Waste Management Hiring Process: Job Application, Interviews, and Employment

By | July 16, 2023
Waste Management Hiring Process
The Waste Management hiring process also involves taking an assessment test, which consists of multiple choice and short answer questions. Image source: AP Photo/David J. Phillip, Seattletimes.

This post details the various stages in the Waste Management hiring process, to help you scale them easily and get the job that you desire.

If you are seeking employment with Waste Management Inc., you will need to successfully pass through a recruitment process that involves job application and interviews before you can be hired.

Please, read on:

Waste Management Hiring Process

The Waste Management has a hiring process that enables it to find and recruit the best people to positions in the Company. These include:

Waste Management Job Application Process

The first step to apply for any position at Waste Management, Inc., is to go online to the careers page on wm.com.

This website has all the information you need about the company, including job descriptions, benefits, compensation, etc.

Once there, you can search through their available positions or select one that interests you. You may also choose to fill out an application form if you have not already done so.

Waste Management Job Assessment Test

After filling out your application, you will be asked to take a test called the “WM Assessment”.

It consists of multiple choice questions and short answer questions.

There are two types of tests: the written test and the oral interview.

Both tests are designed to evaluate your knowledge of the job requirements.

If you pass both tests, you will then receive an email with instructions on how to schedule an appointment for an interview. 

Tips for passing the WM Assessment

Here are tips to help you pass the Waste Management assessment test:

  1. Read the entire description of the job before taking the test.
  2. Take the time to study the sample answers provided.
  3. Be prepared to talk about the skills required for the job.
  4. Practice answering questions before the test.
  5. Don’t worry too much if you do not get every question right.
  6. Make sure you know what the correct answer is for each question.
  7. Answer the questions in order.
  8. Do not guess.
  9. Remember to use proper grammar and spelling when writing your responses.

Waste Management Interview Process

Once you have passed the WM Assessment, you will be contacted by a recruiter who will set up an interview.

The interview process usually takes place over the phone and lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to 45 minutes.

During the interview, the recruiter will ask you questions about yourself and your experience.

He or she will also ask you about the job responsibilities and duties. At the end of the interview, they will give you feedback on whether or not they think you would be a good fit for the job.

After the interview, you will either be offered the job or told that you did not make it past the screening stage.

Waste Management Interview Questions and Answers

Here are sample questions and answers you can practice with in preparation for your next WM Interview:

  1. What is your strongest skill?

I am very organized and I like to see things completed.

2. Describe a situation where you had to work quickly under pressure. How did you handle it?

I’d retain my cool and be calm. I would listen to what others were saying and try to understand why they were upset. Then I would find a solution that everyone could agree on.

3. Tell me about a time when you had to solve a problem without using technology.

When I was working as a lab technician, we had to analyze blood samples. We used chemicals and other equipment to determine the amount of sugar in the blood.

Sometimes we had to wait several days to get results back. When this happened, we had to figure out another way to complete our tasks.

More Waste Management Interview Questions and Answers

4. Give me an example of a time when you had a conflict with someone at work. How did you resolve it?

When I worked at a restaurant, one day there was a disagreement between myself and the manager.

We argued about something that really wasn’t any big deal. However, because he was the boss, I knew I couldn’t argue with him.

So I went home and thought about what I wanted to say to him. I decided to write down everything I wanted to tell him.

Then I wrote out all his faults so I wouldn’t forget anything important. Finally, I gave him the paper and said “here it is.

You can read it now or later. It doesn’t matter to me. Just remember that I didn’t lie.” That ended the argument.

5. What kind of person are you?

I am very friendly and outgoing. I enjoy meeting new people. I also love talking to children.

Tips for passing the WM Interview

Here are things you should keep in mind during the interview:

  1. Listen carefully to the interviewer’s questions.
  2. Be honest in your answers.
  3. Try to show enthusiasm for the job.

Hearing from WM after the Interview

After you pass the interview, you may receive a call from the Waste Management Company within two weeks.

They want to know if you accept their offer. If you do, then you will start training immediately.

Otherwise, you will need to wait until the next available position opens up.

If you were hired, you will be given a packet containing more information about the job and company.

In this packet, you will find information about your start date, hours worked, vacation days, training opportunities, and other important details.

You will also receive a copy of the employee handbook and a list of benefits.

You will have to provide references before starting work. The company will contact these individuals and ask them if you are trustworthy and reliable.

References will help the company make sure that you won’t cause problems while working.

Major Waste Management Careers and Jobs

Here are some careers and jobs available at Waste Management that you can apply for:

  • Recycling Technician

The recycling technician job requires you to sort recyclable materials into different bins based on type.

You must follow instructions and use proper safety procedures.

Requirements: Able to carry/lift up to 50 pounds and stand while working for long periods of time.

Salary Range: $10 – $12 per hour.

  • Disposal Technician

As a disposal technician, you will collect trash and dispose of garbage by using trucks.

Requirements: Must be able to walk, climb stairs, lift heavy objects, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, twist, reach above shoulder level, and operate machinery.

Salary Range: $13 – $15 per hour.

  • Environmental Specialist

An environmental specialist is responsible for collecting data about air pollution levels, waste streams, and water quality.

Requirements: Must possess good communication skills and knowledge of chemistry.

Salaries: $16 – $18 per hour.

  • Driver/Operator

A driver/operator drives a truck carrying hazardous material.

Requirements: Must have a valid driver license, clean driving record, and be willing to drive at all times.

Salary Range: $17 – $19 per hour.

  • Material Handler

A material handler loads or unloads trucks.

Requirements: Should be able to lift 40 pounds and carry items weighing up to 20 pounds.

Salary Range: $14 – $16 per hour.

What to Expect During Your Training Period

Your training period can last anywhere from 2 months to 3 years depending on how much experience you already have. It

What to Expect Working at Waste Management

It is a great experience working at Waste Management because they take pride in being environmentally friendly.

They recycle everything possible. They even go as far as making compost out of food scraps.

There are recycling centers located throughout the country where you can drop off your old appliances, electronics, and furniture.

Benefits include paid vacations, medical insurance, life insurance, 401(k) plan, dental plans, and retirement programs.

What some Employees Dislike about Working at Waste Management

The pay isn’t very high compared to other companies. Employees are required to wear uniforms and there are strict rules regarding personal appearance.

Company Profile

Waste Management Incorporated is an American multinational corporation headquartered in Houston, Texas, United States, which provides solid waste collection, transportation, and disposal services.

The company operates in North America, Canada and Puerto Rico. Waste Management went public in 1971.

In 2021, it generated revenue of US$17.9 billion.

Conclusion

Waste Management, WM, has one of the best benefits packages available. If you’re looking for a stable career with a well-known company, this could be the place for you.

This post has provided detailed information about the WM hiring process to help you to effectively prepare for your job hunting with the Company.