Top 10 Assistant Operations Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important part of being a successful assistant operations manager in the job market. Certifications demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills needed to be an effective leader in the operations field. They can also provide proof of your qualifications and commitment to your profession, as they require a certain level of education and experience. Additionally, certifications may give you an edge over other applicants when employers are making hiring decisions, as they show that you have taken the initiative to gain additional qualifications. Finally, certifications can open up new opportunities for career advancement and growth.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Assistant Operations Managers and discuss how they can help enhance their career prospects.

What are Assistant Operations Manager Certifications?

Assistant operations manager certification is a professional designation that recognizes the specialized knowledge and skills of those working in the field of operations management. It provides recognition to individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the areas of project management, supply chain management, process improvement, and data analysis. The certification is designed to help employers identify and select qualified assistant operations managers for their organizations.

Certification demonstrates an individual’s competency in performing specific tasks related to operations management. By earning a certification, professionals demonstrate their commitment to staying current with industry trends and best practices. This can be an invaluable asset when competing for positions or promotions within an organization. Additionally, certified professionals may be eligible for higher salaries or other benefits from employers due to their enhanced qualifications.

Overall, assistant operations manager certification can help individuals improve their job prospects and provide them with the opportunity to demonstrate their expertise in this field. It also provides employers with assurance that they are hiring qualified individuals who possess the necessary skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this role.

Pro Tip: When considering assistant operations manager certification, be sure to research the various certifications available and select one that is tailored to your specific job role. Additionally, make sure you understand the requirements for certification, such as education and experience, and ensure you meet them before applying.

Related: What does an Assistant Operations Manager do?

Top 10 Assistant Operations Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Assistant Operations Managers today.

1. Certified Manager of Operations (CMOP)

Certified Manager of Operations (CMOP) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of professionals who manage operations in a variety of industries. It is offered by the International Association for Certified Managers (IACM). The CMOP certification provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices associated with managing operations, including strategy, process improvement, customer service, project management, finance and accounting, human resources, information technology and more.

The CMOP certification requires applicants to have at least five years of relevant professional experience in an operational role. Applicants must also pass an exam that includes topics such as strategic planning, process improvement, customer service and project management. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To obtain the CMOP certification, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume or CV and three professional references. Once approved for the program, applicants are required to pay a fee which covers the cost of the exam as well as other administrative costs associated with becoming certified. The fee varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of IACM.

Once you have successfully completed all requirements for the CMOP certification program you will receive your official certificate from IACM. This certificate will serve as proof that you have achieved this high level of expertise in managing operations.

2. Certified Professional in Operations Management (CPOM)

Certified Professional in Operations Management (CPOM) is a professional certification program designed for operations professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of operations management. The CPOM certification is offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS).

The CPOM certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in operations management and/or supply chain management. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as inventory control, production planning, quality assurance, and more. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To get the CPOM certification, applicants must first register with APICS and pay an application fee. After registering, applicants can purchase study materials from APICS or take an online course to prepare for the exam. Once they have completed their preparation, applicants can schedule their exam date through APICS's website.

The cost of the CPOM certification depends on several factors, including whether you are a member of APICS or not. For non-members, the cost is $495 USD plus applicable taxes; for members it is $395 USD plus applicable taxes. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with purchasing study materials or taking an online course if you choose to do so.

3. Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB) is a professional certification that is designed to recognize individuals who have mastered the skills and techniques of Lean Six Sigma. The certification is issued by the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC).

The Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in leading or facilitating process improvement projects, as well as an understanding of all aspects of the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in the use of statistical analysis tools and techniques.

To become certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, candidates must pass an exam administered by IASSC. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as project management, process improvement methods, and data analysis tools. The practical portion tests the candidate’s ability to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios.

The cost for taking the IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt exam varies depending on where you take it and whether you are a member of IASSC or not. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $500-$750 USD.

In addition to passing the exam, candidates must also complete at least one successful Lean Six Sigma project before they can be certified by IASSC. This project should include at least one cycle of DMAIC methodology and demonstrate measurable results in terms of cost savings or improved efficiency.

Overall, it typically takes between three to six months to become certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt once all requirements have been met.

4. Certified Production and Inventory Manager (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Manager (CPIM) is a certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). The CPIM program provides professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage production and inventory activities within an organization. It is designed to help individuals understand how all aspects of operations management, from planning to execution, work together to create a successful business operation.

The CPIM program consists of two exams that must be passed in order to receive the certification. The first exam, Basics of Supply Chain Management, covers topics such as supply chain fundamentals, demand management, inventory management, and production activity control. The second exam, Master Planning of Resources, covers topics such as master scheduling, capacity planning, material requirements planning (MRP), and enterprise resource planning (ERP).

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CPIM program depending on an individual's study habits and availability. To get started on the path towards becoming a Certified Production and Inventory Manager (CPIM), you will need to register for the APICS CPIM exams through their website. After registering for the exams, you will need to purchase study materials from APICS or other sources in order to prepare for them.

The cost of taking both exams is $1125 for non-members or $925 for members of APICS. This fee includes access to online practice tests that are available throughout your preparation period.

5. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in project management. It is the most widely sought-after certification for project managers, and it is designed to measure an individual’s ability to plan, execute, and manage projects.

To get PMP certified, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam. The requirements include having a minimum of three years of professional experience managing projects as well as 35 hours of project management education.

The exam itself consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes four hours to complete. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will need to maintain your PMP certification by earning 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years. PDUs can be earned through activities such as attending conferences or completing online courses related to project management.

6. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a mastery of quality engineering principles and practices. The CQE certification is highly sought after by employers, as it demonstrates a commitment to quality and excellence in the workplace.

It typically takes six months to two years of study and preparation to become certified as a CQE. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least eight years of experience in quality engineering or related fields, or a four-year degree plus five years of experience in quality engineering or related fields. Applicants must also pass an online application process and submit proof of education and work experience.

The cost for the CQE exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in. In the United States, it costs $399 for members of ASQ and $499 for non-members. The cost includes registration fees, exam fees, handbooks, study guides, practice questions, and other materials needed to prepare for the exam.

Once an applicant has passed the CQE exam they will receive their certification from ASQ which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed through continuing education credits.

7. Lean Manufacturing Green Belt Certification

Lean Manufacturing Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals understand the principles of Lean Manufacturing and how to apply them in their workplace. The certification is issued by the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC).

The Lean Manufacturing Green Belt Certification program typically takes between 8-10 weeks to complete, depending on the individual's pace. The program consists of online courses, study materials, and an exam. To get certified, individuals must successfully pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it can range from $600-$1,000 USD. This cost includes access to the online course material and study materials as well as the cost of taking the exam.

Overall, Lean Manufacturing Green Belt Certification is a great way for individuals to gain an understanding of Lean principles and how they can be applied in their workplace. It also provides an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in this area through certification.

8. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is an international certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage global supply chain activities, from strategic design to tactical execution. It is offered through the Association for Supply Chain Management (APICS).

The CSCP program takes approximately one year to complete, depending on individual learning styles and availability. The program consists of three parts: self-study and preparation, a comprehensive exam, and successful completion of a professional development plan.

To get certified as a CSCP, you must first register for the program online at APICS.org. You will then be required to purchase the CSCP Learning System which includes textbooks, study materials, practice exams, and access to an online community of other CSCP candidates. After studying and preparing for the exam, you must pass a 3-hour long computer-based exam consisting of 150 multiple-choice questions. Finally, you must successfully complete a professional development plan in order to become certified.

The cost of becoming a Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) varies depending on your membership status with APICS. Non-members can expect to pay around $1,695 USD while members can expect to pay around $1,295 USD for the entire program including registration fees and the Learning System package.

9. Certified Logistics Associate (CLA)

Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the field of logistics. It is offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The CLA certification is an entry-level credential that validates a person’s understanding of fundamental concepts and principles related to the logistics industry.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam administered by AST&L. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, transportation, warehousing, customer service, and other related topics. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and must be taken at an approved testing center.

The cost for the CLA exam is $295 USD for AST&L members or $395 USD for non-members. This fee covers the cost of taking the exam as well as any materials needed to prepare for it. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at certain testing centers.

Once applicants have passed the CLA exam, they will receive their official certification from AST&L which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires passing a recertification exam or completing continuing education credits in order to maintain certification status.

10. American Production and Inventory Control Society Certification (APICS-CPIM).

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of production and inventory management. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their commitment to the profession, increase their value to employers, and improve their career prospects.

To obtain the CPIM certification, individuals must complete five modules: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. Each module consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as supply chain management principles, inventory control techniques, resource planning strategies, scheduling methods, performance measurement systems, operations execution processes, and strategic management approaches.

The CPIM exam is offered twice a year at various locations around the world. The exam typically takes about three hours to complete. Candidates must pass all five modules in order to receive the CPIM certification.

The cost for taking the CPIM exam varies depending on location; however it typically ranges from $400-$500 USD per module. Additionally, individuals may need to pay additional fees for study materials or other resources they use while preparing for the exam.

Overall, obtaining the APICS-CPIM certification can be a lengthy process that requires dedication and hard work; however it can also provide numerous benefits to those who pursue it such as increased job opportunities and higher salaries.

Do You Really Need a Assistant Operations Manager Certificate?

No, you do not need an assistant operations manager certificate to be successful in the field. A certificate can be beneficial in certain situations, such as when trying to get a promotion or when looking for new job opportunities. However, it is not necessary to have a certificate in order to perform well as an assistant operations manager.

The most important thing for success in this role is having the necessary skills and knowledge. It is essential that an assistant operations manager has strong organizational and communication skills as well as an understanding of business processes and procedures. In addition, they should have experience with budgeting, project management, and problem-solving. Having a certificate may help demonstrate these skills but it is not a requirement for success.

Experience is also key when it comes to being an effective assistant operations manager. This could include working in related fields such as customer service or project management. Having a good understanding of the industry and its trends is also beneficial. With enough experience and knowledge, someone can become successful without ever needing a certificate.

Overall, while having an assistant operations manager certificate can be helpful in some cases, it is not necessary for success in this role. What matters most are the skills and knowledge required to excel at the job along with relevant experience in the industry.

Related: Assistant Operations Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Assistant Operations Manager Certifications

1. What certifications are available for Assistant Operations Managers?

Answer: The most common certification for Assistant Operations Managers is the Certified Professional in Operations Management (CPOM) from the Institute of Certified Professional Managers. Other certifications may include Lean Six Sigma, Project Management Professional, and Certified Supply Chain Professional.

2. How long does it take to become certified as an Assistant Operations Manager?

Answer: The amount of time required to become certified varies by certification program and individual candidate experience. Generally speaking, most certification programs require a minimum of six months to a year to complete the necessary coursework and successfully pass the exams.

3. What are the benefits of becoming an Assistant Operations Manager?

Answer: Becoming an Assistant Operations Manager can provide many benefits including increased job stability, increased salary potential, career advancement opportunities, and greater job satisfaction. It also provides recognition within your industry that demonstrates your commitment to professional excellence.

4. What qualifications do I need to become an Assistant Operations Manager?

Answer: Qualifications vary by employer but typically include a bachelor’s degree in business or management-related field with at least two years of experience in operations management or related field. Additionally, employers may require applicants have knowledge of business software applications such as Microsoft Office Suite and database management systems such as Access or SQL Server.

5. How much does it cost to get certified as an Assistant Operations Manager?

Answer: The cost of certifying as an assistant operations manager will depend on the specific certification program you choose but generally range from $500-$2000 USD depending on exam fees, study materials, and other associated costs such as travel and lodging if attending any classes in-person.