The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 requires local government to set objectives that include, amongst others, the provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner and promoting a safe and healthy environment. However, to deliver on this mandate, competent and capable people should lead the local government sphere. This article presents the findings of a study on the assessment of the skills, experience, and qualifications of waste management officers (WMOs) in selected municipalities in South Africa. The research design follows a quantitative methodology within a positivist paradigm. The data was gathered through document reviews and self-administered survey questionnaires. This is followed by a brief outline of the waste management legislation together with a quantitative approach to the results that were identified and analysed. The article presents evidence that there are challenges faced by municipa