Top 11 Assembly Supervisor Certifications
Updated 18 min read
Certifications are important for an assembly supervisor in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and proficiency in their field. They also show potential employers that the individual has taken the time to invest in their career by taking courses and obtaining certifications that prove their expertise. Certifications can help supervisors stand out from other applicants and can give them an edge when competing for positions, as employers often seek candidates with proven qualifications. Additionally, certifications provide supervisors with a sense of credibility and assurance that they have the necessary skills to do the job effectively.
The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Assembly Supervisors and explain how they can help advance an assembly supervisor's career.
What are Assembly Supervisor Certifications?
Assembly Supervisor Certification is a professional certification designed to ensure that individuals have the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully lead an assembly line in a manufacturing environment. The certification is intended for those who are responsible for supervising the production of a product, from start to finish. This includes overseeing the assembly process, ensuring quality standards are met, and managing personnel.
The certification provides assurance that those holding it possess the necessary expertise and experience to effectively manage an assembly line. This helps companies reduce expenses associated with training new employees, as well as ensuring that their products are being produced accurately and efficiently. It also provides employers with peace of mind that their supervisors have been properly trained and certified in best practices for assembly line management.
By obtaining Assembly Supervisor Certification, individuals can demonstrate their commitment to excellence in their field, as well as increase their value to employers by showing they have taken the time to acquire specialized knowledge related to their job duties. Furthermore, it allows them to stay up-to-date on modern assembly methods and processes so they can provide the highest level of service possible.
Pro Tip: When looking for assembly supervisor certification, make sure to research the qualifications and requirements of the program you are considering. This will help you ensure that the program is suitable for your specific needs and that you have all the necessary qualifications to become certified.
Related: What does an Assembly Supervisor do?
Top 11 Assembly Supervisor Certifications
Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Assembly Supervisors today.
1. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). The CPIM program is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage production and inventory activities within a company.
The CPIM program consists of five courses that cover topics such as demand management, inventory planning, procurement, supply chain management, and operations performance measures. After completing all five courses and passing the associated exams, individuals are awarded the CPIM designation.
It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CPIM program depending on individual study habits. To get started in the CPIM program, individuals must first register with APICS and purchase their course materials. Course materials can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 depending on which version of the course materials you choose. Once registered, individuals can begin taking classes either online or in person at an accredited institution or through self-study.
Once all five courses have been completed and passed, individuals must then apply for their CPIM certification through APICS. This process involves submitting proof of completion of all five courses along with a fee of $495 for members ($695 for non-members). Upon successful completion of this process, individuals will be awarded their CPIM certification.
2. Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's ability to understand and apply the principles of Lean Six Sigma in order to improve processes and reduce waste. It is designed for individuals who have a basic understanding of process improvement and are looking to gain more knowledge about the Lean Six Sigma methodology.
The certification process typically takes between 6-12 months, depending on the individual's level of experience. To become certified, individuals must complete a series of courses, pass an exam, and demonstrate proficiency in applying the Lean Six Sigma principles. The courses typically cover topics such as process mapping, project management, data analysis, problem solving techniques, and team building.
The cost of certification varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $1,500-$2,500 USD. Some providers may also offer discounts or payment plans to help make certification more accessible.
3. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)
Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQE certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and understanding of quality engineering principles and practices. It is intended to provide employers with assurance that the certified individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage quality engineering projects.
The CQE certification exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as statistics, design of experiments, process control, and quality management systems. The exam takes about four hours to complete.
To be eligible for the CQE certification, an individual must have at least eight years of experience in quality engineering or related fields, including three years in a decision-making position. Alternatively, individuals can substitute education for experience; they must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or science plus five years of experience in quality engineering or related fields.
The cost of taking the CQE exam varies depending on the country where it is taken; however, it typically costs around $400-$500 USD.
4. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the core knowledge and skills required to lead, manage, and execute supply chain activities. The CPSM credential is widely recognized as a standard of excellence in the field.
To become a CPSM, you must meet certain educational and experience requirements. You must have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university, at least three years of professional supply management experience, and pass three examinations administered by ISM. The exams cover topics such as strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management, procurement operations and contract management, inventory and materials management, logistics and distribution, sustainability in supply chain management, and business analytics for supply chain professionals.
The entire process typically takes about six months to complete depending on your level of preparation. To get started on your path to becoming a CPSM, you will need to register with ISM as a candidate for the certification program. This includes submitting an application form that outlines your educational background and work experience. Once approved by ISM, you will be able to purchase study materials from ISM’s online store or through their network of authorized test preparation providers.
The cost of the CPSM program varies depending on how you choose to prepare for the exams. If you purchase study materials directly from ISM’s online store, it will cost $1125 plus applicable taxes. If you choose to use an authorized test preparation provider, costs can range anywhere from $500-$3000 depending on which provider you select.
5. Certified Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)
Certified Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The CLTD certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated advanced knowledge in logistics, transportation, and distribution. This certification provides an industry-recognized standard of excellence for individuals working in the field of logistics.
The CLTD program consists of seven modules that cover topics such as supply chain management, global logistics, transportation management, warehouse management, inventory control, and more. To earn the CLTD certification, candidates must complete all seven modules within a two-year period.
To get started with the CLTD program, candidates must first apply for membership with AST&L. Once accepted as a member, they can purchase the study materials from AST&L’s website and begin studying for their exam. Candidates are also encouraged to attend training sessions or webinars hosted by AST&L to gain additional knowledge on the topics covered in the modules.
The cost of the CLTD program varies depending on whether you are an AST&L member or non-member. For members, it costs $1,250 USD plus applicable taxes; for non-members it costs $1,400 USD plus applicable taxes.
Once all seven modules are completed and candidates pass their exam with a score of 70% or higher they will be awarded their CLTD certification from AST&L.
6. OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Safety and Health Certificate
The OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Safety and Health Certificate is a program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to provide safety and health training for workers in general industry settings. The program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on workshop.
The online course provides an overview of OSHA standards, hazard recognition, accident prevention, and other safety topics. It typically takes about 10 hours to complete the online course. At the end of the course, participants must pass an exam with at least 70% accuracy in order to receive their certificate.
The hands-on workshop is designed to reinforce the concepts learned in the online course through interactive activities and discussions. It typically takes about 8 hours to complete the workshop. Participants who successfully complete both parts of the program will receive an OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Safety and Health Certificate.
The cost of the program varies depending on where it is taken, but typically ranges from $75-$150 per person. Some employers may offer discounts or reimbursements for employees who participate in this program.
In summary, the OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Safety and Health Certificate requires 18 hours of training – 10 hours for the online course and 8 hours for the hands-on workshop – before participants can receive their certificate. The cost of this program can range from $75-$150 per person depending on where it is taken.
7. APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to help individuals gain knowledge and expertise in production and inventory management, enabling them to become more effective and efficient in their roles.
The CPIM program consists of five courses: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. The courses are available online or through instructor-led classes.
It typically takes about 12 months to complete all five courses if you are taking them online. If you choose the instructor-led classes, it will take longer depending on the availability of classes at your location.
To get certified as a CPIM professional, you must pass all five exams with a minimum score of 70%. You must also have two years of relevant work experience in the field.
The cost for the CPIM program depends on whether you choose to take the courses online or through instructor-led classes. The cost for the online version is around $2,000 while the instructor-led version costs around $3,000.
8. ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence
ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in quality management and organizational excellence. The CMQ/OE certification is based on the body of knowledge developed by ASQ and covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, leadership, and performance measurement.
The CMQ/OE certification requires successful completion of an exam that consists of 200 multiple-choice questions. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least five years of experience in quality management or organizational excellence roles.
To get certified, you will need to apply for the exam through the ASQ website and pay a fee of $399 USD. Once you have completed your application, you will be sent an email with instructions on how to register for the exam at a local testing center. After successfully passing the exam, you will receive your official CMQ/OE certificate from ASQ.
9. American Society for Quality – Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
American Society for Quality (ASQ) Lean Six Sigma Black Belt is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a comprehensive understanding of the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to help professionals improve processes, reduce waste, and increase customer satisfaction.
The program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course covers topics such as process improvement, project management, data analysis, problem-solving techniques, and more. It typically takes about three months to complete the coursework.
In order to become certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, you must pass the in-person exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and requires a score of at least 70% to pass. You must also have at least three years of relevant work experience in order to qualify for the certification.
The cost of becoming certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt varies depending on your country or region. In the United States, it typically costs around $1,500-$2,000 USD for the coursework and exam fees combined.
10. American Society for Quality – Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt
American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a professional organization dedicated to the promotion of quality in all aspects of life. The ASQ offers a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt certification program which is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead successful Six Sigma projects.
The Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt certification requires a minimum of three years of experience leading and managing complex Lean Six Sigma projects. In addition, applicants must demonstrate mastery of the Lean Six Sigma methodology, as well as expertise in problem solving, data analysis, process improvement, and project management.
To get certified as an ASQ Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, you must first complete the online application form and submit it along with supporting documentation such as transcripts or certificates from any relevant courses taken. You will then be required to pass an examination that covers topics such as DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) methodology, statistical analysis techniques, project management principles, and process improvement tools.
The cost of obtaining the ASQ Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt certification varies depending on your location and other factors. Generally speaking, however, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for the entire certification program.
11. IPC-A-610 Certification Program for Electronics Assembly Manufacturing
IPC-A-610 Certification Program for Electronics Assembly Manufacturing is a certification program that ensures that electronics assembly manufacturing processes meet the highest quality standards. It is administered by the IPC (Association Connecting Electronics Industries) and is recognized as an international standard.
The IPC-A-610 certification program consists of three levels of training and certification: Certified IPC Specialist (CIS), Certified IPC Application Specialist (CIS), and Certified IPC Master Application Specialist (CMAS). The CIS level requires a minimum of 24 hours of training, while the CMAS level requires at least 40 hours of training.
To get certified, individuals must attend an approved IPC course, pass a written exam, and demonstrate proficiency in soldering techniques through a hands-on assessment. The cost to take the courses range from $500-$2,000 depending on the course type and location. After completing the course, individuals must apply for certification with IPC and pay an additional fee ranging from $100-$200 depending on the certification level.
Once certified, individuals will receive an official certificate that is valid for two years from date of issue. To maintain their certifications they must complete recertification every two years by attending approved refresher courses or passing online exams.
Do You Really Need a Assembly Supervisor Certificate?
When it comes to whether or not you need an Assembly Supervisor Certificate, the answer is that it depends on your individual situation. Depending on the type of job you are applying for and the requirements of the employer, a certificate may be necessary.
In many cases, employers require assembly supervisors to have some sort of certification in order to demonstrate their knowledge and skills related to assembly operations. This certification can come from a variety of organizations and can include both classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Having this certification can help you stand out among other applicants and make it easier to get hired in an assembly supervisor role.
If the position you are applying for does not specifically require an Assembly Supervisor Certificate, then it is ultimately up to you if you want to pursue one. In some cases, having a certificate may still be beneficial as it can showcase your commitment to learning more about assembly operations and demonstrate your readiness for the job. It also shows that you are willing to go above and beyond what is required in order to excel at your job.
Overall, whether or not you need an Assembly Supervisor Certificate depends on your individual circumstances. If the job requires one, then it would be wise to pursue certifications that meet those requirements. If not, then having a certificate may still be beneficial in helping you stand out from other applicants and show your commitment to learning more about assembly operations.
Related: Assembly Supervisor Resume Examples
FAQs About Assembly Supervisor Certifications
1. What is an Assembly Supervisor Certification?
An Assembly Supervisor Certification is a specialized certification that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage assembly line operations, supervise personnel, and ensure quality control. It can be earned through a variety of institutions, including colleges and universities, technical schools, and professional organizations.
2. What are the requirements for becoming certified as an Assembly Supervisor?
Requirements for becoming certified as an Assembly Supervisor vary by institution and program but typically include completion of a certain number of hours of instruction in assembly processes, safety procedures, and quality control practices; passing an exam; and having several years of experience as a lead or supervisor in an assembly line setting.
3. How long does it take to become certified as an Assembly Supervisor?
The amount of time it takes to become certified as an Assembly Supervisor depends on the institution or program chosen; however, most programs can be completed within six months to one year.
4. What are the benefits of becoming certified as an Assembly Supervisor?
The primary benefit of becoming certified as an Assembly Supervisor is improved job prospects in the field due to increased knowledge and skills related to managing assembly line operations. Additional benefits may include higher wages, greater job security, improved efficiency on the job site, better customer service skills, and increased respect from peers.
5. Is there any type of continuing education requirement after obtaining my certification?
Yes – many institutions require continuing education credits (CECs) every two years in order to maintain your certification status. CECs may involve taking additional courses or attending conferences related to assembly line operations or management techniques.