On average each person in the UK throws away seven times their body weight (about 500kg) in waste every year.
The Job
The job of a Refuse Operative (also known as a Kerbside Collector) is centred on the collection of waste from homes and businesses, emptying it onto a specially adapted vehicle and delivering it to a designated place. The job involves:
- Emptying bins into an allocated place on the vehicle.
- Returning bins back to the proper place ensuring no litter has been dropped.
- Assist the driver in manoeuvring the vehicle.
- Report any properties where collection has been unable to take place and the reasons for this.
- Post notices to customers regarding the collection service.
- Assist in unloading the waste at the disposal facility.
Have you got what it takes?
This is a very physical job and you will need to work at a fast pace. You should also polite and courteous when dealing with the general public.
You will be working with heavy machinery and large vehicles so you will need to be safety conscious.
Steps to starting a career
Most Refuse Operatives work for local authorities or private waste management companies so you should look for employment opportunities in the following places;
- Local Authority or waste management company websites. Click here for a list of Local Authorities.
- Specialist recruitment websites such as LG Jobs and Lets Recycle.
- Chartered Institution of Waste Management
- Local and national press.
- Local Government Careers website
More links to companies in the waste management industry.
The collection of waste, particularly recyclables is now being undertaken by a number of voluntary/charitable organisations on behalf of local authorities and private contractors.
Some voluntary work is available and is a good way of obtaining experience in order to find employment within the waste industry.
What are the entry requirements for this job?
What training will I be receive?
How much will I get paid?
How can I progress in this career?
Download our careers flyer Careers in the Waste Management Industry (PDF 1.02mb)
