Looking for a rewarding role outside? If you work well in a team, want a hands-on role and to contribute to your local community, Refuse Collector jobs are available across the UK. Here we will explore what your day-to-day as a Refuse Collector could look like, how to apply, and similar jobs that suit your skills.
What is a Refuse Collector?
A Refuse Collector, also known as a Bin Worker or Dustman, is employed to collect waste and refuse from businesses and homes, typically through bin collection from accessible collection points. This role is an essential part of any council, with both recycling and general waste collections occurring regularly.
As a Refuse Collector, you will be expected to load the lorry with the waste materials from the side of the road. This involves wheeling bins and loading them into the automatic machine, picking up bags, and operating machinery controls. You’ll also be expected to help the driver navigate and operate around tight spaces.
You will be working in all weather conditions, ensuring that refuse is collected and cleared from the roadside, as well as potentially during holidays. The shift hours can be early morning or during the day, with some evening work potentially. This role is highly physical, so you need to be able to walk for long hours and lift heavy and potentially hazardous items.
How to Become a Refuse Collector?
To become a Refuse Collector, you’ll need to find council work near you. While you don’t need any qualifications to be a Refuse Collector, drivers will need a license covering Large Goods Vehicles (LGV) to drive the refuse lorries. As a loader, you will not need this, but you might be asked to demonstrate your GCSEs or equivalent, as well as key skills necessary for the role including communication, physical ability, and teamworking.
What to Put on a Refuse Collector CV
For the best chances of landing this role, you’ll need a Refuse Collector CV template designed to highlight your unique skills. Some key skills that are necessary for this role include physical stamina, attention to detail, health and safety awareness, and road safety awareness. If you’re applying for a Refuse Collector driving role, you will need a clean license that allows you to drive LGVs.
Similar Jobs to Refuse Collector
Whether you’re looking for the next step in your career or somewhere to start, there are plenty of roles similar to Refuse Collector. Some roles similar to Refuse Collector that might work for you include Street Cleaner, Recycling Operative, Waste Management Operative, or Litter Picker. If you’re a loader, then you might consider transitioning into a driving role for additional career development and opportunities.
Other Jobs in Facilities
Facilities roles are available across the UK, providing cleaning, maintenance, and other essential building care for businesses and private residences. If you’re looking to explore your options for developing a career in this area, then you can use your Refuse Collection skills to explore other work. Some other jobs in facilities include Street Cleaner, Waste Management Supervisor, and Recycling Operative. Each role uses your attention to detail and understanding of waste management, making them good career progression opportunities. Whether you’re looking for an entry or senior role, there are facilities management and waste removal roles across the UK.
Apply for Refuse Collector Jobs Near You
Looking for work on your doorstep? There are plenty of facilities and refuse collection roles available across the UK, making it easier than ever to apply for a Refuse Collector job near you. Whether you’re a loader or driver, there’s a variety of Refuse Collector roles across the UK to suit your skillset and career needs.
Refuse Collector Job Description FAQ
Is a Refuse Collector a Good Career Choice?
Yes, a Refuse Collector is a good job for anyone looking to make a difference with their work. If you’ve got good stamina, want to contribute to your local community, and prefer regular shift work, then this job can provide the stability and movement you want.
What Skills Does a Refuse Collector Need?
To be a Refuse Collector, you don’t need any specific qualifications but some skills that could help you land this type of role include:
- Physical fitness and stamina
- Strength and dexterity
- Attention to detail
- Strong communication
- Teamworking
What Are the Biggest Challenges of Being a Refuse Collector?
A Refuse Collector role can be a physically demanding role. You will have to work for long hours on your feet, meaning that you’ll need a good level of physical strength, stamina, and dexterity for this role. Some working hours might be unsociable with early mornings, weekends, and bank holiday working likely.
What Personal Qualities Make a Great Refuse Collector?
Some personal qualities that will make you a great Refuse Collector include:
- Physically strong with good stamina
- Unphased by dirty environments
- Friendly and a good team communicator
- A strong attention to detail and adaptability
- Self-motivated during all weather conditions and time of day
