As the labor market tightens and the critical driver shortage drags on, municipal and private haulers are feeling the pinch in recruitment.

These issues opened an important discussion at the annual conference of the Oklahoma Indian Nations Chapter of SWANA in Catoosa, Oklahoma, where Jerry Schuber, Sr., Director of Solid Waste and Recycling for the City of Broken Arrow, joined Erik Langner to present “Building Resilience During Labor Shortages.”

Schuber set the stage by outlining common experiences around solid waste that impact recruitment, specifically for waste collection drivers:

• Waste and commodity collections often are an undervalued service
• General perceptions about refuse collectors (“garbage men”) may not be positive
• Tight labor market overall
• Driver shortage
  
  

While most of these issues are cultural, systemic, or economic — and therefore outside the direct control of solid waste leadership — there are still ways to move the needle and uncover new talent to fill roles in refuse.

For the quickest results, Schuber suggested tapping transit drivers as a potential pool for solid waste. Both kinds of driving positions offer recruits the opportunity to work locally, but transit often requires more evening and weekend work than refuse collection, which may be more appealing as a result.

A longer term solution involves enhancing the profile of waste collection and recycling overall – a strategy that requires participation from individual organizations and industry groups alike.

Then there’s smart truck technology. Solid waste leaders often seek out such software and hardware for its operational benefits, but it’s worth noting that these technology solutions modernize the traditional waste collector’s job description, bringing it into the digital era, as well.

Schuber framed in-truck technology as an investment in essential services. By modernizing fleet operations, he said, the City of Broken Arrow underscores the importance of solid waste workers.

Keeping drivers for the long haul

Finding talented and qualified drivers is only part of the equation: Retention is another piece of the puzzle.

According to Schuber, on-board computers have made training easier and faster, which provides new and seasoned drivers alike more autonomy more quickly.

Likewise, in-cab tablets help drivers achieve a sense of mastery over their routes, in addition to the ability to help out with an unfamiliar route if the usual driver is away. Mapping tools and turn-by-turn directions can empower even a “green” driver to run a new route with a sense of confidence.

On-board computers and truck cameras also facilitate open, transparent communication among drivers, office staff, supervisors, and customers.

Photo and video taken along the route, and at the collection point, not only back up driver claims when it comes to containers not at the curb, but they also protect drivers — and the municipalities they work for — when it comes to accidents.

The short answer: Tech helps

There’s no one simple answer to finding employees to fill critical roles in a tight labor market – and during a driver shortage with no end in sight. But technology certainly can play a helpful role as municipalities and haulers seek to modernize job descriptions and make the work of refuse and recycling more meaningful and enjoyable for the people who pick it up for a living.

Learn more. We can help you identify tools and technologies to help you meet your goals. Let’s talk.