Garbage Truck Driver / Refuse Driver

Job title: Garbage Truck Driver / Refuse Driver

Job Summary

We are seeking a dependable and safety-focused Garbage Truck Driver to operate a commercial refuse collection vehicle on assigned residential and/or commercial routes. The driver is responsible for completing routes safely and efficiently, servicing customer locations, performing vehicle inspections, and providing professional customer service.

This position is ideal for someone who is comfortable operating heavy equipment, working outdoors in varying weather conditions, and performing a physically active job.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate a garbage/refuse truck on assigned routes.
• Collect residential, commercial, and/or industrial waste and recycling.
• Operate rear-load, front-load, roll-off, or automated side-load equipment as assigned.
• Complete daily pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections.
• Follow DOT regulations and company safety procedures.
• Identify and report vehicle or equipment maintenance concerns.
• Safely enter and exit the truck throughout the shift as required.
• Assist with loading or handling waste containers when necessary.
• Navigate assigned routes and complete scheduled stops efficiently.
• Maintain accurate route, mileage, inspection, and service records.
• Communicate route issues, missed pickups, blocked containers, or customer concerns to dispatch.
• Maintain a professional attitude when interacting with customers and the public.
• Keep the vehicle clean and properly maintained.
• Follow all local, state, and federal transportation and environmental regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) — Class A or B depending on equipment.

• Clean or acceptable driving record.

• Ability to meet DOT driver requirements.

• Previous commercial driving experience preferred.

• Refuse, waste management, roll-off, dump truck, delivery, or other heavy-truck experience is a plus.

• Ability to safely operate large vehicles in residential, commercial, and congested areas.

• Strong attendance and reliability.

• Ability to work independently and follow established routes and schedules.

• Good communication and customer-service skills.

• Must be able to pass applicable background, drug/alcohol, and DOT requirements.

• Physical Requirements

• Ability to repeatedly enter and exit a commercial vehicle.

• Ability to lift, push, pull, and maneuver waste containers as required.

• Ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, and other weather conditions.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and perform repetitive movements throughout the shift.

• Ability to safely perform physically demanding work for extended periods.

• Schedule

• Typical shifts may begin at 0400 and continue until the assigned route is completed. Overtime, weekends, and holiday work may be required depending on operational needs.

• What We're Looking For

• The strongest candidates will be safe, dependable, hardworking, and consistent. This role requires someone who understands that customers rely on their route being completed on time and who takes responsibility for their vehicle, route, and daily performance.

• Preferred Experience

• Candidates with experience in waste hauling, refuse collection, roll-off, dump trucks, construction trucking, delivery, CDL route driving, or other heavy commercial vehicles are encouraged to apply.