Will AI replace refuse and recyclable material collectors?AI replacement risk 26% and how the work is changing
Median annual pay
$49,690
25th–75th pct. $39,080–$62,020
Top pay (est.)
$98,700
Top 10% $75,900
Pay in 5 years
$57,800est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$67,300est.
$57,900–$78,200
Outlook score
51/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
26%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
+2.1%
16K openings / yr
Will AI replace Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors? AI replacement risk
26%
Low
Ranked #202 safest from AI among all U.S. occupations
Very lowLowModerateHighVery high
How AI is changing this job
A written analysis for this occupation is being prepared.
AI replacement risk compares the parts of a job that are easy to hand to AI or software (processing information, documentation, repetitive computer work) with the parts that are hard to automate (physical work, working closely with people, judgment in unpredictable settings), using O*NET work activities, work context, skills and knowledge. The result is a relative position among all occupations in the country, scaled to 0–100%. Methodology →
Skills, education and requirements for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentHandling and Moving ObjectsPerforming General Physical ActivitiesControlling Machines and ProcessesCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsInspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Important abilities
Static StrengthFar VisionReaction TimeTrunk StrengthMultilimb CoordinationNear Vision
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.