Garbage collectors earn the highest average salaries in Alaska.
Top-Paying State for Garbage Collectors
In the United States, Alaska stands out as the state where garbage collectors, often referred to as refuse and recyclable material collectors, receive the highest average annual salaries. On average, professionals in this field in Alaska earn around $43,551 per year.
Salary Variations and Factors
While Alaska offers the highest average, salaries for garbage collectors can vary significantly based on several factors:
- Experience Level:
- Entry-level positions typically start at lower wages, often around $21,000 annually.
- Experienced professionals with more years on the job and specialized skills can command higher salaries.
- Location within a State: Salaries are generally higher in urban areas compared to rural areas. This is often due to a higher cost of living, increased demand for services, and larger municipal budgets in cities.
- Employer Type: Compensation can differ whether one is employed by municipal governments, private waste management companies, or industrial waste services.
- Job Responsibilities: Roles that involve operating specialized heavy equipment, managing complex routes, or supervising others may offer higher pay.
To illustrate the general range, here's a quick overview of salary points:
| Location / Experience Level | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Alaska (Average) | $43,551 |
| Entry-Level (General) | $21,000 |
Understanding these variations is crucial for anyone considering a career in waste management, as earnings potential can differ significantly across various regions and career stages. For broader insights into waste management salaries across the nation, resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics provide comprehensive data.
