Garbage Truck Driver Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of city maintenance, the role of a garbage truck driver is crucial and often overlooked.

As our communities continue to grow, the need for dedicated individuals to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in our neighborhoods increases.

But what exactly is expected from a garbage truck driver?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the finer details of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the mechanics of city sanitation,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable garbage truck driver job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Garbage Truck Driver Duties and Responsibilities

Garbage Truck Drivers are responsible for the collection and transport of waste, which helps keep communities clean and orderly.

They also operate and maintain the vehicles used for these tasks.

The duties and responsibilities of a Garbage Truck Driver include:

• Operating garbage trucks to collect solid waste on specified routes
• Conducting pre- and post-trip inspections of their vehicle
• Following designated routes, as set by the waste management company or local government
• Emptying dumpsters using truck hydraulics, and clean trucks after completion of routes
• Performing minor repairs to the garbage truck when necessary
• Notifying supervisors about any major repairs needed or issues regarding the safety of the vehicles
• Complying with truck driving rules and regulations as well as with company policies and procedures
• Assisting with loading and unloading items from the truck
• Providing excellent customer service to residents and businesses on the route

 

Garbage Truck Driver Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a reliable and dedicated Garbage Truck Driver to join our waste management team.

The Garbage Truck Driver’s responsibilities include driving the truck along a predetermined route, operating the truck’s waste disposal equipment, performing minor repairs when necessary, ensuring the truck is safely and efficiently operated, and providing excellent service to our customers.

The ideal candidate has a clean driving record, is physically fit, and is committed to meeting tight deadlines and ensuring the safe and efficient disposal of waste.

 

Responsibilities

• Drive garbage trucks along pre-determined routes.
• Operate garbage truck’s waste disposal equipment safely and efficiently.
• Perform daily inspections of the truck and maintain its cleanliness.
• Report any issues or incidents to dispatch management.
• Perform minor repairs when necessary and/or report major mechanical issues.
• Follow driving regulations and safety standards.
• Assist with unloading waste from the truck at the designated facility.
• Provide excellent service to customers and respond to inquiries or complaints.

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).
• Proven work experience as a truck driver, preferably in waste management.
• Knowledge of applicable truck driving rules and regulations.
• Good physical condition and endurance to lift heavy items and operate heavy machinery.
• No record of driving violations or accidents.
• Ability to work under varying weather conditions.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Overtime pay

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Garbage Truck Driver
• Work Environment: Outdoor and in all weather conditions. Physical work including lifting, pushing, and pulling.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Waste Management Supervisor or Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a copy of your valid commercial driver’s license to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Garbage Truck Driver Do?

Garbage Truck Drivers play an essential role in sanitation and waste management industries.

They are responsible for collecting waste and recyclables from residential and commercial areas.

Their job involves operating large vehicles, often with specialized hydraulic lift systems, to pick up trash bins and empty their contents into the truck.

They follow designated routes around a city or town to ensure that all garbage is collected as scheduled.

Garbage Truck Drivers are also responsible for the routine maintenance and cleanliness of their vehicles.

This includes performing basic checks on the vehicle’s operational systems such as brakes, lights, and hydraulics to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Additionally, they may have to handle special pickups for large items or bulk waste, which could involve physically lifting and throwing items into the truck.

Their role may also involve documenting their completed routes and any issues encountered, such as inaccessible bins or excessive waste, and reporting these to their supervisor.

Garbage Truck Drivers also play a key role in public safety, adhering to road regulations and ensuring the waste they transport is secure to prevent road hazards.

 

Garbage Truck Driver Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Garbage Truck Driver should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Excellent driving skills for navigating different types of roads and traffic conditions with a large, heavy vehicle.
• Knowledge of local garbage disposal regulations and recycling procedures.
• Ability to maintain and repair truck equipment, as well as perform routine checks to ensure the vehicle is functioning properly.
• Strong physical stamina and ability to lift heavy items when necessary, as this job can be physically demanding.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills for interacting with the public and coworkers, often under stressful situations.
• Ability to adhere to safety protocols and procedures, ensuring the safety of self and others at all times.
• Punctuality and reliability to meet pickup schedules and maintain consistent work hours.
• Detail-oriented to ensure all designated waste is collected and any discrepancies or irregularities are reported promptly.
• Customer service skills to handle complaints and inquiries from residents or businesses.

 

Garbage Truck Driver Experience Requirements

For entry-level Garbage Truck Driver positions, most employers will require at least a high school diploma or GED.

On-the-job training is commonly provided, which includes learning the specific routes and how to operate the garbage truck safely and effectively.

This training period usually lasts for a few weeks.

Prior experience in commercial driving roles is beneficial but not mandatory.

Such experience could be in roles such as delivery driver, heavy vehicle operator, or similar professions.

A valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a must for anyone looking to become a Garbage Truck Driver.

Some employers may require additional endorsements on the CDL, which are certifications for specialized knowledge or skills.

This could include learning how to drive larger vehicles or handling hazardous materials.

Candidates with more than 2-3 years of experience as a Garbage Truck Driver or similar role may be considered for supervisory or managerial roles within waste management organizations.

In these roles, they might be responsible for coordinating routes, training new drivers, or managing a team of drivers.

Additional skills and experience in vehicle maintenance, knowledge of recycling procedures and local waste disposal regulations can also be beneficial in this role.

 

Garbage Truck Driver Education and Training Requirements

Garbage Truck Drivers typically require at least a high school diploma or equivalent, although no formal education beyond that is generally necessary.

The essential training for this role comes in the form of obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which is mandatory for driving heavy vehicles such as garbage trucks.

This involves passing a written test and a practical driving test.

Many waste management companies provide on-the-job training for new hires, where they learn the specific procedures for collecting and disposing of waste, recycling, and operating the truck’s mechanical systems.

Some cities or waste management services might require garbage truck drivers to complete a short course or certification program in waste disposal or environmental safety.

While not always required, mechanical aptitude can be beneficial in this role, as drivers often perform minor maintenance on their trucks.

Additionally, successful Garbage Truck Drivers need to have excellent driving skills, a good sense of direction, and the ability to work well with others, as they often work in teams.

Ongoing training, such as safety refreshers and updates on waste disposal regulations, are also common in this profession.

 

Garbage Truck Driver Salary Expectations

The average wage for a Garbage Truck Driver is $19.50 (USD) per hour.

However, the actual earnings may differ based on factors such as years of experience, the location of the job, and the specific company that employs the driver.

 

Garbage Truck Driver Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Garbage Truck Driver need?

Garbage Truck Drivers need to have excellent driving skills, as well as a thorough understanding of traffic rules and regulations.

They should be physically fit to handle heavy lifting and manual labor.

Additionally, they should have good time management skills to ensure trash is collected promptly, and interpersonal skills to interact courteously with the public.

 

Do Garbage Truck Drivers need any specific qualifications?

Garbage Truck Drivers must have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate garbage trucks.

Some municipalities also require a special waste collection certification.

Although formal education isn’t required, a high school diploma or equivalent is usually preferred.

On-the-job training is typically provided to new hires.

 

What should you look for in a Garbage Truck Driver’s resume?

Look for a valid and clean commercial driver’s license (CDL), and any waste collection certifications if required in your area.

Prior experience in a similar role or in operating heavy machinery can be beneficial.

Additionally, skills related to customer service, time management, and physical fitness are valuable.

 

What qualities make a good Garbage Truck Driver?

A good Garbage Truck Driver is reliable, punctual, and capable of handling physical work.

They should be responsible and attentive to safety, given that they are dealing with waste materials and large vehicles.

Good interpersonal skills for dealing with the public, and a high level of respect for the environment and community cleanliness, are also important.

 

Is it difficult to hire Garbage Truck Drivers?

The difficulty in hiring Garbage Truck Drivers can depend on various factors such as the location and the pay scale offered.

Offering competitive wages, benefits, and ensuring a safe and respectful work environment can attract more potential candidates.

The demand for these roles is consistent as waste management is a crucial service in every community.

 

Conclusion

And there it is.

Today, we’ve shed some light on the true essence of being a garbage truck driver.

Surprised?

It’s not just about picking up trash.

It’s about maintaining the cleanliness of our surroundings, one pick-up at a time.

With our handy garbage truck driver job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to for creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Each pick-up is a step towards a cleaner community.

Let’s keep our neighborhoods clean. Together.

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