Becoming an NYC Sanitation Worker: Commonly Asked Questions

Sanitation workers not only have one of the most dangerous jobs in all of U.S., but they also play a significant role in providing valuable service to the community by collecting hazardous waste and transporting it to appropriate waste disposal areas like landfills and dumps.

In this blog post, we answer some commonly asked questions about the duties of a sanitation worker:

1. What Does A Sanitation Worker Do?

Apart from waste collection, the sanitation department is also responsible for snow removal and street cleaning.

As a part of their key responsibilities, sanitation workers maintain the garbage trucks and related equipment on a daily basis. They’re also responsible for operating truck mechanisms like heavy load lifting, dumping and setting down dumpsters and trash cans.

Moreover, they:

  • Transport garbage in an environmentally friendly and state-approved manner
  • Are aware of different protocols of garbage collection and disposal
  • Properly separate recyclables from other garbage types to ensure effective recycling
  • Schedule weekly garbage collection from commercial and residential locations
  • Clean debris from roads to maintain a clean and safe environment
  • Collect large pieces of electronic devices or furniture either by appointment or from the side of the road for effective disposal

2. What Are The Sanitation Worker Requirements?

  • High school diploma is usually preferred
  • Working knowledge of online mapping sites and GPS
  • Strength and physical dexterity
  • Needs to have a commercial driver’s license in order to operate a garbage truck
  • Ability to work in, and endure, tough working conditions
  • Decent sense of direction
  • Punctual
  • Team player
  • Knowledge of crucial waste disposal methods

3. What’s The Average Salary of Sanitation Workers?

While the salary of a sanitation worker varies based on level of experience, expertise, education and certifications, a sanitation worker usually starts out at a base pay of $37,260 ($17.92/hour). Moreover, sanitation workers are offered additional financial incentives including benefits and pension.

Employees that secure higher positions in the DSNY earn in six figures.

4. What’s the work schedule like?

Sanitation workers have full-time positions that take place during daylight hours. An average sanitation worker may even start their work day at 3:30 a.m., going around their assigned city, collecting trash from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

5. How to apply for the job?

Apply for a position at the NYC Department of Sanitation at the DSNY website. The hiring process requires you to pass a written exam and a physical test.

Prepare for the NYC Sanitation exam under the guidance of leading experts at the Civil Service Success. We offer scheduled exam preparatory classes and workshops to help candidates ace their tests!

Register today, and become a New York State civil service worker!

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