To work as a trash collector, you typically need to:

• complete short-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is required for this job. However, many employers prefer that you have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Trash collectors who drive heavy trucks often need a commercial driver's license. Some states require you to complete a basic truck-driving training program. This often is a requirement for a commercial driver's license. These programs usually take a few months to complete.

On-the-job training

Trash collectors learn their skills on the job. You usually work with an experienced collector who teaches you the job. Training generally lasts up to three months.