Public HealthGreen JobOccupation aligned to O*NET green economy classifications.
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector
Collect and dump refuse or recyclable materials from containers into truck. May drive truck.
Annual openings
465
BLS median wage
$60,310
Typical education
High school (GED).
10-year growth
+7%
Career requirements
What does this career require?
The education, credentials, and on-the-job competencies Colorado employers expect for this role.
Typical education
High school (GED).
Credential requirement
A certification is valued by many employers.
Work experience
This is an entry-level role so no experience is required. However, full or part-time work experience developing the listed knowledge, skills and abilities is valued.
Is this work a fit?
What the work actually feels like
How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.
Work style
- With kids/peopleOccasionally
- On a computerOccasionally
- Outdoors / on-siteOccasionally
- With your handsOccasionally
Interests it draws on
- Transportation
Automation exposure
High exposure
Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.
A typical day
- Inspect trucks prior to beginning routes to ensure safe operating condition.
- Fill out defective equipment reports.
- Operate automated or semi-automated hoisting devices that raise refuse bins and dump contents into openings in truck bodies.
- Clean trucks or compactor bodies after routes have been completed.
- Drive trucks, following established routes, through residential streets or alleys or through business or industrial areas.
- Refuel trucks or add other fluids, such as oil or brake fluid.