The waste and recycling industry, like many others, has faced a growing challenge in recent years: a shortage of drivers. With more than 100,000 waste, recycling, and compost collection trucks operating in the U.S., the demand for Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders continues to rise, and many companies are struggling to fill these essential positions. As the industry grows, the need for qualified drivers increases, but attracting and retaining them remains a persistent issue.
Understanding the Driver Shortage
Several factors contribute to the ongoing driver shortage in the waste and recycling industry:
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A Growing Industry
By 2026, the solid waste collection sector will need 14,200 new collection drivers and riders, 1,900 diesel service technicians and mechanics, and 300 welders and cutters. These job openings reflect the expansion of the industry and the tightening labor market.
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An Aging Workforce
Many drivers currently employed in the waste management sector are nearing retirement age. The industry has struggled to replace these experienced professionals, which has created a gap between the available jobs and the pool of qualified drivers.
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Workforce Competition
Compounding the issue is the competition for skilled labor across various industries. As more sectors expand, the demand for CDL drivers grows, putting additional pressure on waste and recycling companies to secure talent.
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Job Perception and Recruitment Challenges
Despite offering attractive wages, a consistent five-day work week, and the advantage of returning home after each shift, the industry still faces difficulties in recruiting new drivers. Long-haul driving roles often overshadow the waste sector in public perception, even though waste drivers benefit from a more structured daily routine.
Addressing the Shortage: Solutions and Strategies
The waste and recycling industry cannot afford to lag behind in finding solutions to this problem. Here are some approaches being implemented and explored to combat driver shortages:
1. Strengthening Technical Education
One promising solution is expanding educational opportunities through legislation like the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act. This law reauthorizes the Perkins Act, supporting technical education programs that help equip individuals with skills relevant to CDL roles and other positions within the waste industry.
Another legislative measure, the Professional Pell Education Learning (PROPEL) Act, would allow students to use Pell Grants at trade and vocational schools. This act, if passed, would provide more flexibility for students seeking CDL training, opening doors to a broader pool of potential drivers and skilled workers.
2. Transitioning Veterans Into CDL Careers
Veterans are a valuable resource for the waste management sector, and programs are in place to help them transition into civilian careers as CDL drivers. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is implementing provisions of the FAST Act to assist veterans in obtaining their CDLs. These measures include:
- Extending the time for military personnel to apply for skills test waivers.
- Allowing active duty military personnel to apply for a commercial learner’s permit (CLP) in the state where they are stationed.
- Providing grant funds through the CMV Operator Safety Training Grant Program to driver training schools that specialize in veteran transition programs.
These efforts are designed to make it easier for veterans to move into commercial driving roles, creating a steady pipeline of qualified drivers for the industry.
3. Leveraging Digital Tools and Route Optimization
Technology is playing an increasingly important role in solving the driver shortage. Waste companies can enhance efficiency and make the job more attractive through digital solutions such as:
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Route Management Software: Tools like Hauler Hero enable waste and recycling companies to streamline their operations. By optimizing routes, companies can ensure that fewer drivers can handle more routes in less time, alleviating the pressure caused by staffing shortages. Dynamic routing and real-time updates allow drivers to work more efficiently, reducing detours and unnecessary driving.
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Mobile Technology: Providing drivers with in-cab technology to support day-to-day activities can reduce stress and improve retention. Features such as guided navigation, digital signature capture, and paperless documentation streamline operations, making drivers' jobs easier and more rewarding.
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Telematics: By using GPS and diagnostic systems, fleet managers can monitor vehicle location, health, and driver performance. Telematics can help address safety issues, track productivity, and provide feedback that helps drivers improve. Rewarding safe driving habits and efficient performance can increase driver satisfaction and retention.
4. Supporting Driver Well-Being
Drivers are the backbone of the waste and recycling industry. Ensuring they are supported, valued, and well-compensated is key to addressing the shortage. Efforts to improve working conditions, provide competitive wages, and offer benefits such as consistent schedules and routes can make the job more appealing. Driver retention is bolstered when employees feel that their needs are prioritized.
Conclusion: Taking Action Now
The waste and recycling industry is critical to the well-being of our communities and the environment. Combating the driver shortage is essential to maintaining efficient operations and meeting the growing demand for waste services. By investing in education, supporting veterans, leveraging technology, and improving working conditions, the industry can attract the next generation of CDL drivers and ensure a sustainable future for waste management.
For more information on how Hauler Hero can help your waste and recycling business overcome driver shortages, contact our team today.