Top 11 Electrical Design Engineer Certifications

Certifications are an important factor in the job market for electrical design engineers. Employers often use certifications to assess a candidate's knowledge and skills. A certification shows that the engineer has achieved a certain level of expertise in their field, which can be valuable to employers when considering candidates for a job opening. Additionally, certifications may provide access to higher pay or more advanced positions within the company. Finally, certifications can open up opportunities for networking and collaboration with other professionals in the industry.

This article reviews top certifications for Electrical Design Engineers, providing insight into how they can contribute to an electrical design engineer's career.

What are Electrical Design Engineer Certifications?

Electrical design engineer certification is a type of professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skill of electrical engineers in designing electrical systems. It is typically awarded by organizations such as the Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) or the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). By completing an electrical design engineer certification program, professionals demonstrate their expertise in designing safe and reliable electrical systems, ensuring compliance with applicable codes and standards, and developing innovative solutions to engineering challenges.

The certification can help individuals stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions. It also provides evidence of one’s expertise to employers, clients, and potential customers. Additionally, it may qualify an individual for higher salaries or other benefits. Many employers are more likely to hire certified professionals because they know they have received specialized training in this field. Furthermore, some companies may even offer discounts on services to customers who use certified electrical designers. Finally, having a professional certification can provide a sense of pride and accomplishment that can be invaluable in one’s career path.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to become an electrical design engineer, it is important to get certified in the field. Becoming certified will help you stand out amongst other job applicants and demonstrate your expertise in the field. Doing research on certification programs and taking the time to complete a program will give you the edge when it comes to getting hired.

Related: What does an Electrical Design Engineer do?

Top 11 Electrical Design Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Electrical Design Engineer (CEDE)

Certified Electrical Design Engineer (CEDE) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the design, development, and implementation of electrical systems. The certification requires successful completion of an examination that covers topics such as electrical safety, circuit design, power distribution, energy management, and more.

The CEDE exam typically takes two to three hours to complete. Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of electrical engineering principles and practices as well as be able to apply them in practical situations. To qualify for the exam, candidates must have at least four years of experience in the field or hold a degree in electrical engineering from an accredited institution.

The cost for taking the CEDE exam varies depending on location and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$250 USD to take the exam. Additionally, some employers may pay for their employees’ exams if they are pursuing the certification.

Once the exam is passed successfully, candidates will receive their CEDE certification which is valid for five years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires passing an updated version of the original exam or completing continuing education courses related to electrical engineering principles and practices.

2. Certified Professional Electrical Engineer (CPEE)

A Certified Professional Electrical Engineer (CPEE) is a professional designation for electrical engineers who have achieved a level of expertise and knowledge in their field. The CPEE certification is awarded by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), the world’s largest technical professional organization.

To become a CPEE, an individual must meet the requirements established by IEEE. This includes having at least eight years of experience in electrical engineering or related fields, as well as passing an examination that covers topics such as power systems, electronics, control systems, and safety.

The process to become a CPEE can take anywhere from six months to two years depending on the individual's background and experience. It requires applicants to complete an application form, submit supporting documents such as transcripts and letters of recommendation, and pass the required examination.

The cost of becoming a CPEE varies depending on the country where you are applying. In the United States, it typically costs around $1,000 USD for all fees associated with becoming certified.

3. Certified Power System Engineer (CPSE)

Certified Power System Engineer (CPSE) is an internationally recognized certification program for professionals in the power system engineering field. The certification is administered by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of power systems and their operation, as well as the ability to apply this knowledge in practical applications.

The CPSE certification requires applicants to pass a written exam and complete a professional development course. The written exam covers topics such as power system analysis, design, operation, and protection. The professional development course focuses on topics related to power system engineering, such as safety, economics, and project management.

The process of obtaining the CPSE certification typically takes about two years to complete. Applicants must first register for the written exam with IEEE, which can be done online or through a local testing center. After passing the written exam, applicants must complete the professional development course within two years of passing the written exam. Once both requirements are met, applicants will receive their CPSE certification from IEEE.

The cost of obtaining the CPSE certification varies depending on where you take your exams and courses. Generally speaking, it will cost around $2,000-$3,000 USD to obtain the certification. This includes registration fees for both the written exam and professional development course as well as any other associated costs such as textbooks or study materials.

4. Certified High-Voltage Electrical Designer (CHVED)

Certified High-Voltage Electrical Designer (CHVED) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of experienced electrical designers in the field of high voltage engineering. It is an internationally recognized certification program offered by the International Association of Certified High Voltage Electrical Designers (IACHVED).

The CHVED certification program consists of three parts: a written examination, an oral examination and a practical demonstration. The written exam covers topics such as electrical safety, high voltage equipment design, installation and maintenance, power system analysis and protection, and other related topics. The oral exam focuses on the application of these concepts in real-world scenarios. Finally, the practical demonstration requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to design a complete high voltage system from scratch.

The CHVED certification process typically takes around four months to complete. To get certified, applicants must first register with IACHVED and pay the required fee. After registering, applicants will be sent an application package which includes instructions for completing the written exam and submitting all required documentation. Once all documents are received by IACHVED, applicants will be scheduled for their oral exam and practical demonstration. Upon successful completion of all three parts of the certification process, applicants will receive their CHVED certificate.

The cost for the CHVED certification program varies depending on location but generally ranges from $500 - $1,000 USD.

5. Certified Low-Voltage Electrical Designer (CLVED)

Certified Low-Voltage Electrical Designer (CLVED) is a certification program offered by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). The CLVED certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the design, installation, and maintenance of low-voltage electrical systems.

The CLVED program requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as electrical safety, codes and standards, system design, and installation. Applicants must also have at least two years of experience in the field of low-voltage electrical systems.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $200. To register for the exam, applicants must submit an application form along with the required fees to NECA. After registering for the exam, applicants will receive a study guide that outlines the topics covered on the test.

Once applicants have successfully passed the exam, they will receive their CLVED certification from NECA. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by completing continuing education courses or retaking the exam.

6. Certified Automation and Control System Designer (CACSD)

Certified Automation and Control System Designer (CACSD) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in the design, implementation, operation, and maintenance of automated control systems.

The CACSD certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as system architecture, programming languages, networking protocols, communication protocols, safety standards and regulations, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and can take up to four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CACSD certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in automation or control system design. Applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge through a portfolio review process.

The cost of the CACSD certification varies depending on the country in which it is taken. In the United States, the cost is $395 USD for ISA members and $495 USD for non-members.

7. Professional Electrical Design Technician Certification (PEDT)

Professional Electrical Design Technician Certification (PEDT) is a certification program for electrical design technicians. It is offered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). The certification is designed to ensure that electrical design technicians have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their job duties safely and effectively.

The PEDT certification requires applicants to pass an exam administered by NICET. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as electrical safety, wiring diagrams, circuit analysis, and troubleshooting. Applicants must also demonstrate experience in the field of electrical design through either work experience or education.

It typically takes three months to complete the PEDT certification process. Applicants must first register with NICET and pay a fee before they can take the exam. After passing the exam, applicants must submit proof of their experience in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining the PEDT certification varies depending on the applicant’s location and other factors. Generally, applicants can expect to pay around $200-$400 for registration fees and exam fees combined.

8. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) is a non-profit organization that provides certification programs for engineering technicians in the United States. NICET certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of engineering technicians. It is designed to help employers identify qualified individuals and to assist technicians in advancing their careers.

NICET offers four levels of certification: Level I, Level II, Level III, and Level IV. The amount of time required to obtain each level varies depending on the individual’s experience and education. Generally, it takes between two and five years to complete all four levels.

To get certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics related to their chosen field of engineering technology. Exams are offered at approved testing centers throughout the country. Applicants must also submit an application form with supporting documentation such as transcripts or proof of work experience.

The cost of NICET certification depends on the level being sought and may include fees for registration, exams, and maintenance of certification status. In general, applicants can expect to pay between $200-$500 for each level of certification they pursue.

9. International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE)

The International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of systems engineering principles and practices. It was founded in 1990, and currently has over 20,000 members in more than 100 countries. INCOSE provides education, training, certification, and networking opportunities for professionals working in the field of systems engineering.

INCOSE offers two levels of certification: Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP) and Expert Systems Engineering Professional (ESEP). To become certified at either level, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of systems engineering. The CSEP exam takes about two hours to complete, while the ESEP exam takes about three hours.

To apply for certification, applicants must submit an application form along with a fee. The fees vary depending on whether you are applying as an individual or as part of an organization. For individuals, the CSEP fee is $295 USD and the ESEP fee is $395 USD; for organizations, the CSEP fee is $495 USD and the ESEP fee is $595 USD.

Once your application has been approved by INCOSE, you will be given access to online study materials that will help you prepare for your exam. Once you have passed your exam, you will be officially certified as a Systems Engineer at either the CSEP or ESEP level.

10. IEEE Senior Member Certification

IEEE Senior Member Certification is a professional recognition awarded by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) to recognize the achievements of its members. The certification is based on criteria such as technical knowledge, experience, leadership, and service in the field of electrical and electronics engineering.

It typically takes between four to six years to become an IEEE Senior Member. To be eligible for this certification, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in their field and must have demonstrated significant performance or achievement in one or more areas of electrical/electronics engineering. Applicants must also provide evidence of their technical knowledge and skills through publications, patents, awards, or other accomplishments.

To apply for IEEE Senior Member Certification, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as resumes, letters of recommendation from peers or supervisors, and proof of professional experience. The application fee is $50 USD for members and $100 USD for non-members. After submitting the application form and supporting documents, applicants will receive notification within two weeks regarding their eligibility status. If approved, applicants will then be required to pay an additional fee of $100 USD for processing the certification request.

Once all requirements are met and the fees are paid in full, applicants will receive their official IEEE Senior Member Certificate within 4-6 weeks from submission date.

11. National Fire Protection Association's Certified Fire Alarm Designer Program

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Alarm Designer Program is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to design, install, inspect, test, and maintain fire alarm systems. The program is designed to meet the requirements of NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.

To become certified as an NFPA Certified Fire Alarm Designer, an individual must successfully complete a two-day training program offered by an authorized provider. This training covers topics such as fire alarm system design principles and practices, fire alarm system components and their functions, installation requirements for various types of systems, and proper testing procedures. Upon successful completion of the course, the individual must pass a written exam administered by the NFPA.

The cost of the training course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1,000. In addition to the cost of the course itself, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or purchasing study materials.

Once an individual has successfully completed all requirements for certification, they will receive a certificate indicating their status as an NFPA Certified Fire Alarm Designer. This certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed in order to remain current.

Do You Really Need a Electrical Design Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the type of job you are seeking. Electrical design engineering is a very specialized field and employers may require that you have a certificate in order to be considered for certain positions. If you are not looking for a specific job, but instead want to increase your knowledge and skills in the field of electrical design engineering, then obtaining a certificate may be beneficial.

A certificate in electrical design engineering can demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and knowledge required to work in this field. It also shows potential employers that you are committed to learning more about this area of engineering. The certificate can also help open up opportunities for further education and career advancement. Additionally, having a certificate can give you an edge over other applicants who do not have one when applying for jobs.

In summary, whether or not you need an electrical design engineer certificate will depend on your personal career goals and objectives. If you are looking for a specific job that requires such certification, then it would be wise to obtain it. However, if your goal is simply to increase your knowledge and abilities within the field of electrical design engineering, then obtaining a certificate may be beneficial but is not essential.

Related: Electrical Design Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Electrical Design Engineer Certifications

Q1. What qualifications do I need to become an Electrical Design Engineer?

A1. To become an Electrical Design Engineer, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Additionally, you should have experience with computer aided design (CAD) software and knowledge of industry standards and regulations.

Q2. Is certification necessary for Electrical Design Engineers?

A2. While certification is not mandatory for Electrical Design Engineers, it can be beneficial in demonstrating mastery of the profession and enhancing career prospects. Certification can also help demonstrate competency to employers when applying for jobs or promotions.

Q3. What certifications are available for Electrical Design Engineers?

A3. There are several certifications available for Electrical Design Engineers, such as Certified Solidworks Professional (CSWP), Certified LabVIEW Associate Developer (CLAD), Certified EMC Professional (CEMCP), and Certified Quality Engineer (CQE).

Q4. How much does certification cost?

A4. The cost of certification varies depending on the program and the organization offering it, but typically ranges from $100 - $500 USD per exam or course module.

Q5. How long does certification last?

A5. Most certifications are valid for three years from the date of completion; however, some organizations may require recertification after two years or less in order to maintain current status as an active certified professional within that organization’s network/programs/standards/etc