Top 10 Antenna Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for an antenna engineer in the job market because they demonstrate that the engineer has a certain level of expertise and knowledge in their field. A certification can help to give potential employers confidence that the engineer has the necessary skills and qualifications to handle a specific job. Certifications also provide employers with evidence that the engineer is up-to-date on industry standards and advancements, making them more attractive candidates for positions. Ultimately, certifications can help antenna engineers stand out from their peers, helping them secure better jobs and higher salaries.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Antenna Engineers, and explains how they can contribute to an antenna engineer's career growth.

What are Antenna Engineer Certifications?

Antenna engineer certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and experience of individuals who work in antenna engineering. It demonstrates an individual’s commitment to the profession, as well as their technical expertise in a variety of related disciplines. By obtaining this certification, engineers can demonstrate their proficiency in designing, testing, and installing antennas for a variety of applications. This can be extremely beneficial for those looking to enter the field or advance their career prospects. Additionally, employers may prefer to hire certified engineers because they have proven themselves to be knowledgeable and reliable professionals. Ultimately, antenna engineer certification provides assurance that candidates possess the necessary skills and qualifications needed for success in the field.

Pro Tip: Make sure you research the different types of antenna engineer certifications available and understand the requirements for each one. It is also important to understand what type of career paths are available to you with each certification, as well as any continuing education requirements that may be associated with it.

Related: What does an Antenna Engineer do?

Top 10 Antenna Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Antenna Engineers today.

1. Certified Professional Broadcast Engineer (CPBE)

A Certified Professional Broadcast Engineer (CPBE) is a professional certification for broadcast engineers, developed and administered by the Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE). It is the highest level of certification available for broadcast engineers. The CPBE certification is designed to demonstrate an engineer’s knowledge and expertise in the field of broadcast engineering.

To become a CPBE, an individual must first pass the SBE Certification Exam. This exam consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical test. The written exam covers topics such as radio frequency theory, digital signal processing, audio/video systems, antennas, transmission systems, and other related subjects. The practical test includes hands-on activities such as setting up and troubleshooting equipment.

In order to take the SBE Certification Exam, individuals must have at least three years of full-time experience in broadcast engineering or equivalent education or training. Additionally, they must be members of the SBE in good standing.

The cost to take the SBE Certification Exam varies depending on whether you are taking it for the first time or retaking it. For first-time applicants, the cost is $150 USD; for retakes, it is $100 USD.

Once an individual has passed both parts of the SBE Certification Exam with a score of 70% or higher, they will be awarded their CPBE certification from the SBE. This certification is valid for five years after which time it must be renewed by passing a recertification exam every five years thereafter.

2. Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP)

Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP) is a certification program offered by CWNP, Inc. that provides IT professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to design, deploy, configure, secure and manage enterprise-level wireless networks. It is an industry-recognized certification for those who want to specialize in wireless network engineering and administration.

The CWNP certification program consists of four levels: Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA), Certified Wireless Security Professional (CWSP), Certified Wireless Design Professional (CWDP) and Certified Wireless Analysis Professional (CWAP). Each level requires a separate exam which must be taken at an authorized testing center.

The CWNA exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and costs $225 USD. The CWSP exam typically takes about 120 minutes to complete and costs $250 USD. The CWDP exam typically takes about 180 minutes to complete and costs $350 USD. The CWAP exam typically takes about 210 minutes to complete and costs $400 USD.

To get certified, you must first register for the exams on the official website of CWNP, Inc., pay the applicable fees, schedule your exams at an authorized testing center, prepare for the exams using study materials provided by CWNP, Inc., take the exams at the scheduled time and pass them with a score of 70% or higher. After passing all four exams successfully, you will receive your official CWNP certification from CWNP, Inc.

3. Certified Microwave Radio Technician (CMRT)

Certified Microwave Radio Technician (CMRT) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE). The certification is designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely install, maintain, and troubleshoot microwave radio systems.

The CMRT program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on field test. The online course covers topics such as microwave radio theory, antenna systems, installation techniques, safety procedures, and troubleshooting. It takes approximately 12 hours to complete the online course. Once the course is completed, applicants must pass a hands-on field test administered by NATE in order to receive their certification.

The cost for the CMRT program varies depending on whether or not you are a member of NATE. If you are not a member of NATE, it will cost $200 for the online course and $250 for the field test. If you are a member of NATE, it will cost $150 for the online course and $200 for the field test.

In order to get your CMRT certification, you must successfully complete both parts of the program within one year from when you register. After that time period has elapsed, you will need to re-register and retake both parts of the program in order to obtain your certification.

4. Certified Antenna Design Engineer (CADE)

Certified Antenna Design Engineer (CADE) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). It is designed to recognize engineers who have demonstrated expertise in antenna design, analysis, and testing.

The CADE certification requires applicants to pass a written exam that covers topics such as antenna fundamentals, design principles, analysis techniques, and testing procedures. The exam typically takes two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions.

To be eligible for the CADE certification, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in antenna engineering or related fields. Additionally, applicants must have a bachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering or a related field.

The cost of the CADE certification exam is $150 USD for IEEE members and $200 USD for non-members. The exam fee includes access to an online study guide with sample questions and practice tests.

5. Certified Antenna Installer (CAI)

Certified Antenna Installer (CAI) is a certification program designed to ensure that antenna installers have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and properly install antennas. The certification is offered by the National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE).

The CAI certification program consists of an online course, a written exam, and a hands-on practical exam. The online course covers topics such as safety, antenna types, installation methods, and troubleshooting. The written exam is a multiple-choice test that covers the material presented in the online course. The practical exam requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to safely and properly install an antenna system.

In order to become certified as a CAI, individuals must complete all three components of the certification program. It typically takes between two weeks and one month to complete all three components of the certification program.

The cost for the CAI certification program varies depending on the provider offering it. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 for all three components of the program.

6. Certified Radio Frequency Engineer (CRFE)

A Certified Radio Frequency Engineer (CRFE) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of radio frequency engineering. This certification is offered by the Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) and requires applicants to demonstrate their proficiency in a variety of topics related to radio frequency engineering, including antenna design, signal propagation, modulation techniques, receiver design, and more.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the requirements for the CRFE certification. The first step is to become a Certified Radio Operator (CRO), which requires passing an exam administered by SBE. Once you have passed the CRO exam, you must then complete additional coursework and/or on-the-job training in order to meet the requirements for the CRFE certification.

In order to apply for the CRFE certification, you will need to submit an application form along with proof of your education and/or experience in radio frequency engineering. You will also need to pass a written examination administered by SBE. Once you have successfully completed all of these steps, you will be awarded your CRFE certificate.

The cost of obtaining a CRFE certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of SBE. If you are not currently a member, then it will cost $180 USD plus any applicable taxes; if you are already a member then it will cost $90 USD plus any applicable taxes.

7. Certified Telecommunications Network Specialist (CTNS)

Certified Telecommunications Network Specialist (CTNS) is a certification program offered by the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE). It is designed to provide professionals in the telecommunications industry with an understanding of the principles, technologies, and applications related to cable telecommunications networks. The CTNS certification is designed for those who are responsible for designing, installing, operating, and maintaining cable television networks.

The CTNS certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a hands-on lab exam. The written exam covers topics such as network topology, network security, network protocols, network performance monitoring and troubleshooting. The hands-on lab exam requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to install and configure various types of equipment used in cable television networks.

To become certified as a CTNS, you must first pass both the written and hands-on exams. The cost of taking the exams varies depending on your location; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your official CTNS certification card from SCTE.

The length of time it takes to complete the process depends on how quickly you can study for and take the exams. Generally speaking, most people are able to complete the entire process within six months or less.

8. Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFOT)

Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFOT) is a certification program offered by the Fiber Optic Association (FOA). It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform fiber optic installation, testing, and maintenance. The CFOT certification is widely recognized as an industry standard for fiber optic technicians.

The CFOT certification requires successful completion of both a written exam and a hands-on practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as safety, fiber optics theory, installation procedures, testing methods, and troubleshooting. The hands-on practical exam tests the individual’s ability to install and terminate fiber optic cables in accordance with industry standards.

The CFOT certification can be obtained through self-study or through an authorized FOA training center. Self-study requires purchasing study materials from the FOA website and completing the exams independently. Training centers offer courses that include instructor-led instruction and hands-on practice sessions.

The cost of obtaining the CFOT certification varies depending on whether you choose to self-study or take a course at an authorized training center. Self-study typically costs between $150-$300 USD for study materials plus the cost of taking the exams ($100 each). Courses at authorized training centers range from $500-$1,000 USD depending on location and length of course.

It typically takes about 3 months to complete self-study for the CFOT certification but this can vary depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying each week. Courses at authorized training centers usually last between two days and one week depending on the provider’s schedule.

9. Certified Radio Frequency Safety Officer (CRFSO)

Certified Radio Frequency Safety Officer (CRFSO) is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure the safe operation of radio frequency (RF) devices. The CRFSO certification program is administered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).

The CRFSO certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in RF safety, engineering, or related fields. Applicants must also pass an examination that covers topics such as RF safety principles, regulations and standards, hazard assessment, and mitigation strategies.

The CRFSO certification exam typically takes about four hours to complete. It is offered twice a year at various locations throughout the United States. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$700 USD.

10. Certified Satellite Communications Technician (CSCT).

Certified Satellite Communications Technician (CSCT) is a certification program offered by the Society of Satellite Professionals International (SSPI). It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of technicians who install, maintain, and troubleshoot satellite communications systems.

The CSCT certification requires applicants to have at least one year of experience in the satellite communications industry. Applicants must also pass an online exam that covers topics such as satellite system design, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To obtain the CSCT certification, applicants must pay a fee of $195 USD. This fee includes access to study materials and the exam itself. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CSCT certificate within four weeks. The certification is valid for three years from the date it was issued.

Do You Really Need a Antenna Engineer Certificate?

When it comes to antenna engineering, the short answer is yes. An Antenna Engineer Certificate is a specialized certificate that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in antenna engineering. This type of certification is often required for those working in the radio frequency and telecommunications industries.

The importance of an Antenna Engineer Certificate cannot be understated. A qualified engineer who holds this certification is equipped with the skills and expertise necessary to design, build, install, maintain, operate, and troubleshoot antennas used in a variety of applications. This includes wireless communications, satellite communications, broadcast television and radio transmission systems, radar systems, navigation systems, and more. Without this certification, an engineer may not have the necessary skills to properly perform these tasks.

An Antenna Engineer Certificate also helps to demonstrate a level of professionalism within the industry. Employers are likely to view candidates with this certification as having more credibility than those without it. Additionally, having this certificate can open doors for job opportunities that may not otherwise be available without it. It may also provide access to more advanced training programs or even higher salaries when compared to non-certified engineers.

Overall, an Antenna Engineer Certificate is essential for anyone looking to work in antenna engineering or related fields. It provides additional qualifications that are highly sought after by employers in the field and can open doors for career advancement and improved salary potentials.

Related: Antenna Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Antenna Engineer Certifications

1. What is an Antenna Engineer Certification?

Answer: An Antenna Engineer Certification is a professional credential that verifies an individual’s knowledge and experience in designing, constructing, and maintaining antennas for communications systems.

2. How do I become certified as an Antenna Engineer?

Answer: To become certified as an Antenna Engineer, you must pass a comprehensive exam administered by the International Society of Antenna Engineers (ISAE). You must also have at least two years of relevant work experience in the field.

3. What topics are covered on the exam?

Answer: The exam covers topics such as antenna theory, design principles, radiation patterns and performance analysis, wave propagation concepts and calculations, antenna measurement techniques, and antenna system design.

4. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The time it takes to get certified varies depending on your current knowledge level and preparation for the exam. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 3-6 months to prepare for the exam and receive certification.

5. Is there a cost associated with becoming certified?

Answer: Yes, there is a cost associated with becoming certified as an Antenna Engineer. The exact cost depends on your location and provider but typically ranges from $300-$500 USD.