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Top 10 Console Operator Certifications

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Updated 15 min read

Certifications are important for a console operator in the job market for several reasons. First, certifications demonstrate to employers that a console operator has the required knowledge and skills needed to perform their job duties. This can give employers confidence that they are hiring someone who is well-equipped to handle the demands of the position. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for higher-level positions within an organization as certifications show that an individual has achieved a certain level of proficiency in their field. Finally, having certifications can help console operators stand out from other applicants when competing for jobs since it shows dedication and commitment to one’s profession.

This article reviews the top certifications for Console Operators and explains how they can help to advance a console operator's career.

What are Console Operator Certifications?

Console operator certification is a type of training and certification that provides operators with the necessary skills to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot audio-visual equipment. This certification covers topics such as system setup, signal flow, cabling and wiring, operation of consoles and controllers, sound reinforcement systems, video projection systems, lighting systems, and more. This certification ensures that console operators are knowledgeable in all aspects of audio-visual equipment operation and maintenance.

Having a certified console operator can help ensure the successful execution of events or productions by providing technical support when needed. Having an experienced certified console operator on staff can save time and money by avoiding costly mistakes due to lack of knowledge. Also, having a certified console operator on staff allows for more efficient operations since they will be able to quickly troubleshoot any issues that may arise during an event or production. Additionally, certified console operators are better equipped to provide efficient customer service since they understand how the audio-visual equipment works in order to make sure the client’s needs are met.

Pro Tip: When pursuing console operator certification, it is important to make sure you are adequately prepared and familiar with the necessary equipment before taking the exam. Additionally, make sure to take advantage of any practice exams or study materials offered by the certification provider to ensure you are fully prepared for the exam.

Related: What does a Console Operator do?

Top 10 Console Operator Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Server Infrastructure

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Server Infrastructure is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who design, implement, and manage a Windows Server infrastructure. The MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification demonstrates expertise in areas such as identity management, system security, virtualization, storage, networking and more.

How long does it take to get it?

The MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification requires passing five exams. Depending on your experience with the topics covered by these exams, it can take anywhere from three months to several years to obtain the certification.

How to get it?

To obtain the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification you must first have an active Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification or equivalent knowledge. Then you must pass five exams which cover topics such as Windows Server 2012/2016 installation and configuration; identity management; system security; virtualization; storage; networking; and more.

How much does it cost?

The cost of the five required exams for the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification varies depending on where you take them. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $150 USD. Therefore, the total cost of obtaining this certification is approximately $750 USD.

2. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is an industry-leading certification program that validates the skills of IT professionals. It is designed to validate a person’s knowledge and abilities in areas such as networking, security, hardware, software, and troubleshooting. The certification is vendor neutral and covers a wide range of topics related to computer technology.

The CompTIA A+ certification can be obtained by passing two exams: the 220-901 and 220-902. Both exams must be completed in order to receive the full certification. The 220-901 exam covers basic computer hardware and software topics while the 220-902 exam focuses on more advanced topics such as network technologies, security, virtualization, cloud computing, mobile devices, and troubleshooting.

The time it takes to get CompTIA A+ certified depends on how much time you have available for studying and taking practice tests. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to prepare for the exams depending on your experience level with computers and IT concepts.

In order to get CompTIA A+ certified, you must pass both the 220-901 and 220-902 exams within three years of each other. You will also need to register with CompTIA before taking any of their exams. Once registered, you can purchase vouchers for each exam which will allow you to take them at an authorized testing center near you.

The cost of getting CompTIA A+ certified varies depending on where you take your exams and if you use any third party study materials or training courses. Generally speaking, each exam voucher costs around $200 USD plus any additional fees associated with taking the test at a testing center near you. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with purchasing study materials or enrolling in training courses if desired.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Windows Server 2016

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Windows Server 2016 is a certification that validates the skills and knowledge necessary to manage and maintain a Windows Server 2016 infrastructure. It demonstrates an individual’s ability to configure, deploy, manage, and troubleshoot Windows Server 2016 in an enterprise environment.

To get the MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification, you must pass two exams: 70-740 Installation, Storage, and Compute with Windows Server 2016 and 70-741 Networking with Windows Server 2016. Both exams can be taken at any Pearson VUE test center or online.

The exams typically take around three hours each to complete. The cost of each exam is $165 USD. Once both exams are passed successfully, you will receive your MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification from Microsoft.

4. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification that validates an individual’s ability to configure, manage, and maintain Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. The RHCSA certification is the most popular and widely recognized certification for system administrators who use Red Hat Enterprise Linux.

It typically takes about two months of study to prepare for the RHCSA exam. To get certified, you must pass a hands-on exam administered by Red Hat. The exam consists of performance-based tasks on a live system and lasts two hours.

The cost of the RHCSA exam varies depending on your location and can range from $400 to $600 USD. It also includes a one-year subscription to Red Hat's online learning portal, which provides access to additional training materials, videos, and practice exams.

5. Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional is an Oracle certification program that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in administering, configuring, and managing Oracle Database 12c. This certification program is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in database administration, configuration, and management.

It typically takes around three months to complete the preparation for the exam. Candidates must have a thorough understanding of topics such as installation and configuration of Oracle Database 12c, backup and recovery strategies, security management, performance tuning, data migration, database upgrades and patching.

To get this certification you need to pass the 1Z0-062: Oracle Database 12c: Installation and Administration exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics related to administering Oracle databases. The exam fee is $245 USD.

6. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching is a certification program designed to validate an individual's skills in networking technologies, such as routing and switching. It is the entry-level certification for Cisco’s network certifications and provides a foundation for more advanced certifications.

The CCNA Routing and Switching certification requires passing one exam, which typically takes between 90 minutes and two hours to complete. The exam covers topics such as IP addressing, routing protocols, switching technologies, network security, WAN technologies, and troubleshooting.

To get the CCNA Routing and Switching certification you must pass the 200-125 CCNA or the 100-105 ICND1 and 200-105 ICND2 exams. You can take these exams at any Pearson VUE testing center or online.

The cost of the CCNA Routing and Switching certification varies depending on where you take the exam. The cost of taking the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center is $325 USD per exam while taking it online costs $300 USD per exam.

7. VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV)

VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) is a certification from VMware that validates an individual’s expertise in administering and managing VMware vSphere 6.x environments. It is the highest level of certification available for virtualization professionals and demonstrates the ability to deploy, configure, manage, and troubleshoot a vSphere environment.

In order to obtain the VCP6-DCV certification, individuals must first complete a required training course offered by VMware or an authorized training partner. After completing the course, they must then pass a proctored exam. The exam consists of 85 questions and must be completed within 90 minutes.

The cost of the VCP6-DCV certification depends on the type of training course taken. Most courses range from $2,000 to $3,000 USD. The cost of taking the proctored exam is additional and typically ranges from $250 to $300 USD.

Once all requirements have been met, individuals will receive their VCP6-DCV certification within two weeks after passing their exam.

8. AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate

AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate is a certification offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS). It is designed to validate an individual's technical expertise in deploying, managing, and operating highly available, fault-tolerant systems on AWS. The exam covers a wide range of topics related to the implementation and management of AWS services, including security, monitoring, automation, and cost optimization.

It typically takes around 3 months of preparation to get the AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate certification. Preparation includes studying for the exam using official AWS training materials such as whitepapers, practice tests, and online courses. Candidates should also have hands-on experience with AWS services such as EC2, S3, RDS, ELB, CloudFormation and more.

To get the AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate certification you must pass the exam which is administered by Pearson VUE. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and costs $150 USD.

9. HP Accredited Platform Specialist – OpenVMS v8

HP Accredited Platform Specialist – OpenVMS v8 is a certification program offered by Hewlett-Packard that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the installation, configuration, and administration of HP's OpenVMS v8 operating system. It is designed for IT professionals who are responsible for the day-to-day operations of an OpenVMS environment.

The certification program consists of two exams: HP0-A21 (Installation and Configuration) and HP0-A22 (Administration). The exams are administered by Pearson VUE and can be taken at any authorized testing center. The exams cost $125 each.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the certification process, depending on the individual's level of experience with OpenVMS. In order to get certified, individuals must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher. Those who pass both exams will receive an official certificate from Hewlett-Packard stating that they are an HP Accredited Platform Specialist – OpenVMS v8.

10. IBM Certified System Administrator – AIX 7 Administration

IBM Certified System Administrator – AIX 7 Administration is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s skills in the administration of IBM AIX 7 operating system. It is designed for experienced system administrators who have a working knowledge of AIX 7 and want to demonstrate their expertise in this area.

To get certified, you must pass the IBM C9530-519 exam. The exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions and has a time limit of 90 minutes. You must score at least 65% to pass the exam.

You can purchase the exam from Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Center for around $200 USD. You can also purchase practice exams from various vendors online to help prepare for the real exam.

The certification does not expire, but it is recommended that you stay up to date with new technologies by taking additional courses or attending conferences related to AIX 7 administration.

Do You Really Need a Console Operator Certificate?

Yes, if you want to become a console operator, you need a Console Operator Certificate. This certificate is proof that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate a console. The certification process involves taking an exam and completing training courses related to the console operations.

The certification is important because it ensures that only those who have demonstrated their proficiency in the operation of consoles are allowed to work as operators. This helps to ensure that consoles are operated safely and effectively. It also shows employers that you have the necessary qualifications for the job.

In addition, having a Console Operator Certificate can increase your job prospects and salary potential. For example, some employers may require this certification before they will hire someone as an operator or may offer higher salaries for those with certification. Therefore, it is important to consider obtaining this certificate if you are interested in becoming a console operator.

Related: Console Operator Resume Examples

FAQs About Console Operator Certifications

Q1. What is a Console Operator Certification?

A1. A Console Operator Certification is a certification that recognizes an individual's knowledge and experience in the operation of professional audio/video consoles. It is typically earned by passing a course or exam, and can be used to demonstrate competency in the field to potential employers or customers.

Q2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Console Operator Certification?

A2. Benefits of obtaining a Console Operator Certification include increased job prospects, improved career advancement opportunities, and recognition as an experienced professional in the audio/video console industry. Additionally, it can provide an individual with the necessary skills to ensure successful console operations for their employer or client.

Q3. How do I obtain a Console Operator Certification?

A3. In order to obtain a Console Operator Certification, you must first complete an approved course or exam from an accredited training institution or organization. After successfully completing the course or exam, you will receive your certification and be able to demonstrate your expertise in console operations to potential employers or clients.

Q4. What type of training is required for a Console Operator Certification?

A4. The type of training required for a Console Operator Certification depends on the specific certification program being taken; however, most programs require completion of basic courses covering topics such as audio/video signal flow, console setup and operation, troubleshooting techniques, and other related topics. Additionally, some programs may require hands-on experience with specific types of consoles prior to receiving certification status.

Q5. Is there an expiration date on my Console Operator Certification?

A5: Generally speaking, no; once you have obtained your certification it remains valid until you choose to retire it or renew it if necessary (depending on the certifying organization). However, depending on the certifying organization’s policies and procedures some certifications may expire after a certain period of time (usually between 5-7 years).

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

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Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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