Top 10 Assistant Plant Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important part of an assistant plant manager’s job market profile. They demonstrate to potential employers that the applicant has a certain level of knowledge and expertise in their field, as well as a commitment to professional development. Additionally, certifications offer a way for assistant plant managers to differentiate themselves from other applicants, making them more attractive to employers. Certifications also provide proof that a candidate is familiar with industry standards, best practices, and workplace safety protocols. Finally, certifications can provide access to new opportunities and higher salaries as they often lead to promotions or a better job title.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Assistant Plant Managers and explain how they can help enhance their career prospects.

What are Assistant Plant Manager Certifications?

Assistant Plant Manager Certification is a program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the role of an Assistant Plant Manager. It focuses on developing essential management techniques such as communication, problem solving, decision making, project management, and supply chain management. Through this certification program, individuals will gain a comprehensive understanding of the various tasks involved in managing a plant and its operations.

The certification can help those looking to become an assistant plant manager by providing them with a credential that verifies their skills and abilities in this field. In addition to demonstrating their proficiency in plant operations, having this certification may also give individuals an edge when applying for positions within their chosen industry. Having the certification can also make it easier for employers to identify qualified candidates when they are searching for new employees. The certification may also provide additional opportunities for career advancement as it demonstrates dedication and commitment to the profession.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing assistant plant manager certification, research the requirements for the specific certification you are interested in. Make sure you understand the educational and experience qualifications needed to become certified, as well as any additional certifications or training necessary to remain certified. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the organization offering the certification and look into any available resources they provide to help you prepare.

Related: What does an Assistant Plant Manager do?

Top 10 Assistant Plant Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Assistant Plant Managers 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 focuses on teaching best practices in production and inventory management, helping individuals increase their knowledge of these topics. It also provides a valuable credential that can be used to demonstrate expertise in the field.

The CPIM program consists of two exams: the Basics of Supply Chain Management and the Master Planning of Resources. Each exam is four hours long and covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory management, production planning, quality control, and customer service. In order to receive the CPIM certification, you must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CPIM program if you are studying full-time. However, it may take longer depending on your individual circumstances.

In order to get certified in CPIM, you must first register with APICS and pay an application fee. You will then need to purchase study materials from APICS or another provider approved by APICS. Once you have studied for the exams, you will need to schedule an appointment with a proctoring center to take each exam.

The cost of getting certified in CPIM varies based on your location and whether or not you choose to purchase additional study materials from APICS or other providers. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for all fees associated with registering for and taking both exams.

2. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is a certification program designed to help professionals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to lead and manage Lean Six Sigma projects. The program focuses on teaching individuals how to use Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques to improve processes, reduce waste, and increase efficiency.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification typically takes about four weeks of training to complete. This includes both classroom instruction and hands-on project work. During this time, participants will learn about the DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) methodology, process mapping, root cause analysis, data collection techniques, statistical analysis methods, and more.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt you must first complete the required training course. After completing the course you must then pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ or IASSC. Additionally, some organizations may require that you have prior experience in a related field before they will certify you as a Green Belt.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification varies depending on the type of certification program chosen. Generally speaking, most programs range from $1,500 - $3,000 USD for the entire course including materials and exams fees.

3. Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in the field of quality management and organizational excellence.

The CMQ/OE certification requires the successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, leadership, and team building. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have a minimum of eight years of work experience in a quality-related field or five years of work experience with a bachelor’s degree in a related field.

To apply for the CMQ/OE certification, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of education and work experience. The application fee is $299 USD for members of ASQ and $399 USD for non-members. Once approved, applicants can register to take the exam at any authorized testing center.

The cost to take the exam is $349 USD for members of ASQ and $449 USD for non-members. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CMQ/OE certificate from ASQ within six weeks.

4. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to lead an organization in quality management and organizational excellence. This certification is highly sought after by organizations looking for professionals with the ability to create, implement, and manage quality systems that are effective and efficient.

The CMQ/OE certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in a quality-related field such as quality management, process improvement, or organizational excellence. Candidates must also pass an examination that covers topics such as leadership, customer focus, process improvement, performance measurement, human resources management, and business analysis.

To get the CMQ/OE certification, candidates must first register with ASQ and pay the registration fee. Once registered, they must complete an application form which includes submitting their resume and supporting documents. After the application has been reviewed by ASQ staff members, candidates will be invited to take the exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions which must be completed within four hours.

Once candidates have passed the exam they will receive their certificate from ASQ along with a letter of congratulations from ASQ's President & CEO. The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether or not you are an ASQ member; non-members pay $450 while members pay $350.

5. Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE) Certified Plant Manager

The Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE) Certified Plant Manager (CPM) program is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of plant managers. The CPM certification is awarded to those who demonstrate mastery of the principles and practices of industrial engineering, operations management, and leadership. It is an internationally recognized credential that validates a plant manager’s expertise in managing resources, processes, people, and projects.

The CPM certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in a plant management role. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as operations management, project management, safety and health regulations, quality control systems, financial analysis techniques, and personnel management.

To become certified as a CPM, applicants must complete an application form and submit it to IIE for review. Once approved by IIE, applicants will be required to pay the applicable fees which vary depending on the applicant's country or region. After completing all requirements and passing the exam with a score of 75% or higher, applicants will receive their CPM certificate from IIE.

The cost for the CPM certification varies depending on location but typically ranges between $500-$1,000 USD.

6. International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Certified Plant Manager

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Certified Plant Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of plant managers. The CPM credential is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of plant management.

It typically takes approximately six months to complete the CPM program. To get certified, applicants must first pass an online exam that covers topics such as facility operations, maintenance, safety, energy management, security, and more. Once they have passed the exam, they must complete a portfolio project that demonstrates their ability to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.

The cost of the CPM program varies depending on whether you are an IFMA member or nonmember. For members, it costs $495 for the exam and $195 for the portfolio project; for nonmembers it costs $595 for the exam and $295 for the portfolio project.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP credential is the most recognized and respected project management certification in the world. It demonstrates that an individual has the experience and knowledge to lead and direct projects, as well as manage project teams.

To qualify for the PMP exam, applicants must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience and 7,500 hours leading and directing projects, or a four-year degree with at least three years of project management experience and 4,500 hours leading and directing projects.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The exam covers five domains: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing. To pass the exam, test takers must achieve a score of at least 61%.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the PMP exam depending on how much time can be dedicated to studying each week. During this time it is important to review all of the material covered in the PMBOK Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge), attend training courses or workshops related to project management topics such as scheduling or risk management, complete practice exams to become familiar with the format of the actual exam questions, and participate in study groups or online forums with other aspiring PMPs.

The cost for taking the PMP Exam varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI. For members it costs $405 USD while non-members pay $555 USD. There may also be additional fees associated with registering for an exam date and/or rescheduling an existing appointment.

8. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Supply Chain Professional

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program designed to help supply chain professionals gain the knowledge and skills needed to become successful in their field. The CSCP program is an internationally recognized certification that provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and strategies required to effectively manage global supply chains.

To become an APICS CSCP certified professional, one must complete a comprehensive three-part exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, case studies, and essays. It typically takes between 12-18 months to prepare for the exam depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying.

To get started on your journey towards becoming an APICS CSCP certified professional, you will need to register for the exam with APICS. Registration fees start at $795 USD for members and $995 USD for non-members. Once you have registered for the exam, you will need to purchase study materials from APICS or other sources such as books or online courses. You can also join a local APICS chapter which can provide additional support throughout your preparation process.

Once you have completed all of the necessary requirements and passed the exam, you will be officially certified as an APICS CSCP professional! This certification will give you a competitive edge in the job market and demonstrate your commitment to excellence in supply chain management.

9. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9000 Lead Auditor

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9000 Lead Auditor is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to audit organizations for compliance with ISO 9000 standards. It is designed to ensure that an auditor has the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct successful audits of quality management systems.

To become an ISO 9000 Lead Auditor, an individual must complete a training program approved by the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA). The training typically takes five days and includes lectures, case studies, and practical exercises. Upon completion of the course, individuals must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the training program varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $2,000 - $3,000 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with travel and lodging if the training is held at a location away from the individual’s home or office.

Once certified as an ISO 9000 Lead Auditor, individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing professional development activities every three years. This ensures that auditors stay up-to-date on changes in best practices and regulations related to quality management systems.

10. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour General Industry Certification

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour General Industry Certification is a voluntary program that provides workers with safety and health training in the workplace. This certification is designed to help employers recognize the importance of providing safe and healthy working conditions for their employees. It also helps workers understand their rights, responsibilities, and how to identify hazards in the workplace.

The OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person training session. The online course can be completed in as little as 10 hours, depending on the student's pace. The online course covers topics such as hazard recognition, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), emergency action plans, fire prevention, electrical safety, machine guarding, ergonomics, materials handling, and more. After completing the online course, students must attend an in-person training session with a certified instructor to receive their certification card.

To get your OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification you must first complete the online course. You can find these courses offered by various organizations or through OSHA itself. Once you have completed the online course you must then attend a live training session with a certified instructor to receive your certification card.

The cost of getting your OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification varies depending on where you take the class and who is teaching it. Generally speaking it will cost between $50-$200 for both the online portion and the in-person training session combined.

Do You Really Need a Assistant Plant Manager Certificate?

The short answer to this question is "it depends." Depending on your level of experience and the nature of the job, an assistant plant manager certificate may be beneficial. If you have a degree in business or engineering and several years of relevant experience, then you may not necessarily need a certificate to enhance your job prospects. However, if you are looking for career advancement or are just entering the field, then a certificate may give you an edge over other candidates.

Certificates can demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the field as well as provide evidence of your abilities. They can also help you stand out from other applicants who may have similar qualifications but lack any specialized training in plant management. Additionally, many employers view certificates favorably because they indicate that potential employees have gone beyond their basic education to gain additional skills and knowledge.

Ultimately, the decision whether or not to pursue a certificate will depend on your individual circumstances and goals. If you believe it would be beneficial for advancing your career, then it might be worth investing in an assistant plant manager certificate program.

Related: Assistant Plant Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Assistant Plant Manager Certifications

1. What is an Assistant Plant Manager Certification?

Answer: An Assistant Plant Manager Certification is a credential that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and skills in the management of production operations within a plant or factory. It is awarded by professional organizations, such as the International Plant Managers Association (IPMA).

2. What are the requirements to obtain an Assistant Plant Manager Certification?

Answer: Requirements vary depending on the certifying organization, but generally include experience in plant operations, completion of relevant courses or workshops, and passing a written exam.

3. How long does it take to complete an Assistant Plant Manager Certification?

Answer: This depends on the individual's prior experience and knowledge in plant operations. Generally, it takes between six months and one year to complete all of the necessary requirements for certification.

4. What career opportunities are available with an Assistant Plant Manager Certification?

Answer: Individuals who possess this certification may be eligible for positions such as assistant plant manager, production supervisor, operations manager or other related roles within a manufacturing setting.

5. How much does an Assistant Plant Manager Certification cost?

Answer: The cost of certification varies depending on the certifying organization and may include fees for application processing, course materials and examination fees.