FAQ
Refuse Collector FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a refuse collector.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a refuse collector: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about refuse collectors
Do garbage truck drivers need a CDL?
Usually yes, often a Class B.
Is it a good job?
Many find it steady, with benefits and early finish times.
What are the main hazards?
Traffic, backing and moving equipment.
How much does a refuse collector make?
The median annual wage for refuse collectors was $49,690 ($23.89 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $33,590 and the highest 10% earned more than $75,900.
How long does it take to become a refuse collector?
Most people need about 1–8 weeks of training. No formal education is required. Most collectors train on the job. Drivers usually need a CDL Class B, and many employers offer paid training to earn it.
Do you need a degree to be a refuse collector?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is refuse collector a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +2.1% from 2025–35 (slower than average), with about 15,500 openings each year. Upsides include steady, essential work; a common challenge is that very early starts.
What skills does a refuse collector need?
Key technical skills include commercial truck driving, automated arm operation, pre-trip inspections, and route navigation. Employers also value reliability, safety awareness, and customer courtesy.
What certifications are available for refuse collectors?
Common credentials include CDL Class B, SWANA certifications, Defensive driving training, and DOT medical card. Drivers of most collection trucks need a CDL and DOT medical card and must meet federal and state drug and alcohol testing rules.
Still deciding?
Try the Refuse Collector fit quiz, compare with Truck Driver, or explore Refuse Collector training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 53-7081 (Refuse and recyclable material collectors).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Refuse and recyclable material collectors (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.