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Transportation · Iowa

How to Become a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Iowa

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Iowa earn a median salary of $48,830/year, which is 1% above the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a refuse and recyclable material collectors takes home approximately $1,831/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$49K
Median salary in Iowa
+1%
vs. national average
4.8%
State income tax
2,050
Employed in Iowa

What a refuse and recyclable material collectors can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$48,830
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.8% state tax)$3,243/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home43.5% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$48,830/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,831/mo

Becoming a refuse and recyclable material collectors in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors positions in Iowa typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many refuse and recyclable material collectors positions in Iowa require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Iowa licensure or certification

Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for refuse and recyclable material collectorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Iowa Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Iowa

Iowa employs 2,050 refuse and recyclable material collectors. The highest concentrations are in Davenport-Moline-Rock Island and Des Moines-West Des Moines.

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$74K$35.69/hr820
Des Moines-West Des Moines$56K$26.73/hr490
Ames$52K$24.87/hr70
Dubuque$52K$24.78/hr60
Iowa City$51K$24.65/hr60
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$51K$24.52/hr160
Cedar Rapids$50K$23.93/hr160
Sioux City$38K$18.36/hr60

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$37K
25th percentile
$45K
Median (50th)
$49K
75th percentile
$56K
90th percentile (senior)
$63K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a refuse and recyclable material collectors make in Iowa?

The median refuse and recyclable material collectors salary in Iowa is $48,830 per year ($23.48/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $48,350. Salaries range from $37,340 to $63,040.

What are the requirements to become a refuse and recyclable material collectors in Iowa?

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors positions in Iowa typically require No formal educational credential. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a refuse and recyclable material collectors afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $48,830, a refuse and recyclable material collectors in Iowa would take home approximately $3,243/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for refuse and recyclable material collectors in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for refuse and recyclable material collectors in Iowa are Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($74,240), Des Moines-West Des Moines ($55,600), Ames ($51,730). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for refuse and recyclable material collectors?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $48,830 salary, this means roughly $2,358/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.