Top 11 Construction Superintendent Certifications

Certifications are important for a construction superintendent in the job market because they demonstrate the superintendent’s knowledge, experience and commitment to their profession. Certified superintendents have proven their ability to manage projects, adhere to safety regulations and stay up-to-date with industry trends and developments. They also tend to be more sought after by employers as they can provide valuable insight into the industry that can help ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Certification also provides a competitive edge in the job market, as it is an indication of a superintendent’s dedication to their work and professional development.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Construction Superintendents and explains how they can help advance a construction superintendent's career.

What are Construction Superintendent Certifications?

Construction superintendent certification is a program designed to equip construction superintendents with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage construction projects. This certification is offered by several organizations, including the Construction Superintendents Association of America (CSAA). By earning this certification, construction superintendents can demonstrate their expertise in the field and gain recognition as an industry leader.

The certification program covers topics such as project management, safety regulations, legal considerations, and cost control. It also provides guidance on how to effectively supervise workers and handle difficult situations. The certification program also includes courses in communication, leadership, and problem-solving.

By completing the certification program, construction superintendents can demonstrate their commitment to excellence in their profession and increase their job opportunities. With this certification, they will have a better understanding of how to meet project goals within budget constraints while maintaining quality standards. They will be able to more easily identify potential problems during a project’s planning stages and take steps to address them before they become costly issues later on.

The certification also helps employers identify qualified candidates for construction superintendent positions because it shows that the individual has obtained the necessary training and experience required for successful project completion. In short, construction superintendent certification can help individuals prove their expertise in the field while providing employers with assurance that they are hiring qualified professionals who are committed to success.

Pro Tip: Make sure to stay up to date on the latest industry standards and regulations related to construction superintendent certification. This will ensure that you are fully qualified and prepared for any job opportunities that may come your way!

Related: What does a Construction Superintendent do?

Top 11 Construction Superintendent Certifications

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

1. OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification

OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification is a voluntary program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It provides workers with an introduction to safety and health hazards in the construction industry. The program is designed to educate workers on how to identify, avoid, control, and prevent job-related hazards on construction sites.

The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification typically takes two days to complete. The course consists of lectures, group discussions, videos, hands-on activities, and quizzes. Upon completion of the course, participants receive an OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health card that is valid for five years.

To obtain the OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification, you must attend an authorized training provider’s class or online course. Training providers are located throughout the United States and offer both classroom instruction as well as online courses.

The cost of the OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certification varies depending on where you take the course. Generally speaking, classroom courses cost between $150-$200 while online courses range from $50-$100.

2. Certified Construction Manager (CCM)

Certified Construction Manager (CCM) is a professional certification program offered by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). The CCM credential is designed to recognize construction managers who demonstrate excellence in the field and have achieved a level of knowledge and experience that sets them apart from their peers.

The CCM certification process involves passing a comprehensive exam, meeting educational and experience requirements, and demonstrating commitment to continuing professional development. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as project management, contracts, safety, scheduling, cost estimating, quality control, and legal issues.

The application process typically takes four to six months to complete. Applicants must submit an application form with transcripts or proof of education and experience. They must also pay an application fee of $395 for CMAA members or $495 for non-members. After submitting the application form and fee, applicants will receive information about registering for the exam.

Once applicants pass the exam they must maintain their certification by completing 30 hours of continuing education every three years. The renewal fee is $150 for CMAA members or $200 for non-members.

Overall, obtaining the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) credential requires dedication and commitment but can be well worth it in terms of career advancement opportunities and increased earning potential.

3. Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)

Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) is a certification program offered by the American Institute of Constructors (AIC). The CPC credential is designed to recognize and reward professional construction practitioners who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, experience, and ethical standards in their practice.

In order to become certified as a CPC, an individual must meet certain eligibility requirements that include holding a valid license or registration as a contractor in their respective jurisdiction, having at least five years of documented experience in the construction industry, and passing the AIC’s comprehensive written examination.

The AIC offers two options for taking the exam: online or in-person. The online version requires applicants to complete an online application form and pay the applicable fee prior to taking the exam. The in-person option requires applicants to attend an AIC-approved testing center and take the exam there.

The cost of becoming certified as a CPC varies depending on which option you choose. For the online version, it costs $400 USD plus applicable taxes while for the in-person version it costs $500 USD plus applicable taxes. Additionally, if you choose to retake either version of the exam within one year of your initial attempt, you will be charged an additional fee of $150 USD plus applicable taxes.

Overall, becoming certified as a CPC can be both rewarding and beneficial for professionals working in the construction industry. It demonstrates expertise and commitment to professional excellence that can help open doors for career advancement opportunities and higher salaries.

4. Certified Professional in Construction Management (CPCM)

Certified Professional in Construction Management (CPCM) is a professional certification program for construction management professionals. The program is offered by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) and is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of construction management.

The CPCM certification requires applicants to have at least five years of experience in construction management, including at least two years of supervisory or managerial experience. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as project planning, scheduling, cost estimating, risk management, and contract administration.

It typically takes six months to one year to complete the certification process. During this time, applicants are required to study for and pass the exam as well as submit an application with supporting documentation.

In order to get certified, applicants must first complete an application form and pay the applicable fees. The fee for the CPCM exam is $600 USD; however, there may be additional fees depending on whether or not you need to take a refresher course prior to taking the exam.

Once your application has been approved, you will be sent a link to register for the exam. Once you have completed the registration process, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access your online account where you can view your exam results and any other relevant information related to your certification status.

Once you have passed the exam and all other requirements have been met, you will receive your official certificate from ACCE via mail within 4-6 weeks after completion of all requirements.

5. LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP)

LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) is a credential that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of green building principles and practices. It is awarded by the US Green Building Council (USGBC).

It typically takes two to three months to become a LEED AP. The first step is to register for the LEED Green Associate exam, which costs $200. After passing the exam, you can apply for the LEED AP credential. To do this, you must submit evidence of experience in green building projects or courses related to green building principles and practices. You will also need to pay an application fee of $50 and pass another exam specific to your area of expertise.

Once you have passed both exams and submitted all required documentation, you will be awarded the LEED AP credential. This credential can be renewed every two years by completing continuing education credits or taking additional exams.

6. American Institute of Constructors (AIC) Certification

The American Institute of Constructors (AIC) is a professional association that provides certification to construction professionals. AIC certification recognizes the knowledge, experience, and commitment of individuals who have demonstrated their ability to perform at a high level within the construction industry.

It typically takes around six months to complete the process of obtaining AIC certification. The first step is to become an AIC member, which requires completing an application and paying an annual membership fee. Once accepted as a member, applicants must pass a written exam that tests their knowledge of construction management topics such as contracts, scheduling, cost estimating, and safety. After passing the exam, applicants must submit three letters of recommendation from experienced construction professionals and demonstrate at least two years of professional experience in the field.

The cost for AIC certification varies depending on the type of membership you choose and whether you are applying for individual or group certification. Generally speaking, individual memberships range from $150 - $350 per year while group memberships can cost up to $1,000 per year. Additionally, there is an exam fee of $200 for each attempt at passing the written exam.

Overall, obtaining AIC certification demonstrates your commitment to excellence in the construction industry and can help you stand out among other job candidates when seeking employment opportunities or promotions in this field.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is an internationally-recognized professional certification for project managers. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP certification recognizes a person’s knowledge, experience, and competency in leading and directing projects.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the PMP exam. This includes studying the PMBOK Guide, taking practice tests, attending review classes or seminars, and other preparation activities.

To get the PMP certification, you must first meet the eligibility requirements. These include having a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent), at least 7500 hours of leading and directing projects, 35 hours of project management education/training, and passing the PMP exam. You can apply online through the PMI website.

The cost of getting your PMP certification depends on several factors such as whether you are a member of PMI or not. Typically it costs around $555 for non-members and $405 for members to take the exam.

8. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certification

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting quality management and improvement. ASQ offers certifications in various areas of quality management, such as Six Sigma, Lean, Quality Engineering, and Quality Auditing. These certifications are intended to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of quality management.

The time it takes to obtain an ASQ certification depends on the type of certification being sought. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several months to a year or more to complete the necessary requirements for certification.

To become certified by ASQ, individuals must first meet certain eligibility requirements based on their education and/or work experience in the field of quality management. Once these requirements have been met, applicants must pass an exam specific to their chosen certification program. The exam will assess the applicant’s knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices associated with that particular program.

The cost of obtaining an ASQ certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought. Generally speaking, most ASQ certifications cost between $300 and $1,000 USD. This cost includes both the application fee and the examination fee.

In addition to passing an exam, applicants may also be required to participate in continuing education activities or other activities related to their chosen certification program in order to maintain their status as a certified individual within the organization.

9. National Council for Public-Private Partnerships (NCPPP) Certification

The National Council for Public-Private Partnerships (NCPPP) is a nonprofit organization that promotes and supports the development of public-private partnerships (PPPs). NCPPP Certification is a recognition program that recognizes organizations and individuals who have demonstrated expertise in PPPs. It provides an objective measure of an individual's or organization's understanding of the principles, practices, and procedures necessary to successfully implement PPPs.

In order to obtain NCPPP Certification, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge and experience in PPPs by completing an online application form and passing a written exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as project finance, legal considerations, risk management, procurement strategies, and public policy. Applicants must also submit documentation demonstrating their experience in PPPs.

The certification process typically takes 4-6 weeks from the time the application is submitted until certification is granted. The cost for NCPPP Certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought (individual or organizational). Individual certifications range from $150-$300 while organizational certifications range from $500-$1000.

10. American Concrete Institute (ACI) Certification

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) Certification is a voluntary program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate knowledge and experience in the field of concrete technology. It is designed to provide a measure of assurance to employers and others that certified individuals have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their jobs.

To obtain ACI certification, an individual must pass an exam consisting of multiple-choice questions related to the design, construction, inspection, and testing of concrete structures. The exam is offered twice a year at various locations throughout the United States. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in the field of concrete technology or a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or related field from an accredited college or university.

The exam typically takes four hours to complete and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. The cost for taking the exam is $450 USD for members of ACI and $550 USD for non-members.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also submit proof of their experience or education credentials as well as references from industry professionals attesting to their expertise in concrete technology. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their ACI certification within six weeks after submitting their application materials.

Overall, obtaining ACI certification requires dedication and hard work but can be beneficial for those seeking employment in the concrete industry as it serves as evidence that they possess the necessary knowledge and skills required for such positions.

11. Green Advantage Environmental Professional Certification

Green Advantage Environmental Professional Certification is a certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to manage and reduce environmental impacts in their operations. It is designed for individuals who work in the construction, manufacturing, or service industries. The program consists of three courses: Green Building Practices, Environmental Management Systems, and Sustainable Business Practices. Each course requires 20 hours of instruction and can be completed in about three months.

To get certified, individuals must first complete all three courses. After completing the courses, they must take a final exam and submit a portfolio demonstrating their knowledge of green building practices, environmental management systems, and sustainable business practices. Upon successful completion of the exam and portfolio submission, individuals will receive their certification from Green Advantage Environmental Professional Certification.

The cost of the certification varies depending on whether you are an individual or a company looking to certify multiple employees at once. For an individual, the cost is $1,500 USD plus applicable taxes; for companies certifying multiple employees at once, the cost is $3,000 USD plus applicable taxes per employee.

Do You Really Need a Construction Superintendent Certificate?

Whether you need a construction superintendent certificate or not depends on your career goals. If you want to get into the field of construction management and become a construction superintendent, then it may be beneficial for you to get a certificate. A certificate can demonstrate that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in this role. It can also help set you apart from other applicants when applying for jobs.

On the other hand, if you are already working in the field as a construction superintendent, then getting a certificate may not be necessary. You may already have enough experience and knowledge to do the job well without it. However, if you want to further your career and prove that you are knowledgeable and experienced in this field, then getting a certification can help with that goal.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a construction superintendent certificate is up to you and your career goals. Consider what your current situation is and what your future goals are before making the decision to get one or not.

Related: Construction Superintendent Resume Examples

FAQs About Construction Superintendent Certifications

1. What is a Construction Superintendent Certification?

Answer: A Construction Superintendent Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to manage construction projects. It is generally earned after completing a related course of study and passing an exam.

2. How do I become certified as a Construction Superintendent?

Answer: To become certified as a Construction Superintendent, you must have a high school diploma or its equivalent and complete an accredited program in construction management or related field. You must also pass an exam to demonstrate your knowledge and proficiency in the field of construction supervision.

3. What are the benefits of obtaining a Construction Superintendent Certification?

Answer: Obtaining a Construction Superintendent Certification can provide many benefits, such as increased job opportunities, higher salaries, improved career prospects, and recognition from colleagues and employers for having obtained the certification.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a Construction Superintendent?

Answer: The time required to obtain certification depends on factors such as how quickly you complete your education program, how much prior experience you have in the field, and if you need additional training or courses prior to taking the exam. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months up to 2 years to become certified as a Construction Superintendent.

5. Is there any continuing education requirement associated with maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require that you participate in continuing education activities every two years in order to maintain your certification status. This ensures that your skills remain current with industry standards and best practices.