Top 10 Area Supervisor Certifications

Certifications are important for an area supervisor in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise in the field. Employers want to hire employees who have the necessary skills and qualifications to perform their job duties effectively. Certifications provide employers with evidence that the individual has achieved a certain level of training, knowledge, and experience in their profession. They also provide proof that the individual has met certain standards set by industry organizations. Having certifications can help area supervisors stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs and can give them an edge when competing for positions.

This article reviews the top certifications for Area Supervisors and explains how these certifications can enhance an area supervisor's career.

What are Area Supervisor Certifications?

Area Supervisor Certification is a professional development program designed to help supervisors gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead their team. The certification is typically offered by employers or educational institutions, and it covers topics such as communication, team building, problem solving, conflict resolution, and other management skills. It can also provide a better understanding of the legal implications of supervising employees.

The certification can be beneficial to supervisors in several ways. First, it can help them develop their skills in managing a team and build stronger relationships with their employees. Second, it can provide them with an understanding of the legal requirements when supervising workers. Third, it can give supervisors the opportunity to network with other professionals in the same field. Finally, obtaining this certification may open up new opportunities for career advancement or recognition from employers or peers.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the requirements for area supervisor certification in your state or region, as they can vary widely. In some cases, additional coursework or certifications may be necessary to qualify for the position. Additionally, consider taking advantage of any available professional development opportunities in your area to increase your chances of success.

Related: What does an Area Supervisor do?

Top 10 Area Supervisor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Area Supervisors today.

1. Certified Safety Supervisor (CSS)

Certified Safety Supervisor (CSS) is a credential earned by individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage safety in the workplace. This certification is offered through the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). It requires an individual to demonstrate their competency in safety management, risk assessment, hazard control, and other related topics.

To become a Certified Safety Supervisor, individuals must first meet certain educational and experience requirements. They must have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in occupational safety, industrial hygiene, or a related field. Additionally, they must have at least three years of full-time work experience in occupational safety and health.

Once these requirements are met, individuals can take the CSS exam which consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as OSHA regulations, hazard identification and control techniques, accident investigation procedures, emergency response planning, and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for taking the CSS exam varies depending on where you live but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, individuals will receive their Certified Safety Supervisor certificate from BCSP.

2. Certified Production Supervisor (CPS)

Certified Production Supervisor (CPS) is a certification program offered by the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC). The CPS certification is designed to help individuals develop and demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful production supervisors in today’s competitive manufacturing environment. The CPS certification requires successful completion of four core courses, which cover topics such as safety, quality control, problem solving, and team building.

The four core courses typically take about 40 hours to complete, although this can vary depending on the individual’s learning style and pace. After completing the four core courses, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers all of the material presented in the courses. Upon passing the exam, individuals are awarded their CPS certification.

The cost of obtaining a Certified Production Supervisor (CPS) certification varies depending on where you receive your training. Generally speaking, it can range from around $200-$500 for the entire program.

In conclusion, obtaining a Certified Production Supervisor (CPS) certification can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in manufacturing or production management. It takes approximately 40 hours of coursework and an additional exam to obtain this credential; however, it can open up new opportunities for advancement within a company or industry.

3. Certified Quality Supervisor (CQS)

Certified Quality Supervisor (CQS) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate an understanding of quality management principles and practices. The CQS certification is intended to provide supervisors with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead teams in achieving organizational goals through quality improvement initiatives.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CQS certification process. During this time, applicants must complete an online self-assessment exam, attend two days of classroom instruction, and pass a final exam. The cost of the certification varies depending on the specific package chosen, but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD.

To become certified, applicants must first register for the CQS program through ASQ's website. Once registered, they will receive access to the online self-assessment exam which they must pass in order to be eligible for the classroom instruction portion of the program. After completing both parts of the program, applicants must then pass a final exam in order to be awarded their CQS certification.

4. Certified Logistics Supervisor (CLS)

Certified Logistics Supervisor (CLS) is a certification program designed to provide logistics professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage and lead in the logistics industry. The CLS program is administered by the International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA).

The CLS certification requires candidates to complete a two-day course which covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, warehouse operations, and transportation management. Candidates must also pass an exam at the end of the course in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the CLS certification program varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $500 to $1,000. The cost includes registration fees, materials, and examination fees.

In order to become certified as a CLS, you must first register for the course and successfully complete it. After completing the course and passing the exam, you will be awarded your Certified Logistics Supervisor certificate.

5. Certified Human Resources Supervisor (CHRS)

Certified Human Resources Supervisor (CHRS) is a professional certification offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). It is designed for experienced HR professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field of human resources management. The certification requires candidates to pass an exam that covers topics such as employee relations, recruitment and selection, performance management, compensation and benefits, labor relations, and training and development.

The CHRS certification process typically takes about six months to complete. Candidates must first submit an application to HRCI along with a fee of $100. Once the application is approved, candidates must take the CHRS exam which consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The exam can be taken at any Prometric Testing Center or online through ProProctor. After passing the exam, applicants must submit proof of two years of relevant work experience in order to receive their certification.

The cost for the CHRS certification varies depending on whether you are already an HRCI member or not. If you are already a member then the cost for the exam is $400; if you are not a member then it will cost $500. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at a Prometric Testing Center or using ProProctor for online testing.

6. Certified Inventory Control Supervisor (CICS)

Certified Inventory Control Supervisor (CICS) is a professional certification offered by the International Certification Council (ICC). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery of inventory control principles and practices. The CICS credential validates the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those in inventory control management positions.

To become certified as an Inventory Control Supervisor, you must meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the ICC and successfully pass their exam. To be eligible for the CICS exam, you must have at least two years of experience in inventory control or related activities. You must also demonstrate knowledge of inventory control principles and practices through either formal education or on-the-job training.

The CICS exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as inventory management systems, forecasting techniques, cost analysis, quality assurance methods, and safety procedures. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost to take the CICS exam is $350 USD for ICC members and $450 USD for non-members. After successfully passing the exam, you will receive your Certified Inventory Control Supervisor certificate from the ICC.

7. Certified Maintenance Supervisor (CMS)

Certified Maintenance Supervisor (CMS) is a certification program offered by the Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of maintenance and operations. The CMS certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence in their profession.

The CMS program requires applicants to complete a comprehensive online course, which covers topics such as safety, maintenance management, equipment operation and maintenance, preventive maintenance, and energy efficiency. The course also includes several hands-on activities that allow participants to gain practical experience in the field. After completing the coursework, applicants must pass a written exam to receive their certification.

The cost of the Certified Maintenance Supervisor program varies depending on your location and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 USD for the course materials and exam fees.

In order to become certified as a CMS, you must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least five years of experience in maintenance or operations management roles within the last 10 years; or have completed an AFE-accredited training program within the last five years; or hold an Associate’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university with at least two years of experience in maintenance/operations management roles within the last 10 years.

The entire process typically takes between four and six weeks from start to finish once you submit your application and fee payment.

8. Certified Production and Inventory Management Professional (CPIMP)

Certified Production and Inventory Management Professional (CPIMP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). The CPIMP certification is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate mastery of the concepts, principles, and techniques that are essential for successful production and inventory management.

The CPIMP certification requires candidates to pass two exams: the Principles of Production and Inventory Management exam (CPIM-Part 1) and the Execution and Control of Operations exam (CPIM-Part 2). Both exams must be passed within a three-year period in order to receive the CPIMP designation.

In order to take either exam, candidates must first become members of APICS. Once membership is established, candidates can register for either exam at any time. The cost for each exam is $395 USD.

The exams are computer-based tests with multiple choice questions covering topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, forecasting, quality assurance, production planning, scheduling, capacity planning and performance measurement. Each exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

Candidates who successfully pass both exams will receive their CPIMP designation from APICS upon completion. This certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed in order to remain active.

9. Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt for Supervisors (CLSSGB-SV)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt for Supervisors (CLSSGB-SV) is a certification program designed to provide supervisors with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively lead and manage Lean Six Sigma projects. It is designed to help supervisors understand how to use Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques in their work environment. The program is based on the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC) body of knowledge and provides an overview of the Lean Six Sigma methodology, including: project management, process improvement, problem solving, data analysis, and team dynamics.

The program typically takes 10-12 weeks to complete depending on the course format. Participants must have at least one year of experience leading or managing projects or teams in order to be eligible for the certification. The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. To get certified, participants must pass an exam that covers topics such as: project management, process improvement, problem solving, data analysis, team dynamics and more. After passing the exam, participants will receive their CLSSGB-SV certification from IASSC.

10. Certified Industrial Supervision Professional (CISP)

Certified Industrial Supervision Professional (CISP) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Industrial Supervisors (IAIS). The CISP program is designed to help professionals in the industrial supervision field develop and maintain the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively manage their work environment. This certification is widely recognized as a mark of excellence in the industry.

The CISP program consists of four modules that cover topics such as safety management, human resources management, production/operations management, and quality assurance. Each module requires a minimum of 40 hours of study time and must be completed within one year. Upon successful completion of all four modules, individuals are eligible to receive their CISP certification.

To get the CISP certification, individuals must first complete an online application form with IAIS and pay a fee of $200 USD. Once approved for the program, they will be sent all materials needed to begin their studies. After completing each module, individuals must take an online exam and score at least 80% on each one in order to receive their certification.

In total, it takes approximately one year to complete all four modules and receive your CISP certification from IAIS. The cost for this includes the $200 USD application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the online exams for each module.

Do You Really Need a Area Supervisor Certificate?

The short answer to this question is that it depends on your goals. If you are seeking a position as an area supervisor, then having a certificate can be beneficial. It can demonstrate your commitment to the field and show employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform in the role. Additionally, some employers may require a certificate in order to be considered for certain positions.

However, if you are already working in an area supervisory role or are confident that you possess the necessary qualifications without a certificate, then obtaining one may not be necessary. Employers will often prioritize experience over certifications when making hiring decisions, so having relevant work experience could make up for not having a certificate. Ultimately, it is important to assess your own situation and determine whether or not obtaining an area supervisor certificate would be worth the time and money for you.

Related: Area Supervisor Resume Examples

FAQs About Area Supervisor Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become an Area Supervisor?

Answer: To become an area supervisor, you typically need to have at least a high school diploma and several years of experience in a related field. In some cases, additional certifications or educational credentials may be required.

2. How long does it take to become certified as an Area Supervisor?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as an area supervisor varies depending on the specific certification program and the individual’s background. Generally, most certification programs can be completed within 6-12 months.

3. What are the benefits of becoming an Area Supervisor?

Answer: Becoming an area supervisor provides numerous advantages including increased job security, higher wages, and more opportunities for career advancement. Additionally, having this certification demonstrates your expertise and skills in this field and can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs.

4. Are there any online courses available to help me prepare for my Area Supervisor Certification Exam?

Answer: Yes! Online courses are widely available that can help you prepare for your area supervisor certification exam. These courses typically include practice tests, study guides, and other resources that can help you gain the knowledge necessary to pass the exam with confidence.

5. What topics are covered on the Area Supervisor Certification Exam?

Answer: The exact topics covered on the area supervisor certification exam vary depending on the specific program, but generally include areas such as safety procedures, human resources management, budgeting and financial management, customer service procedures, and conflict resolution techniques.