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Transportation · Washington

How to Become a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Washington

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Washington earn a median salary of $71,440/year, which is 48% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a refuse and recyclable material collectors takes home approximately $3,475/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$71K
Median salary in Washington
+48%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
3,890
Employed in Washington

What a refuse and recyclable material collectors can afford in Washington

Gross annual salary$71,440
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$4,887/mo
Median 2BR rent (Washington)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home28.9% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$71,440/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,475/mo

Becoming a refuse and recyclable material collectors in Washington

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Washington licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Washington

Washington employs 3,890 refuse and recyclable material collectors. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Yakima.

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors salary by metro area in Washington

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue$77K$37.16/hr2,210
Yakima$63K$30.43/hr60
Kennewick-Richland$63K$30.26/hr120
Spokane-Spokane Valley$62K$29.83/hr320
Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater$61K$29.3/hr120
Walla Walla$60K$29.01/hr30

Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors salary range in Washington

10th percentile (entry)
$50K
25th percentile
$61K
Median (50th)
$71K
75th percentile
$78K
90th percentile (senior)
$89K
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Frequently asked questions

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

The median refuse and recyclable material collectors salary in Washington is $71,440 per year ($34.35/hr). This is 48% above the national median of $48,350. Salaries range from $49,730 to $88,520.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $71,440, a refuse and recyclable material collectors in Washington would take home approximately $4,887/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for refuse and recyclable material collectors in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($77,300), Yakima ($63,300), Kennewick-Richland ($62,930). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means refuse and recyclable material collectors keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.