Quality route helpers in waste & recycling collection

Helpers on waste and recycling collection routes face physical demands every day. Their role is challenging and essential to efficient collection operations. A professional approach to filling this key role can have tremendous impact on your business.

Why Screening, Onboarding, and Training Matter

Screening, onboarding, and training are crucial given the job’s physically demanding nature and emphasis on customer service, productivity, and teamwork. A structured program delivers high-quality candidates ready to perform. Practical, hands-on training helps workers understand what to do, why it matters, and how to work safely.

Investing in Route Helpers for Stronger Teams

Leadpoint, a recruiting and workforce solutions company for the waste and recycling industry, has professionalized route-helper solutions. Leadpoint’s comprehensive route-helper training and onboarding is a key factor in its success. The training emphasizes safety and preparedness for efficient collection operations and exceptional customer service.

Onboarding & Training

Onboarding and training provide helpers with a preview of job responsibilities, physical demands, and safe work practices. Being fit for duty and well-trained from day one improves safety, productivity, and employee retention.

1. Pre-Employment Physical Assessment—Candidates partake in a simulated physical assessment during the interview process. This helps ensure job fit and candidate readiness.

2. Mandatory Onboarding—Before stepping into the role, all helpers must complete an onboarding program that includes:

• Video Training—Covers collection processes, truck safety, truck control, and heat illness prevention.
• Customer-Specific Training—Tailored instruction based on the client’s unique needs.
• Hands-On Equipment Training—Practical training with vehicles and hopper/blade operations, demonstrating ergonomic techniques and utilizing case studies.
• Safe Work Routines—A comprehensive guide is reviewed during orientation and referenced during ongoing safety huddles.
• Team Integration—Workers engage with drivers to build relationships from day one, creating a positive team environment.

3. Providing Proper PPE—Leadpoint provides PPE and uniforms, reinforcing professionalism while enhancing visibility and safety.

Continuous Training & Career Advancement

Training doesn’t stop after onboarding. Continuous learning and feedback ensure that route helpers stay engaged, improve their skills, and maintain high work standards:

• Route Observations—Leadpoint supervisors conduct daily route observations to provide coaching and real-time feedback between supervisors, helpers, and drivers.
• Morning Safety Huddles—Daily safety meetings reinforce safe work practices and teamwork.
• Daily Crew-Out & End-of-Day Assessments—Daily routines include morning route assignments and end-of-day route completion reviews.
• Future CDL Pipeline—Improved employee retention and training provide a valuable talent pipeline of CDL driver candidates.

Right Training, Safe Teams, Better Service

A safe, productive, and reliable team benefits all. Leadpoint’s On-Route Support provides high-quality route-helper crews trained for safe, efficient collection operations. Contact Leadpoint to explore the benefits of a route-helper crew done right!

Leadpoint is celebrating 25 years of supporting the waste and recycling industry through recruiting and workforce services. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Leadpoint partners with more than 60 operations across 22 states.