Top 11 Commissioning Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for commissioning engineers in the job market as they provide a way to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise. Certified engineers typically have higher salaries than those without certification, and employers may require certain certifications for certain positions. Additionally, certifications give engineers credibility in the industry and can help them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. Finally, certifications show potential employers that the engineer has taken the time to learn about the latest technologies and industry standards and is committed to providing quality service.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Commissioning Engineers and explain how they can help advance a commissioning engineer's career.

What are Commissioning Engineer Certifications?

Commissioning engineer certification is a program that provides engineers with the skills and knowledge to properly commission technical systems. Commissioning engineers are responsible for making sure all of the components of a system work together seamlessly and operate as intended. This includes testing, troubleshooting, and verifying the performance of equipment, systems, and processes.

The certification program helps engineers gain the necessary skills required to effectively test, verify, and commission a wide range of technical systems. It covers topics such as safety protocols, electrical theory, system design principles, troubleshooting techniques, system installation procedures, and more. Additionally, it provides guidance on how to properly document results and create detailed reports on performance metrics.

By having this certification, engineers can demonstrate their competency in commissioning different systems and help ensure that they are working safely and efficiently. Furthermore, it can help them stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions. Ultimately, obtaining commissioning engineer certification is an invaluable asset for any engineer looking to advance their career in this field.

Pro Tip: When commissioning an engineer for certification, make sure to review their credentials and experience thoroughly. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the engineer is up-to-date on all the latest industry standards and regulations. Finally, be sure to inquire about any additional certifications or specializations that may be beneficial for your project.

Related: What does a Commissioning Engineer do?

Top 11 Commissioning Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Commissioning Professional (CCP)

Certified Commissioning Professional (CCP) is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise of professionals in commissioning buildings and systems. Commissioning is the process of verifying that a building or system meets its design objectives and functions as intended. The CCP certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide commissioning services for new construction, existing building retrofits, and energy performance contracts.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to prepare for the CCP exam. To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of 5 years of experience in commissioning buildings and systems. They must also complete a minimum of 40 hours of commissioning training within their 5 years of experience. After meeting these requirements, applicants can register for the exam through the Building Commissioning Association (BCA).

The cost to take the CCP exam is $400 USD. This fee covers the cost of registration, study materials, and access to online practice exams. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with attending training courses or purchasing books related to commissioning practices.

2. Building Commissioning Professional (BCxP)

Building Commissioning Professional (BCxP) is a certification program developed by the Building Commissioning Association (BCA). The BCxP certification is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and experience in building commissioning. The BCxP program is based on the BCA’s Body of Knowledge, which defines the core competencies of a professional building commissioning practitioner.

The BCxP certification process consists of two parts: an online application and an exam. The online application requires applicants to provide information about their education, experience, and training related to building commissioning. Applicants must also submit three references from industry professionals who can attest to their qualifications as a building commissioner. Once the application is accepted, applicants are eligible to sit for the exam.

The BCxP exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as project management, energy efficiency, system design, testing protocols, and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and must be taken at an approved testing center.

The cost for the BCxP certification program varies depending on whether you are a BCA member or non-member. For members, it costs $350 for the online application fee and $450 for the exam fee; for non-members, it costs $450 for the online application fee and $550 for the exam fee.

Overall, it typically takes about 6 weeks from when an applicant submits their application until they receive their results from taking the exam.

3. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a professional who has achieved a specialized certification in energy management. A CEM develops, implements, and oversees energy efficiency programs and projects to reduce energy consumption and costs while improving the environment. The CEM designation is awarded by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), a non-profit professional association dedicated to advancing the science and practice of energy engineering.

To become a CEM, applicants must have at least five years of full-time experience in the field of energy management or related fields, such as engineering or architecture. In addition, applicants must pass an exam administered by AEE that covers topics such as energy auditing, conservation technologies, building systems, economics and finance, environmental impacts of energy use, policies and regulations, project management and communication skills.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the exam. Preparation may include self-study using textbooks or online courses offered by AEE or other organizations. Additionally, applicants can attend workshops offered by AEE or other organizations to help them prepare for the exam.

The cost of becoming a CEM varies depending on preparation method chosen. Self-study materials can range from $50-$500 depending on the type of material used; attending workshops can cost up to $1,000; and taking an online course can cost up to $2,000. The fee for taking the exam is $450 for members of AEE ($550 for nonmembers).

4. LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP)

LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) is a certification program created by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED APs are professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge of green building principles and practices, as well as the LEED Rating System. They are qualified to help design, construct, operate, and maintain buildings that are more energy efficient and environmentally responsible.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to become a LEED AP. The process involves studying for and passing an exam in order to earn the credential. The cost of becoming a LEED AP varies depending on the type of test taken, but it can range from $250-$500 USD.

To become a LEED AP, you must first register with USGBC and pay the registration fee. You will then need to complete an approved course or study materials related to green building principles and practices, as well as the LEED Rating System. Once you have completed your studies, you can take the exam at a testing center near you or online through USGBC’s website. After passing the exam, you will be awarded your LEED AP credential.

5. Building Performance Institute (BPI) Building Analyst and Envelope Professional Certifications

The Building Performance Institute (BPI) is a nationally recognized certification organization that provides certifications for professionals in the home performance, energy efficiency, and building science industries. The BPI Building Analyst and Envelope Professional Certifications are two of the most widely-recognized certifications available.

The BPI Building Analyst Certification is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to assess and improve residential buildings’ energy performance. It covers topics such as building envelope, combustion safety, HVAC systems, ventilation, indoor air quality, and more. To earn this certification, individuals must pass an online exam that consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. The exam typically takes between 2-3 hours to complete. The cost of the exam is $400 USD.

The BPI Envelope Professional Certification focuses on improving residential buildings’ thermal envelope performance by addressing air leakage, insulation levels, moisture management issues, and more. To earn this certification, individuals must pass an online exam that consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. The exam typically takes between 2-3 hours to complete. The cost of the exam is $400 USD.

Both certifications require individuals to have a minimum of one year of experience in the home performance industry before they can take the exams; however, some exceptions may apply depending on individual circumstances. Additionally, both certifications must be renewed every three years through continuing education courses or retaking the exams at full cost.

6. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Building Energy Modeling Certification

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Building Energy Modeling Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate proficiency in the use of building energy modeling software. This certification program provides a way for professionals to demonstrate their ability to accurately model building energy performance and to provide reliable results.

The ASHRAE Building Energy Modeling Certification program consists of two parts: an online exam and a hands-on project. The online exam covers topics such as energy modeling principles, building components and systems, and energy analysis techniques. The hands-on project requires candidates to develop an energy model of a real building using approved software tools.

It typically takes about six months to complete the certification process. Candidates must first register for the online exam, which is offered twice each year in May and November. After passing the online exam, candidates must then submit their completed hands-on project within twelve months of passing the online exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost for the ASHRAE Building Energy Modeling Certification program is $500 USD per candidate. This fee includes access to both the online exam and the hands-on project materials.

7. National Environmental Balancing Bureau (NEBB) Certified Commissioning Process Provider

The National Environmental Balancing Bureau (NEBB) Certified Commissioning Process Provider is a certification program that provides recognition to individuals and organizations who demonstrate an understanding of the commissioning process and its application in the built environment. The NEBB Certified Commissioning Process Provider program is designed to ensure that those providing commissioning services have the knowledge and experience necessary to provide quality services.

In order to become a NEBB Certified Commissioning Process Provider, applicants must meet certain qualifications, including:

• A minimum of five years experience in the commissioning field;
• Successful completion of the NEBB Certified Commissioning Process Provider exam;
• Demonstration of knowledge and understanding of the NEBB standards for commissioning as well as other applicable codes, regulations, and industry standards;
• Professional references from clients or employers.

The certification process typically takes between two to three months to complete. Applicants must submit an application form along with all required documentation, such as proof of education and experience, professional references, and payment for any fees associated with the application process. Once all required documentation has been received and reviewed by the NEBB board of directors, applicants will be notified if they have been approved for certification.

The cost for becoming a NEBB Certified Commissioning Process Provider varies depending on the type of certification sought. Generally, costs range from $200 - $500 USD for individual certifications and $1,000 - $2,000 USD for organizational certifications. Additional fees may apply depending on the type of certification sought.

8. Association of Energy Engineers’ Certified Plant Engineer

The Certified Plant Engineer (CPE) is a professional certification offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of professionals in the field of plant engineering. The CPE is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their profession and to the highest standards of excellence.

It typically takes between three and six months to complete the requirements for the CPE certification. To become certified, applicants must have at least four years of experience in plant engineering or related fields, such as mechanical engineering or industrial engineering. They must also complete an approved educational program and pass an exam administered by AEE.

The cost for obtaining the CPE certification varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or as part of a group. Individuals can expect to pay around $500, while groups may be eligible for discounts. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam.

Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education requirements every two years. This ensures that they stay up-to-date on current industry trends and best practices.

9. Project Management Institute’s Project Management Professional Certification

The Project Management Institute’s (PMI) Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is the most widely recognized and respected certification in the project management industry. It is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in managing projects.

To become PMP certified, individuals must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements. The PMP certification requires applicants to have at least three years of project management experience, with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education. In addition, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the five process groups: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring/controlling, and closing.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The exam fee is $405 for PMI members or $555 for non-members. To maintain the PMP certification, individuals must earn 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years by completing approved activities such as attending seminars or workshops or taking online courses related to project management topics.

Overall, obtaining the PMP certification can take several months depending on one’s prior experience and preparation time. However, having this credential can open up many opportunities for career advancement in the field of project management.

10. American Society for Quality’s Certified Quality Engineer

The American Society for Quality’s Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification that demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of quality engineering principles, practices, and tools. This certification is designed to recognize the expertise of individuals who have demonstrated their ability to apply these principles in the workplace.

To obtain the CQE certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of 8 years of quality-related experience and passing an exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as statistical analysis, quality assurance, design of experiments, process control, and auditing.

The application process for the CQE certification can take up to several months depending on when you submit your application materials. Once you have submitted all required documents and passed the exam, you will receive your official CQE certificate in the mail.

The cost for obtaining the CQE certification varies depending on whether or not you are an ASQ member. For non-members, it costs $450 to take the exam; however, members pay only $375. Additionally, there is an annual fee of $45 for both members and non-members alike to maintain their CQE status.

11. International Facility Management Association’s Certified Facility Manager

The International Facility Management Association’s (IFMA) Certified Facility Manager (CFM) program is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and experience of facility management professionals. The program is recognized globally as the standard for excellence in facility management.

The CFM program is a comprehensive certification process that requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in all areas of facility management. The CFM exam covers topics such as operations and maintenance, financial management, human resources, sustainability, technology, communications, and other related areas.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CFM program. During this time you must complete an application form, submit your professional resume, take an online assessment test to evaluate your knowledge of facility management principles and practices, attend a CFM review course or webinar series offered by IFMA-approved providers, pass the CFM exam with a score of 70% or higher, and submit three letters of recommendation from professional references.

The cost for the entire CFM program varies depending on which review course or webinar series you choose to participate in. Generally speaking it can range anywhere from $1,000-$2,500 USD.

Do You Really Need a Commissioning Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the type of job you are looking for and the industry in which you are working. If you are an engineer looking to work in a high-tech engineering role, then it is likely that having a commissioning engineer certificate would be beneficial. This certificate will not only demonstrate your expertise in engineering, but it could also help open up doors for new opportunities.

Having a commissioning engineer certificate may also be beneficial if you are already working as an engineer, but want to expand your knowledge and skillset. Many employers look for engineers with a strong understanding of commissioning processes, so having this certification could give you an edge over other candidates who do not have the same level of experience or knowledge.

Finally, having a commissioning engineer certificate can provide you with more credibility when applying for jobs or seeking promotions. It shows potential employers that you have taken the time and effort to gain additional qualifications and certifications in order to further your career. This can make all the difference when competing against other applicants who may not have gone through the same process.

In conclusion, while having a commissioning engineer certificate is not always necessary, it can certainly help advance your career by giving you extra credibility and demonstrating your commitment to professional development.

Related: Commissioning Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Commissioning Engineer Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a Commissioning Engineer?

Answer: To become a Commissioning Engineer, you must have a Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, and experience in the planning, design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of complex building systems.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Commissioning Engineer?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified as a Commissioning Engineer varies depending on the specific certification program you choose. Generally speaking, most programs require between 6 months and 2 years of study and practice before taking the certification exam.

3. What are the benefits of being certified as a Commissioning Engineer?

Answer: Being certified as a Commissioning Engineer can provide recognition for your expertise in the field and may open up new career opportunities that otherwise wouldn't be available without certification. It can also give you an edge when competing for jobs or promotions in the industry.

4. What is the cost associated with becoming certified as a Commissioning Engineer?

Answer: The cost associated with becoming certified as a Commissioning Engineer varies depending on the certification program chosen and other factors such as location and type of certification desired. Generally speaking, most programs range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my commission engineer certification?

Answer: Yes, most commission engineer certifications require ongoing continuing education credits in order to maintain your certification status. This may include attending conferences or seminars, taking online courses or completing certain projects related to your field of study.