Disposal Workers


Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources > Disposal Workers > Working Conditions
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Disposal Workers

Disposal Workers - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, trash collectors:

Interpersonal Relationships

  • Have a medium level of job-related social interaction.
  • Are responsible for others health and safety.
  • Sometimes deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous customers.
  • Communicate with coworkers and customers daily by phone. They may also interact in person, but far less frequently.
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  • Work in a group or as part of a team.

Physical Work Conditions

  • Always work outdoors.
  • Always wear protective attire, such as gloves.
  • Are exposed to contaminants on a daily basis.
  • Are always exposed to distracting and uncomfortable noise levels.
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  • Are often exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures while working outside. May work in varying lighting conditions depending on weather.
  • Are often exposed to hazardous equipment.
  • Are often exposed to hazardous situations that may produce cuts or minor burns.
  • Often are exposed to diseases and infections.
  • Work in enclosed equipment, such as a truck, on a daily basis.
  • Work with other people, but are usually many feet apart from them.

Work Performance

  • Must be very exact in their work. Errors could cost the company money.
  • Repeat the same physical activities.
  • Must keep pace with the speed of equipment.
  • Make decisions on a daily basis that strongly impact customers. They are able to make most decisions without talking to a supervisor.
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  • Are able to set some tasks and goals for the day without talking to a supervisor.
  • Must meet strict deadlines on a daily basis.

Hours/Travel

  • Generally have a set schedule each week.
  • Usually work more than 40 hours a week.
  • Usually start work early in the morning.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.