Refuse collector

Refuse collectors remove waste and rubbish from places like houses, factories, hospitals and shops. They usually work as part of a team on a refuse lorry, collecting rubbish and unloading it at a tip.

Also known as:

• Rubbish collector
• Waste disposal operative

Work activities

Refuse collectors remove household rubbish and collect industrial and commercial waste. Household waste collectors usually work in teams of two to five loaders/operatives, plus a driver. The loader’s job depends on the type of bins used. When standard household dustbins or plastic sack liners are used, one or two loaders carry the bins or sacks to the roadside. Other loaders follow with the lorry and lift and empty the bins or throw the sacks into the back of it. New plastic sacks might be left as the filled sacks are collected. Where wheelie bins are used, householders usually leave the bins at the roadside for emptying. Loaders push the bins to the back of the lorry where the bins are attached to an automatic lifting and tipping mechanism. With both types, the loaders operate controls at the back of the vehicle to compress the rubbish. They also take away items to be recycled, such as paper, some plastics and bottles, which are stored in sacks, bags or boxes. In many areas, this is done on a different day from the rubbish collection. There might also be a separate collection for compost bins.

Loaders help the driver to manoeuvre (move) the lorry by giving directions and hand signals. They might also assist at the disposal site. In some areas, and by arrangement, refuse collectors might take away large items of waste. Driving a refuse collection lorry is a specialist job and requires an LGV (large goods vehicle) licence. Drivers might have supervisory responsibility for the crew. They might also deal with members of the public if there are any problems. Drivers are also responsible for the vehicle and make daily routine maintenance checks. Refuse collectors usually start work early in the morning. They wear weatherproof, reflective clothing and protective gloves, in case there are any sharp objects in the rubbish.

Personal qualities and skills

As a refuse collector, you need:

• Fitness and stamina; you’ll be on your feet a lot, lifting and carrying heavy bins and sacks, and walking several miles each day.
• To feel comfortable working outdoors in all kinds of weather.
• Awareness of health and safety regulations.
• To work carefully, paying attention to the traffic.
• To work well as part of a team.
• The ability to follow verbal instructions.
• To deal politely with members of the public.
• Not to mind getting up early in the mornings.
• A reliable and co-operative personality.
• To work quickly and keep up with the rest of the crew.

Drivers need a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) licence.

Pay and opportunities  

Pay rates for refuse collectors vary with employer and region. The pay rates given are approximate. Earnings are in the range of £17,000 a year rising to £25,000. Typically, wages for loaders tend to be at the lower end of the scale and those for drivers are further along the pay scale.

Refuse collectors typically work 38-40 hours per week. Shift work, early starts and late finishes are common. Weekend work and work on public holidays might also be required. Overtime is often available.

Employers are refuse collection firms, waste management companies and local authorities. Opportunities for refuse collectors occur in towns and cities throughout the UK.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised in local newspapers, and on the Government’s Find a Job and Find an Apprenticeship services. Vacancies might also be advertised on the websites of local authorities, specialist recruitment agencies and waste management organisations.

Entry routes and training

You normally enter this career directly by applying for vacancies. Minimum age for entry is usually 18. A level 2 (intermediate) apprenticeship in the role of waste resource operative is a great place to start.

Local authorities and large companies might provide formal induction courses for new employees. Training in refuse collection takes place on-the-job. Trainees receive instruction in their duties from experienced supervisors and from senior crew members.

Relevant training courses include diplomas and certificates in recycling activities, sustainable waste management, sustainable recycling activities.

If you gain a heavy goods vehicle licence, you could progress to become a refuse collection driver.

Qualifications

If you wish to enter this career through an apprenticeship, you will need GCSEs in maths and English, although you may be able to complete these alongside your programme.

Adult opportunities

Age limits apply to this occupation. You must be aged at least 18 to become a driver. Loaders must usually be aged at least 18.

Some entrants have gained relevant practical skills and abilities using their hands, or gained other relevant skills, for example, as a porter or labourer.

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