Guide to Waste Management Truck Driving Jobs: Salary, Benefits & Career Outlook

Looking for a stable, well-paying job that doesn’t require a college degree? Waste management truck driving jobs may be exactly what you need. These roles combine reliable income, hands-on work, and strong long-term demand—making them one of the most overlooked opportunities in today’s job market.

If you're good with early mornings, don’t mind physical work, and want a career with benefits and job security, driving a garbage or recycling truck could be your next move. Here's everything you need to know.

Why Explore a Career in Waste Management Driving?

Waste management is one of the backbones of public health, sanitation, and infrastructure. Every day, millions of tons of trash and recycling are collected, transported, and processed—and none of it happens without skilled, certified truck drivers.

These jobs are more than just driving a route. Drivers are responsible for vehicle safety, timely pickups, customer interactions, and sometimes operating lift mechanisms or compactors. For those who enjoy independent work, outdoor environments, and structured routines, this role offers a strong sense of purpose and consistency.

The demand is high across the U.S., and since most waste services operate through local governments or large national contractors, job stability is strong—even during economic downturns.

Benefits of Becoming a Waste Truck Driver

One of the biggest perks of this profession is its accessibility. Many waste management companies offer on-the-job training, CDL sponsorship, and full benefits even for entry-level drivers.

Other advantages include:

Full-time schedules with early start/early finish
Overtime opportunities in most metro areas
Union representation at many companies
Strong retirement and healthcare packages
Local driving only—no overnights or long-haul trips

You’ll also have a consistent route, regular customers, and predictable hours—which appeals to those wanting work-life balance compared to long-haul trucking.

Average Salary for Waste Management Truck Drivers

Earnings vary by region, company, and experience level, but waste management drivers are among the highest-paid local CDL roles.

National average salary: $47,000–$65,000 per year
Top metro areas (e.g., San Francisco, NYC): Up to $80,000+
Starting pay: $20–$26 per hour, often rising after 12 months
Overtime and bonuses can boost total compensation significantly

Unionized routes, hazardous waste handling, or specialized vehicles (e.g., rear loaders or roll-offs) typically offer higher pay.

Where to Find Waste Truck Driving Jobs

Most opportunities can be found through a combination of national employers and local municipalities. Some of the top hiring sources include:

Waste Management (WM) – One of the largest employers in the industry with full benefits and CDL training programs.
Republic Services – Offers driving, recycling, and landfill transport positions across the U.S.
Waste Connections – Known for offering routes with performance-based bonuses.
Local Government Job Boards – City sanitation departments frequently post openings with civil service benefits.
Indeed – Use keywords like “garbage truck driver” or “waste CDL driver” to browse current listings in your area.

Final Thoughts

Waste truck driving jobs combine earning power, stability, and long-term growth in one of the most essential industries in the country. With rising demand in urban and rural communities alike, CDL drivers who are dependable and safety-focused will always be in high demand.

If you’re looking for a blue-collar career with strong benefits and the satisfaction of serving your community, consider waste management as your next move. It might just be the opportunity you didn’t know you were missing.

Sources

Waste Management Careers – https://careers.wm.com

Republic Services Jobs – https://republicservices.jobs

Waste Connections Careers – https://careers.wasteconnections.com

USA.gov State Employment Boards – https://www.usa.gov/state-employment

Indeed – https://www.indeed.com