Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors
Refuse and recyclable material collectors operate trucks and manage the collection of waste and recyclable materials from residential, commercial, and industrial containers. They empty bins, compact loads, and transport materials to disposal or processing facilities. Most work for waste management companies, municipalities, or private hauling services.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against refuse and recyclable material collectors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves operating a collection truck along a scheduled route, stopping at multiple containers to empty trash or recyclables. Collectors manually lift and dump bins into the truck's compactor, operate hydraulic systems, and monitor load capacity. Routes may be completed in a single day or span multiple days depending on area size. Work occurs in all weather conditions, and collectors coordinate with dispatchers regarding special pickups or route changes.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely prefer hands-on, practical work with clear procedures and measurable results. You're organized and detail-oriented, comfortable following established systems and maintaining consistent schedules. You value reliable, straightforward employment and work well in structured environments with defined daily tasks.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $58,750 | $75,050 | $84,300 | 4,910 |
| Washington | $61,700 | $74,620 | $80,750 | 3,750 |
| New York | $47,020 | $64,950 | $86,310 | 11,630 |
| California | $55,420 | $64,890 | $75,070 | 13,930 |
| Oregon | $59,960 | $63,210 | $66,180 | 2,500 |
| Minnesota | $52,030 | $62,570 | $65,980 | 2,500 |
| Nevada | $50,490 | $61,310 | $79,860 | 770 |
| Delaware | $48,130 | $61,290 | $63,290 | 600 |
| Colorado | $46,770 | $60,310 | $64,410 | 3,700 |
| Wisconsin | $48,440 | $59,810 | $63,430 | 1,550 |
| Utah | $48,010 | $59,310 | $61,640 | 960 |
| North Dakota | $47,770 | $59,000 | $61,640 | 360 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Transfer Station Management — Solid Waste Association of North America
- Managing Integrated Solid Waste Management Systems — Solid Waste Association of North America
- Managing Recycling Systems — Solid Waste Association of North America
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against refuse and recyclable material collectors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-7081.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.