Top 11 Combat Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a combat engineer in the job market because they demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in engineering, as well as their commitment to safety and quality. Certifications can also help employers make informed hiring decisions by verifying that a candidate is qualified to work in the industry. Furthermore, certifications give employers assurance that a combat engineer has the necessary training and skills needed to complete tasks safely and with quality results. They demonstrate an individual’s dedication to their field of expertise, helping them stand out from other applicants. Finally, certifications can open up new opportunities for career advancement, since they show employers that a combat engineer is committed to furthering their knowledge and skillset.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain the benefits of some of the most popular certifications for Combat Engineers, and how they can contribute to a successful career in this field.

What are Combat Engineer Certifications?

Combat engineer certification is a specialized form of military training that prepares personnel to perform a variety of engineering and construction operations in support of combat operations. This type of certification can help individuals gain the skills they need to become effective members of an engineering unit, such as the Army Corps of Engineers or Navy Seabees. Combat engineers are trained to construct field fortifications, carry out demolitions and clear obstacles, conduct route reconnaissance, and construct roads and airfields. They also provide logistical support for combat operations by repairing bridges, building bunkers, and erecting barriers. Additionally, they are responsible for providing emergency medical care on the battlefield.

By becoming certified in combat engineering, personnel can gain the expertise they need to effectively complete their mission in any environment. Combat engineers must be able to think on their feet and adapt quickly to changing conditions. Certification helps ensure that individuals possess the necessary knowledge and skills required for success on the battlefield. Furthermore, it can give personnel a sense of pride in their work and demonstrate their commitment to excellence in their chosen specialty.

Pro tip: When pursuing combat engineer certification, make sure to research the specific requirements for the certification in your area. This could include completing a certain number of hours of on-the-job training and passing an exam. Additionally, be sure to stay up-to-date with any changes to the certification requirements.

Related: What does a Combat Engineer do?

Top 11 Combat Engineer Certifications

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

1. Army Combat Engineer (12B) Certification

Army Combat Engineer (12B) Certification is a certification program designed to prepare soldiers for the duties and responsibilities of a combat engineer. The program focuses on teaching soldiers the skills necessary to build, maintain, and repair fortifications, obstacles, and defensive positions; construct roads, bridges, and airfields; detect and clear mines; and demolish enemy fortifications.

The Army Combat Engineer Certification Program is open to all enlisted personnel in the U.S. Army who have completed basic training and advanced individual training (AIT). It typically takes around two weeks to complete the certification process. During this time, soldiers will receive instruction in engineering fundamentals such as surveying, bridge construction, demolition operations, mine warfare operations, and more.

To get certified as an Army Combat Engineer, soldiers must attend a two-week course at an Army installation or school that offers the 12B certification program. Upon successful completion of the course and passing of all associated tests with at least 70% accuracy rate, soldiers will be awarded their 12B certification.

The cost of attending the 12B certification course varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1000 per person.

2. Air Force Combat Engineer (3E7X1) Certification

Air Force Combat Engineer (3E7X1) certification is a specialized certification program that provides Airmen with the skills and knowledge needed to perform as combat engineers in the U.S. Air Force. The program focuses on engineering principles, construction techniques, and operations related to airfield construction and repair. It also covers land-based construction operations such as building roads, bridges, and other structures.

The certification process typically takes 6-12 months to complete depending on an individual's prior experience and education level. To obtain the certification, Airmen must complete a series of courses which include basic engineering principles, combat engineer tactics and techniques, and advanced engineering topics such as surveying and mapping. Additionally, they must pass a written exam administered by the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT).

The cost of obtaining the certification varies depending on an individual's educational background; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1000 for tuition fees associated with courses taken at AFIT or other accredited institutions.

3. Navy Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist (SCWS) Certification

Navy Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist (SCWS) Certification is a program designed to train and certify Seabees in the tactics, techniques, and procedures of combat operations. The certification is awarded after successful completion of an intensive course that includes classroom instruction, field exercises, and live-fire training. The SCWS program typically takes approximately two weeks to complete and consists of three phases: indoctrination, instruction, and evaluation.

The indoctrination phase introduces the student to the fundamentals of combat operations including mission planning and execution, weapons systems familiarization, terrain analysis, navigation, communications systems operation, and basic first aid. During the instruction phase students are taught advanced combat tactics such as patrolling techniques, ambush drills, close quarters battle (CQB), convoy operations and defensive positions. The final phase is an evaluation where students demonstrate their mastery of skills through practical exercises such as simulated patrols or ambushes.

To be eligible for Navy Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist (SCWS) certification a candidate must have successfully completed Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training or be assigned to a Naval Construction Force unit that requires SCWS qualification. Additionally candidates must have achieved a minimum score on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.

The cost of Navy Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist (SCWS) certification varies depending on individual circumstances but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD for tuition fees associated with the course itself plus additional fees for travel expenses if necessary.

4. Marine Corps Combat Engineer (0311) Certification

Marine Corps Combat Engineer (0311) Certification is a certification that allows Marines to be qualified in the construction, maintenance, and repair of obstacles and fortifications. This certification is necessary for Marines who are assigned to an engineer unit or who are working in a combat engineering role.

The Marine Corps Combat Engineer (0311) Certification takes approximately six months to complete. It includes classroom instruction on basic engineering principles and techniques, as well as hands-on training with various tools and equipment. Marines must also complete field exercises in order to gain proficiency in the use of explosives, bridge building, demolition, and other related tasks.

In order to get the Marine Corps Combat Engineer (0311) Certification, Marines must first attend the School of Infantry at Camp Pendleton or Camp Lejeune. After completing the school, they will then be assigned to an engineer unit where they will receive additional instruction on engineering principles and techniques. Finally, Marines must pass a written test in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the Marine Corps Combat Engineer (0311) Certification depends on several factors such as location and duration of training. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars depending on the length of time spent in training.

5. Army Corps of Engineers Construction Quality Management for Contractors (CQM-C) Certification

The Army Corps of Engineers Construction Quality Management for Contractors (CQM-C) Certification is a program designed to ensure that contractors working on USACE projects demonstrate the highest levels of quality and safety. The CQM-C certification is mandatory for all contractors performing work for the USACE, and it must be maintained throughout the life of the contract.

To obtain CQM-C certification, contractors must attend an 8-hour training course and pass a written exam administered by an authorized instructor. The training course covers topics such as quality management principles, construction project management, construction safety and health, inspection techniques, and documentation requirements. After completing the training course, contractors must submit an application to the USACE in order to receive their CQM-C certification.

The cost of obtaining CQM-C certification varies depending on the location and type of training course taken. Generally speaking, most courses will range from $200-$400 per person. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the written exam or submitting an application to the USACE.

Once certified, contractors are required to maintain their CQM-C certification by participating in continuing education activities every three years. This includes attending additional training courses or seminars related to quality management principles and construction project management.

In summary, obtaining CQM-C certification requires attending an 8-hour training course and passing a written exam administered by an authorized instructor at a cost of approximately $200-$400 per person. Contractors must also submit an application to the USACE in order to receive their certification and participate in continuing education activities every three years in order to maintain it.

6. Army Corps of Engineers Quality Control Manager (QCM) Certification

The Army Corps of Engineers Quality Control Manager (QCM) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage quality control activities in engineering projects. The QCM certification is administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and is recognized by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The QCM Certification requires successful completion of a two-day course, passing an open-book examination, and having at least three years of experience in quality control management or related fields. The course covers topics such as quality planning, risk management, inspection techniques, and project management. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, participants receive an official certificate from USACE.

The QCM Certification process typically takes four to six weeks to complete. To get certified, applicants must first register for the course through USACE's website and pay a fee of $395 USD. After successfully completing the course and exam, applicants will receive their official certificate from USACE within four to six weeks.

In addition to the cost of registration ($395 USD), there may be additional costs associated with travel or lodging if attending an in-person training session.

7. Army Corps of Engineers Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) Certification

The Army Corps of Engineers Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) Certification is a professional certification program that provides safety and health professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage safety and health programs in the construction industry. This certification is designed for individuals who have experience in the construction industry, including those who are currently employed as a safety or health professional, or those who are looking to become one.

To obtain the SSHO Certification, applicants must complete an approved training program consisting of at least 40 hours of instruction on topics such as OSHA regulations, hazard identification and control, accident investigation, and safety management systems. The training must be completed within two years prior to application for certification. Upon successful completion of the training program, applicants must pass an exam administered by the Army Corps of Engineers that assesses their knowledge of safety and health principles.

The cost for obtaining the SSHO Certification varies depending on the specific training program chosen by the applicant. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$1,000 per person; however, some courses may offer discounts for groups or military personnel.

Once certified, SSHOs must maintain their credentials by completing continuing education requirements every three years. This can include attending seminars or workshops related to safety and health topics or taking online courses offered by organizations such as OSHA or NIOSH.

8. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) Certification

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the management of hazardous materials. The CHMM certification is designed to provide assurance that those who hold it have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively manage hazardous materials in compliance with applicable regulations.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the requirements for CHMM certification. To become certified, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements, which include having a minimum of five years of full-time work experience in hazardous materials management or related fields; passing an examination; and completing continuing education credits every three years.

To get CHMM certified, applicants must submit an application along with supporting documentation such as proof of work experience and transcripts from any relevant educational programs. Once approved, applicants must pass an examination administered by NIOSH. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate from NIOSH.

The cost of becoming CHMM certified varies depending on the applicant's circumstances but generally ranges from $500-$1,000 USD including application fees, exam fees, and any other associated costs.

9. Mine Safety and Health Administration Certified Blaster Certificate

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) Certified Blaster Certificate is a certification that allows individuals to legally perform blasting operations in the United States. The MSHA Certified Blaster Certificate is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam administered by the MSHA. The exam covers topics such as explosives safety, blasting techniques, and regulations related to blasting operations. Applicants must also have at least one year of experience in blasting operations or have completed an approved training program.

The cost of the MSHA Certified Blaster Certificate varies depending on the state where the applicant is located. Generally, it costs between $100 and $200 to take the exam, plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam in a particular state.

Once certified, blasters are required to follow all applicable laws and regulations related to blasting operations in order to maintain their certification. This includes completing additional training courses and passing refresher exams every five years in order to renew their certification.

10. American Society of Civil Engineers Certified Construction Manager (CCM) Certification

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Certified Construction Manager (CCM) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, experience, and expertise of construction managers. The CCM is the only certification program accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) under ISO 17024 standards.

The CCM Certification Program consists of three components: an online application, a written exam, and an oral interview. Applicants must submit their online application and pass the written exam in order to be eligible for the oral interview.

The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions based on topics such as project management, contract administration, estimating, scheduling, safety management, quality control, and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and is offered at various locations throughout the United States.

The oral interview is conducted by a panel of three or more ASCE-certified professionals who assess an applicant’s knowledge in areas such as project management principles, construction law, contract documents, risk management strategies, cost control methods, scheduling techniques and more.

In order to become certified as a CCM, applicants must have at least five years of relevant experience in construction management or related fields. They must also demonstrate a commitment to continuing education by completing at least 30 hours of approved continuing education credits within three years prior to applying for certification.

The cost for the CCM Certification Program varies depending on whether you are an ASCE member or non-member. For members it costs $750; for non-members it costs $1125 plus a one-time application fee of $100.

11. International Code Council Certified Building Inspector/Plans Examiner/Building Official (CBI/PE/BO)

The International Code Council Certified Building Inspector/Plans Examiner/Building Official (CBI/PE/BO) is a certification program offered by the International Code Council (ICC). This certification allows individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in building inspection, plans examination, and building official duties.

To become certified as an ICC CBI/PE/BO, individuals must pass a series of four examinations: Building Inspector, Plans Examiner, Building Official I and II. The exams are administered through the ICC's online testing system. The cost for each exam is $195 USD.

In order to take the exams, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements which include having a minimum of three years of experience in construction-related fields such as architecture or engineering; having passed the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Architectural Registration Exam (ARE); or having completed an approved apprenticeship program related to building inspection or plans examination.

Once all eligibility requirements have been met and the exams have been successfully passed, applicants will receive their certification from the ICC. This process can take anywhere from two weeks to several months depending on how quickly the applicant completes all requirements and passes the required exams.

Overall, becoming an ICC CBI/PE/BO requires dedication and commitment but it is worth it for those who want to be recognized for their expertise in building inspection, plans examination, and building official duties.

Do You Really Need a Combat Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual career goals and aspirations. If you are looking to become a professional combat engineer, then it is highly recommended that you obtain a Combat Engineer Certificate. This certificate will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively perform the duties of a combat engineer. It will also give you an edge over other applicants when applying for positions in the field.

A Combat Engineer Certificate provides a comprehensive understanding of military engineering principles and practices, as well as an in-depth overview of all aspects of engineering operations. It covers topics such as surveying, mapping, construction, demolition, bridge building, and more. In addition to learning about engineering fundamentals, students enrolled in the program can expect to gain practical experience through field exercises and simulations.

Having a Combat Engineer Certificate can also open up additional opportunities for promotion within the military or other related fields. The certificate may even qualify you for higher level positions within civil engineering organizations or local governments.

In conclusion, while it is not absolutely necessary to have a Combat Engineer Certificate in order to pursue a career in combat engineering, obtaining one can be beneficial in terms of both job prospects and overall knowledge base.

Related: Combat Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Combat Engineer Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a combat engineer?

Answer: To become a combat engineer, you must have a minimum of two years of military engineering experience and certification from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or another accredited agency.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a combat engineer?

Answer: The time it takes to get certified as a combat engineer varies depending on the certifying agency and the specific requirements for that particular certification. Generally, it takes around six months to one year to complete the necessary training and exams for certification.

3. What types of jobs does a combat engineer certification qualify me for?

Answer: A combat engineer certification qualifies you for positions in construction, demolition, hazardous materials handling, emergency response, and other areas related to engineering operations. It can also open up opportunities in government agencies such as the Department of Defense or Homeland Security.

4. Is there an age limit on becoming a certified combat engineer?

Answer: No, there is no age limit on becoming a certified combat engineer; however, you must meet all other requirements set by the certifying agency such as having two years of experience in military engineering or completing an approved training program before taking any exams or receiving your certificate.

5. Are there any additional certifications that I should consider if I am interested in becoming a certified combat engineer?

Answer: Yes, there are additional certifications that you may want to consider depending on your career goals such as explosives safety certifications for working with explosives or hazardous materials handling certifications for working with hazardous materials safely.