Litter pickers are responsible for keeping public places clean and tidy.
While no set entry qualifications are required to work in litter picker jobs, evidence of basic skills is desirable. Apprenticeships in Cleaning and Support Services, which lead to NVQ qualifications, may be on offer. Once in employment, litter pickers may work train under the supervision of more experienced staff members. They may also be encouraged to work towards professional qualifications, such as NVQs in Cleaning and Support Services or the British Institute of Cleaning Sciences Cleaning Operators Proficiency Certificate.
The majority of litter pickers are employed by local authorities and councils. They may work in cleaning departments as permanent staff members or may work through a contract cleaning firm. Employment opportunities may also be found through local tourist attractions and private organisations.
Litter pickers tend to work full-time hours, Monday to Friday. They may work shifts, including weekends, early mornings and late evenings. Part-time and overtime work is often readily available, with recruitment agencies being a valuable source of vacancies. Candidates for litter picker jobs must be physically fit and willing to work in all weather conditions.
The starting salary for a litter picker may be around £11,000 a year. Those working in large cities are likely to earn higher rates of pay. Qualified and experienced litter pickers may gain promotion to supervisory roles.