11 Rewarding Careers in the Waste Industry

When you think of the waste industry, the jobs that come to mind are probably garbageman and truck driver. While these are two popular jobs that offer great benefits, there are also many other rewarding jobs in the waste industry. This field offers jobs for many different skill sets, education levels, and interests.

Before we learn about the other fulfilling jobs in the waste & recycling industry, let’s debunk some common myths about the field: 

Myth: Only men work in the waste industry

Fact: Although about 85% of waste industry roles are filled by men, 15% are filled by women and that number is growing. 

Myth: Waste industry professions are last-resort jobs

Fact: Most people who work in the waste industry have always wanted to, have family in the business, or chose the profession because of the great benefits. It is not a last resort job and most people in the field love what they do. 

Myth: Garbage collectors smell like garbage all the time. 

Fact: Garbage collectors wear protective clothing which protects them from odors and liquids, meaning they don’t smell like trash when they are off the clock. 

Myth: Garbage companies are run by the Mafia

Fact: Modern garbage companies are not only highly regulated by the government, but some even work closely with local municipalities. Additionally, these companies are now headed by business professionals and entrepreneurs of all backgrounds. The mob claims are outdated at best, and fictional at worst. 

Myth: Waste companies don’t care about the environment

Fact: The waste industry is highly regulated to make sure that waste processes avoid harming the environment as much as possible. There are many procedures in place to help protect the environment and streamline the management of trash, recycling, and hazardous materials. 

Why work in the waste industry? 

Although the waste industry employed over 480,000 people at the end of 2022, the field is often overlooked. Besides being a profitable and growing industry, it is also one of the most diverse, employing individuals with and without degrees and from different backgrounds.

There are a ton of attractive reasons why one might choose to work in the waste industry. From benefits and pensions to personal freedom, the reasons people choose sanitation careers range widely. The main reasons people choose careers in sanitation are: 

Financial benefits such as: 

• Competitive wages and salaries

• Bonuses and raises

• Pensions and retirement plan 

• Paid vacations and sick leave 

• Life, health, dental, and other kinds of insurance

• Consistent, stable work 

• Stock options

Personal benefits such as: 

• Individual freedoms

• Performing a social good 

• Maternity and paternity leave

• Job training and professional development

• Tuition assistance

• Staying physically active 

11 Rewarding Careers in the Waste Industry You Should Consider: 

1. Waste Management Specialist

A waste management specialist plans and supervises waste reduction and helps restore land and resources impacted by waste disposal. They work closely with government officials to ensure smooth waste management operations. Their responsibilities include implementing waste control strategies and assessing the effectiveness of programs. 

• How to become one: A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field is typically required. 

• Best for individuals who are: Detail oriented, analytical, and have problem-solving and organizational skills.

• Benefits: Opportunity to make a positive environmental impact, work in a diverse field, and make innovations. 

• Average salary: $50,000 to $90,000 a year

• Degree needed: Yes

2. Recycling Coordinator: 

A recycling coordinator is responsible for managing and promoting recycling programs. They educate the public about recycling practices, coordinate the collection and sorting of recyclable materials, and ensure that recycling operations run smoothly. Their role involves raising awareness about the importance of recycling, providing guidance on proper recycling procedures, and working with stakeholders to improve recycling rates. Recycling coordinators play a crucial role in diverting waste from landfills and conserving resources for a more sustainable future.

• How to become one: A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, sustainability, or a related field is often required. Experience/knowledge in recycling programs and practices is beneficial.

• Best for individuals who are: Passionate about environmental protection, and effective communicators with strong coordination and management skills. 

• Benefits: Contributing to environmental protection and working in an interactive setting.

• Average salary: $40,000 to $60,000 a year 

• Degree needed: Yes

3. Environmental Engineer: 

An environmental engineer designs and implements systems to manage and minimize waste. They assess the environmental impact of various activities and develop solutions for waste reduction and treatment, ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting sustainable practices.

• How to become one: A bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related field is typically required. Professional licensure and experience in the waste industry are often necessary. 

• Best for individuals who are: Strong problem solvers, technically skilled in engineering and environmental sciences, and passionate about sustainability. 

• Benefits: Opportunities to design and implement waste management systems, protect the environment, and innovate solutions. 

• Average salary: $60,000 to $100,000 a year

• Degree needed: Yes

4. Waste Treatment Plant Operator:

A waste treatment plant operator operates and maintains waste treatment facilities. They monitor and control waste treatment processes, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and contributing to the safe and efficient disposal of waste.

• How to become one: A high school diploma or equivalent along with onsite training. Some employers prefer candidates with vocational training or waste-related certifications. 

• Best for individuals who are: Detail-oriented and are comfortable enforcing rules, regulations, and protocols. 

• Benefits: Playing a crucial role in environmental protection and contributing to public health and safety. 

• Average salary: $40,000 to $70,000 a year 

• Degree needed: No

5. Waste Collection Driver: 

A waste collection driver operates waste collection vehicles and transports solid waste from residential or commercial areas to disposal facilities. They play a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in communities by efficiently collecting and disposing of waste materials.

• How to become one: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, as well as a driver's license. On-the-job training and a commercial driver’s license (CDL) may be necessary. 

• Best for individuals who are: Skilled drivers, physically fit, good at time management, and like to work independently.

• Benefits: Opportunities for outdoor work, getting to stay physically active, work independence, and being a community figure. 

• Average salary: $30,000 to $50,000 a year

• Degree needed: No

6. Driver Helpers:

Driver helpers assist waste collection drivers in the process of collecting and transporting waste. They provide support by loading and unloading waste containers, navigating routes, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of waste collection activities.

• How to become one: No specific formal education is typically needed, as on-the-job training is provided. Driver Helpers need to have a valid driver's license and a good driving record.

• Best for individuals who are: Physically fit, capable of lifting heavy objects, and have good teamwork and communication skills. They should also be comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions and have a strong sense of responsibility for safety.

• Benefits: Hands-on experience in waste management operations, the opportunity to work outdoors, become community members, and gain valuable teamwork skills. They may also have opportunities for career advancement within the waste management industry.

• Average salary: $35,000 to $45,000 a year.

• Degree Needed: No

7. Billing Specialist: 

A waste management billing specialist handles billing and invoicing processes for waste services. They address customer billing inquiries, resolve discrepancies, and ensure accurate and timely billing, contributing to efficient financial management within the waste management industry.

• How to become one: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, along with customer service and billing/accounting experience.

• Best for individuals who are: Detail-oriented, skilled at math and numbers, and effective communicators. 

• Benefits: Playing a vital role in operations, and helping provide a great customer experience.

• Average salary: $40,000 to $70,000 a year.

• Degree needed: No

8. Mechanics: 

Waste industry mechanics inspect, maintain, and repair waste management vehicles and equipment. They diagnose mechanical issues, perform routine maintenance tasks, and ensure that vehicles and equipment are in optimal working condition, playing a vital role in keeping waste & recycling operations running smoothly.

• How to become one: Formal training from technical or trade schools, community colleges, or vocational programs is typically required, with certifications preferred.

• Best for individuals who are: Skilled in automotive mechanics, have a strong understanding of vehicle systems and enjoy working with their hands. They should have good problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently.

• Benefits: Opportunities to work on a variety of vehicles and equipment and contribute to the smooth operation of waste services. They may also improve their professional skills through apprenticeships or on-the-job training.

• Average salary: $40,000 to $60,000 a year.

• Degree needed: No

9. Waste Equipment Sales Representative: 

Waste equipment sales representatives sell waste & recycling equipment and solutions to companies, municipalities, and industrial clients. They provide product demonstrations, technical support, and assistance in equipment selection, helping organizations improve their waste management.

• How to become one: Strong sales and communication skills and experience, along with knowledge of waste equipment, are beneficial.

• Best for individuals who are: Skilled in sales, have a good understanding of technical knowledge, and can build relationships with clients.

• Benefits: Dealing with people, developing relationships, and commissions and bonuses.

• Average salary: $40,000 to $70,000 a year.

• Degree needed: No

10. Customer Support Specialist: 

A waste & recycling customer support specialist provides specialized support to customers, addressing inquiries, resolving complaints or concerns, and offering information about waste management services. They assist with scheduling waste pickups, provide guidance on waste sorting and disposal requirements, and ensure customer satisfaction.

• How to become one: Strong customer service and communication skills and experience are typically required. Knowledge of waste & recycling practices and regulations is beneficial.

• Best for individuals who are: Customer-oriented, have excellent communication skills, and can handle customer inquiries and resolve issues.

• Benefits: Opportunities for remote work available, contributing to customer satisfaction, and being a valuable resource for waste related information.

• Average salary: $30,000 to $50,000 a year.

• Degree needed: No

11. Waste Management Welder: 

A waste industry welder performs welding tasks related to waste equipment and structures. They repair and maintain waste management vehicles, containers, and other equipment by joining metal components through welding processes, ensuring the continued operation and reliability of waste management systems.

• How to become one: Formal training in welding techniques through technical or trade schools, community colleges, or vocational programs is typically required. They may also acquire relevant certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) certification. Practical experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training is valuable.

• Best for individuals who are: Skilled in welding techniques, have a good understanding of metalworking principles and can interpret technical drawings and specifications. 

• Benefits: Opportunities to work on diverse projects and equipment, and develop expertise in welding techniques. Also, receive potential career advancement opportunities and on-site training.

• Average salary: $40,000 to $60,000 a year.

• Degree needed: No

All in all, waste management is a profitable and growing industry that is often overlooked. Besides being an inclusive and diverse industry, the benefits of a career in sanitation are many. From compensation to work environment freedoms, a career in waste and recycling is a great choice. Additionally, the industry’s many roles are geared toward a variety of skill sets, education and experience levels, and backgrounds. There is truly a job in the waste industry for anyone who has an interest in the field.