You might have heard already, but now is a pretty good time to start a career as a truck driver. In the US, demand for qualified truck drivers of all stripes is skyrocketing, with salaries rising to match. This is also true for garbage truck drivers, which are needed across the country more than ever.
If you learn how to become a garbage truck driver, you can enjoy a secure and comfortable line of work, while also making towns and cities across America safer and better places to live. Read on to find out exactly what you need to do to become a garbage truck driver in 2022.
- How to Become a Garbage Truck Driver: The Essential Qualifications
If you want to know how to become a trash collector, it is worth remembering that you can only do so with the correct, specific qualifications. Fortunately, trash collector certifications are not too stringent and can be attained by anyone willing to put in the work. Most important, you need a commercial driving license (CDL).
Without this, you cannot legally be hired to drive a garbage truck. In addition, anyone with a CDL for garbage trucks should sign up for CDL driver improvement classes every two years for a local, accredited school. Beyond this essential garbage truck driver certification, there isn’t much else you need.
You do not need a degree, but you will most likely need a provide a high school diploma. Once you have these, you’re good to go.
- Other Important Requirements
The paper requirement is not the only thing you need if you want to get hired. Most importantly, you need to be in very good physical shape. Garbage truck drivers are not like truckers, as they do not have sedentary jobs. You will be on your feet for much of the day and lifting heavy loads dozens or hundreds of times per shift.
The job is a good workout, and many garbage truck drivers tend to be in perfect physical shape as a result of the work. You also need to be willing to work unsociable hours and be prepared to get up very, very early every morning.
- Garbage Truck Driver Working Conditions
If you apply to be a garbage truck driver, you should be fully aware of the working conditions that await you. You will be handling hazardous, toxic, and often dangerous materials all day, every day.
Of course, you will be provided with approved safety gear, but extreme caution is required on your end to ensure your own health and safety. It is also a social job, one that requires everyday interaction with a wide range of people.
If you fit the bill, you can command a median salary of around $73,000 a year, although this will vary massively depending on where you work and how much experience you have. Garbage truck driving can be a very rewarding and lucrative career, so get qualified today if it sounds right for you.
Design Your Dream Career
Now that you know how to become a garbage truck driver, you can embark on a career that offers freedom, variety, and security. If you need more help in designing your dream career, we have got you covered. You can find actionable career insights that you can trust in our dedicated Lifestyle section, so check it out if you’re looking for a change.