Refuse Collectors

If you are thinking about getting into this kind of work, you may find it helpful to talk with refuse collectors about their work. Suggested interview questions include: What made you want to enter this career? What do you like most and least about your job? What are some key skills for success? What advice would you give to young people about preparing for the field and being successful on the job? How will advances in technology change the field? Although it might be hard to job-shadow a refuse collector because of the potential danger of working around heavy machinery and traffic, you can observe collectors at work from the safety of the sidewalk or your porch.

In some areas, there may be opportunities for summer or part-time work, although workers in these positions generally have to meet the same requirements as full-time employees. Contact local recycling centers to check on availability of volunteer or part-time work. A job as a furniture mover or truck driver is another way to learn about some of the responsibilities of refuse collectors. Any experience you can gain in a related job that requires physical strength and reliability is useful to test your work endurance. Experience as a material handler, equipment cleaner, helper, or laborer would be useful.