Refuse Collector Jobs

Find Refuse Collector jobs across local authorities, waste management companies, and environmental services throughout the UK. From council waste departments to private recycling firms, Refuse Collectors play a vital role in keeping communities clean and safe. Whether you’re seeking full-time work, part-time hours, or temporary roles, there are opportunities available to suit a wide range of schedules and experience levels. Explore a range of Refuse Collector jobs here at Blue Arrow.

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08/10/2026

JN -102026-134222_1791470272

Class 2 Refuse driver - Aberdeen Altens
- £15 - £15.01 per hour
- Aberdeen
- Contract
HGV Class 2 refuse driving work, part time hours, out with a second man 1400hrs - 1800hrs Mon-Fri and 0700hrs-1200hrs on a Saturday are the hours of work The Role: Class 2 driving Monday to Saturday Ongoing work Pay Rate: 💷 £15.00 per hour Requ...
08/10/2026

JN -102026-134236_1791486449

Refuse Loader Aviemore
- Up to £14.12 per hour
- Aviemore, Highlands
- Contract
If you want to be part of a vibrant, supportive, and diverse team, then apply now to join us at blue Arrow. We can provide you with flexible working hours to fit around other commitments and it's a great way to meet new people. We are looking for ...
08/10/2026

JN -102026-134237_1791486634

Refuse Loaders Aviemore & Dingwall
- Up to £14.12 per hour
- Dingwall, Highlands
- Contract
If you want to be part of a vibrant, supportive, and diverse team, then apply now to join us at blue Arrow. We can provide you with flexible working hours to fit around other commitments and it's a great way to meet new people. We are looking for ...
01/10/2026

JN -092026-132960_1790852970

Housekeepers / Cleaners
- £12.71 - £22.34 per hour
- Rhondda Cynon Taff
- Temporary
Blue Arrow is currently recruiting housekeeping staff / cleaners join our clients team based in the Treorchy area. We are looking for reliable and dedicated individuals to join our housekeeping team. Successful applicants will play a vital role ...
01/10/2026

JN -102026-133975_1790854681

Class 2 Drivers
- £15.07 - £22.60 per annum
- Swansea
- Temporary
Bluearrow are recruiting We are looking for a reliable and hardworking Class 2 Driver to join our waste collection team. Position: Class 2 Driver Hours: Monday to Friday Location: Swansea Pay: £15.07 0/t £22.60 About the Role As a Class 2...
30/09/2026

JN -092026-133943_1790774344

HGC Class 2 Driver - Helensburgh
- Up to £14.68 per hour
- Helensburgh, Argyll & Bute
- Contract
Class 2 Refuse Driver - Helensburgh Blue Arrow are currently recruiting Class 2 Refuse Drivers for an immediate start in Helensburgh. If you're looking for ongoing work with a great work-life balance, this could be the perfect opportunity. The Rol...
18/09/2026

JN -062026-130530_1789717185

Refuse Class 2 Driver
- Up to £13.90 per hour + OT after 37 hours
- Stevenage, Hertfordshire
- Employment Type Unspecified
Working as a Refuse & Recycling Chargehand (HGV Driver) , you will be responsible for both driving Class 2 vehicles (Category C) and supervising a team of loaders to deliver efficient waste and recycling services. This is a hands-on role ...

UK Refuse Collector Jobs

Looking for an active outdoor role that makes a real difference to your local community? Refuse Collector jobs are ideal for individuals who enjoy physical work, working as part of a team, and being outdoors in all weather conditions. Refuse Collectors are essential to the safe and efficient collection of household, commercial, and recyclable waste. With increasing focus on recycling and environmental responsibility, demand for reliable collection staff remains strong across the UK.

Refuse Collection Opportunities in the UK

Refuse Collectors support local councils and private waste management companies by ensuring waste is collected safely, efficiently, and on schedule. These roles help maintain public hygiene, reduce environmental impact, and support recycling initiatives nationwide.

Working as a Refuse Collector involves collecting bins, sacks, and recycling containers from residential streets, businesses, and public areas. You’ll work alongside drivers and other crew members, follow set collection routes, and operate safely around traffic and the public. Some roles may also involve sorting recyclable materials at depots or transfer stations.

Explore Refuse Collector Jobs by Setting

Refuse Collector jobs are available across several key sectors. Below are the most common areas recruiting in the UK.

Local Authority and Council Services

Most Refuse Collectors are employed by local councils to collect household and recycling waste. These roles typically follow set weekly routes and operate in residential areas.

Private Waste Management Companies

Many commercial waste firms employ Refuse Collectors to service businesses, construction sites, and industrial premises. These roles may involve heavier bins and more varied routes.

Recycling and Environmental Services

Some Refuse Collectors work specifically within recycling operations, collecting segregated waste streams and helping to reduce landfill waste.

Commercial and Trade Waste Collection

These roles focus on collecting waste from shops, offices, restaurants, and industrial sites, often working early mornings or evenings.

Skills and Requirements for Refuse Collector Jobs

Refuse Collector jobs usually require no formal qualifications, but employers look for reliability, physical fitness, and a strong work ethic. Common requirements include:

Good physical fitness and stamina
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
Strong teamwork and communication skills
Awareness of health and safety procedures
Reliability, punctuality, and a positive attitude
Willingness to follow set collection routes and schedules

Some employers may require a basic DBS check, especially for council-based roles.

Types of Refuse Collector Contracts

Refuse Collector roles are available on a range of contract types to suit different needs.

Full-Time Refuse Collector Jobs

Full-time roles offer steady hours, long-term employment, and consistent income. These positions often include paid holidays, pensions, and regular overtime opportunities.

Part-Time and Flexible Refuse Collection Work

Part-time roles are ideal for those seeking reduced hours or work that fits around other commitments. Early morning shifts are particularly common in refuse collection.

Temporary and Seasonal Refuse Collector Roles

Temporary roles often become available to cover busy periods, staff shortages, or seasonal demand increases. These jobs offer a great way to gain experience in the sector.

Refuse Collector Jobs FAQ

What Does a Refuse Collector Do?

A Refuse Collector collects household, commercial, and recycling waste from designated routes. Duties include moving bins and sacks, loading waste into collection vehicles, assisting the driver with route navigation, and working safely around the public and traffic.

Do I Need Experience to Become a Refuse Collector?

No previous experience is usually required. Most employers provide full training, including health and safety guidance and manual handling instruction.

How Much Do Refuse Collectors Earn?

Refuse Collector pay typically ranges from £13.25 to £14.25 per hour, depending on location, employer, and shift pattern. Overtime and bank holiday work often attract enhanced rates.

Can I Progress from a Refuse Collector Role?

Yes. Many Refuse Collectors progress into roles such as Drivers, Team Leaders, Supervisors, or Waste Operations Managers. Some employers also support HGV licence training for career progression.