SWANA.org
You are here: Education · Educate · Certification



Certification

 Register for an Upcoming Testing Center

How to Become Certified | How to Recertify | Frequently Asked Questions
Chapter CEU Approval Request | Certification Fee Schedule

SWANA Certification is recognized by numerous states as the standard for solid waste employees.  Being SWANA Certified enhances your resume and distinguishes you as a leader in your profession.   

Many states/provinces recognize SWANA as an approved training and continuing education provider. Attendance at SWANA national or chapter training does not guarantee credits will be accepted by your state/provincial certifying board. Your state/province may grant credits differently than the SWANA CEUs distributed for the event.  It is important to consult your state/provincial certification board for details and any required approval prior to training. 

Certification empowers you with the latest information, creates networking opportunities with fellow professionals, and identifies you as an asset to the industry. 

The following certifications disciplines are offered:

Bioreactor and Leachate Recirculation Landfills

Construction & Demolition Materials Management

Transfer Station Systems

MSW Collection Systems

MSW Management Systems

Recycling Systems

Composting Programs

Landfill Operations

HHW/CESQG Collection Operations

SWANA Offers Three (3) Different Levels of Certification:

Certified Manager

Certified Technical Associate

Certified Inspector

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • At least five years experience in MSW Managment (4-year degree in a related field can substitute for up to two years)
  • Minimum of two years experience in management / supervisory position with direct responsibility for daily operations related to the discipline that you are seeking certification in
  • Available for ALL Disciplines
  • Involvement in the planning, design, implementation, operation or promotion related to the discipline, but does not fit into other certification categories (consultants, planners, vendors, engineers)
  • Available for ALL Disciplines
  • Available ONLY for Landfill and Construction and Demolition Certifications
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum of two years experience as a MSW Landfill Inspector
  • Able to issue official citations which require actions or impose penalties
  • Becoming Certified - Initial Certification

    Click HERE for a Certification Application.

    In order to become SWANA Certified, you must register to take the Certification Exam at any of our Training Centers, Symposia, Conferences, or local Chapter Events. 

    Register for an upcoming Certification Testing Center

    You must score a minimum of 70% on the exam in order to obtain your certification. Currently, SWANA offers Certification Exams for each of the eight disciplines. Applications for certification will be issued on the day of the exam and the "supervisor's signature" has been replaced by the "code of ethics" page.

    Staying Certified - Recertification Process

    Simply follow these three (3) easy steps:

    1. Obtain 30 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) within a three year period
        *Obtaining 30 CEUs does not automatically renew your certification
    2. Complete the one-page
    Recertification Application
    3. Submit the Recertification Fee via check, credit card, or PO

    You can fax your application to Attn: Training and Certification Coordinator at fax number (301)585-0297, email certification@swana.org or you can mail your application to: SWANA, c/o Certification Coordinator, 1100 Wayne Avenue, Suite 700, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

    You can upgrade your certification level by completing and submitting the Upgrade Request Application.

    Earn CEUs by attending one of SWANA's many training centers. For more information on SWANA events that might offer CEUs, see these Upcoming Events.

     

     







    Copyright 2012 by Solid Waste Association of North America  Privacy Statement |  Terms Of Use