What Is the Hiring Process Like at Republic Services?
The Republic Services hiring process includes several key stages designed to evaluate your skills, safety awareness, and cultural fit. From the online application to the assessment test and behavioral interview, candidates are screened for reliability, teamwork, and commitment to customer service. This guide explains each step of the process—whether you’re applying for a driver, technician, customer service, or corporate role—and offers tips to help you prepare and succeed.
Step 1: Online Application
Start by visiting the Republic Services Careers page to search and apply for open positions. You’ll need to create an account, upload your resume, and fill out basic information about your experience and qualifications.
Tip: Tailor your resume to highlight safety awareness, customer service, and teamwork—Republic Services places a high value on those traits.
Step 2: Pre-Employment Assessment Test
After submitting your application, you may be asked to complete an online assessment, depending on the role. The Republic Services assessment test helps evaluate whether you’re a good fit for the job.
Common Test Areas:
- Situational Judgment Test (SJT): How you respond to real-life workplace scenarios
- Personality Assessment: Measures work ethic, dependability, and attitude
- Mechanical Aptitude (for technicians/drivers): Understanding of tools, systems, and mechanical reasoning
- Basic Math & Reading Comprehension: Important for roles that involve routing, safety logs, or written communication
Tip: Practice behavioral and situational tests beforehand. Always answer consistently and professionally.
Step 3: Phone Interview
If you pass the assessment, a recruiter may contact you for a phone screening. This short call typically includes:
- Verifying your background and availability
- Asking basic questions about your experience
- Gauging your interest in the company and role
Step 4: In-Person or Virtual Interview
The next stage is a formal interview with a hiring manager or team lead. Depending on the role, this may be a 1-on-1 interview or a panel interview.
Republic Services Interview Questions May Include:
- “Tell me about a time you worked in a team to solve a problem.”
- “How do you handle tight schedules or time-sensitive work?”
- “What would you do if you saw a coworker not following safety procedures?”
- “Why do you want to work at Republic Services?”
Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively.
Step 5: Background Check and Drug Screening
If selected, you’ll need to pass a background check and drug screening, which is standard for most Republic Services positions—especially those involving driving or operating heavy equipment.
Step 6: Job Offer and Onboarding
Once cleared, you may receive a conditional job offer, followed by onboarding paperwork and training instructions. Republic Services places strong emphasis on safety training, environmental awareness, and customer service standards.
Tips to Succeed in the Hiring Process
- Research the company’s mission and values—mention them during your interview
- Highlight any experience with safety procedures, equipment operation, or customer interaction
- Be professional, courteous, and enthusiastic throughout the process
- Prepare for both behavioral and practical questions
Republic Services Job Interview – Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect in a Republic Services interview?
Expect a behavioral-style interview focused on safety, teamwork, and customer service. You may meet with a hiring manager or a panel, depending on the role.
What questions are commonly asked in the interview?
Common Republic Services interview questions include:
- “Why do you want to work for Republic Services?”
- “Describe a time you dealt with a difficult customer.”
- “How do you prioritize safety in the workplace?”
- “Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team.”
How should I prepare for the interview?
- Research the company’s values and mission
- Prepare answers using the STAR method
- Practice discussing your work ethic, safety mindset, and customer focus
- Be ready to talk about your availability, shift flexibility, and previous experience
What should I wear to the interview?
Dress in clean, professional, or business casual attire. For driver or technician roles, a neat, practical appearance is acceptable, while corporate roles may require more formal attire.
How long does the interview process take?
The full hiring process—from application to offer—can take 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the role and location. Interview feedback is often given within a few days.
Conclusion
The Republic Services hiring process is designed to identify candidates who are reliable, safety-conscious, and customer-focused. By understanding what to expect at each stage—from the assessment test to the final interview—you’ll be better prepared to stand out and move one step closer to joining one of the leading waste and recycling companies in the U.S.
