High School

A well-rounded education is a good foundation for recycling and reclamation jobs. Take classes in science, math, history, and English. Computer classes are useful. Shop classes are also helpful as some jobs require skills with tools and machinery.

Postsecondary Training

A high school diploma is the minimum requirement for recycling and reclamation workers. An associate's or bachelor's degree, however, can help workers advance to more administrative roles, such as recycling coordinator or supervisor. Degrees may be in business, administration, environmental science, or related field.

Other Education or Training

Recycling and reclamation workers may take continuing education classes to keep their skills and knowledge up to date. They take classes offered by groups such as the National Recycling Coalition and the National Waste & Recycling Association. Contact these organizations for more information.

Certification or Licensing

Some reclamation jobs may require certification from a program that is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency. Find information at https://www.epa.gov/home/epa-certifications.

There are no certification or licensing requirements for recycling workers. Recycling professionals may get certified to demonstrate they have achieved a level of knowledge and skills in the recycling field. They may get the Sustainable Resource Management Professional designation upon completing 30 hours of coursework, passing a certification exam, and meeting other education and prior work experience requirements. Find information about certification programs on the National Recycling Coalition's web site, https://nrcrecycles.org/nscb/.

Most employers prefer to hire recycling and reclamation workers who have at least one to two years of prior work experience at a recycling facility. Workers receive training while on the job, which may last up to several months. Part or all of the workday may be spent outdoors in all types of weather conditions. The job also entails working with materials and products that can be hazardous. Physical fitness and stamina, manual dexterity, steady hands and arms, excellent coordination, and good near vision is required for this type of work. Workers must be skilled with various machines and control mechanisms. The job requires strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to follow procedures and maintain composure.