Top 11 Assembly Worker Certifications
Updated 18 min read
Certifications are important for assembly workers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in the field. They show employers that an individual is knowledgeable about the specific job they’re applying for, and can be trusted to perform tasks correctly. Certifications also provide a sense of security for employers, as it shows that the individual has been trained and tested on their skills. This can help employers decide which candidate is best suited for the job, and make sure that they’re getting someone who knows what they’re doing. Lastly, certifications provide assembly workers with a competitive edge when looking for jobs. Having certification shows potential employers that you are dedicated to your profession and take pride in your work.
The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Assembly Workers and explain how they can enhance their career prospects.
What are Assembly Worker Certifications?
Assembly worker certification is a form of professional certification that demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to perform assembly work in a variety of settings. This type of certification is often provided by employers, trade organizations, or educational institutions as part of an overall training program for workers. By obtaining assembly worker certification, employees are able to demonstrate their expertise in areas such as product assembly, electronic assembly, wiring and cabling, and other related areas.
Having assembly worker certification can help individuals gain employment opportunities in the field. In addition to providing proof of competence on the job, it also helps employers identify qualified applicants who have the necessary skills and knowledge to do the job successfully. Certification can also provide a competitive edge when applying for promotions or higher-level positions within an organization. Furthermore, having a certified assembly worker on staff can be beneficial for businesses because it ensures that employees are familiar with industry standards and practices and are able to work safely with potentially hazardous materials or equipment. Finally, those who obtain assembly worker certification may be eligible for certain financial incentives from employers or government agencies.
Pro Tip: Always make sure that assembly workers are properly certified and trained in the use of any tools or equipment necessary for the job. This will ensure a safe work environment and help to avoid costly mistakes that can result from improper use of tools or equipment.
Related: What does an Assembly Worker do?
Top 11 Assembly Worker Certifications
Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Assembly Workers today.
1. OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification
OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification is a program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to help employers, workers, and other industry professionals recognize and prevent hazards in the workplace. The course is designed to provide safety and health training for entry-level construction workers. It covers topics such as hazard recognition, fall protection, electrical safety, scaffolding, personal protective equipment (PPE), materials handling, excavation safety, and more.
The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification course typically takes two days to complete. It can be taken online or in person at an approved training center. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $100 to $200 per person.
In order to obtain certification, individuals must attend both days of class and pass a final exam with a score of 70% or higher. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive their OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification card in the mail within four weeks.
2. Certified Production Technician (CPT)
Certified Production Technician (CPT) is a nationally recognized certification program designed to assess the knowledge and skills of production technicians. The CPT program is sponsored by the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC), an organization dedicated to setting industry standards in manufacturing.
The CPT certification requires successful completion of four core modules: safety, quality practices & measurements, manufacturing processes & production, and maintenance awareness. Each module consists of a two-hour written assessment and a one-hour practical assessment. Candidates must pass both assessments in order to receive their CPT certification.
The entire process typically takes between 4-6 weeks depending on the availability of testing sites, scheduling conflicts, etc.
In order to become certified, candidates must first register with MSSC and pay a registration fee of $185 USD. This fee covers all four modules as well as additional resources such as study guides and practice tests. Once registered, candidates can begin preparing for the assessments by studying the material provided by MSSC or attending an approved training course offered through an authorized provider.
Once all four modules have been successfully completed and passed, candidates will receive their official CPT certificate from MSSC. The certificate is valid for five years from the date of issue and must be renewed every five years in order for it to remain active.
3. Certified Quality Technician (CQT)
Certified Quality Technician (CQT) is a certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge and understanding of quality control principles and practices. The CQT certification is intended for those who are responsible for implementing and maintaining quality control systems in their organization.
The CQT certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management, statistical process control, inspection techniques, calibration methods, sampling plans, problem solving tools, and product/process design. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours.
To become a Certified Quality Technician (CQT), applicants must have at least three years of work experience in a relevant field or have completed a two-year degree in an appropriate field. Applicants must also submit proof of their education or experience to ASQ before taking the exam.
The cost of the CQT certification exam varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or non-member. For ASQ members, the cost is $299 USD; for non-members, it is $399 USD. The fee includes access to study materials and practice exams.
4. Certified Logistics Associate (CLA)
Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge in the field of logistics. The CLA certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the expertise and proficiency of logistics professionals.
The CLA certification process consists of two parts: an online exam and a hands-on project. The online exam covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, transportation management, warehousing, customer service, and more. To prepare for the exam, candidates should review AST&L’s study materials and practice tests.
The hands-on project requires candidates to develop a comprehensive logistics plan for a given scenario. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to create solutions that are cost effective, efficient, and compliant with industry standards.
The entire process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. Candidates must pass both the online exam and the hands-on project in order to become certified.
The cost for the CLA certification varies depending on how many components you choose to take part in. The base fee for taking part in all components is $750 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.
5. Certified Manufacturing Specialist (CMS)
A Certified Manufacturing Specialist (CMS) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of modern manufacturing. It is administered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). The certification is valid for three years, after which it must be renewed.
To become certified, applicants must pass a written exam that covers topics such as safety, quality control, materials handling, production processes, and maintenance. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must also meet certain experience requirements in order to qualify for the certification.
The cost of the CMS certification varies depending on the applicant's location and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs around $250 to take the exam and receive the certification.
6. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification
Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a certain level of mastery in the application of Six Sigma principles and tools. The certification is designed to help organizations improve their processes and operations, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction.
The certification process typically takes about three months to complete. To get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must first pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ). You must also complete a project demonstrating your understanding of Six Sigma principles and tools, including DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) methodology.
The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider, but it typically ranges from $500-$2,000 USD. This cost includes the exam fee, study materials, and any other related expenses.
In addition to passing the exam and completing the project, you may need to demonstrate your knowledge through additional training or workshops before being awarded your certification.
7. Lean Manufacturing Certification
Lean Manufacturing Certification is a certification program that focuses on the principles of Lean Manufacturing. It is designed to help individuals and organizations improve their operational efficiency and reduce costs by eliminating waste in their production processes. The certification program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced.
Basic Level Certification covers topics such as Lean fundamentals, value stream mapping, 5S workplace organization, Kaizen events, and the 8 Wastes of Lean. This level typically takes around 20 hours to complete and can be obtained through online courses or in-person workshops.
Intermediate Level Certification covers topics such as advanced value stream mapping, root cause analysis, process improvement tools & techniques, problem solving methods, and project management. This level typically takes around 40 hours to complete and can be obtained through online courses or in-person workshops.
Advanced Level Certification covers topics such as lean leadership development, change management strategies & tactics, performance management systems & metrics, organizational culture development & transformation, and lean supply chain management. This level typically takes around 60 hours to complete and can be obtained through online courses or in-person workshops.
The cost for Lean Manufacturing Certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$2,000 USD per person for each level of certification.
8. Automation Technician Certification
Automation Technician Certification is a program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). The certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of automation technology.
The Automation Technician Certification program consists of two levels: Level I and Level II. Level I requires completion of an ISA-approved course and passing the Automation Technician Certification Exam, which consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. This exam covers topics such as electrical safety, industrial automation systems, process control, instrumentation, and communication protocols. To receive the Level I certification, applicants must score at least 70% on the exam.
Level II requires completion of an additional ISA-approved course and passing the Automation Technician Certification Advanced Exam, which consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. This exam covers topics such as advanced electrical safety, industrial automation systems design and programming, process control optimization, instrumentation calibration and maintenance, and communication protocols. To receive the Level II certification, applicants must score at least 80% on the exam.
The cost for both levels of certification varies depending on whether you are taking courses through an accredited institution or self-studying with ISA materials. Generally speaking, it will cost around $1,000 for both levels combined if you are taking courses through an accredited institution; self-study materials can range from $500-$1,000 depending on what materials you purchase.
In terms of time commitment for both levels combined it can take anywhere from 6 months to a year depending on how quickly you complete your coursework and exams.
9. Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Certification
Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of those individuals who are employed in the industrial maintenance field. The certification is offered by organizations such as the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) and the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).
The certification requires applicants to have a high school diploma or its equivalent, as well as two years of experience in industrial maintenance. In addition, applicants must pass a written exam that covers topics such as electrical systems, mechanical systems, hydraulics and pneumatics. The exam also covers safety procedures and basic troubleshooting techniques.
It typically takes about six months to complete the certification process. During this time, applicants must complete an online course that covers all aspects of industrial maintenance mechanics, including safety practices, machine operation and maintenance procedures. Applicants must also attend an in-person workshop where they can practice their skills on actual equipment used in industrial settings.
The cost of Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Certification varies depending on the organization offering it. NIMS offers its certification for around $450 while NCCER's program costs around $600.
10. Robotics Technician Certification
Robotics Technician Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals gain the knowledge and skills required to become a successful robotics technician. The program consists of an online course, hands-on training, and an online exam. It typically takes about six months to complete the program, although it can be completed in as little as three months depending on the individual’s availability.
To get certified, individuals must first complete the online course, which covers topics such as robotics fundamentals, programming languages, electronics theory and design, and safety protocols. After completing the coursework, students must take a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge of robotics technology. Once they pass the exam, they are then eligible for certification.
The cost of Robotics Technician Certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. The cost may also include additional fees for materials or other services such as mentoring or tutoring.
11. Forklift Operator Certification
Forklift Operator Certification is a certification program designed to ensure that workers who operate forklifts are properly trained and qualified to do so. The certification program consists of a written test and practical evaluation, which must be completed in order to receive the certification.
The written test covers topics such as forklift safety, operating procedures, maintenance, and regulations. The practical evaluation involves demonstrating the ability to safely move materials using a forklift. This includes maneuvering around obstacles, loading/unloading materials, and other tasks related to operating a forklift.
The length of time it takes to get Forklift Operator Certification depends on the individual’s experience level and how much time they are willing to dedicate to studying for the written test. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one week up to several months depending on the individual’s situation.
To get Forklift Operator Certification, individuals must first complete an approved training course. There are many organizations that offer these courses both online and in-person. After completing the course, individuals must then pass both the written test and practical evaluation in order to receive their certification.
The cost of Forklift Operator Certification varies depending on the organization providing the training course. Generally speaking, courses range from $200-$500 USD for online courses and $500-$1,000 USD for in-person courses. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the written test or practical evaluation if they are not included in the cost of the training course itself.
Do You Really Need a Assembly Worker Certificate?
The short answer to this question is yes, you do need an assembly worker certificate if you plan on working in an assembly line. An assembly line is a specific type of work environment that requires workers to have a certain level of knowledge and skill before they can be employed. Assembly lines are often used in the manufacturing process, where workers must be able to assemble parts quickly and accurately in order to produce a quality product.
Having an assembly worker certificate shows potential employers that you understand the basic principles of the job and can perform it safely and efficiently. The certificate also demonstrates that you have a certain level of proficiency with the tools and equipment used in the assembly process. This can make it easier for employers to trust your ability to do the job correctly without having to provide additional training or supervision.
In addition, having an assembly worker certificate can help give you leverage when negotiating salary or benefits packages with potential employers. It shows them that you already have the necessary skillset for the position and are ready to hit the ground running when hired. It also gives them assurance that they won’t have to spend time or money training someone who may not be competent enough for the job.
Overall, having an assembly worker certificate is beneficial for both employees and employers alike. It ensures that everyone involved has a clear understanding of what exactly will be expected from each individual working on an assembly line, as well as providing evidence of your skill level so employers can make informed hiring decisions based on your qualifications.
Related: Assembly Worker Resume Examples
FAQs About Assembly Worker Certifications
1. What certifications are available for assembly workers?
Answer: Common certifications available for assembly workers include Certified Production Technician (CPT) certification, Certified Manufacturing Technician (CMT) certification, and Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) certification.
2. How much does it cost to become certified as an assembly worker?
Answer: The cost of the certification exam varies depending on the specific type of certification you are seeking. Generally, the exam fee ranges between $85 and $200 per test.
3. How long does it take to become certified as an assembly worker?
Answer: It typically takes around four to six months to prepare for and pass the certification exams needed to become certified as an assembly worker.
4. What is the job outlook for certified assembly workers?
Answer: The job outlook for certified assembly workers is positive, with employment expected to grow at a rate of 4% from 2018-2028 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
5. Are there any online courses or resources available to help prepare for assembly worker certifications?
Answer: Yes, there are many online courses and resources available that can help you prepare for your assembly worker certifications. Some of these include practice tests, study guides, and tutorials that can help you gain a better understanding of concepts related to your chosen field of work.