Top 10 Chemical Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a chemical engineer in the job market because they provide evidence of an individual's qualifications and expertise. Certifications demonstrate that a person has the necessary skills to perform tasks related to their field, and can increase their chances of getting hired by employers. They also give employers assurance that the person is up-to-date on the latest technologies and practices, which helps to ensure successful project completion. Finally, certifications can open doors to higher salaries and better job opportunities due to increased credibility and recognition.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Chemical Engineers and explains how they can help to take a chemical engineer's career to the next level.

What are Chemical Engineer Certifications?

Chemical engineer certification is a formal recognition of an individual's qualifications and experience in the field of chemical engineering. It is awarded by professional organizations such as the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), and other regional or national organizations. Becoming certified demonstrates that an individual has met certain standards set by these organizations, including having a minimum amount of experience, passing a written exam, and demonstrating knowledge in key areas related to chemical engineering.

Having chemical engineer certification can be beneficial to individuals in many ways. For instance, it may provide recognition within their profession and demonstrate to employers that they have achieved a certain level of expertise. Additionally, certified professionals may be eligible for promotions or salary increases due to their increased qualifications. Moreover, having certification can help individuals stay up-to-date on industry trends and developments, which can help them remain competitive in the job market. Finally, becoming certified can open up networking opportunities with other professionals who are also certified.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the requirements for certification in your state or country before beginning the process. Depending on where you live, there may be additional educational and/or work experience requirements that must be met before you can apply for certification.

Related: What does a Chemical Engineer do?

Top 10 Chemical Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Chemical Engineer (CPChE)

Certified Professional Chemical Engineer (CPChE) is a professional certification program for chemical engineers. It is offered by the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE). The CPChE program recognizes and rewards individuals who demonstrate a high level of expertise in the practice of chemical engineering.

To become certified, applicants must have an accredited bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, five years of professional experience in the field, and pass an examination. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral portion. The written portion covers topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, process design, plant operations, safety and environmental management, economics and project management. The oral portion is conducted with an AIChE panel and includes questions related to the applicant’s professional experience.

The cost to apply for the CPChE certification is $450 for AIChE members and $550 for non-members. This fee covers the cost of the application review process and examination fees. Once approved, applicants are required to pay an annual renewal fee of $100 to maintain their certification status.

Overall, it may take up to six months or longer to complete the entire CPChE certification process depending on how quickly applicants can meet all requirements and pass their exams.

2. Certified Process Safety Professional (CPSP)

Certified Process Safety Professional (CPSP) is a certification program offered by the Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS) of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE). The CPSP program is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of competency in process safety management.

To become certified, applicants must meet educational and experience requirements and pass an exam. Applicants must have a minimum of five years of experience in process safety management, and at least one year of that experience must be in a managerial or supervisory role. They must also have at least a bachelor's degree in engineering, chemistry, physics, or an equivalent field.

The cost to take the exam is $750 for AIChE members and $950 for non-members. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as process hazard analysis, risk assessment, incident investigation, emergency response planning, and more. It takes approximately four hours to complete the exam.

Once certified, CPSPs are required to maintain their certification by completing continuing education activities every three years. This includes attending conferences or workshops related to process safety management or taking online courses related to the subject matter.

3. Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM)

The Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) is a professional designation offered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the management of hazardous materials and waste.

In order to become a CHMM, an individual must meet certain educational and experience requirements and pass a comprehensive examination. The educational requirements include either a bachelor's degree in any field or an associate's degree in hazardous materials management, safety, or environmental science, plus three years of full-time experience in hazardous material or waste management.

To obtain the CHMM designation, an individual must submit an application to IHMM along with proof of education and experience. Once the application is approved, the individual can register for the certification exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as risk assessment, emergency response planning, hazardous waste management, and regulations related to hazardous materials.

The cost for taking the CHMM exam varies depending on whether you are an IHMM member or non-member. For members, the cost is $450; for non-members it is $550. The exam fee includes access to study materials and practice exams. It typically takes 6-8 weeks to receive your results after taking the exam.

4. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification awarded by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in quality engineering principles and practices. The CQE credential is particularly useful for those interested in working in the field of quality engineering, as it provides an objective measure of an individual’s knowledge and experience.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass the CQE exam. The eligibility requirements include having a minimum of eight years of work experience in quality engineering or related fields, with at least three years spent in a supervisory or managerial role. Applicants must also have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution, or equivalent work experience.

The CQE exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, statistical methods, design of experiments, measurement systems analysis, auditing techniques, product reliability, and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for the CQE exam is $399 USD for ASQ members and $499 USD for non-members. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certification within six weeks.

5. American Institute of Chemical Engineers Certification (AIChE)

The American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and experience of chemical engineers. It is designed to demonstrate a commitment to the profession and to set a standard for excellence in the field.

In order to obtain AIChE Certification, applicants must first pass an examination that covers topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, process control, and safety engineering. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. After passing the exam, applicants must submit their application materials along with supporting documents such as transcripts and references. Once approved, they will receive their AIChE Certification.

The AIChE Certification process typically takes between three and six months from start to finish. The cost of the certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought; however, it generally costs around $400 USD for the basic level certification. Additional fees may be required for higher levels of certification or for special certifications such as those related to safety or environmental engineering.

In addition to passing the exam and submitting their application materials, applicants must also meet certain criteria in order to be eligible for AIChE Certification. These include having at least five years of professional experience in chemical engineering or related fields; having a degree from an accredited college or university; and being active members in good standing with AIChE or another professional organization related to chemical engineering.

6. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals develop their knowledge and skills in the field of Six Sigma. It is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a high level of proficiency in the principles and practices of Six Sigma.

The certification program typically takes three months to complete, depending on the individual’s availability and commitment to completing the coursework. To get certified, individuals must pass a written exam and complete a project demonstrating their mastery of the material. The cost varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,500 USD.

In order to get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, individuals must first complete an approved training program or course. These are offered by various providers such as universities, colleges, and private companies. The courses cover topics such as process improvement methodology, data analysis techniques, problem-solving strategies, and project management tools. Once individuals have completed the training program or course they can then take the written exam which tests their knowledge of Six Sigma principles and practices. After passing the exam they must also complete a project demonstrating their mastery of Six Sigma concepts.

Once all requirements have been met successfully, individuals will receive their official Six Sigma Green Belt Certification from an accredited organization such as ASQ (American Society for Quality). This certification is valid for five years after which time it must be renewed through re-certification activities such as additional training or continuing education credits.

7. International Society of Automation – Certified Automation Professional (CAP)

The International Society of Automation (ISA) Certified Automation Professional (CAP) program is a certification program for automation professionals. This certification is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of automation professionals in the industrial automation field. The CAP credential is intended to demonstrate that an individual has achieved a level of competency in their profession.

To earn the CAP credential, individuals must pass an exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of industrial automation principles and practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as process control, instrumentation, safety systems, system integration, and project management. The exam typically takes two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CAP credential, candidates must have at least two years of experience in industrial automation or related fields. Candidates must also have a minimum of 40 hours of professional development or training in industrial automation within the last five years prior to taking the exam.

The cost for taking the CAP exam is $450 USD for ISA members and $550 USD for non-members. Additionally, there is an annual fee of $125 USD for maintaining the certification once it has been earned.

Overall, earning the ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP) credential requires dedication and hard work but can be very rewarding for those who are passionate about their work in industrial automation.

8. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge, experience, and skills necessary to successfully manage projects of any size.

To be eligible for the PMP exam, an individual must have a minimum of three years of project management experience and 35 hours of project management education. The exam itself consists of 200 multiple choice questions and takes four hours to complete.

To get the PMP certification, an individual must first apply for it through PMI's website. Once approved, they can then register for the exam at a local testing center. After passing the exam, they will receive their official PMP certification from PMI.

The cost of the PMP certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI. For members, it costs $405; for non-members, it costs $555. Additionally, there are other fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees and proctoring fees which vary depending on location.

9. Chartered Engineer (CEng)

Chartered Engineer (CEng) is a professional qualification awarded by the Engineering Council in the United Kingdom. It is the highest level of engineering qualification and demonstrates that an individual has achieved a high level of knowledge, experience and competence in their chosen field.

To become a Chartered Engineer, individuals must have obtained either an accredited UK engineering degree or equivalent international qualification, plus at least four years of post-qualification engineering experience. The individual must also demonstrate their commitment to continuing professional development (CPD) and adhere to the Engineering Council’s Code of Professional Conduct.

The process for becoming a Chartered Engineer usually takes between three and five years, depending on the individual’s qualifications and experience. Initially, individuals must register with one of the Engineering Council’s approved professional bodies (such as IET or IMechE). The registration process involves completing an application form and providing evidence of qualifications and experience. Once registered, individuals will be required to complete a CPD plan which outlines how they will develop their skills over time.

Once all requirements are met, individuals can apply for Chartered Engineer status with the Engineering Council. This involves submitting evidence of their qualifications, experience and CPD activities, along with references from two referees who can vouch for their work ethic and professionalism.

The cost of becoming a Chartered Engineer varies depending on which professional body you register with but generally ranges from £150 - £400 per year for membership fees. There may also be additional costs associated with gaining accreditation such as exam fees or training courses.

10. Registered Professional Engineer in the United States

Registered Professional Engineer (RPE) is a professional designation in the United States given to engineers who have met certain educational and experience requirements, passed a state-administered examination, and been approved by their state’s licensing board. The RPE designation is granted by individual states, so requirements may vary slightly from one state to another. Generally speaking, in order to become an RPE, an engineer must have at least four years of engineering experience and a bachelor’s degree in engineering from an accredited college or university.

In most states, obtaining the RPE designation requires passing two examinations: the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. The FE exam tests knowledge of fundamental engineering principles while the PE exam tests knowledge of advanced engineering principles related to the specific field of engineering that the applicant wishes to practice. Depending on which state you are applying for licensure in, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete both exams.

The cost for taking both exams varies depending on the state you are applying for licensure in. Generally speaking, it will cost around $800-$1000 total for both exams. Additionally, many states also require applicants to pay a fee when submitting their application for licensure as well as an annual renewal fee once they become licensed.

Do You Really Need a Chemical Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your career goals. If you are looking to work in the chemical engineering field, then a chemical engineer certificate may be beneficial for you. A certificate can provide a foundation of knowledge and skills that will help you to pursue higher level positions within the engineering field. It can also give employers an indication of your commitment to the profession and can demonstrate that you have achieved specific education requirements in order to practice as a professional chemical engineer.

In addition, having a certificate may open up more job opportunities since many employers prefer candidates with credentials or certifications. It is also possible that companies will offer higher salaries or better benefits packages for those who possess a certificate in chemical engineering.

However, it is important to consider whether or not obtaining a certificate is necessary for your particular situation. If you already have relevant experience and knowledge related to the field, then it may not be necessary for you to pursue additional certification at this time. Additionally, some organizations require applicants to have certain degrees or qualifications before granting them access to certain positions – so it's important for you to research which organizations might require certification before applying for any jobs.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a chemical engineer certificate depends on your individual circumstances and career aspirations. Consider all of the potential benefits associated with obtaining a certificate before making any final decisions about pursuing one.

Related: Chemical Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Chemical Engineer Certifications

1. What is a Chemical Engineer Certification?

Answer: A Chemical Engineer Certification is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's knowledge and experience in the field of chemical engineering. It is usually awarded by a recognized institution or organization after successful completion of an examination.

2. How long does it take to obtain a Chemical Engineering Certification?

Answer: The time frame for obtaining a Chemical Engineering Certification can vary depending on the type of certification and the individual’s prior experience level. Generally, most certifications require approximately two years of study and/or work experience in order to become certified.

3. What are some of the benefits of having a Chemical Engineering Certification?

Answer: Having a Chemical Engineering Certification can open up many opportunities in the field, such as higher salaries, more job security, better career prospects, and increased respect from employers and colleagues alike.

4. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Chemical Engineering Certification?

Answer: Yes, most organizations will require applicants to have either an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering or related field or relevant work experience before they can be considered for certification. Additionally, certain exams may also need to be taken before becoming certified.

5. Is there any way to renew my Chemical Engineering Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations offer renewal options for their certifications every few years or so. Renewal typically requires retaking an exam or submitting evidence showing ongoing work in the field since initial certification was achieved.