Top 11 Chemical Operator Certifications

Certifications are important for a chemical operator in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has achieved a certain level of proficiency in their skills. Certifications provide proof that an operator is knowledgeable about safety protocols, industry best practices, and specific processes. Having certifications can also help a candidate stand out from other applicants and show potential employers that they have taken the initiative to further their education and training. Additionally, many companies require operators to possess certain certifications before they are allowed on site or to perform certain duties, so having certifications can make it easier for a chemical operator to find employment.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Chemical Operators and explains how they can contribute to a chemical operator's career growth.

What are Chemical Operator Certifications?

Chemical operator certification is a type of certification that is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in the safe operation, control, and maintenance of chemical processing equipment. This type of certification helps to ensure that operators are properly trained and qualified for their positions. It also serves as a way to demonstrate their commitment to safety and quality standards in the workplace.

By obtaining this certification, operators can demonstrate that they have received comprehensive training on the safe operation of chemical processing equipment, including proper handling procedures, safety protocols, risk assessment techniques, and more. This type of certification can be beneficial to employers by ensuring that their operators are appropriately trained and qualified for the job. It can also help operators gain recognition within their industry and increase their chances of promotion or advancement.

Pro Tip: When obtaining a chemical operator certification, be sure to attend training courses that cover the specific chemicals you will be working with. Knowing the risks associated with each chemical and how to safely handle them is essential for successful certification.

Related: What does a Chemical Operator do?

Top 11 Chemical Operator Certifications

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

1. Certified Chemical Operator (CCO)

A Certified Chemical Operator (CCO) is an individual who has demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the safe operation of chemical process equipment. This certification is granted by the American Chemistry Council (ACC).

The CCO certification program consists of a written exam, which tests the candidate's knowledge of safety, operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting related to chemical process equipment. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get certified as a CCO, candidates must have at least three years of experience working with chemical process equipment or have completed an approved training program. Candidates must also pass the written exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for taking the CCO exam varies depending on the location and provider. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$400 to take the exam.

2. Certified Process Operator (CPO)

Certified Process Operator (CPO) is a certification program developed by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is designed to provide process operators with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively operate industrial processes. The CPO program consists of an online course, an in-person exam, and a practical assessment.

The online course covers topics such as process safety, process control, instrumentation, operations management, and troubleshooting. The in-person exam tests the candidate's knowledge of these topics. The practical assessment requires the candidate to demonstrate their ability to operate a specific type of process equipment.

The CPO certification typically takes about two months to complete. Candidates must first register for the online course and pass the in-person exam before they can take the practical assessment.

The cost for the CPO certification varies depending on where you live and what type of training you need. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500-$1000 USD for all three components of the program (online course, in-person exam, and practical assessment).

3. Certified Petroleum Operator (CPO)

Certified Petroleum Operator (CPO) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the operation of petroleum facilities. The CPO program is administered by the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE).

To become certified, an individual must pass a written exam that covers topics such as safety, maintenance, operations, and environmental regulations. The exam is offered twice a year at various locations around the world. It typically takes about 6-8 hours to complete the exam.

The cost of the CPO certification varies depending on where you take the exam and whether or not you are a member of NACE. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$700 USD for non-members and $400-$600 USD for members.

In order to maintain your CPO certification, you must renew it every three years by passing another written exam or completing continuing education credits.

4. Certified Refinery Operator (CRO)

Certified Refinery Operator (CRO) is a professional certification program developed by the American Petroleum Institute (API). It is designed to provide a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge needed to safely and efficiently operate a refinery.

To become certified as a CRO, applicants must complete an API-approved training program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on experience in the operation of refinery equipment. The training program typically takes between two and four weeks to complete. Once the program is completed, applicants must pass an exam administered by API to receive their certification.

The cost of becoming certified as a CRO varies depending on the provider offering the course. Generally, courses range from $2,000-$4,000 USD per person.

5. Certified Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (CWTPO)

Certified Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (CWTPO) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Boards of Certification (NABC). The NABC is an organization that provides certification programs for operators of water and wastewater treatment plants.

The CWTPO program is designed to ensure that wastewater treatment plant operators have the knowledge and skills necessary to operate their facilities safely, effectively, and in compliance with applicable regulations.

The program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. To become certified at any level, an operator must pass a written exam administered by the NABC. The exams are based on the standards set forth in the National Association of Boards of Certification's Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators' Manual.

The time it takes to get certified depends on how much experience an individual has in operating a wastewater treatment plant. Those with more experience may be able to complete the program faster than those who are just starting out. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to become fully certified as a CWTPO.

To get certified as a CWTPO, individuals must first register with the NABC and pay a registration fee. After registering, they will receive study materials that they can use to prepare for the written exam. Once they have passed the exam, they will be issued a certificate indicating their level of certification (Basic, Intermediate or Advanced).

The cost of becoming certified as a CWTPO varies depending on which level you are seeking certification at and how long it takes you to complete the program. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD for all three levels combined.

6. Certified Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (CIWTPO)

Certified Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (CIWTPO) is a certification program that provides recognition to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting industrial wastewater treatment plants. The certification is administered by the National Association of Wastewater Technicians (NAWT).

To become certified, an individual must pass a comprehensive written exam that covers all aspects of industrial wastewater treatment plant operations. This includes topics such as water chemistry, wastewater regulations, safety procedures, equipment operation and maintenance, and troubleshooting. Candidates must also demonstrate at least two years of experience working in an industrial wastewater treatment plant.

The CIWTPO exam typically takes about four hours to complete and costs $300. To prepare for the exam, NAWT offers study materials that can be purchased online or through their office. Additionally, some states offer preparatory courses for the CIWTPO exam.

Once an individual passes the CIWTPO exam they will receive a certificate from NAWT validating their qualifications as an industrial wastewater treatment plant operator. Certified operators are then eligible to apply for jobs in the industry with higher pay than non-certified operators.

7. Certified Hazardous Materials Technician (CHMT)

A Certified Hazardous Materials Technician (CHMT) is a professional who has been trained and certified to handle hazardous materials safely. This certification is issued by the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA). The CHMT credential is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in hazardous materials management, including the proper handling, storage, disposal, and emergency response procedures for hazardous materials.

To become a CHMT, applicants must have at least three years of experience in hazardous materials management or related field. They must also pass an exam administered by NEHA. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical skills assessment. The written portion covers topics such as hazardous material identification, labeling, containment, disposal, and emergency response procedures. The practical skills assessment tests the applicant’s ability to properly handle hazardous materials in simulated scenarios.

The cost of obtaining the CHMT credential varies depending on the individual's experience level and whether they choose to take the exam online or in person. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $400 to register for the exam and $250 for each additional attempt if necessary.

The entire process from start to finish usually takes about four months to complete depending on how quickly an individual can complete their application and prepare for the exam.

8. Certified Environmental Compliance Officer (CECO)

A Certified Environmental Compliance Officer (CECO) is a professional who has been certified by an accredited organization to assess, manage, and ensure environmental compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The CECO is responsible for ensuring that an organization meets all of its environmental obligations in order to protect the environment and public health.

The certification process typically takes between three to six months depending on the individual's experience and background. To become a CECO, individuals must have a minimum of five years of experience in environmental compliance or related fields, such as engineering, law, or science. They must also pass an exam administered by an accredited certifying body.

In order to obtain the certification, individuals must complete an application form which includes providing evidence of their work experience and passing the exam. The cost of obtaining the certification varies depending on the certifying body but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

9. Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)

A Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) is a professional who specializes in the prevention of occupational illnesses and injuries. They are responsible for assessing, controlling, and monitoring workplace hazards and environmental exposures that can cause harm to workers. To become a CIH, an individual must have at least a bachelor’s degree in industrial hygiene or related field, plus four years of experience in the field. The individual must also pass the CIH exam administered by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH).

The CIH exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral examination. The written portion covers topics such as toxicology, air sampling techniques, industrial hygiene measurements, safety engineering principles, ergonomics, hazardous materials management, health hazard evaluation procedures, risk assessment methods, and more. The oral examination includes questions about specific cases or situations related to industrial hygiene practice.

To prepare for the exam, individuals should take courses or seminars on industrial hygiene topics and review study guides available from ABIH. Additionally, many employers offer training programs for their employees who are pursuing certification as a CIH.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where it is taken; however it typically ranges between $600-$1000 USD. After passing the exam and meeting all other requirements for certification (such as education and experience), individuals will be awarded their CIH credential from ABIH.

10. National Environmental Health Association Certification in Hazardous Materials Management (NEHA-HMMC)

The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Hazardous Materials Management Certification (NEHA-HMMC) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the management of hazardous materials. This certification is designed to provide an objective measure of proficiency in hazardous materials management and to encourage continuing education and professional development in this field.

To obtain NEHA-HMMC certification, applicants must pass an examination that covers topics such as safety, regulations, risk assessment, emergency response planning, waste management, and environmental compliance. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

Applicants must have at least two years of experience managing hazardous materials or related activities in order to be eligible for the exam. Applicants must also submit proof of their experience when applying for the exam. In addition, applicants must pay a fee of $250 for the exam. Once the application is approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will receive their NEHA-HMMC certification which is valid for five years from the date it was issued. To maintain their certification, individuals must complete 30 hours of continuing education every five years.

11. American Board of Industrial Hygiene Certification in Chemical Safety and Risk Management (ABIH-CSRM).

The American Board of Industrial Hygiene Certification in Chemical Safety and Risk Management (ABIH-CSRM) is a certification program offered by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH). This certification demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the areas of chemical safety and risk management. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of industrial hygiene, including chemical safety and risk management.

To obtain ABIH-CSRM certification, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements as well as pass an examination. Applicants must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in industrial hygiene or related field, plus at least five years of professional experience in the field. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate knowledge in the areas of chemical safety and risk management through coursework or other activities such as seminars or workshops.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as hazard identification, toxicology, exposure assessment, control strategies, emergency response planning, occupational health surveillance, regulatory compliance, recordkeeping, and other related topics. The exam is administered twice per year at various locations across the United States.

The cost to apply for ABIH-CSRM certification is $495 USD for members of ABIH and $695 USD for non-members. The fee includes the application fee as well as the cost for taking the exam.

Overall, obtaining ABIH-CSRM certification can take several months to complete depending on an individual’s educational background and experience level.

Do You Really Need a Chemical Operator Certificate?

The answer to this question really depends on the individual situation. In some cases, a chemical operator certificate may be required by law or regulations in order to work in certain roles or industries. For example, if you are working with hazardous materials such as chemicals, then it is likely that certification would be necessary for safety reasons and to comply with relevant laws and regulations.

In other cases, a chemical operator certificate may not be required but could still be beneficial to have. Having such a certificate could help demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the specific processes and procedures involved in operating a chemical plant or facility. This can make you more attractive to potential employers who may require that level of expertise in their staff. It can also give you an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs within the industry.

Ultimately, if you are looking to pursue a career as a chemical operator then having a chemical operator certificate could be beneficial both in terms of demonstrating your knowledge and skill set as well as providing greater job opportunities.

Related: Chemical Operator Resume Examples

FAQs About Chemical Operator Certifications

1. What is a Chemical Operator Certification?

Answer: A Chemical Operator Certification is a qualification that demonstrates an individual has the knowledge and skills required to safely operate chemical processing equipment.

2. How do I obtain a Chemical Operator Certification?

Answer: To obtain a Chemical Operator Certification, an individual must complete an approved training program and pass an examination. The specific requirements vary by jurisdiction and certification body.

3. Is there a cost associated with obtaining a Chemical Operator Certification?

Answer: Yes, there may be costs associated with obtaining a Chemical Operator Certification depending on the certification body and jurisdiction. These costs may include registration fees, examination fees, and training course fees.

4. How long is a Chemical Operator Certification valid for?

Answer: The validity of a Chemical Operator Certification varies by jurisdiction and certification body, but typically ranges from 1-5 years with the option to renew upon expiration.

5. What are the benefits of having a Chemical Operator Certification?

Answer: Having a Chemical Operator Certification demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in safe chemical handling procedures which can lead to better job opportunities in the field of chemical processing and related industries. Additionally, it can provide increased safety for both operators and their employers as well as help meet regulatory requirements for certain types of operations.