. Your experience with managing waste can be really valuable in these areas.

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Similar job titles

• Material Handler
• Warehouse Associate
• Forklift Operator
• Shipping and Receiving Clerk
• Stocker
• Order Selector
• Package Handler
• Mail Handler
• Truck Driver
• Wastewater Operator

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Position trends and outlook for garbage collectors

Here’s what’s shaping the future of this field:

• Tech advances: The waste management industry is increasingly using technology to make collecting trash more efficient. The job is becoming less about just physical labor and more about understanding how to work with advanced equipment.
• Emphasis on sustainability: There’s a big push to handle trash in ways that are better for the planet. Knowing how to separate different types of waste according to specific standards is becoming a crucial part of the job.

Employment projections

The demand for garbage collectors is expected to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for material collectors are projected to increase by 6% through 2031, which is about average compared to all jobs. This growth is partly because more people means more trash, and all that extra trash needs someone to collect and manage it.

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Garbage collector career tips

Stay in good physical condition

Because the job involves a lot of physical work, staying fit is key. Regular strength training and cardio workouts will help you manage the lifting, walking, and running that come with the job. Being in top physical shape can make your daily tasks easier and less tiring.

Master the route

Knowing your route inside and out will make your workday more efficient. Familiarize yourself with all the details, like street names, collection points, and any special instructions from homeowners. This knowledge helps ensure that you don’t miss any stops and adhere to the schedule, even when there are changes due to holidays or bad weather.

Adhere strictly to safety protocols

Safety is crucial in waste management. Always wear the right protective gear and follow all safety rules. If you spot any dangerous conditions, report them immediately. Keeping yourself and others safe should always be a priority.

Build a professional network

Networking is beneficial in any career, including waste management. Joining organizations can connect you with others in your field, opening up opportunities for new jobs, learning, and professional growth. Consider joining groups like:

• Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA)
• Waste Industry Association (WIA)
• International Solid Waste Association (ISWA)

Pursue continuous learning and certifications

The waste management field is always changing, so keep learning to stay ahead. Earning certifications and attending trainings can improve your skills and might lead to better job opportunities. Look for courses on safety, health, and waste management practices. Also, attending industry conferences and workshops can provide insights into the latest trends and technologies.

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FAQs