The practice of collecting and disposing of waste. Waste management workers, sometimes referred to as garbage or sanitation workers, are responsible for collecting, sorting, and disposing trash in certain areas within the municipality. Both private and government institutions employ these full-time workers to keep their facilities clean and in order.

Some of the key roles of waste management workers are to plan garbage pickup routes, drive garbage trucks and load trash into trucks. After collecting garbage, they return to the sanitation plant, where trash is compacted and disposed of. Other responsibilities of waste management workers include inspecting trucks to guarantee safe working conditions; communicating with dispatchers regarding accidents, delays, or other maintenance issues; and making reports about faulty equipment.

Any individual who wishes to become a waste management worker must be physically fit, as the work sometimes requires lifting heavy objects. Waste management workers should be comfortable with working unusual hours because they often work early in the morning or late at night. They should also be prepared to work outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions. Working with minimal or no supervision is an important quality expected of waste management workers. They should have the initiative and self-motivation to complete their tasks within a specific time period.

The minimum educational requirement for applicants to this position is a high school diploma. They should also have a commercial driver's license, and their driving records should not contain any information about reckless driving or involvement in an accident. Furthermore, aspirants will be required to undergo and pass a criminal background and drug tests. In some cases, employers may order applicants to pass a driving exam.