Collect and dump refuse or recyclable materials from containers into truck. May drive truck.
SOC: 53-7081.00
Common Job Titles
Garbage Man
Roll Off Truck Driver
Sanitation Laborer
Trash Collector
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate garbage trucks and specialized refuse collection vehicles on designated routes, following safety protocols and traffic regulations.
Proficient
Hands-onHandle refuse and recyclable materials from containers performing repetitive lifting and loading activities under varying weather conditions.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate hydraulic compactors and lifting arms on collection vehicles to efficiently load and compress refuse materials during collection operations.
Developing
KnowledgeIdentify contamination in recyclable materials and disposal compliance issues during collection rounds, applying knowledge of public safety and waste management regulations.
Developing
Hands-onPerform routine equipment maintenance and pre-trip vehicle inspections following mechanical and safety checklists to ensure vehicle readiness.
Developing
KnowledgeApply route navigation and time management principles using GPS software and route optimization tools to complete collection schedules efficiently.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate equipment malfunctions and operational issues through monitoring processes and troubleshooting minor mechanical problems during daily operations.
Developing
MindsetEngage with residents and customers regarding collection service issues responding courteously to inquiries and resolving concerns about refuse and recycling procedures.
Developing
MindsetRespect team coordination and communication protocols when working with crew members and communicating with dispatch using mobile radios.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain collection route completion data and incident reports documenting service exceptions and maintaining records using fleet management systems.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
139,180
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $31,810. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,330. 50th percentile: U.S. $48,350. 75th percentile: U.S. $61,010. 90th percentile: U.S. $75,200. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$31,810
10% of workers earn the following or more
$75,200
Workers on average earn
$51,210
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Mechanical3.2/5
English Language2.8/5
Transportation2.6/5
Public Safety and Security2.5/5
Customer and Personal Service2.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
