Summary
Garbage collector roles
pickup
The garbage collector collects household waste deposited along the sidewalks or in the bins provided for this purpose in public spaces. To do this, it carries bins, bags, wheeled bins or loose waste whenever the driver stops. He then activates the container lifter to dump the waste into the dumpster.
Sorting
The garbage collector may also be required to sort the waste at the recycling centre, or to incinerate it.
Collection
Finally, he sometimes participates in the collection of heavy and/or bulky objects that individuals place on the sidewalk.
Garbage collector’s working conditions
Communal work
The garbage collector works for the municipalities. He can also be recruited by a private company, but which is also necessarily linked to the municipalities by contract. Thus it helps to preserve the environment while providing quality service to the population.
Team work
In general, the garbage collector is integrated into a team of three people. They often work together early in the morning (from 5 a.m.) or late at night (until 4 a.m.).
Dangerous work
Always outside, the garbage collector is confronted with the vagaries of the weather. It is exposed:
- in the wind;
- in the rain ;
- cold…
And even after dark.
He is also often in the middle of traffic and must therefore ensure:
- to his own safety;
- to that of other motorists;
- and that of passers-by.
How much does a scavenger earn?
At the start of his career, a garbage collector receives the minimum wage and some allowances calculated according to his working conditions.
Training to become a scavenger
Experience comes first
The garbage collector can carry out his work without specific qualifications and learn directly by training with an employer.
2 diplomas are still more suitable. They prepare directly after the 3rd, either in initial training or in work-study.
- CAP waste management and urban cleanliness;
- CAP sanitation and special liquid waste collection agent.
Qualifications needed to become a scavenger
be resistant
The garbage collector carries out his work in relatively difficult conditions. He is also forced to remain standing on the step of the truck throughout the tour.
To be efficient
Even if he wears appropriate clothing, the garbage collector should not be afraid of getting dirty and carrying the bins at arm’s length.
To be vigilant
He must be attentive to everything that is happening around him at all times: the truck stops frequently, he must go fast and yet remain cautious.
Content updated on 07/06/2012
Our tips:
The National Federation of Waste and Environmental Activities has a website, click here.