Top 11 Embedded Systems Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for an embedded systems engineer in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and proficiency in the field. Having certifications can help an embedded systems engineer stand out from other applicants and show potential employers that they have the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience required to succeed in the role. Certifications also serve as a way to validate an individual’s ability to perform certain tasks related to embedded systems engineering. Additionally, having certifications may lead to more opportunities for career advancement or higher salaries.

This article reviews the top certifications for Embedded Systems Engineers and explains how they can benefit an embedded systems engineer's career.

What are Embedded Systems Engineer Certifications?

Embedded Systems Engineer certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have successfully demonstrated knowledge and experience in the development of embedded systems. This type of certification can be beneficial to professionals in the field of embedded systems engineering, as it provides employers with an independent assessment of a candidate’s expertise and qualifications. The certification is awarded by organizations that specialize in testing and certifying professionals in the field of embedded systems engineering.

The certification process generally includes an examination that assesses knowledge and understanding of the key concepts related to embedded systems engineering. It also evaluates a candidate's ability to apply these concepts through practical problem solving exercises. After completing the exam, candidates must pass a post-exam review process before they are issued their certificate. Depending on the organization, additional requirements may also need to be met before an individual can receive their certificate, such as having worked for at least one year in the field or passing a background check.

Having an Embedded Systems Engineer certification can help professionals stand out from other job applicants when applying for positions within this field. It demonstrates their commitment to enhancing their skillset and staying up-to-date with industry standards and best practices. Additionally, having this credential can open up opportunities for promotions or higher salaries due to their advanced skill level.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the different certifications available for embedded systems engineers and understand the requirements for each certification before committing to any one. You should also consider taking a course or attending a workshop related to your chosen certification as this will help you better understand the material and prepare for the exam.

Related: What does an Embedded Systems Engineer do?

Top 11 Embedded Systems Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE)

Certified Embedded Systems Engineer (CESE) is a professional certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of embedded systems engineers who design, develop, implement, test, and maintain embedded systems.

The CESE certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in the field of embedded systems engineering. Candidates must also pass an exam administered by ISA. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as system architecture, software development, hardware design, real-time operating systems, debugging techniques, and more.

In order to be eligible for the CESE certification program, applicants must have completed at least two years of college or university study in electrical engineering or computer science or have earned an equivalent degree from a recognized institution. Applicants must also have at least three years of full-time work experience in an embedded systems engineering role.

The cost for taking the CESE exam is $450 USD for ISA members and $550 USD for non-members.

Overall, obtaining the CESE certification can take anywhere from six months to one year depending on your experience level and how quickly you can prepare for the exam.

2. Certified Internet of Things Professional (CIoTP)

Certified Internet of Things Professional (CIoTP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have the skills and knowledge necessary to design, develop, and deploy successful IoT solutions. CIoTP is offered by the IoT Council, an international organization that promotes best practices in the field of IoT.

The CIoTP certification requires candidates to pass a two-hour online exam which covers topics such as IoT architecture, protocols, security, data analytics, and device management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and can be taken at any time from anywhere with an internet connection.

The cost of the CIoTP certification is $299 USD. There are no prerequisites required for taking the exam; however, it is recommended that candidates have some experience working with IoT technologies before attempting the exam.

Once a candidate has successfully passed the exam they will receive their CIoTP certification and be listed on the official registry of certified professionals maintained by the IoT Council. The certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed.

3. ARM Certified Embedded Systems Professional (ACESP)

ARM Certified Embedded Systems Professional (ACESP) is a certification program offered by ARM, the world’s leading semiconductor IP provider. The ACESP certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in embedded systems development and design.

The ACESP certification requires candidates to pass two exams: the ARM Embedded Systems Fundamentals exam and the ARM Embedded Systems Design exam. Both exams focus on topics such as system architecture, processor architectures, embedded software development, real-time operating systems, and more. To become certified, candidates must demonstrate their mastery of these topics through both exams.

The entire process typically takes around 6 months to complete depending on how quickly you are able to study for and pass the exams. To get started, you will need to register for an account with ARM's online learning platform and purchase the appropriate exam vouchers. The cost of the two exams combined is $500 USD.

Once you have purchased the vouchers, you can begin studying for your exams using materials provided by ARM such as tutorials, videos, webinars, and practice tests. Once you feel confident that you are ready to take your exams, you can schedule them at any Pearson VUE testing center near you. After completing both exams successfully, your results will be sent directly to ARM for review and processing of your certification status.

4. Certified Embedded Software Engineer (CESE)

Certified Embedded Software Engineer (CESE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills of embedded software engineers. It is administered by the IEEE Computer Society, which is the world’s largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. The CESE certification is intended to provide industry-wide recognition of an individual’s knowledge and expertise in embedded software engineering.

The CESE certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in embedded software engineering, as well as successful completion of an exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as system design, programming languages, operating systems, debugging techniques, and more. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge in practical situations by completing a hands-on project.

In order to obtain the CESE certification, applicants must first submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts or proof of work experience. Once approved, applicants will be required to pay a fee ranging from $200-$500 USD depending on the country they are located in and other factors. After payment has been received, applicants will be able to register for the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide.

The CESE certification does not expire; however it is recommended that individuals maintain their knowledge by participating in continuing education activities such as seminars or workshops related to embedded software engineering.

5. Certified Firmware Engineer (CFE)

Certified Firmware Engineer (CFE) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who design, develop, test, deploy, and maintain embedded firmware. The CFE certification is open to anyone with experience in embedded firmware development.

The CFE certification process consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical project. The online exam tests your knowledge of the fundamentals of embedded firmware engineering. The practical project requires you to demonstrate your ability to develop and debug an embedded system using industry-standard tools. To become certified, you must pass both the online exam and the practical project.

The CFE certification process takes approximately six months from start to finish. You can begin the process by registering for the online exam on ISCET's website. Once you have passed the online exam, you will be eligible to apply for the practical project. After completing the practical project successfully, you will receive your CFE certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified Firmware Engineer varies depending on which services you use during the process. The cost of registering for the online exam is $150 USD plus applicable taxes; there may also be additional fees associated with taking part in the practical project depending on which services are used during its completion.

6. Certified Real-Time Embedded Systems Developer (CRTED)

Certified Real-Time Embedded Systems Developer (CRTED) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). The certification is designed to recognize professionals who are knowledgeable and experienced in the development of real-time embedded systems.

The CRTED program consists of three levels: Associate, Professional, and Expert. Each level requires passing an exam that tests knowledge and experience in a variety of areas related to real-time embedded systems development. The Associate level focuses on basic concepts and terminology, while the Professional level covers more advanced topics such as system architecture, software design, and debugging techniques. The Expert level requires mastery of all topics covered in the previous two levels, as well as additional topics such as project management and system optimization.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete all three levels of the CRTED program. To get certified at each level, candidates must pass a written exam administered by ISA. Exam fees vary depending on the country where you take the exam; however, they generally range from $100 - $200 per exam.

In addition to passing exams, candidates must also have 3 years of professional experience in developing real-time embedded systems before they can become certified at any level. This requirement ensures that those who receive certification have both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in this field.

7. Certified System Architect for Embedded Systems (CSASE)

Certified System Architect for Embedded Systems (CSASE) is a professional certification program developed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, developing, and deploying embedded systems. The CSASE certification requires candidates to have a minimum of three years of experience in the field of embedded systems.

The CSASE certification process consists of two parts: an online assessment and a hands-on lab exam. The online assessment covers topics such as system architecture, system design, software development, hardware design, debugging techniques, and more. Candidates must pass this assessment before they can take the lab exam.

The lab exam is administered at an IEEE-approved testing center and consists of several tasks that require candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in designing, developing, debugging, and deploying embedded systems. The exam typically takes about four hours to complete.

To get certified as a CSASE professional, you must first register with the IEEE Certification Program website. After registration is complete, you will be able to access the online assessment and schedule your lab exam. The cost for the CSASE certification program varies depending on your location; however it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

8. Certified Microcontroller Programmer (CMP)

A Certified Microcontroller Programmer (CMP) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). This certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in programming microcontrollers, which are small computers that are used to control devices such as robots, appliances, and other electronic systems.

The CMP exam consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as microcontroller architecture, memory management, interrupts, and communication protocols. The practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to write code for a given microcontroller platform.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CMP program. During this time, applicants must prepare for the exams by studying relevant materials and attending classes or workshops. Once they have passed both exams, they will receive their official CMP certification from the IEEE.

The cost of the CMP program varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1,000 USD for the entire program.

9. Certified Automotive Electronics Design Engineer (CAEDE)

Certified Automotive Electronics Design Engineer (CAEDE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise of automotive electronics engineers. It is administered by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) International, and is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence in automotive electronics engineering.

To become certified, an engineer must demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the design, development, and implementation of automotive electronic systems. This includes topics such as embedded systems, sensors, actuators, communication protocols, vehicle networks, power supplies, and other related topics.

The CAEDE certification exam consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as system architecture and design principles; vehicle network architecture; embedded systems; communication protocols; sensors and actuators; power supplies; safety systems; diagnostics; software development tools; and troubleshooting techniques. The practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to develop a complete automotive electronic system from concept to completion.

It typically takes six months or more to prepare for the CAEDE certification exams. Preparation may include taking courses at an accredited university or college, attending seminars or workshops offered by SAE International or other organizations, studying online resources such as textbooks or tutorials on automotive electronics engineering topics, or participating in hands-on projects with industry professionals.

The cost for the CAEDE certification exams varies depending on where you take them. The SAE International website lists fees for both the written and practical exams ranging from $250 - $400 USD per exam.

10. Certified Industrial Automation and Control System Designer (CIACSD)

Certified Industrial Automation and Control System Designer (CIACSD) is a certification offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated expertise in the design, installation, and maintenance of industrial automation and control systems.

The CIACSD certification requires applicants to pass an exam administered by ISA. The exam covers topics such as system architecture, safety systems, communication protocols, programming languages, and troubleshooting. It typically takes about four hours to complete the exam.

To become eligible for the CIACSD certification, applicants must meet certain prerequisites. These requirements include having at least two years of experience in industrial automation or control systems design or a minimum of one year of experience in a related field such as engineering or computer science. Applicants must also have completed at least three courses related to industrial automation or control systems from an accredited institution.

The cost for taking the CIACSD exam varies depending on where it is taken. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 USD to take the exam in North America and around $700 USD internationally.

11. Certified Networked Embedded Systems Designer (CNEDS).

Certified Networked Embedded Systems Designer (CNEDS) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in designing, developing, implementing, and managing networked embedded systems. The CNEDS certification program provides a comprehensive examination of the fundamentals of embedded systems design, including topics such as system architecture, hardware/software integration, networking protocols, security considerations, and more.

The CNEDS certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics related to embedded systems design. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. To be eligible for the CNEDS certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in the field of embedded systems design or a related field.

The cost for the CNEDS certification exam varies depending on where you take it. In most cases, it costs around $200 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at certain locations or through certain providers.

Overall, obtaining the CNEDS certification can take anywhere from one month to several months depending on your experience level and availability. It is important to note that this is not an entry-level certification; applicants should have some knowledge and experience in embedded systems design before attempting to obtain this credential.

Do You Really Need a Embedded Systems Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals and objectives. If you are looking to enter the field of embedded systems engineering, then a certificate can be beneficial in helping you stand out from other job applicants. A certificate program can provide valuable knowledge and skills that employers look for when hiring an embedded systems engineer.

However, if you already have experience in the field or already possess a degree related to the field, then obtaining a certificate may not be necessary. Employers will often take into account your experience and qualifications more than any certification that you may possess. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if obtaining a certificate is worth the cost and effort required for completion.

Related: Embedded Systems Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Embedded Systems Engineer Certifications

Q1. What is an embedded systems engineer certification?

A1. An embedded systems engineer certification is a professional credential that certifies the knowledge and skills of a professional in designing, building, and maintaining complex electronic systems using microcontrollers, processors, and other digital components.

Q2. How do I become certified as an embedded systems engineer?

A2. To become certified as an embedded systems engineer, you must complete courses in electronic engineering, computer engineering, digital logic design, microcontroller programming, and other related areas. You may also need to pass an exam offered by a professional organization such as IEEE or CompTIA.

Q3. How long does it take to get certified as an embedded systems engineer?

A3. The amount of time it takes to become certified as an embedded systems engineer varies depending on the individual’s experience level and the type of certification they are looking for. Generally speaking, it may take up to two years to become fully certified from start to finish with additional study time required for more advanced certifications.

Q4. What types of jobs can I apply for with an embedded systems engineer certification?

A4. With an embedded systems engineer certification you can apply for various positions such as software engineers, hardware engineers, system architects, system integrators and much more in industries like automotive manufacturing and medical device development among others.

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as an embedded systems engineer?

A5: Yes, most certifications require applicants to have some experience in electronics engineering or computer science before taking the exam or completing the coursework necessary for certification. Additionally, many organizations require applicants to have a bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in order to qualify for their program or exam.