Top 11 Construction Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a construction engineer in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise in the field. Employers want to hire someone who is qualified and competent, and certifications can provide evidence that an individual is well-versed in the technical aspects of construction engineering. Certifications also show potential employers that an individual is committed to staying current with industry trends and advancements, which can be beneficial when competing with other candidates for a job. Additionally, some certifications may be required for certain positions or organizations, making them essential for those looking to enter certain areas of the field.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Construction Engineers and explains how they can help to enhance a Construction Engineer's career.

What are Construction Engineer Certifications?

Construction engineer certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of construction engineering. It is awarded to individuals who have met the rigorous standards set by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). This certification is beneficial to employers, as it provides assurance that an individual possesses the necessary skills and qualifications to carry out their duties within a construction engineering role. The certification also serves as a mark of excellence, demonstrating commitment to professional development and mastery of the relevant technical competencies. Additionally, certification can help engineers stand out from other candidates in competitive job markets, as it serves as proof of their expertise. Finally, having this certification can provide financial benefits such as increased wages or bonuses due to increased levels of responsibility associated with the credential.

Always make sure to research the requirements for certification in your state before beginning the process. Each state may have different regulations and criteria that must be met in order to become certified, so it is important to be aware of these before beginning. Additionally, many states require continuing education credits in order for engineers to remain certified, so keeping up with these requirements is essential.

Related: What does a Construction Engineer do?

Top 11 Construction Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Construction Manager (CCM)

Certified Construction Manager (CCM) is a professional certification program offered by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). It is designed to recognize construction professionals who demonstrate excellence in their field and have achieved a high level of expertise in the management of construction projects.

The CCM program requires applicants to pass an exam that covers all aspects of construction management, including project planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and legal issues. To be eligible for the CCM exam, applicants must have at least five years of experience in construction management or related fields.

It typically takes 6-12 months to prepare for the CCM exam. Candidates should plan on studying for at least 10 hours per week during this time period. The best way to prepare for the exam is to use a combination of self-study materials such as textbooks and online courses, as well as attending review classes or seminars offered by CMAA or other organizations.

The cost of taking the CCM exam varies depending on whether you are a member of CMAA or not. For non-members, the fee is $650; for members it is $400. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with study materials and review classes.

2. Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)

Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) is a professional certification program offered by the American Institute of Constructors (AIC). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the construction industry. The CPC certification is a mark of distinction that demonstrates a commitment to professionalism, ethics, and continuing education.

It typically takes between two and four years to complete the requirements for the CPC certification. Applicants must have at least five years of experience in the construction industry and must pass an examination administered by AIC. The exam covers topics such as project management, safety, contracts, law, estimating, scheduling, and quality control.

In order to obtain the CPC certification, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume and supporting documents such as transcripts or certificates from completed courses. Once approved by AIC, applicants will be required to pay a fee which varies depending on their membership status.

The cost for non-members is $750 USD for the initial application fee plus $150 USD for each year of membership thereafter. For members of AIC, there is no initial application fee but they are required to pay $100 USD per year for membership renewal fees.

3. LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP)

LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) is a professional certification program offered by the US Green Building Council (USGBC). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in green building design, construction, and operations. To become a LEED AP, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as energy efficiency, sustainable materials, water conservation, indoor air quality, and green building technologies.

The LEED AP exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. The exam fee is $250 for USGBC members or $350 for non-members. After successfully completing the exam, individuals will receive their LEED AP credential within four to six weeks.

In order to maintain their LEED AP status, individuals must participate in continuing education activities every two years. These activities include attending conferences or workshops related to green building practices or earning additional credits through the USGBC’s Continuing Education Program.

Overall, becoming a LEED AP requires dedication and commitment but can be very rewarding for those interested in advancing their career in green building practices.

4. American Institute of Constructors (AIC) Certification

The American Institute of Constructors (AIC) is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of the construction industry. The AIC offers certifications to individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, experience, and professionalism in the field of construction.

AIC Certification is designed to recognize those who have achieved a certain level of expertise in their chosen field. To obtain AIC certification, an individual must pass an examination that covers topics such as project management, estimating, scheduling, cost control, contracts and more. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To get started on the path to AIC Certification, applicants must first submit an application form along with proof of education and/or experience in the construction industry. Once accepted into the program, applicants will be required to pay a fee for their exam registration and study materials. The cost for these materials varies depending on which type of certification you are seeking (e.g., Associate Constructor or Certified Constructor).

Once all requirements have been met and payment has been received, applicants will receive their study materials and can begin preparing for their exam. After studying for at least two months, applicants can register for their exam date online through the AIC website or by calling their customer service line. After successfully completing the exam, applicants will receive their official AIC Certification within four weeks.

Overall, obtaining AIC Certification can take anywhere from three months to one year depending on how quickly you are able to meet all requirements and prepare for your exam. The cost also varies depending on which type of certification you are seeking but typically ranges between $200-$500 USD.

5. Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP)

The Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in financial management and business practices within the construction industry. It is offered by the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA).

To become a CCIFP, an individual must meet certain criteria established by CFMA. This includes having at least five years of experience in financial management and/or business operations within the construction industry, as well as passing an exam that covers topics such as accounting principles, financial statement analysis, cost estimating, project management, and risk management.

It typically takes between six months to a year to prepare for the exam. Preparation involves studying textbooks and other resources related to construction finance and taking practice exams.

To get the CCIFP designation, individuals must apply online through CFMA's website. The application fee is $395 for members of CFMA or $495 for non-members. Once approved, applicants must take and pass the exam within one year of submitting their application. The exam fee is $400 for members or $500 for non-members.

6. OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Training Course

OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Training Course is an in-depth safety program designed for workers in the construction industry. It covers a variety of topics related to workplace safety, including hazard identification and avoidance, fall protection, scaffolding, personal protective equipment, and more. The course is intended to provide workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and avoid hazardous conditions on the job.

The OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Training Course takes approximately 30 hours to complete. It is available online or through approved training providers. Online courses are typically self-paced and can be completed at your own pace within the allotted time frame.

The cost of the OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Training Course varies depending on where you take it. Online courses may cost anywhere from $100-$300, while classroom courses may cost up to $500 or more.

To get started with the OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Training Course, you will need to find an approved provider or online course that meets your needs. Once you have found a provider or course that meets your needs, you can register for the course and begin studying right away.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in the field of project management. It is awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI), an international organization dedicated to advancing the practice of project management.

The PMP certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience leading and directing projects, as well as 35 hours of formal project management education. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering five process groups: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing.

The PMP certification process can take anywhere from six to nine months depending on how quickly you complete the application and study for the exam. To get started, you must first create a PMI account and submit an application with your work history and educational background. After your application has been approved, you can register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

The cost of obtaining a PMP certification varies based on whether or not you are a member of PMI. For non-members, the cost is $555 USD while members pay $405 USD. Additionally, there are also additional fees associated with scheduling the exam and purchasing study materials such as books or online courses.

8. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in quality engineering, management, and assurance. The CQE credential is highly valued by employers as it demonstrates that an individual has achieved a level of expertise in quality engineering and assurance practices.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the exam, although this can vary depending on the individual’s experience and background. Preparation typically involves studying from a variety of sources such as textbooks, online courses, or practice exams.

To get the CQE certification, you must pass the ASQ Certified Quality Engineer exam. This exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality engineering principles and techniques, statistical process control, design of experiments, measurement systems analysis, sampling plans, reliability methods, and more. You must also meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least four years of documented work experience in quality engineering or related fields.

The cost of taking the CQE exam varies depending on your country/region. In the United States it costs $349 USD to take the exam plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with registration.

9. Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP)

Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform commissioning services on building systems. The CBCP program is administered by the Building Commissioning Association (BCA), an international non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of commissioning.

The CBCP certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as building systems, energy management, project management, and commissioning process fundamentals. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and can take up to four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CBCP exam, applicants must have at least five years of experience in the field of commissioning or related disciplines. Additionally, applicants must have completed at least one full commissioning project within the last three years.

The cost for taking the CBCP exam is $550 for BCA members and $650 for non-members. The fee includes access to online study materials and a practice exam. After passing the exam, there is an annual renewal fee of $100 for BCA members and $150 for non-members.

10. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Certification

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of competency in the field of civil engineering. The ASCE Certification Program is designed to provide recognition for those who demonstrate excellence in their profession, and to promote the highest standards of ethical and professional practice.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for ASCE certification. To become certified, an individual must first meet the eligibility requirements, which include having at least four years of relevant work experience and passing an examination administered by ASCE. After meeting these criteria, applicants must then submit an application package that includes a detailed resume, three letters of recommendation from qualified professionals, and a written statement describing their commitment to ethical and professional practice.

Once the application package is approved, individuals are required to take part in a comprehensive review process that includes an oral interview with members of the ASCE Certification Board. Upon successful completion of this review process, individuals will receive their official ASCE Certificate.

The cost for the ASCE Certification Program varies depending on the type of certification sought; however, it typically ranges between $400-$600 USD.

11. National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Certification

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) is a non-profit organization that administers the engineering and surveying licensure process in the United States. The NCEES Certification Program provides a uniform process for evaluating the qualifications of engineers and surveyors seeking licensure in multiple jurisdictions.

The certification process typically takes between six to twelve months to complete, depending on the jurisdiction. To become certified, individuals must first meet educational requirements and then pass two examinations: the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Principles & Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. The FE exam is typically taken during college or shortly after graduation, while the PE exam is usually taken after several years of professional experience.

To get certified, applicants must submit an application to their state board along with all required documents such as transcripts, references, proof of experience, etc. After submitting an application, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for their exams. Once registered, applicants can take their exams at any approved test center throughout the country.

The cost of becoming certified varies based on jurisdiction but typically includes fees for registration and examination as well as other miscellaneous costs such as travel expenses or reference materials. The total cost can range from $500-$2,000 or more depending on individual circumstances.

Do You Really Need a Construction Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the type of construction project you are working on. If you are working on a large-scale project that requires extensive engineering knowledge and skills, then obtaining a construction engineer certificate may be beneficial. A certificate will demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field, as well as provide evidence of your ability to handle complex projects.

On the other hand, if you are working on smaller scale projects that do not require an extensive amount of engineering knowledge or skill, then a certificate may not be necessary. In this case, it would be more beneficial to focus on gaining experience through hands-on work and learning from experienced professionals in the industry.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not pursuing a construction engineer certificate is worth it for your career goals. You should consider all aspects of the job before making a decision. If you think that obtaining a construction engineer certificate will help you achieve your career goals, then it may be worth considering. However, if you feel that your current skills and experience are sufficient for achieving success in the field without additional certification, then it may not be necessary.

Related: Construction Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Construction Engineer Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a certified construction engineer?

Answer: To become a certified construction engineer, you must typically hold an engineering degree from an accredited college or university, have at least 4 years of experience in the field of construction engineering, pass a qualifying exam administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), and obtain a license from your state's licensing board.

2. How long does it take to complete certification?

Answer: The length of time it takes to complete certification depends on your experience and qualifications. Generally, it can take anywhere from 6 months to several years to complete all requirements for certification.

3. What is covered in the certification exam?

Answer: The certification exam covers topics such as building codes, safety regulations, materials science, project management, structural design and analysis, and other related topics.

4. How often do I need to renew my certification?

Answer: Certification typically needs to be renewed every 2 or 3 years depending on the regulations in your state or region. You must also meet continuing education requirements during this time period in order to maintain your certification status.

5. Are there any online courses available for construction engineers?

Answer: Yes! There are many online courses available for construction engineers that focus on specific topics such as building codes, safety regulations, materials science, project management and more.