1. Waste
  2. Managing solid waste
  3. Waste disposal

Training for landfill operators

Certificate with COVID-19 text over

Certifications, trainings and COVID-19

Certifications scheduled to expire between March 13 and December 31, 2020, will not lapse as a result of course cancellations or COVID-19 related restrictions. See program-specific information on certification and training.

In Minnesota, operators and inspectors of waste disposal facilities must be certified. The MPCA administers the certification program and provides workshops and conferences to help you stay up-to-date on your certification.

Registration

Workshops and classes have been canceled through June 2020. An updated schedule will be posted in July.

Questions? Contact Diane Belanger at 651-757-2072
 

Certification training

These courses provide you with the tools to obtain your certification as required by Minn. R. ch. 7048. Training covers basic math, science, public health issues, rules & regulations, waste screening, asbestos, stormwater requirements, landfill design, facility operations and closure/post closure.

Type II certification training

This two-day course (with exam) is for professionals pursuing careers in municipal solid waste management. (Nine contact hours)

The exam is required to be a certified Type II facility operator. Certification is good for three years

  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent or equivalent experience
  • Complete at least 15 contact hours of training within three years prior to your application
  • Have at least six months of work experience as a Type II facility operator

Type III certification training

This two-day course (with exam) is for professionals pursuing careers in demolition waste/industrial waste landfill management. (Nine contact hours)

The exam is required to be a certified Type III facility operator. Certification is good for three years.

Requirements before taking an examination:

  • Complete at least four contact hours of training within three years prior to the date of application

Solid waste refresher training

This one-day refresher helps Type II or Type III operators toward their certification renewal hours. Half of the day is spent in the classroom followed by a facility tour in the afternoon.

Renew your certification

Microsoft Office document icon Renewal application for solid waste operator/inspector certification (w-sw1-02)

Use this form to renew your certification.

In order to renew your certification, you will need to complete:

  • Type II - 18 contact hours over three years
  • Type III - Six contact hours over three years