Extending the Hernandez and Barrera Family Legacy at Athens Services

Hernandez and Barrera family

Waste and recycling professionals work hard every day to protect the environment for all of us. We’ve all seen the drivers who collect our waste and recycling, but there are many more workers behind the scenes. All of them deserve our thanks for the work they do.

Extending the Hernandez and Barrera Family Legacy at Athens Services

As a family-owned and operated company, Athens Services is proud to foster a multi-generational workplace where family members can thrive while working side by side. The Hernandez and Barrera families are a testament to this supportive environment — continuing to extend their family legacy through meaningful careers at Athens Services.

Customer Experience Analyst Alejandro “Alex” Hernandez recently joined the Athens Services team in August. In his prior position, Alex felt like just another number in corporate America. He wanted to grow professionally and make an impact — ultimately leading him to pursue a long-term career at Athens Services, a journey some may say started at home. Alex has not one, not two, but four family members building their careers at Athens alongside him.

“Whenever we have get-togethers, we talk ‘trash’ and catch up on how work has been,” said Alex.

Hernandez and Barrera family
(Commercial Driver Jose Hernandez, Customer Experience Analyst Alex Hernandez, Commercial Driver Luis Barrera, and Scout Driver Raudel Hernandez)

Commercial Driver Jose Hernandez
Team Member Since: 2019
Relation: Father
Location: LA South
Community Served: City of LA – Harbor Zone

Commercial Driver Gerardo Hernandez
(not pictured)
Team Member Since: 2022
Relation: Uncle
Location: Paramount
Communities Served: Downey, Cerritos and Paramount

Commercial Driver Luis Barrera
Team Member Since: 2011
Relation: Cousin
Location: LA South
Community Served: Redondo Beach

Scout Driver Raudel Hernandez
Team Member Since: 2022
Relation: Cousin and Gerardo’s son
Location: LA South
Community Served: Palos Verdes Estates

Family Growth and Career Advancement at Athens Services

The common thread for both families — and what drew them to Athens Services — is the opportunity to build a long-lasting and meaningful career.

“My uncle told me, ‘If you want a good job, come here to Athens Services and they’ll give you the opportunity to grow,’” said Raudel.

That advice proved true. Raudel began as a Helper in 2022 and has already been promoted to Scout Driver — a clear reflection of the company’s growth-oriented culture.

In addition to these advancement opportunities, Athens also emphasizes a collaborative learning environment where team members support one another.

“The family atmosphere is evident throughout the whole company,” said Alex. “Everyone is approachable, and you’re able to ask questions without hesitation.”

Both the Hernandez and Barrera families live in Lawndale, and they envision the next generation of their family joining them in building fulfilling careers at Athens Services.

“My son loves trash trucks,” said Luis. “Every time he sees an Athens truck he says, ‘That’s my dad!’”

If a family-first workplace sounds like the right fit for you — or if you already have relatives thriving at Athens — explore career opportunities at Athens Services.

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