Don Birnesser, P.E.
Principal Engineer Associate
Education:
M. Eng., Environmental Engineering, Penn State University, University Park, PA
BS, Environmental Engineering, Penn State University, University Park, PA
Project Management Certificate, Penn State University, University Park, PA
Professional Licenses:
Transfer Station Manager, Solid Waste Association of North America
Registered Environmental Professional Engineer, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
“I help clients develop efficient, cost-effective solutions for material handling and traditional and hard-to-recycle materials to realize maximum diversion.”
Mr. Birnesser has performed environmental, civil, and mechanical engineering projects for public- and private-sector clients in 23 US states and two provinces in Canada.
A seasoned industry veteran, he is a supervising engineer, project manager, and operations manager with over 40 years of experience leading technical teams in planning, site evaluation, environmental permitting and compliance, engineering, procurement and contract negotiation, construction support, operational management, safety assessment, and expert witness services.
His solid waste management project experience, both as a consulting engineer and in the public sector, includes integrated and zero-waste planning; materials characterization; materials recycling and recovery; composting and organics processing; transfer; resource recovery and conversion technology; disaster debris recovery; and active and closed landfills.
In 2012, SWANA presented him with the annual Commitment to Service Faculty Award, recognizing faculty members who have gone above and beyond to assist SWANA training.
In 2023, the Collection & Transfer Technical Division of SWANA awarded him the annual Distinguished Individual Achievement Award, recognizing his outstanding service to the Technical Division, support of SWANA’s mission to advance the practice of Municipal Solid Waste management, and overall long-term service to the solid waste management industry.
Publications:
“Factors to Consider When Expanding a Transfer Station,” published in Waste Today (July 2026)