Getting Certified Is As Easy As 1, 2, 3!
1. CHOOSE YOUR DISCIPLINE(S).
The Solid Waste Association of North America offers eight (8) certifications in the following solid waste disciplines:
2. CHOOSE YOUR CERTIFICATION LEVEL.
Most SWANA Certifications offer at least two (2) eligibility levels, with an additional Inspector level offered to Landfill and Construction & Demolition SWANA Certification holders:
- Technical Associate: This level is ideal for professionals new to the industry and involved in the planning, design, implementation, operation or promotion of the MSW field. This would also include consultants, planners, vendors and regulators, etc. A minimum of a High School Degree or GED Required.
- Manager: directly responsible for daily operations; compliance with design and permit conditions, utilization of field equipment and services,personnel needs, utilization and retention.This professional must meet all of the requirements of the Technical Associate level plus a minimum of five (5) years** experience in Municipal Solid Waste Management, and at least two (2) years experience in a management/supervisory position in the discipline for which you are applying.**Exceptions: 2 years of MSW experience may substitute a 4-year degree in a related field.
- Inspector: Unique to Landfill and Construction & Demolition certification holders, this
professional must meet all of the requirements of the Technical Associate level as well as the ability to issue official citations for violations which require action/impose penalties. This professional must also be an active inspector with at least 2 years experience.
3. PASS THE SWANA CERTIFICATION EXAM FOR YOUR DISCIPLINE.
SWANA certification exams are offered at all SWANA and SWANA Chapter training events, even if the preparatory class is not being offered. You may only sit for one exam per testing session. You are not required to attend the preparatory training courses to become certified; however, it does reinforce your knowledge in a particular discipline. A passing score of 70% or above is needed to become SWANA certified. You will be allotted three (3) hours to complete your exam. All exams are proctored.
Rules and Guidelines:
- You may use calculators, preferably one capable of handling up to seven digits.
- Landfill Certification candidates may use MOLO scales for maps.
- The exam is a “closed book” exam so you may not bring manuals, worksheet or notes to the testing site.
- Before leaving the testing site, you will be asked to complete the SWANA Certification Application.
- Exam results will be mailed to the certification candidates within 60 days of the test date.
If you have any questions about becoming SWANA Certified, please contact us at cert@SWANA.org.