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In select U.S. markets, route helpers assist with curbside waste and recycling collection routes. The work is demanding and safety-sensitive. However, the role is often left unmanaged. This can lead to inefficiencies, safety risks, and daily headaches for operations and HR leaders.
Many haulers work with traditional staffing companies to fill this role. When choosing a provider, it is important to look beyond merely finding headcount to fill shifts. An ideal workforce partner delivers a comprehensive solution with robust screening, job readiness, and safety training practices. Consider these three factors when exploring a recruiting and workforce partner.
- Safety and Training: Route helpers have physically demanding jobs with inherent risks. Insufficient training can result in safety incidents that affect employees, the community, and the company鈥檚 reputation. A labor provider鈥檚 onboarding and training program should be robust and ongoing. Ask to review their screening and training processes to ensure they understand the challenging nuances of the role.
- Supervision of Crew: Unsupervised helper crews can lead to disorganized morning route deployments, operational inefficiencies, and poor customer service. On-site daily supervision will help drive reliability, efficiency, safety, and accountability.
- Customer Service: Route helpers often interact directly with customers. Make sure your workforce partner provides sufficient customer service training and demonstrates a strong commitment to the importance of the overall customer experience.
A Managed Solution
For 25 years, has provided recruiting and workforce solutions to the waste and recycling industry. Comprehensive training and on-site leadership are key elements of our unique approach. Dedicated, on-site supervisors oversee stringent employee screening, training, and onboarding standards. Our trusted method builds safe, reliable, and productive teams that improve collection operations.
Training & Onboarding: Employee training and onboarding starts with a pre-hire physical assessment. Once hired, helpers complete a structured onboarding program and customer-specific training. They receive hands-on instruction in vehicle operation, ergonomic techniques, and safe work routines. Continuous training and daily safety meetings reinforce safe practices.
Morning Launch: Every day begins with an organized morning launch. Supervisors take attendance and conduct a safety tailgate meeting. Route helpers receive appropriate PPE and are assigned to their specific trucks. At Leadpoint, we strive for the 鈥渟ame driver, same helper鈥� to build strong working relationships through consistent pairings.
End-of-Day Check-Out: Helpers complete an end-of-day check-out at the end of their shift. During this time, they confirm that the route is complete and document any incidents, injuries, or medical needs. They may also request new PPE or report concerns.
On-Route Observations: Leadpoint supervisors conduct daily on-route observations to maintain safe work routines, high-performance standards, and customer satisfaction. They ensure helpers use proper PPE, remain alert to traffic, correctly use hand signals, and follow safe lifting and handling techniques. Supervisors also monitor customer service standards, such as upright carts and cans and closing lids after service. Observations allow supervisors to coach in real time and address customer or driver concerns during the observations.
Customer Relations: On-site route supervisors are our customers鈥� primary point of contact. They ensure customer expectations are met and mutual goals are aligned. Our supervisors are supported by聽Leadpoint聽leadership and receive comprehensive training. This includes hands-on collaboration with our Operations Support Team before and throughout the launch at new locations and ongoing assistance as needed.
The right workforce partner goes beyond placing workers on routes. They ensure efficiency, safety, and exceptional service through a trained and reliable workforce. Leadpoint鈥檚 dedicated on-site leadership works in partnership with you to provide quality helpers set up for success.
Are you looking for a reliable workforce partner who understands the pain points of this business? Leadpoint is the trusted recruiting and workforce provider for delivering safe, reliable, and productive teams across the waste and recycling industry.
to explore the benefits of a route helper crew done right!