Top 11 Central Supply Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for a central supply technician in the job market because they demonstrate their knowledge and skill level. Certifications give employers assurance that a technician has the necessary qualifications to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. Certification also shows employers that the technician is committed to continuing their education and staying up-to-date on industry developments. Additionally, certifications can lead to better pay, more opportunities for advancement, and greater job security.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Central Supply Technicians and explain how they can contribute to a central supply technician's career.

What are Central Supply Technician Certifications?

Central supply technician certification is a professional credential awarded by the Association for Healthcare Resource & Materials Management (AHRMM). It was designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and competency in the field of healthcare materials management. By obtaining this certification, individuals are able to demonstrate their commitment to the field and prove their expertise in managing materials and resources.

The certification can help individuals advance their careers in healthcare materials management. It can also give them an edge when applying for higher-level positions or promotions. Individuals with the certification may also be eligible for salary increases or other career benefits such as tuition reimbursement or recognition awards. In addition, having this certification can demonstrate a level of dedication to the field that employers may find attractive.

Pro Tip: When seeking certification as a Central Supply Technician, make sure to research the specific requirements and regulations in your state or region. Many states have different certifications and requirements, so be sure to understand what is needed in order to become certified.

Related: What does a Central Supply Technician do?

Top 11 Central Supply Technician Certifications

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

1. Certified Materials & Resource Professional (CMRP)

Certified Materials & Resource Professional (CMRP) is a professional certification that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated an advanced level of knowledge and experience in the field of materials and resource management. The CMRP certification is offered by the Association for Healthcare Resource & Materials Management (AHRMM).

The CMRP certification requires applicants to have at least five years of experience in materials management, with at least three of those years being in a supervisory or managerial role. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as strategic planning, inventory control, supply chain management, and financial management.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the requirements for the CMRP certification. The first step is to submit an application to AHRMM along with proof of work experience and education. Once your application has been approved, you will be eligible to sit for the CMRP exam.

The cost of the CMRP certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of AHRMM. For members, it costs $495; for non-members, it costs $595.

2. Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP)

Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise and knowledge of individuals in the field of purchasing. The CPP certification is granted by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), the world’s largest professional association for supply management professionals.

The CPP certification program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in purchasing, supply chain management, inventory control, logistics and other related areas. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge on these topics.

To be eligible to take the CPP exam, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in purchasing or related fields. They must also have either a bachelor’s degree or a combination of education and experience that totals five years.

The CPP exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The cost to take the exam is $450 USD for ISM members and $550 USD for non-members. Applicants who pass the exam will receive their CPP certification within six weeks after taking the test.

3. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a certification program offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in supply chain management. The CSCP designation is designed to recognize professionals who have the skills and knowledge needed to manage global supply chains effectively.

The CSCP certification program consists of three components: an online course, an exam, and a professional development program. The online course provides comprehensive instruction on the principles of supply chain management, including topics such as logistics, inventory management, procurement, and customer service. The exam is a multiple-choice test that covers the material presented in the online course. Passing the exam earns you the CSCP designation.

The professional development program consists of four modules: Global Sourcing & Procurement Strategies; Customer Relationship Management; Logistics & Distribution; and Supply Chain Performance Measurement & Improvement. These modules are designed to help you develop your skills in managing global supply chains effectively.

It typically takes about six months to complete all three components of the CSCP certification program. To get started, you will need to register for the online course and pay a fee of $995 USD. After completing the course, you will need to pass a proctored exam at one of ASCM’s testing centers or through their remote proctoring service. The cost for taking the exam is $495 USD. Finally, you will need to complete all four modules of the professional development program before being awarded your CSCP designation. The cost for this portion of the program varies depending on which courses you choose to take but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD.

4. 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 is designed to help supply chain professionals gain an understanding of production and inventory management principles, and develop the necessary skills to effectively manage global supply chains.

The CPIM program consists of two exams: Basics of Supply Chain Management (BSCM) and Master Planning of Resources (MPR). The BSCM exam covers topics such as supply chain strategy, demand planning, inventory management, procurement, and operations. The MPR exam covers topics such as capacity planning, scheduling, material requirements planning, master scheduling, and shop floor control.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CPIM program. To get started on the CPIM program you can either take a self-study course or attend an instructor-led course. The cost of taking the self-study course is around $1,500 while attending an instructor-led course is around $2,000.

5. Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)

Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize professionals who have mastered the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage logistics, transportation and distribution activities within an organization.

It takes approximately 200 hours of study time to prepare for the CLTD exam. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as supply chain management, inventory management, transportation operations, warehousing operations, order fulfillment processes, customer service management, global logistics considerations and international trade regulations.

In order to get certified in CLTD you must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%. You can take the exam at any APICS approved testing center or online through Pearson VUE.

The cost of taking the CLTD exam varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or not. For non-members it costs $695 USD while members pay $495 USD. Additionally there are other costs associated with studying for the exam such as books and online courses which can range from $100 - $500 USD depending on what materials you choose to use.

6. Certified Supply Chain Manager (CSCM)

Certified Supply Chain Manager (CSCM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to help supply chain professionals demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field. The CSCM certification is a globally recognized credential that validates an individual’s ability to lead, manage, and direct supply chain operations.

The CSCM program requires applicants to have a minimum of five years of professional experience in the supply chain field. Applicants must also pass an exam consisting of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as inventory management, logistics management, procurement, global sourcing, and customer service.

The exam can be taken online or at a proctored test center. The cost of the exam is $395 USD for ISM members and $495 USD for non-members. It typically takes four to six weeks to receive your results after taking the exam.

Once you have passed the exam, you will need to submit an application with proof of your work experience and pay a $50 USD fee to become certified. The certification is valid for three years from the date it was issued. After three years, you will need to renew your certification by submitting proof of continuing education activities related to supply chain management.

7. Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution Analyst (CLTDA)

Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution Analyst (CLTDA) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The CLTDA certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery of logistics, transportation and distribution principles. It is intended for those working in industries such as supply chain management, freight forwarding, warehousing, transportation planning, and other related fields.

The CLTDA certification requires applicants to pass an exam that tests their knowledge of logistics, transportation and distribution concepts. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions which must be completed within two hours. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least five years of experience in the field or hold a bachelor's degree in supply chain management or a related field.

The cost of the CLTDA certification varies depending on whether you are taking the exam online or in person. Online exams cost $200 USD while exams taken at an AST&L testing center cost $350 USD. Additionally, there is a $50 USD fee for each retake if necessary.

Once you have successfully passed the exam and paid all applicable fees, you will receive your CLTDA certificate within four weeks after passing the exam.

8. Certified Professional in Healthcare Supply Chain (CPHSC)

Certified Professional in Healthcare Supply Chain (CPHSC) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Healthcare Supply Chain Management (ASHSCM). The CPHSC certification is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge of healthcare supply chain professionals. It demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence and their ability to provide quality services in the healthcare supply chain industry.

The CPHSC certification requires successful completion of a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as healthcare supply chain management, inventory control, purchasing, distribution, and logistics. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 2 hours and 30 minutes.

In order to be eligible for the CPHSC certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience working in a healthcare supply chain role or a related field. Applicants must also complete an approved course from ASHSCM or another approved organization prior to taking the exam.

The cost of the CPHSC certification program is $450 USD. This fee includes access to study materials, online practice exams, and the actual exam. After successfully completing the exam, individuals will receive their official CPHSC certificate from ASHSCM.

9. American Society for Healthcare Material Management Certification (ASHMM)

The American Society for Healthcare Material Management (ASHMM) is a professional organization that provides certification to healthcare professionals in the field of materials management. Materials management is the process of managing and controlling the flow of medical supplies and equipment within a healthcare facility.

The ASHMM Certified Professional in Healthcare Materials Management (CPHMM) certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of materials management. To become certified, applicants must have at least five years of experience working in healthcare materials management and must pass an exam administered by ASHMM. The exam covers topics such as inventory control, purchasing, storage, distribution, and regulatory compliance.

It typically takes about four to six months to complete the CPHMM certification process. The first step is to submit an application along with supporting documents such as transcripts and letters of recommendation. Once your application has been approved, you will be eligible to take the CPHMM exam. After passing the exam, you will receive your certification from ASHMM.

The cost for the CPHMM certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of ASHMM. For non-members, the cost is $425 for members it's $325. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the exam ($150 for non-members; $100 for members).

10. International Society of Logistics Certification Program (ISL CP)

The International Society of Logistics Certification Program (ISL CP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and expertise of logistics professionals. It is the only globally recognized certification for logistics professionals and provides a competitive edge in the job market.

The ISL CP is offered by the International Society of Logistics, which is an international organization dedicated to advancing the field of logistics through education, training, and research. The program consists of three levels: Certified Logistician (CL), Certified Senior Logistician (CSL), and Certified Master Logistician (CML). Each level requires a certain amount of experience and knowledge in order to qualify for certification.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete all three levels of the ISL CP. To get started, you must first register with the International Society of Logistics and pay a registration fee. Once registered, you will receive access to study materials, including textbooks, practice exams, webinars, and other resources that will help you prepare for the exam. After completing all three levels successfully, you will receive your certification from the International Society of Logistics.

The cost for taking the ISL CP varies depending on which level you are taking and where you take it. Generally speaking, it can range from $200-$500 per level or more depending on location.

11. Association for Healthcare Resource & Materials Management Certification Program (AHRMM CP).

The Association for Healthcare Resource & Materials Management Certification Program (AHRMM CP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in healthcare supply chain management. The AHRMM CP is designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage the supply chain within their organization.

To become certified, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of the core principles of healthcare supply chain management, including inventory control, purchasing and procurement, materials management, supplier relations and contract administration. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to apply these principles to real-world situations.

The AHRMM CP requires applicants to complete an online application process. Once approved, applicants must pass a written exam that covers topics such as inventory control, purchasing and procurement, materials management and supplier relations. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certification from AHRMM.

The entire process can take up to six months or more depending on how quickly an applicant completes all of the required steps.

The cost for the AHRMM CP varies depending on whether you are an AHRMM member or nonmember. For members, it costs $395; for nonmembers it costs $495.

Do You Really Need a Central Supply Technician Certificate?

The short answer to this question is yes. A central supply technician certificate is an important credential that provides valuable recognition of the skills and knowledge necessary to work in a medical facility as a supply technician. This certification indicates that the holder has been formally trained in the safe handling and storage of medical supplies, including hazardous materials, as well as other aspects of inventory management. The certificate also implies that the holder has received instruction in infection control, safety protocols, and other relevant topics.

Having this certification can be beneficial for those seeking employment in a healthcare setting. In many cases, employers require applicants to possess a valid certificate before they can even be considered for the position. Additionally, obtaining this credential demonstrates dedication to one’s career and professional commitment to continuing education. It also shows potential employers that the applicant has taken initiative and invested time and effort into furthering their education and professional development.

In summary, a central supply technician certificate is an important credential that can help individuals get ahead in their careers. It not only provides recognition of specific skills but also demonstrates dedication to one’s profession. Therefore, it is highly recommended for those interested in pursuing such a career path.

Related: Central Supply Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Central Supply Technician Certifications

Q1: What is a Central Supply Technician Certification?

A1: A Central Supply Technician Certification is a certification program that prepares individuals to work in healthcare facilities, providing services related to the ordering, storing, and delivery of medical supplies.

Q2: How long does it take to become certified?

A2: The length of time needed to obtain certification can vary depending on the type of certification desired. Generally, most certifications require between 4-6 months of study and passing an exam.

Q3: What are the benefits of becoming certified?

A3: Being certified as a Central Supply Technician can lead to higher pay and more job opportunities. Additionally, you may be able to access additional resources such as training materials or discounts on products used in the field.

Q4: Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified?

A4: Yes, some certifications may have prerequisites such as having prior experience in the field or completing certain courses before applying for certification. It is important to research each individual certification program prior to applying.

Q5: How much does it cost to become certified?

A5: Cost can vary depending on the type of certification desired. Generally, most certifications range from $200-$500 USD.