Top 11 Building Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a building engineer in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and experience to perform their job duties. They show potential employers that the individual is qualified for a particular role and can be trusted to do the job correctly. Certifications also help employers differentiate between applicants and make informed decisions about who to hire. They provide evidence of an engineer’s competence and commitment, as well as their understanding of industry standards and regulations. Certifications also provide engineers with access to more career opportunities, allowing them to specialize in certain areas or work on cutting-edge projects.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Building Engineers and explains how they can help to advance a Building Engineer's career.

What are Building Engineer Certifications?

Building engineer certification is a professional designation recognized by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). It is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary to design, install, maintain and troubleshoot mechanical systems in buildings. This certification verifies that an individual has the necessary knowledge and abilities to work with complex building systems.

Having a building engineer certification can be beneficial in many ways. It is a valuable asset for anyone seeking employment in the field or wanting to advance their career. It demonstrates a commitment to excellence and demonstrates knowledge of the latest industry trends and best practices. Additionally, it can lead to increased job security as employers are more likely to hire certified professionals. Finally, having this certification can give an individual an edge over non-certified competitors when applying for jobs or seeking promotions. In summary, obtaining a building engineer certification can provide numerous benefits that will help an individual succeed in their career.

Pro tip: When building engineer certification, focus on gaining hands-on experience in the field. This will help you gain a better understanding of the material and give you an edge when it comes to passing the exams. Additionally, seek out online resources that can provide additional training and practice tests to help prepare you for the certification exams.

Related: What does a Building Engineer do?

Top 11 Building Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Building Engineers today.

1. Certified Building Engineer (CBE)

Certified Building Engineer (CBE) is a professional certification program designed to provide building engineers with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective management of commercial and institutional buildings. The CBE program is administered by Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA).

The CBE program consists of four courses: Fundamentals of Building Management, Operation & Maintenance, Energy Management, and Systems & Controls. Each course requires approximately 30 hours of study time, including online instruction, reading assignments, practice tests and quizzes. Upon successful completion of all four courses, participants are eligible to take the CBE exam.

To get certified as a CBE, applicants must first complete all four courses in the program. After completing the courses, applicants must then pass the CBE exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as building systems operation and maintenance, energy management principles and practices, building codes and regulations, safety protocols and emergency preparedness plans.

The cost to become a Certified Building Engineer varies depending on your location and whether you choose to take an in-person or online course. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 USD for tuition fees plus additional costs for books and materials.

2. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a professional designation given by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of energy management. The CEM program is designed to recognize professionals with expertise in energy efficiency, conservation, auditing, and engineering.

It typically takes three to six months to become a CEM after completing all the requirements. To get certified as a CEM, you must first meet the eligibility criteria set by AEE. This includes having at least five years of full-time experience in energy management or related fields. You must also have completed 40 hours of approved continuing education credits in energy management topics within the last five years.

Once you have met the eligibility criteria, you will need to complete an online application form and submit it along with your supporting documents such as proof of work experience and copies of certificates for any training courses taken. After submitting your application, you will be required to take an online exam which consists of 100 multiple choice questions covering topics such as energy auditing, engineering principles, building systems and more.

The cost for becoming a CEM is $650 USD for AEE members or $750 USD for non-members. This fee covers the application fee, exam fee and certification fee.

3. Professional Engineer (PE)

Professional Engineer (PE) is a professional certification that is awarded to engineers who have demonstrated their knowledge, experience, and expertise in a particular engineering discipline. The PE designation is awarded by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), an organization that sets standards for engineering licensure in the United States.

How long does it take to get it?

The process of obtaining a PE license typically takes between four and six years. It requires passing two exams, completing four years of relevant work experience, and meeting any additional requirements set by the state in which you are applying.

How to get it?

To become a Professional Engineer (PE), you must first earn a bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited college or university. Once you have your degree, you must pass two exams administered by the NCEES: the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Principles & Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. After passing these exams, you must obtain four years of relevant work experience under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer. Finally, you must meet any additional requirements set by your state licensing board before being granted a PE license.

How much does it cost?

The cost to become a Professional Engineer varies depending on where you live and what type of engineer you are becoming certified as. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $200-$600 for application fees and $200-$400 for each exam fee. In addition to these costs, there may also be other expenses associated with obtaining your PE license such as travel expenses or continuing education courses required by some states.

4. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP)

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the design, construction, and operation of green buildings. LEED APs are knowledgeable about the principles of green building, including energy efficiency, water conservation, materials selection, indoor environmental quality, and more.

It typically takes three to six months to become a LEED AP. The process begins with registering for the exam through the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). Once registered, you can prepare for the exam by studying the LEED Reference Guide or taking an online preparation course. After passing the exam, you will receive your LEED AP credential.

The cost of becoming a LEED AP varies depending on which route you take to prepare for the exam. The GBCI charges $250 for registration and $200 for each retake of the exam. If you choose to take an online course or other preparation materials, those fees will vary depending on which provider you choose.

In order to maintain your LEED AP credential, you must earn 30 continuing education hours every two years by attending conferences or taking courses related to green building practices.

5. American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Certification

The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Certification is a professional credential that recognizes the expertise of HVAC professionals. It is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates the knowledge and skills required to design, install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair HVAC systems.

To get ASHRAE Certification, you must first complete an accredited program in either air conditioning or refrigeration technology. You will then need to pass two exams administered by ASHRAE: one on general HVAC principles and one on specific areas of practice such as energy management or controls. The exams are offered twice a year at various locations around the United States.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your ASHRAE Certification. This certification is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years in order to remain current.

The cost of getting ASHRAE Certification varies depending on where you take the exam and how many times you have taken it before. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 for each exam plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam (such as registration fees).

In total, it usually takes about six months to get ASHRAE Certification if you are starting from scratch with no prior experience in HVAC technology. However, if you already have some experience in this field then it may take less time to become certified.

6. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Certification

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) is a non-profit organization that provides certification programs to professionals in the engineering and technology fields. NICET certification is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of competence and knowledge in their field of expertise. The certifications are based on a set of national standards developed by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

NICET offers certifications in various disciplines including fire protection engineering, industrial automation, construction inspection, electrical power systems, mechanical systems, water resources engineering, and more. In order to be eligible for certification, applicants must meet certain qualifications such as having an accredited degree or equivalent experience in their chosen field.

The time it takes to complete the certification process depends on the individual's experience level and the type of certification they are pursuing. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all requirements for NICET certification.

To get certified with NICET, applicants must first submit an application along with any required documents such as transcripts or work experience verification forms. Once approved, applicants will need to pass an examination that covers topics related to their chosen discipline. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate from NICET.

The cost of getting certified with NICET varies depending on the type of certification being sought. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 USD per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees.

7. Building Performance Institute (BPI) Certification

The Building Performance Institute (BPI) is a nationally recognized certification program that provides training and certification for professionals in the home performance industry. BPI certifications are designed to ensure that individuals who work on residential energy efficiency projects have the knowledge and skills necessary to do so safely, effectively, and efficiently.

In order to become certified, applicants must complete an approved BPI training course, pass a written exam, and demonstrate their knowledge of building science principles through hands-on fieldwork. The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the type of certification desired, but typically ranges from one week to three months.

To get BPI certified, applicants must first enroll in an approved BPI training course. These courses are offered by accredited organizations throughout the United States. Once enrolled in a course, applicants must complete all required classroom instruction and fieldwork before taking the written exam. After passing the written exam with a score of at least 70%, applicants must then demonstrate their knowledge of building science principles through hands-on fieldwork.

The cost of becoming BPI certified varies depending on the type of certification desired and which organization is providing the training course. Generally speaking, however, most courses range from $500-$2000 depending on the level of certification sought after.

8. Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) Certification

Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) Certification is a professional credentialing body that recognizes individuals and organizations for their expertise in green building practices. It is the only organization authorized by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to provide third-party certification of projects seeking LEED certification. GBCI certifications demonstrate an individual’s or organization’s commitment to sustainability, and are recognized around the world as a mark of excellence in green building.

The process of obtaining GBCI certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought; however, it typically involves completing an application, submitting supporting documents, and passing an exam. The length of time for the entire process can range from several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the project and availability of resources.

In order to obtain GBCI certification, applicants must first meet specific eligibility requirements related to education, experience, or other qualifications. Once these requirements have been met, applicants must submit a detailed application along with supporting documents such as proof of education or experience in green building practices. After the application has been reviewed and accepted by GBCI staff, applicants must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining GBCI certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD per person or organization applying for certification.

9. Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)

The Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize experienced construction professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, experience, and professionalism in the field of construction management.

To become certified as a CPC, individuals must meet certain criteria established by CMAA. This includes having at least five years of full-time construction management experience and passing an examination that covers topics such as contract administration, project scheduling, cost estimating, and risk management.

The process for becoming a CPC typically takes about six months to complete. The first step is to submit an application to CMAA along with supporting documentation such as a resume and letters of recommendation from employers or colleagues. Once the application is approved, applicants must then register for and take the CPC exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours.

The cost to become a CPC varies depending on the applicant’s membership status with CMAA. For non-members, the fee is $650; for members it is $550; and for students it is $250. In addition to this fee, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam such as travel expenses or purchasing study materials.

10. International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Certified Facility Manager (CFM)

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Certified Facility Manager (CFM) is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of facility management professionals. The CFM designation is the most widely recognized credential in the field of facility management, and it is designed to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to their profession and their ability to effectively manage facilities.

To become a CFM, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam. To be eligible, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in facility management or related fields, or a combination of experience and education totaling five years. Additionally, applicants must agree to adhere to IFMA’s Code of Ethics.

The CFM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as financial management, operations and maintenance, human resources, project management, leadership and strategy development, communication and information technology. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for the CFM exam varies depending on whether or not you are an IFMA member. If you are not a member, the cost is $495; if you are a member, the cost is $395. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at certain locations outside of North America.

Once you have successfully completed the CFM exam and met all other eligibility requirements, you will receive your official CFM certificate from IFMA within six weeks after passing the exam.

11. Project Management Professional (PMP®)

Project Management Professional (PMP®) is a certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is one of the most sought-after certifications in the project management industry. PMP® certification demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and experience in leading and directing projects, as well as their commitment to the profession.

It typically takes between four to six months to obtain your PMP® certification. The amount of time it takes depends on how much prior project management experience and education you have, as well as how much effort you put into studying for the exam.

To become certified, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a secondary degree, at least three years of project management experience, and 35 hours of project management education. You must also pass an exam that covers five areas: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing.

The cost of getting your PMP® certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of PMI. For non-members, the cost is $555 USD for the application fee plus $405 USD for the exam fee. For members, it is $405 USD for the application fee plus $375 USD for the exam fee.

In addition to these fees, there may be other costs associated with obtaining your PMP® certification such as study materials or courses that can help prepare you for taking the exam.

Do You Really Need a Building Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual circumstances. In some cases, having a Building Engineer Certificate may be beneficial, but in other cases it may not be necessary.

If you are a building engineer or are planning to become one, then having a Building Engineer Certificate is likely to be beneficial for you. This certificate can help demonstrate your knowledge and experience in the field and make you more attractive to potential employers. It can also provide evidence of your ability to understand building design principles, engineering regulations and safety practices. Having such a certificate can open up career opportunities that might otherwise not be available without it.

On the other hand, if you are already working in the field and have extensive experience and knowledge of building design principles, engineering regulations and safety practices, then you may choose not to pursue a Building Engineer Certificate. The decision of whether or not to pursue such certification will depend on what kind of job you want and how much value employers place on such certificates.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Building Engineer Certificate will depend on your individual circumstances. If you are looking for career opportunities in the field or want to demonstrate your knowledge and experience, then having such certification may be beneficial for you. However, if you already have extensive experience in the field then it may not be necessary for you to pursue such certification.

Related: Building Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Building Engineer Certifications

Q1. What is a Building Engineer Certification?

A1. A Building Engineer Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a certain level of proficiency in the field of building engineering and management. It demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in building operations, safety, maintenance, energy efficiency and other related topics.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Building Engineer?

A2. To become certified as a Building Engineer, you will need to complete an approved training program or apprenticeship program and pass the appropriate certification exam. Some certifications may also require additional experience or continuing education credits.

Q3. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Building Engineer Certification?

A3. Yes, most certifications require applicants to have at least two years of work experience in the field of building engineering or management prior to taking the certification exam. Additionally, some certifications may have specific educational requirements such as having an associate’s degree or higher in engineering or architecture.

Q4. How long is a Building Engineer Certification valid for?

A4. Most certifications are valid for three years from the date they are earned unless otherwise specified by the issuing organization. After this period, you will need to renew your certification by completing any required continuing education courses and/or exams offered by the issuing organization before your expiration date.

Q5. What types of jobs can I get with a Building Engineer Certification?

A5: With a Building Engineer Certification, you may be able to find employment in various roles such as facility manager, maintenance supervisor, energy auditor, facilities engineer or project manager within the construction industry or private sector organizations such as hospitals, schools and universities.