Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Refuse Collector
What refuse collectors actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Complete the pre-trip inspection on a side-loader truck. From there, the day usually includes drive collection routes safely, operate automated arms and compactors, and collect trash, recycling and yard waste. Shifts usually start very early in the morning and end in the early afternoon. Holidays and storms can bring extra hours.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a refuse collector working full time.
- Complete the pre-trip inspection on a side-loader truck.
- Start the residential route, using the automated arm to empty carts.
- Tag a recycling cart contaminated with plastic bags.
- Haul a full load to the transfer station and weigh out.
- Finish the route and pick up a reported missed cart.
- Take the recycling load to the materials recovery facility.
- Complete the post-trip inspection and route report.
Where refuse collectors work
Collectors work outdoors in all weather on streets and alleys, operating heavy trucks around traffic, pedestrians and obstacles. The work involves odors and, for helpers, lifting.
Hours and schedule
Shifts usually start very early in the morning and end in the early afternoon. Holidays and storms can bring extra hours.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Drive collection routes safely
- Operate automated arms and compactors
- Collect trash, recycling and yard waste
- Inspect trucks before and after routes
- Check containers for contamination or hazardous items
- Haul loads to landfills and recycling facilities
- Report missed pickups, damage and safety issues
Tools you’ll use every day
- Side-loader, rear-loader and front-loader trucks
- Automated arm controls
- Onboard cameras and route tablets
- Pre-trip inspection checklists
- Safety vests and gloves
- Two-way radios
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Steady, essential work
- Paid CDL training at many employers
- Early finish times
- Good benefits with cities and large companies
What’s hard
- Very early starts
- Outdoor work in heat and cold
- Struck-by and traffic hazards
- Odors and physical tasks
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I don’t mind very early mornings
- I like driving big trucks
- I want steady work with benefits
- I can handle outdoor work in any weather
- I take safety seriously
- I like finishing work by early afternoon
Not sure? Take the free Refuse Collector fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Never ride on the outside of a moving truck unless equipped and permitted
- Watch for pedestrians, cyclists and children
- Keep hands clear of compactors and arms
- Wear high-visibility clothing and gloves