• Occupation Overview
• Future Growth Opportunities
• Job Description

II. Job Requirements/Prerequisites:

• Skill Requirements
• Experience Prerequisites
• Education/Training Required

• Bay Area Education/Training Resources

IV. Getting A Job:

• Employers Who Are/Will Be Hiring
• Recommended Job Search Strategy

V. Back To Career Guide Home Page

Skill Requirements

Intellectual - basic

• Write clear and accurate reports.
  
• Use good judgment in hazardous and/or unusual situations.
  

Intellectual - specialized

• Follow safety guidelines.
  

Social

• Work independently or as part of a team.
  
• Deal effectively with customers.
  

Physical

• Ability to work calmly under hazardous (and sometimes emergency) conditions.
  
• Good eyesight to spot dangers.
  
• Ability to drive vehicles and operate equipment such as forklifts.
  
• Ability to work outdoors and indoors.
  
• Tolerance for potentially loud noises and unpleasant odors.

Skill Maintenance requirement
Moderate. Short (8 hour) refresher courses are common in this occupation.

Experience Prerequisites

In general, experience is not required, but in a weak economy those with experience will have an advantage in getting a job.

Education/Training Required

Generally a Hazardous Waste Worker Certificate from an EPA-approved school is required. Sometimes an AS Degree is also required. While the economy is poor and there are more workers than jobs, those with more education are more likely to be hired.

The next section in this career guide ("Bay Area Education/Training Resources") provides detailed information on some of the training programs available for this occupation.