Top 11 Chemical Process Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a chemical process engineer in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and proficiency that employers value. Certifications show that the individual has dedicated time and effort to studying and mastering the skills required for their position, which can set them apart from other applicants. Additionally, certifications can provide access to higher-level roles or industry-specific positions, as many employers prefer to hire certified candidates. Finally, certifications may be required by certain organizations in order to work on specific projects or with certain materials, so having the right certification can open up additional opportunities.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Chemical Process Engineers and explains how they can benefit a Chemical Process Engineer's career.

What are Chemical Process Engineer Certifications?

Chemical process engineer certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of chemical engineering. It is typically awarded by professional organizations dedicated to the advancement of chemical engineering, such as the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) and The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE).

The certification process involves taking an exam that tests knowledge and competency in areas such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, unit operations, process control and design. Upon passing the exam, individuals receive a certificate or license that documents their qualification as a certified chemical process engineer.

Having a chemical process engineer certification can be beneficial for many reasons. For one, it provides employers with evidence that an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out vital tasks within their organization. In addition, having a certification can open up new career opportunities, help increase one’s salary potential and give them access to industry-specific resources such as conferences and journals. Moreover, it can also provide individuals with greater job security since employers are more likely to retain certified engineers over those without the credential.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing chemical process engineer certification, make sure you have a thorough understanding of the industry and its regulations. Understanding the fundamentals of process engineering and safety is essential for success in this field. Additionally, it is important to familiarize yourself with relevant software tools and to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in technology.

Related: What does a Chemical Process Engineer do?

Top 11 Chemical Process Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Process Engineer (CPE)

Certified Process Engineer (CPE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). The CPE credential is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge and expertise in process engineering. The CPE program focuses on the principles and practices of process engineering, including safety, design, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

The CPE program requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, mass transfer, chemical reaction engineering, process control and instrumentation. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to become certified as a CPE, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least five years of experience in the field of process engineering or related disciplines; holding a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related fields; passing the ASME Certified Process Engineer Exam; and submitting an application form with supporting documents.

The cost for taking the CPE exam is $400 USD. This fee includes registration for the exam as well as access to study materials provided by ASME. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with applying for certification depending on the country in which you are applying from.

Once you have successfully passed the CPE exam and met all other eligibility requirements, it typically takes between six to eight weeks for your application to be processed and approved by ASME. Upon approval of your application you will receive your official Certified Process Engineer certificate from ASME.

2. Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)

A Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise of an individual in the field of manufacturing engineering. The certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), and it is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in the areas of production, quality control, and design.

The application process for CMfgE certification requires applicants to have at least eight years of work experience in manufacturing engineering, with at least four years of supervisory experience. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive exam covering topics such as quality management systems, materials selection and processing, production planning and control, product design and development, and automation technology.

The cost for applying for CMfgE certification is $225 USD. This fee covers the application fee as well as the cost of taking the exam. It typically takes between three to six months from the time an applicant submits their application until they receive their results from ASQ.

3. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and ability to apply quality engineering principles and techniques in the workplace.

To qualify for the CQE, an individual must have at least eight years of work experience in quality engineering or related fields, with a minimum of three years in a supervisory role. The candidate must also pass a comprehensive examination administered by ASQ.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes four hours to complete. Topics covered include quality assurance, management principles, statistical analysis, process control and improvement, design of experiments, problem solving methods, and more.

The cost of taking the CQE exam varies depending on your location. In the United States, it costs $360 for members of ASQ or $455 for non-members. In Canada, it costs $425 CAD for members or $525 CAD for non-members.

Once you have passed the CQE exam, you will receive your certificate from ASQ as well as additional recognition within your organization and industry.

4. Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

A Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional who has been certified by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) as having demonstrated knowledge and experience in reliability engineering. Reliability engineering is a field of study that focuses on the design, development, and implementation of systems that are reliable, safe, and cost-effective. The CRE certification is designed to recognize individuals with expertise in this area and to provide employers with assurance that they have hired qualified professionals.

The certification process requires an individual to pass two examinations: one on reliability fundamentals and one on reliability engineering principles. The exams are offered at various locations throughout the United States. The cost of taking each exam is $250 USD, plus applicable taxes. It typically takes around 6 months to complete both exams and become certified.

In order to be eligible for the CRE certification, candidates must have a minimum of five years of full-time professional experience in reliability engineering or related fields. Candidates must also have at least three years of full-time professional experience in reliability engineering or related fields within the past five years prior to applying for the certification.

In addition to passing both exams, applicants must also submit evidence of their work experience and education, as well as letters from two references attesting to their qualifications. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their CRE certification from ASQ after successful completion of the application process.

5. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certification

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certification provides a globally recognized standard for the safe design, manufacture, and inspection of pressure equipment. It is a voluntary certification program that demonstrates an organization’s commitment to safety, quality, and reliability.

It typically takes 6-12 months to obtain ASME Certification. The process begins with an application that includes documentation of the company’s quality system, manufacturing processes, and product designs. Once the application is approved, an audit is conducted by an independent third-party auditor to evaluate the organization’s compliance with ASME standards. After successful completion of the audit, a Certificate of Authorization is issued.

To get ASME Certification, organizations must demonstrate their commitment to safety and quality by meeting all applicable requirements in the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC). This includes having a documented Quality Management System (QMS), as well as demonstrating their capability to design and manufacture products according to BPVC standards. Organizations must also have their products tested by an independent testing laboratory before they can be certified.

The cost of obtaining ASME Certification varies depending on the size and complexity of your organization’s operations. Generally speaking, costs may include fees for application processing, auditing services, certification fees, and other related expenses such as travel costs for auditors or consultants.

6. Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE) Certification

The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved an advanced level of knowledge in the field of industrial engineering. The IISE Certification Program is based on a comprehensive body of knowledge that includes principles, techniques, and practices related to industrial engineering.

It typically takes three to four years to obtain the IISE Certification. To become certified, candidates must first complete an accredited bachelor's degree in industrial engineering or a related field. After completing the degree, they must pass a comprehensive exam administered by the IISE. Candidates may also need to demonstrate their experience in the field by submitting a portfolio or other evidence of their work experience.

To get certified, applicants must submit an application form along with all required documents such as transcripts and proof of education, work experience, and references. Applicants will then be evaluated based on their academic background and professional experience before being approved for certification. Once approved, applicants will receive their certification from the IISE.

The cost for obtaining the IISE Certification varies depending on the type of certification sought and whether or not additional training is needed prior to taking the exam. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200-$1000 USD depending on these factors.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification program for project managers. It is administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP credential demonstrates that an individual has the experience, education, and competency to lead and direct projects.

To obtain the PMP certification, individuals must meet certain criteria and pass an exam. To qualify for the exam, candidates must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education; or a four-year degree (bachelor’s degree or global equivalent) with at least three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes four hours to complete. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on whether you are a PMI member ($405) or non-member ($555).

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your PMP certification from PMI. This certification is valid for three years after which you will need to renew it by earning 60 professional development units (PDUs). The cost of renewal depends on whether you are a member ($60) or non-member ($150).

8. Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the Six Sigma methodology. This certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to lead and manage complex projects using the Six Sigma approach.

How long does it take to get it?

The amount of time required to obtain a Six Sigma Black Belt Certification varies depending on the provider, but typically requires between three and four months of study and practice. The exam itself typically takes two hours, but some providers may require additional time for review or preparation.

How to get it?

To become certified as a Six Sigma Black Belt, individuals must complete an accredited training course and pass an exam. Depending on the provider, this may include classroom instruction, online courses, or self-study materials. After completing the training course and passing the exam, individuals will be awarded their certification.

How much does it cost?

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Black Belt Certification depends on the provider and can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. In addition to tuition fees, there may be additional costs associated with materials such as textbooks or software licenses.

9. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's knowledge and skills in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. This certification demonstrates that the individual has a comprehensive understanding of the Lean Six Sigma principles, tools, and techniques used to improve business processes.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification typically takes between 8-12 weeks to complete depending on the training provider and the type of course you choose. The training will involve attending classes or completing online modules, as well as taking an exam at the end of the course.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, you must first complete a training program with an accredited provider. There are many providers offering Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification courses both online and in-person. It is important to select a provider who is accredited by organizations such as ASQ (American Society for Quality) or IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification).

The cost of getting certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt varies depending on the type of course you choose and your chosen provider. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000 - $5,000 USD for an online course or up to $10,000 USD for an in-person course.

10. Chemical Engineering Plant Operator Certification

Chemical Engineering Plant Operator Certification is a certification program designed to provide operators of chemical engineering plants with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively operate their facilities. The program is offered by the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) and provides certification for both experienced and novice operators.

The program consists of two parts: an online self-study course and an in-person assessment. The self-study course covers topics such as safety, process control, plant operations, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more. It takes approximately 20 hours to complete the self-study course. Upon completion of the self-study course, participants must pass an in-person assessment at an AIChE approved facility before they can receive their certification.

To get certified, applicants must first register for the program through AIChE’s website. Registration costs $250 for members or $350 for nonmembers. Once registered, applicants will be provided with access to the online self-study course materials which they must complete within one year of registration. After completing the self-study course, applicants must arrange to take the in-person assessment at an AIChE approved facility within six months of completing the self-study course. The cost of taking the in-person assessment varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$400.

Once both parts are completed successfully, applicants will be awarded their Chemical Engineering Plant Operator Certification which is valid for three years from date of issue.

11. Hazardous Materials Manager Certification

Hazardous Materials Manager Certification (HMMC) is a professional certification issued by the International Association of Hazardous Materials Managers (IAHMM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in hazardous materials management and safety. The HMMC credential indicates that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to manage hazardous materials safely and effectively.

The HMMC certification process consists of two parts: an application and a written examination. Applicants must submit an application, including proof of education, experience, and training related to hazardous materials management, as well as letters of recommendation from employers or other professionals. Once the application is approved, applicants can then register for the written exam.

The written exam focuses on topics such as hazardous materials regulations, safety procedures, emergency response plans, risk assessment techniques, and environmental protection measures. The exam is administered by IAHMM-approved testing centers throughout the United States and Canada. The exam typically takes about three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the HMMC certification program, applicants must have at least three years of relevant experience in hazardous materials management or safety, or a bachelor's degree in a related field such as environmental science or engineering.

The cost of obtaining HMMC certification varies depending on the applicant's level of experience and educational background. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD for new applicants with no prior experience or education related to hazardous materials management; experienced applicants may pay up to $1,000 USD for their certification fees.

Do You Really Need a Chemical Process Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a few different factors. If you are looking to pursue a career in chemical process engineering, then having a certificate could be beneficial. A certificate program will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to work as an engineer in the field. It can also give you an edge when applying for jobs or promotions.

On the other hand, if you already have a degree in chemical engineering or related field of study, then a certificate may not be necessary. In this case, it may be more beneficial to focus on gaining experience and expanding your knowledge base through internships and other opportunities.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a chemical process engineer certificate depends on what your goals are and how comfortable you are with taking on additional coursework. If you feel that having a certification would help you reach your goals faster, then it may be worth exploring further.

Related: Chemical Process Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Chemical Process Engineer Certifications

1. What certifications are available for Chemical Process Engineers?

Answer: There are several certifications available, including Certified Professional Engineer (CPE), Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE), Certified Process Engineer (CPEng), and Certified Design Engineer (CDE).

2. How do I become certified as a Chemical Process Engineer?

Answer: To become certified as a Chemical Process Engineer, you must have a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field, plus at least four years of relevant experience. You must also pass an exam administered by the American Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET).

3. What topics are covered on the certification exams?

Answer: The exam covers topics such as process design, process control and optimization, safety, environmental protection, economics and analysis of data. It also includes questions on applied mathematics and engineering principles.

4. Is certification mandatory for Chemical Process Engineers?

Answer: Certification is not mandatory for Chemical Process Engineers, but it can be beneficial to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field. It can also help you stand out from other job applicants when applying for jobs or promotions.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements after becoming certified?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require that you complete continuing education courses in order to maintain your certification status over time. Some organizations may also require periodic recertification exams to ensure that you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.