Driving the Future of Waste Management in Cork
At DGR, we’re proud to have specialist teams who know their local markets inside out. In Cork, some of our work centres on the waste management sector, an area that relies on skilled drivers and dependable general operatives to keep essential services moving.
We asked our Recruitment Branch Manager for Cork, Alan Fitzpatrick, to share his insights on what makes this industry unique, the people behind it, and how he and his team supports clients across the region every day.
When most people think of waste management, they picture the bins being emptied and the trucks moving through our streets before sunrise. What they might not see is the scale of the operation behind it all and the people who make it happen every single day. In Cork, the waste management sector is a major employer, and the work never stops. Keeping it running smoothly takes reliable drivers, hard-working general operatives, and strong coordination between crews and companies.
Waste management is a vital service that keeps our communities clean, but it also runs on tight schedules, strict safety standards, and early starts. That means the people in these roles need to be dependable, alert, and ready to work as a team from the first minute of their shift.
At DGR, our Cork division supports many of the leading waste and environmental service providers across Munster. We supply both HGV and Rigid drivers, as well as general operatives who handle loading, sorting, and site work. Many of our clients have been with us for years, and that comes down to one thing: consistency. They know we understand their operation inside out. We know which routes demand experienced drivers, which shifts suit local workers, and how to step in quickly when extra hands are needed.
The waste industry has its own rhythm. There are peak periods, seasonal changes, and strict compliance requirements to meet. We work closely with clients to plan ahead, fill gaps fast, and make sure all staff are trained, equipped, and ready to represent both DGR and the client well. It’s not just about sending people out to work; it’s about building reliable teams who take pride in what they do.
I’m also proud of the workforce we’ve built here in Cork. Many of our drivers and operatives have been with us long term. They’re professionals who show up every day and do tough, important work that keeps the city moving. We stay in touch with them, check in regularly, and make sure they have steady work and clear communication from us. That support makes all the difference, especially in an industry that runs at such a fast pace.
Looking ahead, I see real growth in this sector. With Cork expanding and environmental standards becoming even more important, waste management will continue to need skilled, reliable people on the ground. At DGR, we’re focused on being ready for that demand and continuing to match great clients with great workers.
If your company operates in the waste management sector and needs trusted staffing support, or if you’re an experienced driver or operative looking for steady work, I’d be happy to talk. You can reach me and the Cork team through info@dgr.ie.
About the Author
Alan Fitzpatrick is the Cork Manager at DGR, leading operations across Munster. With years of experience supplying skilled drivers and operatives to the waste management, logistics, and manufacturing sectors, Alan and his team help businesses keep operations running smoothly and efficiently.