How much does a Solid Waste Truck Driver make?
A Solid Waste Truck Driver handles an important job in keeping communities clean and healthy. This role involves collecting and transporting trash and recyclables. People interested in this career should know how much they might earn. The average yearly salary for this job stands at $50,432.
This figure changes based on experience, location, and other factors. Some drivers start at the lower end of the pay scale, making about $35,220 per year. With more experience, salaries increase. Those at the higher end of the pay scale can make up to $70,200 each year. Most drivers earn somewhere in the middle, between $44,760 and $57,480. This range shows a good opportunity for growth as drivers gain experience and advance in their careers.
What are the highest paying cities for a Solid Waste Truck Driver?

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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $56,030
In Baltimore, drivers operate under the Waste Management umbrella, a key player in the field. The city’s diverse neighborhoods offer stable routes, making it easier to manage daily tasks. Employees benefit from competitive wages and comprehensive benefits packages.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $52,000
Raleigh provides a pleasant climate for those in the waste management sector. Here, drivers work for Republic Services, ensuring smooth operations across various districts. The city's growth presents ample job opportunities and a steady workload.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $50,900
Working as a driver in Phoenix means dealing with a warm climate but also experiencing steady job prospects. Waste Pro, a major employer, offers reliable routes and modern equipment. Drivers here enjoy a good work-life balance.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $49,707
Indianapolis drivers navigate a mix of urban and suburban areas for Republic Services. The city’s robust infrastructure supports efficient waste management. Job stability and good benefits make it an attractive place to work.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $49,303
Sacramento offers a stable environment for drivers working with Waste Connections. The city’s expanding population creates consistent demand for waste services. Employees here benefit from a good salary and supportive work culture.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $48,380
In San Antonio, drivers for Waste Management enjoy a warm climate and stable routes. The city’s growth supports a consistent workload. The company offers solid benefits and opportunities for career advancement.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $48,254
Bakersfield drivers work in a city known for its agricultural industry, providing ample waste management needs. Drivers for Waste Pro navigate through diverse areas, enjoying good pay and a friendly work environment.
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Tuscaloosa, AL
Average Salary: $47,525
Tuscaloosa offers a mix of urban and rural routes for Waste Pro drivers. The city’s friendly atmosphere and lower cost of living make it a desirable place to work. Drivers enjoy a steady job and good company support.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $45,206
Chicago provides a bustling environment for drivers working with Republic Services. The city’s size offers varied routes and a constant need for waste services. Employees benefit from a competitive salary and extensive benefits.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $44,883
Philadelphia drivers navigate through a vibrant city with Waste Management. The diverse routes keep the job interesting. Employees benefit from strong company support and good wages, making it a rewarding place to work.
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What are the best companies a Solid Waste Truck Driver can work for?

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Republic Services
Average Salary: $54,611
Republic Services provides solid waste collection and disposal services across the United States. They offer competitive salaries and benefits. Locations include major cities and rural areas nationwide.
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Foss Recycling Inc
Average Salary: $52,000
Foss Recycling Inc focuses on recycling services and solid waste management. They operate in various states across the U.S. Employees benefit from a supportive work environment and growth opportunities.
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Waste Connections
Average Salary: $51,324
Waste Connections is one of the largest waste management companies in North America. They offer solid waste services in numerous cities and towns. They value their employees and provide competitive compensation.
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Sunshine Disposal
Average Salary: $50,109
Sunshine Disposal operates in multiple states, providing solid waste and recycling services. They focus on safety and employee satisfaction. They offer a good salary and benefits package.
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Mark Dunning Industries
Average Salary: $49,764
Mark Dunning Industries is a family-owned company offering solid waste management services. They operate in the Southeast U.S. They prioritize employee well-being and provide a stable income.
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Athens Clarke County
Average Salary: $39,150
Athens Clarke County provides solid waste services in Georgia. They focus on environmental responsibility and community service. They offer a fair salary and a chance to make a difference.
How to earn more as a Solid Waste Truck Driver?
Solid waste truck drivers can find several ways to increase their earnings. By exploring opportunities for growth and skill enhancement, drivers can earn more and advance in their careers. A key way to earn more is to take on additional responsibilities. This might include supervising junior drivers, assisting with route planning, or managing recycling programs. Such tasks often come with higher pay.
Another effective strategy involves pursuing advanced certifications. These can include hazardous materials handling or commercial vehicle operation. Gaining these credentials can lead to higher-paying positions. Drivers should also consider working for companies that offer performance-based bonuses. This can be for meeting delivery schedules or maintaining vehicle cleanliness. Seasonal or overtime work can further boost income. Some drivers opt for routes during peak waste collection times, such as summer months or holiday seasons.
Here are some key factors to increase earnings:
- Take on supervisory roles
- Pursue advanced certifications
- Seek performance-based bonuses
- Work during peak waste collection times
- Consider seasonal or overtime work



