Top 10 Calibration Technician Certifications

Certifications for calibration technicians are important in the job market because they demonstrate a technician’s expertise and knowledge in the field. Certified technicians have an edge over those who are not certified, as employers know they can trust their skills and abilities. Certification also shows that the technician is up-to-date on industry standards and practices, which helps to ensure accurate calibrations. Additionally, having a certification can help technicians stand out from other applicants and increase their chances of getting hired.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of certifications that can help Calibration Technicians advance their career and enhance their professional development.

What are Calibration Technician Certifications?

Calibration technician certification is a professional qualification that certifies technicians to accurately measure, analyze, and adjust a wide range of instruments and systems. This certification ensures that the technicians have the knowledge and skills necessary to properly calibrate any type of instrument or system in accordance with accepted industry standards. It typically requires successful completion of an assessment or examination that covers topics such as instrument calibration theory and practice, technical documentation, metrology principles, data analysis, problem solving, and troubleshooting.

Having a certified calibration technician on staff provides many benefits to organizations that use instruments and other equipment regularly. It can help reduce calibration costs by allowing technicians to more accurately assess the performance of instruments and systems. It also helps to ensure accuracy in measurements taken by these instruments and systems, reducing the risk of inaccurate readings which could lead to costly mistakes or safety issues. Finally, having certified technicians on staff can improve customer satisfaction by providing confidence in the results they receive from their instruments or systems.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the various technician certification programs available in your industry before selecting a program. Different certifications offer different levels of expertise, so it's important to select a program that is tailored to your specific needs and experience level. Additionally, be sure to check with employers in your area to determine which certification they may prefer.

Related: What does a Calibration Technician do?

Top 10 Calibration Technician Certifications

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

1. NIST Traceable Calibration Technician Certification

NIST Traceable Calibration Technician Certification is a certification program offered by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to recognize technicians who have demonstrated proficiency in the calibration of measuring and test equipment. The certification requires that technicians demonstrate their knowledge of metrology, measurement uncertainty, and traceability concepts. To obtain this certification, technicians must pass a written exam that covers topics such as calibration principles, calibration methods, and quality assurance procedures. The exam is administered by NIST-approved organizations and typically takes two to three hours to complete.

The cost for the NIST Traceable Calibration Technician Certification varies depending on the organization administering the exam. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $100 to $200 USD. Once certified, the technician will be listed on the NIST website as an officially recognized calibrator. This certification is valid for a period of three years after which time it must be renewed by taking another written exam.

2. ISO/IEC 17025 Calibration Technician Certification

ISO/IEC 17025 Calibration Technician Certification is a certification program offered by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It is designed to provide technicians with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform accurate calibrations of test and measurement equipment.

The certification process typically takes between six months and a year to complete. During this time, technicians must demonstrate their proficiency in calibration techniques and procedures, as well as their understanding of quality management systems. In addition, they must pass a written exam that covers topics such as metrology principles, calibration methods, traceability of measurements, and uncertainty analysis.

To get ISO/IEC 17025 Calibration Technician Certification, individuals must first become certified by an accredited organization such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ). This can be done through completing an ASQ-approved course or passing an exam administered by ASQ. Once certified by ASQ, individuals can then apply for ISO/IEC 17025 Calibration Technician Certification through their local accreditation body.

The cost of ISO/IEC 17025 Calibration Technician Certification varies depending on the country or region where it is obtained. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

3. Fluke Calibration Technician Certification

Fluke Calibration Technician Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform calibration work on Fluke products. This certification is offered by Fluke Corporation, a global leader in test and measurement equipment.

The Fluke Calibration Technician Certification program consists of two levels: Level I and Level II. To become certified as a Level I technician, you must successfully complete an online course that covers topics such as electrical safety, metrology principles, electrical measurements, and troubleshooting. The course takes approximately 10 hours to complete.

To become certified as a Level II technician, you must pass an exam administered by the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET). This exam covers topics such as advanced electrical measurements, advanced troubleshooting techniques, and instrumentation theory. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost for the Level I certification course is $495 USD. The cost for the Level II exam is $250 USD.

In order to get certified as a Fluke Calibration Technician, you must first register with Fluke Corporation and then sign up for either the Level I or Level II certification program. Once registered, you will be able to access all of the materials needed for your chosen level of certification.

4. ANSI/NCSL Z540-1 Calibration Technician Certification

ANSI/NCSL Z540-1 Calibration Technician Certification is a certification program that is designed to ensure that technicians are knowledgeable and competent in the field of calibration. The certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a level of proficiency in the areas of measurement principles, instrumentation, calibration techniques, and quality assurance.

To obtain the ANSI/NCSL Z540-1 Calibration Technician Certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by an accredited testing organization. The exam consists of multiple choice questions related to the topics mentioned above. Applicants must also provide proof of two years of experience in the field of calibration or equivalent education.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on the testing organization but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD. It usually takes about three weeks to receive results after taking the exam.

Once an individual has passed the exam and provided proof of experience or education, they will receive their ANSI/NCSL Z540-1 Calibration Technician Certification. This certification is valid for five years and can be renewed by retaking the exam or providing evidence that continuing education requirements have been met.

5. NCCER Industrial Instrumentation and Calibration Technician Certification

NCCER Industrial Instrumentation and Calibration Technician Certification is a certification program that verifies the knowledge and skills of technicians who work in the industrial instrumentation and calibration field. It is designed to ensure that technicians have the necessary skills to safely and accurately install, maintain, troubleshoot, calibrate, and repair instruments used in industrial settings.

The certification process typically takes about six months to complete. To become certified, applicants must complete a series of online courses which cover topics such as electrical safety, instrumentation principles, calibration techniques, PLCs (programmable logic controllers), and more. Upon successful completion of the courses, applicants must pass an industry-recognized exam to earn their certification.

The cost of the NCCER Industrial Instrumentation and Calibration Technician Certification varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1000 for the course materials and exam fees.

In order to get certified, applicants must first register with an accredited provider who offers NCCER’s Industrial Instrumentation and Calibration Technician Certification program. Once registered, they will be given access to all of the necessary course materials needed for their studies. After completing all required courses and passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, applicants will receive their certification from NCCER.

6. ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP) Calibration Technician Certification

The ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP) Calibration Technician Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful automation technician. This certification is offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA), which is a global non-profit organization dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity.

The CAP Calibration Technician Certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as calibration principles, instrumentation and measurement, troubleshooting and problem solving, safety practices, and communication skills. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

To be eligible for the CAP Calibration Technician Certification, applicants must meet certain educational requirements such as having a high school diploma or equivalent, or two years of relevant work experience in the field of automation technology. Additionally, applicants must also complete a minimum of 16 hours of approved training courses related to automation technology before taking the exam.

The cost for the CAP Calibration Technician Certification exam varies depending on whether you are an ISA member or non-member. For ISA members, the cost is $150 USD; for non-members, it is $200 USD.

Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements for certification, you will receive your official certificate from ISA within four weeks after passing the exam.

7. ASQ Certified Quality Control Technician (CQT) Calibration Technician Certification

The ASQ Certified Quality Control Technician (CQT) Calibration Technician Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of quality control and calibration. The CQT certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CQT certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as quality control, calibration, metrology, laboratory operations, statistics, and other related topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CQT certification, applicants must have at least two years of work experience in a quality control or calibration environment. Applicants must also submit an application form with proof of their work experience. Once the application is approved, applicants can register for the exam online or through mail.

The cost of the CQT certification exam varies depending on where you take it. In most cases, it costs around $400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as proctoring fees or travel expenses if you take it at a testing center outside your area.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official ASQ Certified Quality Control Technician (CQT) Calibration Technician Certification certificate in the mail within 6-8 weeks after passing the exam.

8. IEC 60512-18-1 Level 1 & 2 Certified Calibration Technician Certification

IEC 60512-18-1 Level 1 & 2 Certified Calibration Technician Certification is a certification program offered by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It is designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform calibration and repair of electronic measuring and test equipment.

The certification program consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 is intended for technicians who are new to calibration, while Level 2 is intended for experienced technicians. The program covers topics such as safety, basic electrical principles, metrology, instrumentation, measurement uncertainty, traceability, calibration procedures and documentation.

The certification process usually takes about one year to complete. To become certified at either level, individuals must first pass an online exam that covers the material in the IEC 60512-18-1 standard. After passing the exam, they must then complete a hands-on training course at an accredited facility or through a distance learning program.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the provider and type of course taken. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

9. NATEF Automotive Service Technology - Electrical Systems and Instrumentation Calibration Technician Certification

NATEF (National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation) is an organization that provides certifications for automotive technicians. The NATEF Automotive Service Technology - Electrical Systems and Instrumentation Calibration Technician Certification is a certification that demonstrates knowledge of electrical systems, instrumentation, and calibration in the automotive service industry.

This certification requires passing a written exam and completing a hands-on practical evaluation to demonstrate proficiency in electrical systems and instrumentation calibration. The written exam consists of questions related to the electrical system, including basic electricity, wiring diagrams, circuits, switches, relays, and troubleshooting. The practical evaluation includes tasks such as properly connecting wires to components and testing the operation of various components.

It typically takes between four to six weeks to complete the certification process. To get certified, you must first register with NATEF by providing proof of your automotive technician qualifications or experience. Once registered, you can then apply for the certification exam online or by mail. You will need to provide proof of your education or experience as well as pay a fee for the exam.

The cost of the NATEF Automotive Service Technology - Electrical Systems and Instrumentation Calibration Technician Certification varies depending on whether you are taking the exam online or in person. Online exams typically cost around $150 while in-person exams cost around $250.

10. ETA International Electronics Systems Technologist (EST) and Electronics Systems Technician (EST) Certifications

The ETA International Electronics Systems Technologist (EST) and Electronics Systems Technician (EST) certifications are two separate certifications for professionals in the electronics industry.

The EST certification is designed for technicians who have a working knowledge of electronic systems and components. This certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in the field, or an associate's degree in electronics technology or a related field. To obtain this certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as digital circuits, analog circuits, microprocessors, and communications systems. The cost to take the exam is $125 USD.

The EST certification is designed for professionals with more advanced knowledge and skills in electronic systems technology. This certification requires a minimum of four years of experience in the field, or a bachelor's degree in electronics technology or a related field. To obtain this certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as digital circuits, analog circuits, microprocessors, communications systems, power supplies, and control systems. The cost to take the exam is $175 USD.

Both certifications are valid for three years from the date of issue and can be renewed by passing the appropriate recertification exams.

Do You Really Need a Calibration Technician Certificate?

No, you do not need a calibration technician certificate to be successful in the field of calibration. However, having a certification may make you more attractive to potential employers and may give you an advantage over other applicants. It can also provide evidence that you have the necessary knowledge and skills required for the job. Furthermore, having a certification can help demonstrate your commitment to professional development and can enhance your credibility in the eyes of employers.

In order to obtain a calibration technician certificate, you must typically complete some type of training program or coursework related to calibration. This could include courses in mechanical engineering, instrumentation, electrical engineering, or any other related field. After completing the training program or coursework, individuals must pass a certification examination administered by an accredited organization such as NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology).

Having a calibration technician certificate can open up new opportunities for career advancement within the industry and can help provide job security for those who already hold positions in this field. Additionally, it is important to note that even if you do not have a certification, there are still many jobs available within the calibration profession. Employers often look at experience and skills rather than certificates when making hiring decisions.

Overall, while having a calibration technician certificate may be beneficial for certain individuals pursuing careers in this field, it is not essential for success in this profession.

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FAQs About Calibration Technician Certifications

1. What is a Calibration Technician Certification?

Answer: A Calibration Technician Certification is a specialty certification that enables technicians to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the calibration of instruments, tools, and equipment.

2. What are the requirements for becoming a Certified Calibration Technician?

Answer: The requirements vary depending on the certifying body, but typically include completing an accredited calibration technician training program, passing an exam, and obtaining professional experience in the field.

3. How long does it take to become a Certified Calibration Technician?

Answer: Depending on the certifying body and the amount of professional experience required, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to become certified as a calibration technician.

4. Is there any additional training or continuing education required for maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying bodies require periodic continuing education courses or retesting in order to maintain your certification status.

5. Are there any job opportunities available for Certified Calibration Technicians?

Answer: Yes! Certified Calibration Technicians are highly sought after by employers in many industries including aerospace, automotive, medical device manufacturing, process control and more.