How to Become a Landfill Engineer

A landfill engineer is basically responsible for the design of a landfill. Hired by either the city, the state or through environmental agencies, your job as a landfill engineer would be to create the most effective layout possible to contain and dispose of waste with minimal effect on the surrounding environment. You would need to be trained in toxic leaks, hazardous materials and health dangers.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Basic computer skills
• Related solid waste management experience
• Bachelor's degree

1. Be ready to go to college for a minimum of 4 years for a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Chemical Sciences or Environmental Sciences. It's also possible to become a landfill engineer if you have a degree in other related fields, such as Structural Engineering or Biochemical Sciences. Because there is no direct degree for this field, it depends more on what electives you take than the name on your certificate.

2. Get training in related IT software, which is essential to help you with the design and layout of the landfill. Because regulations are constantly changing, it's important to keep up-to-date with new requirements by following computerized updates.

3. Consider getting experience in an entry-level job in solid waste management or environmental issues. This will give you an understanding of groundwater monitoring networks and solid waste management plans. If you can, consider working in a few different fields, such as private and industrial waste management, so you can learn the differences involved.

4. Get experience in writing and reporting. Once you become a landfill engineer, you will be in charge of creating reports on the current state of the landfill, writing proposals for environmental agencies and city councils and keeping records of changes in the landfill itself. You may also have to keep reports on employee performance and quality control.

5. Be open to continuing your education. Certain organizations may require a Master's Degree in Environmental Engineering from employees. If that is the case, your company may pay for this education to help you finish the degree. Other companies may require CECs (continuing education credits) on a yearly basis.

Tips & Warnings

• Because this has become a competitive field over the last decade, it may take you longer than in other fields to upgrade positions or gain a higher status within a company. Keep in mind, though, that entry-level jobs still pay well, even for those with little to no experience.
• Familiarity with computers and word processing programs in general will help you significantly in this career.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Earn your degree from industry experts at University of Phoenix. Take the next step in your career.