Residential Waste Helper

GFL Environmental Inc.; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 19,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Overtime opportunities

Medical/Dental/Vision coverage

401(k) matching

Paid time off

Career advancement

Job summary

GFL Environmental is seeking a Helper to join our outdoor crew in Columbia, SC. You’ll be part of a team that collects waste and recyclables, ensuring safety, efficiency, and excellent customer service on every route.

You’ll handle loading, sorting, and supporting the driver, while wearing PPE and following safety protocols. No advanced experience required; a willingness to train and reliable work ethic are valued by our team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred, but not required.
• 1–3 months of related physical labor experience is a plus.
• A valid driver’s license is a bonus.
• Reliability and a strong work ethic are essential for safety-sensitive roles.

Responsibilities

• Collection & Sorting: Collect waste/recyclables from curbsides or client sites and sort materials.
• Driver Support: Assist the driver with backing, navigation, and keeping the cab clean.
• Safety & Compliance: Wear PPE and follow safety protocols; identify prohibited items and conduct pre-route checks.
• Professionalism: Represent GFL professionally with customers and coworkers.

Skills

Strong work ethic

Reliability

Team player

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Driver's license

Job description

Who We Are

At GFL Environmental, our motto is "Green For Life." We are the only major diversified environmental services company in North America, and we are proud to be a leader in providing sustainable solutions. When you join GFL, you aren't just taking a job; you’re joining a family of over 20,000 employees dedicated to keeping our communities clean and safe.

Why Work for GFL?

We believe our greatest asset is our people. That’s why we offer a competitive rewards package and a culture that promotes growth from within.

• Competitive Pay: Bi-weekly pay with opportunities for overtime.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) / RRSP matching programs.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation and holiday pay.
• Career Advancement: We prefer to promote from within—start as a loader and move up to a driver or supervisor role!
• Safety First: We provide all high-quality Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and prioritize your well-being every single day.

The Role

As a Helper, you are the heartbeat of our operations. You’ll work as part of a crew to ensure that waste and recyclables are collected efficiently, safely, and with a high level of customer service.

Key Responsibilities

• Collection & Sorting: Collect solid waste/recyclables from curbsides or customer premises. Sort materials into appropriate truck compartments and operate compaction equipment.
• Driver Support: Act as the "second set of eyes" for the driver. Help navigate tight spaces, direct the vehicle during backing maneuvers, and assist in keeping the cab and exterior clean.
• Safety & Compliance: Conduct pre-route audits for equipment (brooms, shovels, etc.). Identify and tag prohibited waste items. Always wear GFL-required PPE, including reflective vests, gloves, and safety boots.
• Professionalism: Be the face of GFL. Maintain a professional demeanor when interacting with the public and work closely with supervisors to improve routing efficiency.

What You’ll Need

• Education: High school diploma or GED preferred, but not required.
• Experience: 1–3 months of related physical labor experience is a plus, but we are happy to train the right candidate!
• License: A valid driver’s license is a bonus.
• Reliability: A strong work ethic and the ability to meet safety-sensitive criteria.

Physical Requirements

This is a physically demanding outdoor role. You should be comfortable with:

• Standing, walking, and lifting in outdoor environments 90% of the time.
• Lifting/moving up to 65 lbs regularly and pushing up to 100 lbs with assistance.
• Navigating various weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow).

Working Conditions

You will be working in a fast-paced, outdoor environment. You'll be exposed to the elements, moving mechanical parts, and traffic conditions. It’s loud, it’s active, and it’s rewarding work for those who like to stay moving and work as a team.

GFL Environmental is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

#GFLTalent

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

GFL is committed to equal opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact [e-mail]