Top 10 Entry Level Electrical Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for entry level electrical engineers in the job market because they demonstrate a baseline knowledge of the profession. They can help employers quickly identify qualified candidates and provide assurance that an engineer has achieved a certain level of competency. Certifications also serve as proof of ongoing professional development, which demonstrates commitment to the field and encourages employers to invest in further training or education. Finally, certifications provide recognition from professional organizations, which can give aspiring engineers more credibility in the job market.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the best certifications for Entry Level Electrical Engineers and how they can help enhance their career prospects.

What are Entry Level Electrical Engineer Certifications?

Entry level electrical engineer certification is a type of professional certification that is designed for individuals who are just starting out in the field of electrical engineering. It provides an introduction to the fundamentals of electrical engineering, including topics such as circuit analysis, digital logic design, and embedded systems. The certification can help individuals gain a better understanding of the principles and practices of electrical engineering, as well as providing them with an industry-recognized credential that they can use on their resume or job applications. Additionally, having this type of certification can help demonstrate an individual's commitment to their career and may open up job opportunities in the field.

Pro Tip: When pursuing an entry level electrical engineer certification, it's important to make sure that you have the necessary educational background and experience in order to be successful. Additionally, research the certifications offered by your desired employer to ensure that you are obtaining the right type of certification for your needs.

Related: What does an Entry Level Electrical Engineer do?

Top 10 Entry Level Electrical Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Electrical Engineer (CEE)

Certified Electrical Engineer (CEE) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's expertise in the field of electrical engineering. It is a highly sought after credential that can help individuals stand out in the competitive job market.

The CEE certification is offered through the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of four years of experience in electrical engineering and pass an exam administered by IEEE. The exam covers topics such as power systems, electronics, control systems, signal processing, communications, and computer engineering.

It typically takes about six months to complete the process for becoming certified. During this time, applicants must complete an application form and submit it along with supporting documents such as transcripts or work experience letters. They must also pay a fee to take the exam.

The cost of getting CEE certified varies depending on the country you are applying from and any other fees associated with taking the exam. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 USD to get certified.

2. Certified Instrumentation and Control Technician (CICT)

Certified Instrumentation and Control Technician (CICT) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is a professional certification that demonstrates a technician’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of instrumentation and control. The CICT program focuses on the installation, maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting, and repair of industrial process control systems.

The CICT certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as electrical safety, process control systems, instrumentation components and devices, process measurements and calculations, system maintenance and troubleshooting techniques. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions with four possible answers. Candidates must score at least 70% to pass.

The CICT certification program takes approximately two months to complete. During this time candidates must study for the exam and submit an application to ISA for approval before taking the exam. There are no prerequisites or experience requirements for taking the exam; however it is recommended that candidates have at least two years of experience working with instrumentation and control systems.

The cost of taking the CICT certification exam is $350 USD plus applicable taxes. This fee includes access to online study materials as well as one attempt at taking the exam. Additional attempts will incur additional fees.

3. Certified Industrial Electrician (CIE)

A Certified Industrial Electrician (CIE) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of industrial electrical systems. This certification is provided by organizations such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).

To become a CIE, individuals must have at least four years of documented industrial electrical experience and must pass an exam administered by NICET. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as safety, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and testing of industrial electrical systems. The practical portion requires applicants to demonstrate their skills in various areas including wiring diagrams, installation techniques, and troubleshooting.

The cost of becoming a CIE varies depending on the organization providing the certification. Generally speaking, it can range from $200 to $1000 or more depending on the organization providing the certification. Additionally, some organizations may require additional fees for continuing education courses or recertification exams.

In terms of time commitment, it typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete all requirements necessary to become certified as a CIE.

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

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) is a professional certification organization that provides certifications to individuals who demonstrate knowledge and skills in various engineering technology fields. NICET certifications are recognized by employers and regulatory agencies as a mark of excellence in the field of engineering technology.

It typically takes about six months to complete the requirements for NICET certification. The process begins with an application, which must be approved before any testing can take place. Once approved, applicants must pass a series of examinations that cover topics such as safety, design, construction, inspection, and maintenance related to their chosen field of engineering technology.

To get certified by NICET, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements established by the organization. These include having at least two years of work experience in the field they wish to become certified in or completing an accredited educational program related to their chosen field. After meeting these requirements, applicants must submit an application along with any required documentation and fees.

The cost of obtaining a NICET certification varies depending on the type of certification sought and whether or not an applicant has met all of the necessary eligibility requirements prior to submitting their application. Generally speaking, fees range from $100-$400 for Level I certifications and $200-$600 for higher-level certifications.

5. Certified Power Systems Engineer (CPSE)

Certified Power Systems Engineer (CPSE) is a professional certification program designed to help power system engineers develop and maintain their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of power systems engineering. This certification is offered by the IEEE Power & Energy Society (PES).

The certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral exam. The written exam covers topics such as electrical system design, analysis, operation, protection, and safety. The oral exam focuses on more specific topics such as power system optimization, advanced control systems, and renewable energy systems.

To become certified as a CPSE, you must first register with IEEE PES to take the exams. You will then need to complete an online application form and submit it along with payment of the applicable fees. Once your application has been approved, you will be given access to the exams.

The written exam typically takes about four hours to complete while the oral exam can take up to six hours depending on how many questions are asked. After passing both exams successfully, you will be awarded the Certified Power Systems Engineer (CPSE) credential.

The cost of taking the exams varies depending on where you live and which version of the exams you choose to take (online or in-person). Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD for both exams combined.

6. Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a professional certification program that provides energy professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage, design, and implement energy efficiency projects. The CEM program is designed to help energy professionals understand the technical, economic, and environmental aspects of energy management.

It typically takes three to four months to complete the CEM program. To get certified as a CEM, applicants must pass an exam administered by AEE. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as energy economics, project management principles, energy conservation techniques, and regulatory requirements. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world situations through case studies and practical exercises.

The cost of the CEM certification varies depending on the country in which you are applying. In the United States, for example, the cost is $595 for members of AEE and $695 for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or attending review courses or seminars offered by AEE.

Overall, obtaining a CEM certification can be an invaluable asset for any professional looking to advance their career in energy management or related fields.

7. International Society of Automation (ISA) Certified Automation Professional (CAP)

The International Society of Automation (ISA) Certified Automation Professional (CAP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of automation. The ISA CAP certification is awarded to those who have achieved a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and technologies used in industrial automation.

The ISA CAP certification requires successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as process control, instrumentation, data acquisition and analysis, system integration, safety systems, networking and communications, project management, and other related areas. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To be eligible for the ISA CAP certification program, applicants must meet certain criteria including a minimum number of years of experience in the field of automation and/or hold a relevant degree from an accredited college or university. Applicants must also submit proof that they have completed at least 40 hours of continuing education within the past five years that is related to industrial automation.

The cost for taking the ISA CAP exam is $350 USD for members ($450 USD for non-members). Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their certification by completing at least 20 hours of continuing education every three years.

8. International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP)

The International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of systems engineering professionals. The CSEP program is based on the INCOSE Systems Engineering Handbook, which provides a comprehensive overview of the systems engineering process.

To become certified, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in systems engineering and must pass an exam. The exam consists of four parts: a written test, an oral interview, a project review, and a final review by an INCOSE Board-appointed panel. Applicants must also submit references from two senior-level engineers or managers who can attest to their qualifications as a systems engineer.

The entire process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. The cost of certification depends on the country in which you are applying; for example, in the United States it costs $1,500 USD.

9. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Mechanical Engineer (CMfgE)

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Mechanical Engineer (CMfgE) is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s expertise and experience in the field of mechanical engineering. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s mastery of the principles and practices associated with mechanical engineering, including design, analysis, testing, manufacturing, and product development.

To become certified as a CMfgE, individuals must have a minimum of five years of professional experience in mechanical engineering, pass a written exam administered by ASME, and meet additional requirements set forth by the organization. The exam covers topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, materials science and engineering design.

The process for obtaining the certification typically takes six months or longer depending on the individual's experience level. Individuals are required to submit their application for review by ASME before taking the exam. Once approved to take the exam, individuals can register for it online through ASME's website.

The cost to obtain the CMfgE certification varies depending on whether or not an individual is already a member of ASME. For members who are not currently certified as a CMfgE, the cost is $450 USD; for non-members who are not currently certified as a CMfgE, the cost is $550 USD; and for members who are already certified as a CMfgE but need to renew their certification every three years, the cost is $150 USD.

10. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Senior Member

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is a professional organization that promotes the advancement of technology in electrical engineering, computer science, and related fields. The IEEE Senior Member grade recognizes members who have demonstrated significant performance in their field.

To be eligible for the IEEE Senior Member grade, an individual must have at least 10 years of professional experience in their field and demonstrate significant achievements. This includes accomplishments such as technical contributions to the industry or profession, leadership roles within the IEEE or other organizations, awards or recognition from peers, and/or teaching experience.

In order to apply for IEEE Senior Member status, an individual must submit a completed application form along with supporting documents such as letters of recommendation from colleagues or supervisors attesting to their qualifications. The application process typically takes up to 6 months for review and approval by the IEEE Board of Directors.

The cost for applying for IEEE Senior Member status is $100 USD for members in good standing with the IEEE.

Do You Really Need a Entry Level Electrical Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question will depend on your current qualifications and the type of job you are seeking. If you are seeking entry level employment as an electrical engineer, then having a certificate in this field can be beneficial. A certificate program can provide you with the basic knowledge and skills necessary for working in the field. It can also help to demonstrate your commitment to the profession, which may be attractive to potential employers.

However, it is important to remember that a certificate alone is not enough to guarantee success in the field of electrical engineering. You will also need to have a strong academic background in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles in order to be successful as an electrical engineer. Having a degree or diploma from an accredited institution is usually necessary for most positions within the industry.

Having said that, if you are already qualified for an entry level position but lack experience in the industry, then having a certificate can be beneficial. It can give you an edge over other applicants by demonstrating your commitment and dedication to the profession. Therefore, it may be worth considering whether or not obtaining a certificate would benefit your career prospects before making any decisions.

Related: Entry Level Electrical Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Entry Level Electrical Engineer Certifications

1. What certifications are available for entry-level electrical engineers?

Answer: The most common certifications for entry-level electrical engineers include the Certified Electronics Technician (CET), Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE), and National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).

2. How do I obtain an entry-level electrical engineer certification?

Answer: To obtain an entry-level electrical engineer certification, you must first complete a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. After that, you can take the necessary exams to qualify for the certifications mentioned above.

3. How long do entry-level electrical engineer certifications last?

Answer: Entry-level electrical engineer certifications typically last five years before they need to be renewed.

4. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining an entry-level electrical engineer certification?

Answer: Yes, in order to maintain an entry-level electrical engineer certification, you must complete at least 30 hours of continuing education every three years.

5. What are the benefits of obtaining an entry-level electrical engineer certification?

Answer: Obtaining an entry-level electrical engineer certification can help demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field, as well as give you access to higher paying jobs and career advancement opportunities.