Top 11 Automation Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for automation technicians in the job market because they can demonstrate their knowledge and skills to potential employers. They also provide evidence of proficiency in specific areas and show that the technician has a commitment to professional development. Certifications can help an automation technician stand out from other candidates and make them more attractive to employers. Additionally, certifications can give an automation technician access to higher-level roles, such as engineering or management positions, which often require specialized knowledge and skills.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Automation Technicians and explains how they can help to enhance an automation technician's career.

What are Automation Technician Certifications?

Automation Technician Certification is an industry-recognized certification that validates a technician's knowledge, skills, and abilities in industrial automation. Automation Technicians are responsible for the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of automated systems such as robots, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), drives and motion control systems. They also provide technical support to engineers in the design and implementation of automation systems.

By obtaining Automation Technician Certification, technicians demonstrate their commitment to the profession and gain recognition for their knowledge and skills in automation. This certification can help technicians advance their career by providing validation of their expertise to potential employers. It can also open up opportunities for higher-paying jobs within the field or transferable skills to other industries. Additionally, obtaining certification may increase job security by demonstrating a technician’s ability to keep up with changing technology. Finally, it provides a sense of pride in one’s accomplishments as well as recognition from peers for having achieved a certain level of proficiency in industrial automation.

Pro Tip: When considering a certification for an automation technician, make sure to research the certifying organization and review their course offerings. Look for courses that cover topics such as computer programming, network administration, and industrial automation. Also, be sure to check the requirements for renewing the certification and any prerequisites that may be necessary in order to qualify.

Related: What does an Automation Technician do?

Top 11 Automation Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Automation Technicians today.

1. Automation Technician Certification (ATC)

Automation Technician Certification (ATC) is a certification program designed to provide technicians with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in the automation industry. The program is offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA), a global organization dedicated to advancing automation technologies.

The ATC program consists of three levels: Level I, Level II, and Level III. Each level requires passing an exam and completing several courses in order to be certified. The program typically takes about two years to complete, depending on the individual's experience and dedication.

To get certified, individuals must first register for the ISA Automation Technician Certification Program. After registering, they must then choose which level of certification they would like to pursue. Once registered, individuals can begin studying for their exams and taking courses that are required for each level of certification.

The cost of the ATC program varies depending on which level of certification an individual is pursuing; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1,000 per level. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking courses or purchasing study materials.

2. Certified Automation Professional (CAP)

Certified Automation Professional (CAP) is a certification program developed by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in automation, instrumentation, and control systems.

The CAP exam consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral interview. The written exam covers topics such as industrial automation, process control, instrumentation, and safety. The oral interview covers topics such as project management, automation system design, and troubleshooting.

To become a Certified Automation Professional (CAP), applicants must pass both the written and oral exams. The written exam takes approximately three hours to complete while the oral interview can take up to two hours.

In order to be eligible for the CAP certification program, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in the field of automation or related areas. They must also submit proof of their education credentials and pass a criminal background check.

The cost for taking the CAP exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1500 USD depending on location and other factors.

3. Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)

Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). The CCST certification is designed to recognize individuals who can demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of control systems technology, including instrumentation, process control, and distributed control systems.

The CCST certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as system architecture, components, installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 4 hours.

To become certified as a CCST, applicants must have at least 2 years of experience in the field or an associate's degree in engineering technology or related field. Applicants must also complete the ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) Exam Preparation Course prior to taking the exam. The course is offered online through ISA and takes approximately 16 hours to complete.

The cost of the CCST certification program varies depending on whether you are an ISA member or non-member. For ISA members, the cost is $350 for the exam preparation course plus $300 for the exam itself. For non-members, the cost is $400 for the exam preparation course plus $400 for the exam itself.

4. Industrial Automation and Control System Technician (IACST)

Industrial Automation and Control System Technician (IACST) is a certification program that trains technicians to install, maintain, and troubleshoot automated industrial control systems. The program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work with a variety of automation technologies such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and other related equipment.

The IACST program typically takes 6-12 months to complete depending on the student’s prior experience and training. It includes both classroom instruction and hands-on lab experience. The cost of the program varies depending on the institution offering it, but generally ranges from $2,000-$7,000 USD.

In order to become certified as an IACST technician, one must first complete the IACST coursework and then pass an exam administered by an accredited testing organization. Upon successful completion of the exam, individuals will receive their IACST certificate which is valid for three years.

5. Programmable Logic Controller Technician Certification (PLC-T)

Programmable Logic Controller Technician Certification (PLC-T) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the installation, programming, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). The PLC-T certification was developed by the International Society of Automation (ISA).

To obtain the PLC-T certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience working with PLCs. They must also pass a written exam that covers topics such as PLC hardware, software and communication protocols. In addition to passing the written exam, applicants must also complete an online or in-person practical exam that tests their ability to install, program and troubleshoot a variety of PLC systems.

The entire process typically takes around six months to complete. Applicants should plan on spending several hours studying for the written exam and preparing for the practical portion.

The cost of obtaining the PLC-T certification varies depending on which organization you register through. Generally speaking, it can range from $400 - $1,000 USD.

6. Siemens Automation and Technology Certification (SATC)

Siemens Automation and Technology Certification (SATC) is a program offered by Siemens that certifies individuals in the areas of automation, motion control, and drive technology. The certification program provides an opportunity for professionals to demonstrate their expertise and knowledge in these fields.

The SATC program consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 is designed for those with basic knowledge of automation, motion control, and drive technology; while Level 2 is geared towards those with more advanced knowledge.

To become certified at either level, applicants must pass a written exam that covers topics such as system architecture, programming languages, safety systems, networking protocols, and troubleshooting techniques. The exam can be taken online or at a local testing center.

The cost of the SATC certification varies depending on the level you are seeking certification at. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $100 to $400 USD per level.

In terms of time commitment needed to obtain your certification, it typically takes about 4-6 weeks to complete all requirements for each level. This includes completing any necessary pre-exam preparation courses as well as taking the actual exam itself.

7. National Instruments LabVIEW Developer Certification

National Instruments LabVIEW Developer Certification is an industry-recognized certification program that validates the knowledge and skills of LabVIEW developers. It is designed to help software professionals demonstrate their expertise in developing LabVIEW applications.

The certification is divided into two levels: Certified LabVIEW Associate Developer (CLAD) and Certified LabVIEW Developer (CLD). The CLAD level is designed for those who have a basic understanding of LabVIEW and its development environment, while the CLD level is for those with more advanced knowledge and experience.

To get certified, you must pass two exams: one for each level. The CLAD exam covers topics such as data flow programming, debugging, and user interface design, while the CLD exam covers topics such as object-oriented programming, distributed application development, and communication protocols. Each exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost of the exams varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $150 to $200 per exam. You can register for the exams online through NI’s website or through a local NI office. Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your certificate in the mail within four weeks.

Overall, obtaining National Instruments LabVIEW Developer Certification can take anywhere from six months to a year depending on how quickly you are able to study and complete the exams.

8. Rockwell Automation Certifications

Rockwell Automation Certifications are certifications that demonstrate a professional’s knowledge and proficiency in the use of Rockwell Automation products and services. These certifications are offered by Rockwell Automation, a global leader in industrial automation and information solutions.

The certification process typically takes two to three weeks to complete. The first step is to register for the certification exam online. Once registered, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access the exam. After completing the exam, you will be notified of your results within two weeks.

To get certified, you must pass the certification exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost of the certification exam varies depending on which level you are taking it at (Foundation Level, Intermediate Level or Advanced Level). Generally speaking, Foundation Level exams cost around $150 USD while Intermediate and Advanced Level exams can cost up to $400 USD each.

In addition to passing the certification exam, there may be other requirements such as attending training courses or having relevant work experience in order to qualify for certain levels of certification.

Once certified, you will receive a digital certificate that can be used as proof of your qualifications when applying for jobs or promotions within Rockwell Automation or other organizations that use their products and services.

9. Schneider Electric Automation Solutions Certifications

Schneider Electric Automation Solutions Certifications are designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of automation, control systems, and industrial networks. The certifications are offered at three levels: Certified Associate, Certified Professional, and Certified Expert.

Certified Associate: This certification is designed for those who have a basic understanding of automation concepts and technologies. It typically takes around 10 hours of study time to complete the exam. To get certified as an Associate, you must pass a written exam that covers topics such as safety, installation, troubleshooting, programming, networking, and system integration. The cost for this certification is $250 USD.

Certified Professional: This certification is designed for those who have a more advanced understanding of automation concepts and technologies. It typically takes around 20 hours of study time to complete the exam. To get certified as a Professional, you must pass a written exam that covers topics such as safety, installation, troubleshooting, programming, networking, system integration and advanced applications. The cost for this certification is $400 USD.

Certified Expert: This certification is designed for those who have an expert-level understanding of automation concepts and technologies. It typically takes around 30 hours of study time to complete the exam. To get certified as an Expert, you must pass a written exam that covers topics such as safety, installation, troubleshooting programming networking system integration advanced applications and project management The cost for this certification is $600 USD.

10. ABB Certified Automation Professional

ABB Certified Automation Professional (CAP) is an international certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of industrial automation. The CAP certification is awarded by ABB, a global leader in power and automation technologies.

The CAP program consists of two parts: an online assessment and a practical exam. The online assessment tests the candidate’s knowledge of industrial automation concepts and principles, while the practical exam tests their ability to apply those concepts in real-world scenarios. To obtain the CAP certification, candidates must pass both parts of the program with a minimum score of 70%.

The CAP program typically takes up to six months to complete, depending on how quickly the candidate can study for and pass the exams. Candidates must also complete an approved training course before taking either part of the exam.

The cost for obtaining the CAP certification varies depending on where you take your training course and which type of exam you are taking (online or practical). Generally speaking, it can range from $500 to $2,000 USD.

11. Honeywell Experion PKS Certified Engineer

Honeywell Experion PKS Certified Engineer (HECE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of experienced engineers working with Honeywell Experion Process Knowledge System (PKS). The HECE program is designed to ensure that engineers have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively design, implement, configure, maintain, troubleshoot and optimize Experion PKS systems.

To become a Honeywell Experion PKS Certified Engineer, one must first complete an approved training course. Training courses are offered by Honeywell or its authorized partners. The duration of the training course varies depending on the type of course taken. Generally, it takes from two to five days to complete a training course.

After completing an approved training course, candidates must then pass a written exam in order to become certified. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as system architecture, configuration management, system integration and troubleshooting. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass and become certified.

The cost of becoming a Honeywell Experion PKS Certified Engineer depends on which training course is taken and whether it is taken online or in person. Generally speaking, online courses tend to be more affordable than in-person courses. Additionally, some organizations may offer discounts for group registrations or for members of certain organizations or associations.

Do You Really Need a Automation Technician Certificate?

When it comes to deciding whether or not to pursue an automation technician certificate, there are many factors to consider. Automation technicians are responsible for installing, programming, and maintaining industrial and commercial automated systems, so a certificate could be beneficial in helping you develop the skills necessary to excel in this field.

Having a certificate shows employers that you have taken the time and effort to prove your knowledge of automation technology and can demonstrate your ability to think critically about technical issues. A certificate also provides proof that you have completed the required training needed to work as an automation technician. Having this certification will make you more attractive as a candidate when applying for jobs.

In addition, having a certification may open up additional job opportunities or promotions within your current company. Automation technology is ever-evolving and having a certification allows employers to see that you have kept up with the latest advancements in the field. Employers may be more likely to hire someone who has already received formal training and can show proof of their abilities through certification.

All in all, an automation technician certificate can be beneficial if you’re looking for ways to stand out from other applicants or want a better understanding of automation technology. Although it isn’t necessarily required when applying for jobs in this field, having a certification could give you an edge over other candidates who don’t have one.

Related: Automation Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Automation Technician Certifications

Q1. What types of certifications are available for Automation Technicians?

A1. Automation technicians can gain certification from organizations such as the International Society of Automation (ISA), Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI) and CompTIA.

Q2. How much does an Automation Technician Certification cost?

A2. The cost of an automation technician certification varies depending on the organization offering it, but generally ranges from $200 to $500 USD.

Q3. What is the duration of an Automation Technician Certification?

A3. The duration of an automation technician certification depends on the organization offering it, but typically lasts between one and two years.

Q4. What is required to become certified as an Automation Technician?

A4. To become certified as an automation technician, you will need to pass a written examination that covers topics such as safety, programming languages, systems integration and troubleshooting techniques. You may also be required to have some hands-on experience in the field or attend a training course prior to taking the exam.

Q5. How often do I need to renew my Automation Technician Certification?

A5. Generally, you will need to renew your certification every two years in order to maintain your credentials and stay up-to-date with industry best practices and standards.