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Do you...
enjoy working outside?
want to operate machinery?
like not having to decide what to wear each day?
If this sounds like you, then you can be a sanitation worker!
What is a sanitation worker?
Photo by zibik on UnsplashA sanitation worker is a professional who collects garbage and hauls away waste for disposal in landfills.
Did you know?
What are the duties of a sanitation worker?
A sanitation worker's main duties typically include:
Collecting garbage and recyclables from residential and commercial locations
Sorting through recycling materials to separate recyclable items from non-recyclable items
Transporting garbage and recyclables to a landfill, dump, or plant
Operating heavy machinery, including plows and street sweepers
Interacting with the public on occasion within the community
Photo by Nareeta Martin on UnsplashQuiz
What are some problems a sanitation worker might have to solve on the job? Select all that apply:
Sanitation workers may come into contact with hazardous materials such as chemicals, broken glass, and medical waste. They also may have to navigate difficult terrain such as steep hills, uneven surfaces, and narrow alleys to collect waste from homes and businesses. They may be called upon to respond to emergencies such as natural disasters, chemical spills, and other hazardous incidents. They need to be trained to respond quickly and effectively to these situations, and to work with other emergency responders to mitigate the risks. However, they don't decide on routing and scheduling, as those are usually decided by the management team.
What qualifications do you need for this job?
Skills
Time management to stay on a schedule
Teamwork because you'll work with a partner or a small crew
Customer service when supporting customers within the community
Map reading and GPS navigation when following routes in neighborhoods or to trash sites
Good physical stamina to complete an 8-hour shift of physical activity
Proper lifting techniques to handle heavy material
Age and Education
Be at least 18 or 21 years old, depending on the organization
High school diploma, or equivalent
What training and licensing do you need?
Depending on where you live, you may need to pass the Civil Service exam. This consists of a written and physical exam.
The written exam, tests, for example, your problem-solving, language, and critical thinking skills. The physical exam assesses your ability to lift and throw heavy garbage bags into the truck.
You'll also need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate a garbage truck.
Photo by Arek Adeoye on UnsplashHow much money can you make on the job?
Is this the right job for you?
You'll love this if you enjoy:
Working early and overnight hours as available
Working outside
Wearing a uniform
Managing your time and supporting the community
You might not enjoy this job if:
Like working a typical 8 hr job during the day
Don't like working outdoors during all types of weather (heat, rain, and snow)
Don't like working with hazardous materials
Did you know?
Take Action
Photo by Denisse Leon on UnsplashGet ready for a career as a sanitation worker:
This Byte has been authored by
Theresa Dwulit
Learning Designer
M.Ed.