How much does a garbage collector make?

They follow a route to homes or businesses, lifting bins by hand or using the truck’s hydraulic lift to empty trash and recycling into the truck. Then they haul the load to a dump, landfill, or recycling center.

Did you know? In the U.S., refuse and recyclable material collectors are among the occupations with the highest injury and illness rates, so safe habits matter.

A high school diploma or GED is useful, though some jobs may not require one; new workers learn on the job. If you drive a truck that requires a CDL, pass written, skills, and vision tests; federal rules require age 21 for interstate driving, while local rules vary.

School needed: High school plus some training

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized

Why does pay differ?

In the United States, experience and a CDL or other needed driving skills can affect pay, and employers and local areas may pay differently. Longer hours, overtime, and night or weekend shifts can change total earnings.