Apprentice, Driver, Commercial

Waste Management, Inc. (WM)•Town of Clay, NY
•$23 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

The Driver Apprentice trains alongside an experienced WM Driver and/or Driver Trainer to learn to safely operate a commercial refuse or recycling vehicle and provide customer service within the assigned line of business. After obtaining a Commercial Driving Permit, the apprentice completes required driver training and remains in the role until all training requirements are met. While working toward the permit, the apprentice also performs on-route helper duties, including loading containers and assisting the driver. This is an on-site, safety-sensitive role with an early start time. The expected base pay range is $23.00–$25.00 per hour. The position requires compliance with applicable safety rules and protocols and may involve drug and alcohol testing. Successful candidates must complete pre-employment screening, including a drug screen and physical.

Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years of age and legally eligible to work in the United States.
  • Able to read, write, and speak English sufficiently to interact with the public, understand traffic signs, respond to official questions, and complete records or reports.
  • Commercial or non-commercial Driver’s License Class C or D.
  • Successfully complete pre-employment screening, including a drug screen and physical.
  • Comply with safety rules and protocols; the role may be subject to drug and alcohol testing.

Nice To Haves

  • Accredited high school diploma or GED.
  • Commercial or non-commercial Class C or D license with a Commercial Driver’s License permit.

Responsibilities

  • Train with a WM Driver and/or Driver Trainer to learn safe operation of a commercial refuse or recycling vehicle.
  • Operate the vehicle in accordance with WM safety rules, OSHA and DOT requirements, and applicable local, state, and federal laws.
  • Perform pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections and document them using the Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR).
  • Report unsafe situations, service issues, incidents, accidents, injuries, and property damage to the Operations Manager or Dispatch.
  • Attend scheduled training programs, briefings, and meetings.
  • Work with the Operations Manager to improve route efficiency and identify best practices.
  • Notify Operations Manager or Dispatch of service interruptions and potential hazards, including inaccessible streets and receptacles too heavy to service.
  • Communicate customer requests to Dispatch or the Operations Manager.
  • Empty receptacles fully and leave customer locations clean and free of debris.
  • Follow route assignments, complete end-of-day documentation and checkout, and assist other drivers as directed.
  • While obtaining a Commercial Driving Permit and completing driver training, work as an on-route Helper.
  • Manually or mechanically load and empty residential or commercial containers into the truck, including containers staged curbside or dockside, carried out, or requiring pullout.
  • Operate hoisting devices to lift and empty bins or containers into the truck hopper.
  • Assist the driver with backing maneuvers while on route.
  • Perform duties as scheduled by the Operations Manager or Dispatch to meet customer needs.

Benefits

  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Short-term disability
  • Stock purchase plan
  • Company matching on a 401(k)
  • Paid vacation
  • Paid holidays
  • Personal days
  • Your Tomorrow Education Assistance Program
  • Paid on-the-job training
  • Career progression opportunities
  • Dependent day care
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service