Refuse Collectors

Earnings of refuse collectors vary widely depending on their employer, union status, and other factors. Beginning refuse collectors who work for small, private firms and are not union members are sometimes paid at hourly wages not far above the federal minimum wage. Median annual earnings of refuse and recyclable materials collectors in May 2024 were $48,350 a year for full-time work, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries ranged from less than $31,810 to more than $75,200. Half of refuse and recyclable materials collectors earned between $38,330 and $61,010.

In general, workers employed by large cities under union contracts make more money, and those working for small companies without union contracts make less.

Refuse collectors get overtime pay for working extra hours, during the evenings, or on weekends. They may receive paid time during each shift to shower and change clothes. Union workers receive benefits such as health insurance and paid sick leave and vacation days. Most full-time workers with private companies also receive benefits, although they may not receive as desirable a benefits package.