High School

Classes that are helpful for future methane/landfill gas collection work include mathematics, biology, chemistry, environmental studies, and computer science. The ability to communicate clearly is also important in this field, so be sure to take English and speech classes. 

Postsecondary Education

Many employers prefer to hire methane/landfill gas collection operators who hold a bachelor's degree in industrial management or industrial engineering. Degrees may also be in operations management and supervision; logistics, materials, and supply chain management; or in business/commerce or business management. In addition, in large plants, managers usually have more oversight responsibilities, which is why companies may prefer to hire managers with a master's degree in business administration or a graduate degree in industrial management.

Continuing Education

Methane/Landfill gas collection operators continue to take classes to keep their knowledge and skills up to date. The Solid Waste Association of North America offers classes and training for landfill and landfill gas professionals. Classes cover topics such as leachate management and treatment, landfill operations and basics, and landfill operations management. Find information at https://swana.org.

Certification 

Certification is voluntary and can help improve methane/landfill gas collection operators' skills, knowledge, and job prospects. They may receive training and certification from organizations such as the Occupational Safety & Health Administration and the Solid Waste Association of North America, among others.

Methane/Landfill gas collection system operators usually have three or more years of experience. This is not an entry-level position. Some employers prefer to hire operators who have certification in addition to prior work experience. Operators must have strong knowledge of methane and landfill gas collection facilities, machinery, tools, materials, processes, and regulations. They must be able to identify operation problems and solve them quickly and effectively. The job requires the ability to follow set procedures and routines. Operators must also have strong technology skills and be well versed in various software programs, such as analytical or scientific and facilities management software programs. People who do best in this job are conventional, enterprising, and practical.