Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an increasingly eco-conscious era, the role of refuse and recyclable material collectors has become vitally important.

As sustainability takes center stage, the demand for proficient individuals who can effectively manage waste materials and promote recycling efforts escalates.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a refuse and recyclable material collector?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of waste management and recycling,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable refuse and recyclable material collector job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector Duties and Responsibilities

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors are responsible for picking up and transporting waste and recycling materials from residential and commercial properties to appropriate disposal facilities.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Collecting and sorting refuse and recyclable materials from designated locations
• Operating waste and recycling collection vehicles and equipment
• Transporting collected materials to the appropriate disposal or recycling facility
• Ensuring that all collected materials are disposed of or recycled in accordance with applicable regulations
• Performing routine maintenance and cleaning of collection vehicles and equipment
• Assisting with the distribution of recycling containers to customers
• Reporting any issues or problems encountered during collection routes
• Assisting with the education of the public about recycling programs and policies

 

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector to aid in our waste management efforts.

The Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector’s responsibilities include collecting and sorting refuse and recyclables, operating and maintaining the collection vehicle, and adhering to all safety procedures.

Our ideal candidate is physically fit, has a strong commitment to environmental responsibility, and understands the importance of proper waste disposal.

Ultimately, the role of the Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector is to contribute to the cleanliness and sustainability of our community.

 

Responsibilities

• Collect and sort refuse and recyclable materials from designated locations
• Operate and maintain the refuse collection vehicle
• Adhere to safety procedures and regulations at all times
• Perform physical tasks such as lifting, pushing, and pulling waste containers
• Dispose of collected materials at the appropriate facilities
• Document and report any issues or irregularities
• Communicate effectively with residents and answer their questions as required
• Follow route assignments as directed and complete daily documentation of work assignments

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Physical fitness and ability to lift heavy items
• Experience in a similar role is a plus
• Understanding of health and safety regulations
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong commitment to environmental responsibility

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector
• Work Environment: Outdoor, physically demanding role requiring lifting, pushing, and pulling. Exposure to elements and potential exposure to hazardous materials.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Waste Management Supervisor or Department Head.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $24,220 minimum to $46,910 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 cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector Do?

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors play an essential role in waste management and recycling efforts.

They work for both private waste disposal companies and municipal waste management services.

Their primary task is to collect and dispose of garbage and recyclable materials from residential, commercial, and industrial facilities.

This involves emptying waste bins, bags, containers, and dumpsters into their collection vehicles.

They then transport the collected waste to designated waste disposal or recycling facilities.

At these facilities, they assist in sorting the materials, separating recyclable materials from non-recyclable ones and ensuring that each type of material is processed correctly.

In addition to collection duties, they also perform routine maintenance on their collection vehicles, ensuring they are clean and in good working condition.

This role may require them to operate heavy machinery and equipment.

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors are also often responsible for educating the public about recycling practices.

They provide information about what materials can be recycled, how to sort recyclable materials, and the importance of recycling to environmental conservation.

Finally, they ensure compliance with local, state, and federal waste disposal and recycling regulations, maintaining accurate records of their collection activities.

 

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector Qualifications and Skills

A competent Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector should have the skills and qualifications that meet your job requirements, such as:

• Physical fitness and stamina to lift heavy items and work in all kinds of weather conditions.
• Understanding of safety rules and regulations to handle potentially hazardous materials and machinery safely.
• Knowledge about different types of waste and recyclable materials to sort and handle them appropriately.
• Time management skills to ensure waste collection routes are completed in a timely and efficient manner.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills to interact with community members and respond to their queries or concerns.
• Ability to operate refuse collection vehicles and machinery.
• Diligence and attention to detail to ensure waste and recyclable materials are collected and sorted correctly.
• Problem-solving skills to handle unexpected issues like blocked access routes or broken machinery.

 

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector Experience Requirements

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors typically do not need prior experience before starting their jobs, as most of their training is done on the job.

They learn about the different types of materials they will be handling and the specific procedures for handling and disposing of them.

However, any previous experience in a manual labor or outdoors job could be beneficial.

Prior experience in operating heavy machinery or driving a truck can also be advantageous for this job, as many refuse collectors drive garbage or recycling trucks.

Candidates with over 2-3 years of experience in this job may develop a better understanding of waste management systems and the importance of recycling.

They may also become more adept at using refuse collection equipment and vehicles.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some supervisory experience in their background and could be prepared for roles such as team lead or manager in a refuse collection or recycling center.

 

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector Education and Training Requirements

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent.

The primary training for this role is on-the-job experience, where new collectors learn from experienced workers about the correct procedures for picking up and disposing of waste.

They also learn about the different types of materials they will encounter on the job, including household waste, industrial waste, and recyclable materials.

In some states, refuse and recyclable material collectors must obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) as they often operate large vehicles on their collection routes.

Some employers might also require workers to complete a short course in hazardous materials handling, particularly if they will be handling industrial waste.

While not required, some collectors might choose to pursue certification in waste management or related areas to broaden their knowledge and improve their job prospects.

Physical fitness is also an important aspect for this role as it often involves heavy lifting and working outdoors in all weather conditions.

 

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector Salary Expectations

A Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector earns an average salary of $40,560 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ significantly depending on factors such as experience, the employing company, and the region in which they work.

 

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector need?

A Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector should have physical stamina and strength, as the role involves a lot of lifting and moving around.

They should also have good time management skills to complete their routes in a timely manner.

Basic knowledge of local recycling regulations and the ability to distinguish between different types of waste materials is also important.

 

Do Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors need a degree?

Generally, a formal degree is not necessary to work as a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector.

However, most employers require at least a high school diploma or equivalent.

On-the-job training is usually provided to learn about waste management protocols and safety procedures.

 

What should you look for in a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector’s resume?

When reviewing resumes, look for prior experience in waste collection or similar roles that require physical labor.

A valid driver’s license is also essential as most of these roles involve driving refuse collection vehicles.

Certifications in waste management or environmental safety might also be desirable.

 

What qualities make a good Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector?

A good Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector is reliable, punctual, and capable of performing physically demanding tasks.

They should also have a conscientious attitude towards their work, understanding its impact on the environment and local community.

Good interpersonal skills can be useful in maintaining a positive relationship with residents and other community members.

 

Is it difficult to hire Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors?

The difficulty of hiring for this role can depend on various factors.

The physical demands of the job may deter some candidates.

However, offering competitive wages, good working conditions, and opportunities for advancement can attract committed and hardworking individuals.

It’s also important to stress the role’s environmental significance, which can attract candidates passionate about environmental issues.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the nitty-gritty of being a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector.

And guess what?

It’s not just about collecting waste.

It’s about paving the way for a greener, cleaner future, one recyclable at a time.

With our comprehensive refuse and recyclable material collector job description template and real-world examples, you’re all geared up to leap ahead.

But why limit yourself?

Expand your horizons with our job description generator. It’s your next stop for crafting meticulous job listings or perfecting your resume to a tee.

Remember:

Every collected recyclable is a step towards a cleaner planet.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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