Top 11 Employment Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for an employment specialist in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers will find attractive. They show potential employers that the individual has taken the time to gain specialized knowledge and skills in the field, which can help them stand out from other applicants. Certifications also give employment specialists credibility when they are networking with employers and other professionals in the field. Having certifications is also beneficial when applying for promotions or higher-level positions, as it shows that one has achieved a certain level of mastery in their profession. Finally, having certifications can make it easier for an employment specialist to keep up with industry trends and stay ahead of competitors.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Employment Specialists and explain how they can help advance an Employment Specialist's career.

What are Employment Specialist Certifications?

Employment specialist certification is a professional credential that demonstrates specialized knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of job placement and career development. This certification is typically acquired through an accredited institution or program that provides students with the necessary training to become successful in the profession.

The primary purpose of employment specialist certification is to validate a person’s qualifications in the job placement and career development field. Professionals who possess this certification have the ability to work effectively with employers, job seekers and other stakeholders in order to ensure successful long-term employment outcomes. This type of certification also helps employers identify qualified candidates for positions they wish to fill, as well as help job seekers find meaningful employment opportunities.

Employment specialists are responsible for developing relationships with clients and employers, providing guidance on resumes and cover letters, conducting interviews, offering advice about job search strategies, and helping clients develop their professional networks. With an employment specialist certification, individuals can demonstrate their expertise in these areas, as well as gain recognition from employers looking for individuals who possess specialized skillsets in this field.

Overall, obtaining an employment specialist certification can help individuals stand out from their peers when it comes to seeking job opportunities or working with employers seeking qualified personnel. It can provide them with a competitive edge over others who do not have this type of credentialing.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the requirements for different employment specialist certifications and compare them to your skills and experience before deciding which certification is right for you. This will ensure that you are choosing a certification that best fits your career goals and provides the most value.

Related: What does an Employment Specialist do?

Top 11 Employment Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Employment Specialists today.

1. Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP)

Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) is an internationally recognized credential that verifies a professional’s knowledge and skills in the field of employment services. It is designed for professionals who work directly with individuals seeking employment or those who are currently employed and need assistance maintaining their job. The CESP certification is granted by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP).

The CESP certification requires a minimum of three years of paid, full-time experience in the workforce development field and successful completion of an exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as job search techniques, career counseling, resume writing, interviewing skills, labor market information, and other related topics. Candidates must also demonstrate knowledge of applicable laws and regulations governing employment services.

The cost to obtain the CESP certification varies depending on the applicant's experience level and whether they choose to take the online or in-person version of the exam. The online version costs $225 while the in-person version costs $325. Additionally, applicants must pay an annual renewal fee to maintain their certification status.

Overall, obtaining a Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) credential can take up to six months from start to finish, depending on how quickly you complete your application process and pass your exam.

2. Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR)

Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) is a designation offered by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) of Canada. It is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in human resources management and leadership. The CPHR designation is recognized across Canada as the standard for excellence in human resources management.

It typically takes three years to complete the requirements for the CPHR designation. In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an online assessment and participate in an interview process. Applicants must also demonstrate their commitment to ongoing professional development and continuing education.

To get started on the path to becoming a CPHR, applicants must first apply to become an HRPA member. Membership fees vary depending on the type of membership chosen. Once accepted as a member, applicants can then register for the CPHR program and begin working towards certification.

The cost of obtaining the CPHR designation varies depending on which province or territory you are applying from; however, it generally ranges from $1,000 - $2,500 CAD plus applicable taxes. This cost includes application fees, assessment fees, membership fees and any other related costs associated with obtaining your designation.

3. Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) is a designation given to professional resume writers who have demonstrated their mastery of the craft of resume writing. To become a CPRW, a professional must pass an exam administered by the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARW/CC). The exam tests the applicant’s knowledge and skills in areas such as grammar, punctuation, formatting, content development, and interviewing techniques.

The process for becoming a CPRW typically takes about four to six weeks from start to finish. First, the applicant must submit an application with proof of education and experience. Once approved, the applicant will be sent an email containing instructions on how to access the online exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and short essays that must be completed within two hours. After completing the exam, applicants will receive their results within three business days.

The cost of becoming a CPRW varies depending on which organization administers the certification program; however, most programs range from $200 to $500 USD. Additionally, some organizations may require annual dues or other fees to maintain membership status once certified.

Overall, becoming a Certified Professional Resume Writer is an excellent way for professionals to demonstrate their expertise in resume writing and stand out from other job seekers in today’s competitive job market.

4. Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Certified Professional

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Certified Professional is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills required to be successful in the field of human resources. The SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) credential is designed for early- and mid-career professionals who are responsible for implementing policies, procedures, and programs related to human resources management.

It typically takes between three and six months to prepare for the SHRM-CP exam. To get started, you must first become a member of SHRM by registering online or through your local chapter. Once you have registered, you will need to purchase study materials such as books, practice exams, and other resources that can help you prepare for the exam. You will also need to complete an approved course or program in order to be eligible to take the exam.

To take the SHRM-CP exam, you must register with SHRM and pay a fee of $300 USD. The cost includes both the registration fee and the cost of taking the exam itself. After registering, you will receive an email confirming your registration and providing instructions on how to schedule your exam date.

Once you have successfully completed all of these steps, you will be able to sit for the SHRM-CP exam at a testing center near you. After passing the exam, you will receive your official certification from SHRM which is valid for three years from the date it was issued.

5. National Association of Personnel Services (NAPS) Certified Employment Services Professional

The National Association of Personnel Services (NAPS) Certified Employment Services Professional (CESP) certification is a professional credential that recognizes excellence in the field of employment services. It is designed for individuals who are committed to providing quality service to job seekers and employers.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having at least two years of experience in the employment services field, a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university, and passing a comprehensive written exam. The exam covers topics such as job search strategies, resume writing, interviewing techniques, employer relations, and labor market trends.

It typically takes about three months to complete the process of becoming certified. During this time, applicants should prepare for the exam by studying material provided by NAPS and taking practice tests online.

The cost of certification varies depending on the type of membership you choose with NAPS. For example, if you are an individual member without any additional benefits, it will cost $250 for your initial application fee plus $150 for each subsequent year that you maintain your certification status. If you choose to become an organizational member with additional benefits such as discounts on conferences and publications, it will cost $400 for your initial application fee plus $200 for each subsequent year that you maintain your certification status.

Overall, obtaining the NAPS Certified Employment Services Professional (CESP) credential can be beneficial to those working in the employment services field as it demonstrates their commitment to quality service and provides them with recognition within their industry.

6. International Association of Career Professionals (IACP) Certified Career Counselor

The International Association of Career Professionals (IACP) Certified Career Counselor (CCC) is a professional certification program that provides career counselors with the knowledge and skills needed to provide quality services to their clients. It is designed to help career counselors become more knowledgeable, competent, and effective in their practice.

In order to become certified as a CCC, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, pass an exam, and complete continuing education courses. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral interview. The written portion covers topics such as career counseling theory and practice, assessment techniques, job search strategies, resume writing, interviewing skills, and more. The oral interview focuses on how the applicant can apply the knowledge gained from the written portion to real-life scenarios.

It typically takes between six months to one year for applicants to complete all of the requirements for certification. Applicants should also be aware that there are additional fees associated with becoming certified including application fees and exam fees.

To get started on the path towards becoming a CCC, applicants must first join IACP as a member. They can then submit an application for certification along with all required documentation such as transcripts and proof of continuing education courses completed. Once accepted into the program they will need to take the exam which is offered twice a year at designated locations around the world. After passing the exam they will receive their certificate in the mail within four weeks of completing all requirements for certification.

The cost of becoming certified as a CCC varies depending on individual circumstances but generally ranges from $500-$1000 USD including application fees and exam fees.

7. Job and Career Transition Coach Certification (JCTC)

Job and Career Transition Coach Certification (JCTC) is an internationally-recognized certification program designed to help individuals become certified career coaches. The program provides comprehensive training in the areas of job search, career transition, and career development. It includes topics such as resume writing, interviewing skills, networking, job search strategies, and more.

The JCTC program consists of three parts: a self-study course, an online exam, and a final practicum. The self-study course covers the basics of career coaching and includes reading material and exercises that allow participants to gain knowledge about the field. The online exam tests participants’ understanding of the material covered in the self-study course. Finally, the practicum requires participants to complete a series of hands-on activities that demonstrate their ability to apply what they have learned in the program.

The entire JCTC program can be completed in 6 months or less depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to it each week. To get certified as a Job and Career Transition Coach, you must complete all three parts of the program successfully.

The cost for obtaining your JCTC certification varies depending on which provider you choose to go through for your training. Generally speaking, most providers offer packages ranging from $400 - $1,000 USD for all three parts of the certification process.

8. Global Career Development Facilitator Certification (GCDF)

The Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) Certification is a professional credential designed to help individuals provide quality career development services to their clients. It is offered by the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE), which is an affiliate of the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The certification requires successful completion of a 160-hour training program, a passing score on the GCDF exam, and adherence to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice established by CCE.

The GCDF certification program takes approximately one year to complete. During this time, individuals must attend a series of classes or workshops that cover topics such as career development theories and techniques, job search strategies, interviewing skills, resume writing, and more. Upon completion of the coursework, students must pass an exam administered by CCE in order to receive their certification.

To become certified as a Global Career Development Facilitator, individuals must first register with CCE and pay the associated fee. The cost for registration varies depending on whether you are registering as an individual or as part of a group. After registering with CCE, individuals can then enroll in an approved training program or workshop to complete their coursework requirements. Once all coursework requirements have been met and the exam has been passed successfully, individuals will receive their GCDF certification from CCE.

In summary, becoming certified as a Global Career Development Facilitator requires completing 160 hours of training and passing an exam administered by CCE. The cost for registration varies depending on whether you are registering as an individual or as part of a group; however it typically costs between $400-$500 USD. The process typically takes one year to complete from start to finish.

9. Job and Information Technology Specialist Certification (JITS)

Job and Information Technology Specialist (JITS) Certification is an industry-recognized certification program designed to provide IT professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today’s competitive job market. It is offered by the International Association of Computer Science Professionals (IACSP).

The JITS Certification program consists of four levels: Associate, Professional, Expert and Master. Each level requires a specific set of courses and exams that must be completed in order to obtain certification. The Associate level covers basic IT topics such as computer hardware, software, networking, security, and database management. The Professional level focuses on more advanced topics such as system architecture, project management, web development, and network administration. The Expert level covers topics such as enterprise architecture, cloud computing, virtualization, and system integration. Finally, the Master level covers topics such as data mining, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), blockchain technology and internet of things (IoT).

It typically takes three to five years to complete all four levels of the JITS Certification program depending on individual experience and skill level. To get started on your journey towards JITS Certification you will first need to register with IACSP. Registration fees vary depending on which level you are attempting but generally range from $100-$500 USD per exam or course module. After registering you will then need to select the courses or exams that are required for each level and begin studying for them. Once all four levels have been successfully completed you will receive your official JITS Certification from IACSP.

10. Workforce Development Professional Certification (WDPC)

Workforce Development Professional Certification (WDPC) is a professional certification program designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively plan, implement, and manage workforce development programs. The certification is offered by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP).

The WDPC program consists of three components: a comprehensive online course, an assessment exam, and a final project. The online course covers topics such as workforce development strategies, principles of effective programming, resources for workforce development professionals, and best practices for developing successful programs. The assessment exam tests participants’ knowledge on the topics covered in the course. The final project requires participants to demonstrate their understanding of the material by designing a workforce development program from start to finish.

The entire WDPC program takes approximately six months to complete. Participants must complete all three components within one year of starting the program in order to receive their certification.

To get started with the WDPC program, individuals must first register on NAWDP’s website. Registration fees vary depending on whether you are an individual or an organization. After registration is complete, participants will be given access to the online course materials and can begin working through them at their own pace. Once they have completed all three components, they will receive their WDPC certification.

The cost of obtaining a WDPC certification varies depending on whether you are an individual or an organization; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD for individuals and $1000-$2000 USD for organizations.

11. National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Certification in Employment Services

The National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Certification in Employment Services is a professional development program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge to effectively assist job seekers in their career search. It is designed to help employment service professionals develop the competencies necessary to provide quality services to clients.

The NISOD Certification in Employment Services consists of four courses: Introduction to Employment Services, Job Search Strategies, Career Planning and Job Placement. Each course is delivered online through an interactive learning platform. The entire program takes approximately six months to complete.

To obtain the NISOD Certification in Employment Services, applicants must complete all four courses successfully and pass a final exam. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals will receive a certificate from NISOD recognizing their achievement.

The cost of the NISOD Certification in Employment Services varies depending on whether or not you are a member of NISOD. For non-members, the cost is $699 per course or $2,796 for all four courses; for members, the cost is $599 per course or $2,396 for all four courses.

Do You Really Need a Employment Specialist Certificate?

The simple answer is no. An employment specialist certificate is not a requirement for most jobs in the field of human resources and recruitment. However, if you are interested in advancing your career or making yourself more competitive in the job market, then obtaining an employment specialist certificate can be beneficial.

Most employers look for candidates with experience in the areas of recruiting, interviewing, hiring and onboarding new employees. Having an employment specialist certificate can demonstrate to potential employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in these roles. It can also give you access to certifications and training programs that may help you stand out from other applicants.

In addition to helping you stand out from other applicants, having an employment specialist certificate can open up opportunities for higher-level positions such as HR manager or director of recruiting. This type of certification shows potential employers that you are dedicated to your professional development and have a thorough understanding of best practices within the industry.

It’s important to note that an employment specialist certificate does not guarantee success or advancement in your career; however, it does show initiative and commitment on your part to become a better professional and increase your chances of finding a great job.

Related: Employment Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Employment Specialist Certifications

1. What is an Employment Specialist Certification?

Answer: An Employment Specialist Certification is a professional certification that recognizes a person’s knowledge and expertise in helping job seekers secure employment. It provides employers with a measure of assurance that the individual has the necessary skills to help job seekers find suitable employment opportunities.

2. What are the prerequisites for obtaining an Employment Specialist Certification?

Answer: Generally, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration or a related field, as well as two years of relevant work experience. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying organization such as SHRM or HRCI.

3. How long does it take to become certified as an Employment Specialist?

Answer: Depending on the certifying organization, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year to complete the necessary requirements and obtain certification.

4. Is there any ongoing training required after becoming certified?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require continuing education credits (CEC) to maintain certification status. These CECs typically consist of attending workshops or seminars and taking online courses related to the field of employment specialist certifications.

5. How much does it cost to become certified as an Employment Specialist?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified can vary depending on which certifying organization you choose, but typically ranges between $300 - $500 USD for application fees and exam fees combined.