How to Apply to Republic Services

Key Takeaways

Place your CDL class, endorsements, and DOT medical card status at the very top of your resume — Republic's recruiters and Workday filters screen for these credentials first for all driver positions
Apply directly through Republic's Workday portal at republic.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com and apply to each specific facility location individually, as roles are managed locally
Quantify your safety record with specific numbers — miles driven without incidents, years without preventable accidents, or equipment uptime percentages — to align with Republic's safety-first culture
Use waste industry terminology in your resume (front load, ASL, roll-off, MRF, TSDF, route optimization) so Workday's search and recruiters immediately recognize your relevant experience
Prepare for a practical, safety-focused interview by having specific examples ready of how you've handled equipment issues, route challenges, or safety incidents in previous roles
Ensure your DOT compliance documentation is current before applying — expired medical cards, unresolved clearinghouse queries, or incomplete driving history records slow the hiring process significantly
For Account Executive or corporate roles, research Republic's sustainability initiatives (RISE program, fleet electrification, landfill gas-to-energy) and reference them in your interview to demonstrate alignment with company priorities

About Republic Services

Republic Services is the second-largest waste management and environmental services provider in the United States, operating across 41 states and Puerto Rico with approximately 36,000 employees. The company manages the full lifecycle of waste — from collection and transfer to recycling and disposal — serving over 14 million customers through a network of hauling operations, transfer stations, recycling centers, and landfills. Republic Services has firmly positioned itself as a sustainability leader in an essential industry, committing to ambitious environmental goals including fleet electrification, landfill gas-to-energy projects, and circular economy innovations through its RISE (Recycling Infrastructure and Sustainability Education) initiative. What distinguishes Republic Services as an employer is the combination of industry stability and forward-thinking investment in its workforce. The company consistently earns recognition on Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies list and Barron's Most Sustainable Companies rankings. For frontline workers — CDL drivers, maintenance technicians, and plant operators — Republic offers structured career paths, competitive benefits from day one, and sign-on bonuses at many locations. For corporate and sales professionals, the company provides exposure to a massive operational footprint with real environmental impact. The culture leans toward safety-first, community-oriented values, with a strong emphasis on teamwork across tightly knit local operations. Employees frequently cite job security, benefits quality, and the tangible nature of the work as top reasons for staying. In an industry where demand never disappears, Republic Services offers something increasingly rare: meaningful, recession-resistant careers with clear advancement opportunities.

Application Process

1
Explore Republic Services' Workday Careers Portal
Navigate to Republic Services' dedicated Workday jobs hub at republic.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Republic to browse all active openings. Use the location filter aggressively — Republic operates hundreds of local facilities, and most operational roles (drivers, technicians, plant operators) are tied to specific sites. You can also filter by job family, such as 'Drivers,' 'Maintenance,' or 'Sales,' to narrow results quickly.
2
Create Your Workday Candidate Profile
Before applying, Workday will prompt you to create an account or sign in via LinkedIn, Google, or email. Build your profile carefully — Republic's Workday instance stores your information for future applications across all their locations, so accuracy here saves significant time. Upload your resume, which Workday will attempt to auto-parse into structured fields; review every parsed field for errors, especially CDL classifications, endorsements, and license expiration dates if applying for driver roles.
3
Complete the Full Application and Screening Questions
Republic Services includes role-specific screening questions that function as initial qualifiers — for CDL positions, expect questions about license class (A or B), endorsement types (airbrake, tanker), DOT physical status, and driving record history. For maintenance roles, you may be asked about specific certifications (ASE, welding, hydraulics). Answer these precisely, as recruiters commonly use them to filter candidates before reviewing resumes.
4
Initial Recruiter Screening
Qualified candidates typically receive a phone or video screening from a Republic Services recruiter within one to two weeks, though high-demand driver roles in urgent markets may move faster. This conversation generally covers your availability, salary expectations, relevant experience, and — for CDL roles — a detailed review of your driving history and compliance status. Be prepared to discuss your familiarity with DOT regulations if applying for any driving position.
5
On-Site or Virtual Interview with Hiring Manager
For operational and field roles, the next step is typically a face-to-face interview at the local Republic Services facility with the operations manager or district manager. For corporate and sales positions like Account Executive, expect a more structured interview that may include a panel or multiple one-on-one conversations. Many applicants report that Republic's local managers prioritize practical knowledge and cultural fit during these conversations.
6
Background Check, Drug Screening, and DOT Compliance
Republic Services conducts thorough pre-employment screening for all positions, which includes a criminal background check and drug test. CDL driver candidates face additional DOT-mandated requirements: a DOT physical, drug and alcohol clearinghouse query, verification of previous employer driving records (going back three years), and a road test or skills evaluation. This phase can take one to three weeks depending on how quickly prior employers respond to verification requests.
7
Offer, Onboarding, and Orientation
Upon passing all checks, you'll receive a formal offer through Workday's system, where you can review and e-sign documents digitally. Republic Services runs structured onboarding programs that include safety training, equipment familiarization, and — for drivers — route training with an experienced operator. New hires commonly report that the onboarding process emphasizes Republic's safety culture extensively, with multiple days dedicated to protocols before independent work begins.

Resume Tips for Republic Services

critical

Lead with CDL Credentials and Endorsements Prominently

For any driving position at Republic Services, your CDL class (A or B), endorsements (airbrake, tanker, hazmat), and current DOT medical card status should appear within the first three lines of your resume. Workday's parsing engine and Republic's recruiters scan for these qualifications immediately — burying them in a skills section at the bottom risks being filtered out. Format example: 'CDL Class B | Airbrake Endorsement | DOT Medical Card Valid Through 06/2026.'

critical

Quantify Safety Records and Operational Performance

Republic Services builds its brand around safety and operational excellence, so your resume should mirror these values with hard numbers. Include metrics like accident-free miles driven, years without safety incidents, route completion rates, or equipment uptime percentages you contributed to. A line like 'Maintained zero preventable accidents over 4 years and 280,000+ commercial miles' resonates far more than 'safe driver with clean record.'

critical

Use Industry-Specific Terminology Republic Recognizes

Republic Services operates across collection, transfer, recycling, and disposal — use the vocabulary of their business. Reference terms like 'front load,' 'rear load,' 'automated side load (ASL),' 'roll-off,' 'transfer station,' 'MRF (Materials Recovery Facility),' 'TSDF (Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facility),' and 'route optimization' where applicable. For maintenance roles, specify equipment brands and systems common in waste fleets: Amrep, McNeilus, Heil, Labrie, Cummins engines, Allison transmissions, and hydraulic systems.

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Highlight Compliance and Regulatory Knowledge

Waste management is one of the most heavily regulated industries in the country. If you have experience with DOT compliance, OSHA standards, EPA regulations, RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) requirements, or state-level environmental permits, call these out explicitly. For TSDF and plant technician roles especially, demonstrating regulatory awareness signals that you understand the stakes of the work and won't create compliance risk for Republic.

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Format for Workday's Parsing — Clean and Simple

Workday's resume parser handles standard formatting well but struggles with multi-column layouts, graphics, headers/footers, and embedded tables. Use a single-column format with clearly labeled sections (Experience, Education, Certifications, Skills), standard fonts like Arial or Calibri, and conventional date formats (MM/YYYY). Save as a .docx or .pdf — but test the upload and verify that Workday parsed your content correctly into its structured fields before submitting.

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Tailor for Account Executive and Corporate Roles Differently

If you're targeting Republic's sales or corporate positions, shift your resume emphasis toward revenue generation, account growth, and B2B relationship management within service industries. Republic's Account Executive roles focus on commercial waste and recycling services — experience in route-based or territory-based sales, municipal contracts, or environmental services is highly relevant. Include CRM proficiency (Salesforce is common in the industry) and specific metrics like portfolio size, retention rates, and new business revenue generated.

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Include Relevant Certifications Beyond CDL

Republic Services values additional credentials that demonstrate technical versatility. For maintenance roles, list ASE certifications, hydraulic repair certifications, welding certifications (MIG, TIG, stick), and any OEM-specific training. For operations and supervisory roles, mention OSHA 10/30-hour cards, forklift certification, or Lean/Six Sigma credentials. For environmental and TSDF roles, certifications like 40-Hour HAZWOPER training or Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) carry significant weight.

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Address Employment Gaps Transparently

The waste management industry experiences high turnover, and Republic's recruiters are accustomed to seeing varied work histories. If you have gaps, briefly note the reason (seasonal work, training, personal circumstances) rather than leaving unexplained holes. For CDL drivers, any gaps exceeding 30 days may trigger additional verification requirements under FMCSA regulations, so proactively noting these and confirming your current qualifications helps your application move smoothly through compliance review.

ATS System: Workday

Republic Services uses Workday Recruiting (instance wd5) as its applicant tracking system, which manages the entire candidate lifecycle from application to onboarding. Workday parses uploaded resumes into structured data fields and allows recruiters to search, filter, and score candidates using keywords, screening question responses, and qualification tags. Your application data persists in Workday, meaning previous applications to Republic Services are visible to recruiters reviewing your new submissions.

Always review and correct the auto-parsed fields after uploading your resume — Workday frequently misplaces CDL endorsements, certification dates, and job titles during parsing
Use exact job title keywords from the posting in your resume and profile (e.g., 'Commercial Front Load Driver' not just 'Truck Driver') since Workday's search indexes these terms
Complete every optional field in the application, including the 'Skills' and 'Certifications' sections, as recruiters use Workday's filtering to narrow large candidate pools by these attributes
Apply to each specific location separately — Republic's Workday portal lists roles by facility, and applying to one location does not automatically consider you for the same role at another site
Avoid using special characters, tables, or text boxes in your uploaded resume file, as Workday's parser may skip or corrupt these elements entirely
Set up job alerts within your Workday candidate profile to receive notifications when new Republic Services roles matching your criteria are posted — high-demand driver positions can fill within days

Complete Workday Resume Guide →

Interview Culture

Interviewing at Republic Services reflects the company's operational, safety-driven culture — expect a process that is direct, practical, and focused on whether you can perform the work reliably and safely. For CDL driver and maintenance technician positions, the interview is typically a single in-person conversation at the local hauling division or maintenance shop with the operations manager, fleet manager, or district manager. These interviews are conversational rather than formal, centering on your driving or mechanical experience, familiarity with specific equipment types, understanding of DOT compliance, and your approach to safety on the job. Many candidates report being given a facility tour during the interview, which is both a selling point and an informal assessment of your comfort level with the work environment. For corporate, sales, and supervisory roles such as Account Executive or Operations Supervisor, the process typically involves two to three rounds: an initial phone screen with a recruiter, followed by one or two interviews with the hiring manager and potentially a regional or area director. Account Executive candidates may be asked to walk through their sales process, discuss how they'd approach prospecting commercial waste customers, or describe how they've managed territory growth in previous roles. Behavioral questions are common at this level, often structured around Republic's core values: safety, commitment to customers, integrity, and respect. Across all roles, Republic Services interviewers consistently assess three things: reliability, safety mindset, and teamwork. Being on time to the interview matters — in an industry built on daily route schedules and facility operations, punctuality signals dependability. Dress appropriately for the role level (clean work-appropriate attire for field roles, business casual for corporate), and come prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've handled safety incidents, equipment challenges, or customer conflicts. Asking thoughtful questions about the local operation's fleet, route structure, or growth plans demonstrates genuine interest and often leaves a strong impression on hiring managers who take pride in their local teams.

What Republic Services Looks For

Proven safety track record — Republic Services prioritizes candidates who can demonstrate accident-free driving records, adherence to OSHA standards, or proactive safety behaviors in previous roles
Valid CDL credentials with clean MVR — for driver roles, a current Class A or B CDL with the appropriate endorsements and a motor vehicle record free of major violations is typically non-negotiable
Mechanical aptitude and equipment familiarity — maintenance and technician candidates should demonstrate hands-on experience with diesel engines, hydraulic systems, and waste collection vehicle platforms
Customer service orientation — even for field roles, Republic emphasizes professional interactions with customers and community members during daily collection routes and service calls
Reliability and schedule flexibility — waste collection operates on strict daily schedules including early morning starts and occasional Saturdays; candidates who demonstrate consistent attendance records stand out
Alignment with Republic's sustainability mission — particularly for corporate and leadership roles, demonstrating awareness of and enthusiasm for Republic's environmental commitments (fleet electrification, recycling innovation, landfill diversion goals) signals strong cultural fit
Ability to work in physically demanding and variable outdoor conditions — field roles require stamina, comfort with weather exposure, and the physical ability to meet DOT and job-specific requirements
Team-oriented mindset with local community pride — Republic's operations run on tightly coordinated local teams, and hiring managers actively look for candidates who thrive in collaborative, crew-based work environments

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Republic Services hiring process typically take from application to start date?

For CDL driver positions — which represent a large share of Republic's open roles — the process commonly takes two to four weeks from application to start date, though this can vary based on how quickly DOT compliance verification is completed. Prior employer driving record checks (required for the previous three years under FMCSA regulations) are often the longest step, as Republic must wait for responses from your former employers. Corporate and sales roles like Account Executive may take three to six weeks due to additional interview rounds. Applicants can help accelerate the process by proactively gathering their driving history, DOT medical card, and previous employer contact information before applying.

Do I need a CDL to apply for driver positions at Republic Services?

Yes, most driver positions at Republic Services require a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B at minimum, with many postings specifying required endorsements such as airbrake. Some listings may note 'CDL (B)' directly in the title. Republic Services does occasionally offer CDL training programs or partnerships at certain locations for candidates who hold a learner's permit, but this varies by market and demand. Check the specific job posting's requirements carefully — if a role says 'CDL B Required,' you'll need to hold the license before your start date. Having your CDL, DOT medical card, and a clean MVR ready at the time of application gives you a significant advantage in the process.

Does Republic Services require a cover letter with applications?

Republic Services' Workday application typically does not require a cover letter for operational and field roles like CDL drivers, maintenance technicians, or plant operators. For corporate positions, Account Executive roles, and management positions, a cover letter is generally optional but can strengthen your application — particularly if you use it to explain a career transition into waste management, highlight your knowledge of Republic's sustainability mission, or address a relocation. If you do include one, keep it concise (under one page) and focus on what specifically draws you to Republic Services rather than restating your resume.

What should I expect during the DOT background and compliance check at Republic Services?

Republic Services is legally required to conduct extensive DOT compliance checks for all CDL positions. This includes querying the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse for any violations, requesting your driving record from previous employers for the past three years, verifying your current DOT medical certificate, running your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) through state databases, and conducting a DOT-compliant drug screen. If you have any unresolved violations in the Clearinghouse or gaps in your employment history, address these proactively — contact previous employers to ensure they'll respond promptly to verification requests. This compliance phase is thorough and non-negotiable, reflecting both federal law and Republic's strong safety culture.

Are there sign-on bonuses available at Republic Services?

Yes, Republic Services frequently offers sign-on bonuses for high-demand positions, particularly CDL drivers and maintenance technicians in competitive markets. These bonuses vary by location and role — some postings advertise specific amounts directly in the job title (like '$5,000 Sign-On Bonus'). Sign-on bonuses are typically paid out in installments over a retention period rather than as a lump sum on day one. Check the specific job posting for bonus details, and ask your recruiter during the phone screening about any current incentives at the facility you're applying to, as some bonuses may not be listed in the posting.

What benefits does Republic Services offer to full-time employees?

Republic Services offers a comprehensive benefits package that many employees cite as a top reason for joining and staying with the company. Benefits typically include medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k) plan with company match; paid time off and holidays; life insurance; and employee assistance programs. Many field positions offer benefits starting on the first day of the month following your hire date. Republic also provides career development programs, tuition reimbursement at certain levels, and structured advancement paths — for example, drivers can progress to trainer, lead driver, or operations supervisor roles. Specific benefits details are typically shared during the recruiter screening and in your formal offer letter.

Can I apply to multiple Republic Services locations at the same time?

Absolutely — and for many candidates, applying to multiple locations is a smart strategy. Republic Services' Workday system manages each facility's roles independently, so applying to a Commercial Front Load Driver position in one city does not automatically consider you for the same role at a nearby location. Submit separate applications for each location and role that interests you. Your Workday candidate profile saves your information, making subsequent applications much faster. Just ensure your resume and screening question answers are consistent across applications, as recruiters can see your full application history within the system.

What is the interview format for Account Executive and corporate roles at Republic Services?

Account Executive and corporate roles at Republic Services typically follow a multi-round interview process. After an initial phone screen with a recruiter covering your background and compensation expectations, you'll usually have one to two interviews with hiring managers and potentially regional leadership. For sales roles, expect scenario-based questions about how you'd prospect new commercial waste customers, manage a territory, handle contract renewals, and compete against other waste haulers. Demonstrating knowledge of the waste and recycling industry's competitive landscape — including Republic's market position relative to Waste Management and local haulers — shows serious preparation. Business casual attire is appropriate, and coming prepared with questions about the territory, team structure, and growth targets will help you stand out.

Does Republic Services hire candidates with limited experience or those new to the waste management industry?

Republic Services does hire candidates who are new to waste management, particularly for entry-level driver positions, helper roles, and certain technician positions. The key qualification for driver roles is holding a valid CDL with a clean driving record — previous waste hauling experience is valued but not always required, as Republic provides route training and equipment-specific instruction during onboarding. For maintenance roles, transferable skills from diesel mechanic, heavy equipment, or fleet maintenance backgrounds are highly relevant even without waste industry experience. Emphasize any experience with similar vehicle types, hydraulic systems, or route-based operations in your resume, and express willingness to learn Republic's specific processes and safety protocols during your interview.

Sample Open Positions

Check Your Resume Before Applying → View 336 open positions at Republic Services

Related Resources

Similar Companies

Sources

Republic Services Careers Portal — Republic Services / Workday
Republic Services - About Us and Sustainability — Republic Services, Inc.
Republic Services Company Reviews and Interview Insights — Glassdoor
Republic Services - Ethisphere World's Most Ethical Companies — Republic Services, Inc.