You could apply to do a Waste Resource Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship.

This apprenticeship typically takes a year to complete and is a mix of training on the job and off-site learning.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

You can apply directly to job vacancies through your local council, employment agencies and waste management companies.

Employers set their own entry requirements but you'll be expected to be physically fit and a good timekeeper.

You'll need:

• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to work on your own
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to organise your time and workload
• customer service skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• knowledge of public safety and security
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You'll need to:

• be over 18 years of age

You'll need a large goods vehicle (LGV) licence to apply for jobs that include driving the bin collection lorry.

As a bin worker, you could:

• collect rubbish and recycling from homes or businesses
• use a lifting mechanism to empty waste into the bin lorry
• operate a waste compactor to crush loads
• sort recycling boxes at the kerbside
• drive a bin lorry safely
• help unload waste at landfill sites or recycling facilities
• record the amount of waste collected

You could work in the community or at a waste recycling site.

Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers, physically demanding and dirty.

You may need to wear protective clothing.