Top 10 Facilities Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a facilities engineer in the job market because they demonstrate knowledge, skill and experience. Certifications also provide evidence of professional competence and technical mastery of specific areas related to facility engineering, such as energy management and sustainability, building systems commissioning and maintenance, indoor air quality (IAQ), hazardous materials management and more. In addition to validating an individual’s expertise, certifications can be used to establish credibility with employers and clients who need assurance that a project is being managed by a qualified professional. Finally, certifications can help a facilities engineer stand out from the competition when applying for jobs or bidding on projects.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Facilities Engineers and explain how they can benefit a Facilities Engineer's career.

What are Facilities Engineer Certifications?

Facilities engineer certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and experience in the operation and maintenance of physical infrastructure, such as buildings, HVAC systems, plumbing systems, electrical systems, and other related facilities. This certification is designed to help professionals secure a job in the field of facilities engineering or to advance their current career. It also provides recognition for those who have achieved mastery in this area.

The benefits of having a facilities engineer certification include an improved ability to diagnose and solve problems related to physical infrastructure, increased understanding of building codes and regulations, better communication skills when dealing with clients or vendors, improved safety protocols within the workplace, and increased job security. Having a certified facilities engineer on staff can also lead to cost savings due to better energy efficiency and improved maintenance practices. Additionally, it can help employers increase customer satisfaction by providing efficient service delivery.

Pro Tip: When considering facilities engineer certification, make sure to research the specific certifications that are available and their requirements. Additionally, look into any continuing education requirements or renewal fees associated with the certification to ensure you can maintain your credentials over time.

Related: What does a Facilities Engineer do?

Top 10 Facilities Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Facilities Management Professional (CFMP)

Certified Facilities Management Professional (CFMP) is a professional certification program for facilities management professionals. It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who manage facilities. The certification is offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA).

The CFMP program consists of three levels: Certified Facilities Manager (CFM), Certified Professional in Facility Management (CPFM), and Certified Facility Executive (CFE). Each level requires a different amount of experience, education, and training.

To become certified at any level, candidates must pass an exam administered by IFMA. The exams are available online or in-person at designated testing centers. Candidates must also submit documentation that demonstrates their experience in facility management.

The cost of the CFMP program varies depending on which level you are pursuing. For example, the cost for the CFM exam is $395 USD, while the CPFM exam costs $595 USD and the CFE exam costs $795 USD.

In general, it takes about six months to complete all three levels of the CFMP program. However, this timeline can vary depending on how much time a candidate has to dedicate to studying and preparing for each exam.

2. Certified Plant Engineer (CPE)

Certified Plant Engineer (CPE) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Facilities Engineers (AFE). The CPE credential is designed to recognize the expertise and experience of those who possess a working knowledge of plant engineering principles and practices.

The CPE program consists of four modules: Basic Plant Engineering, Advanced Plant Engineering, Maintenance & Reliability, and Safety & Environmental Compliance. Each module requires a passing score on an exam that covers topics related to the module's subject matter.

It typically takes between one and two years to complete all four modules and earn the CPE credential. To get started, individuals must first become members of AFE. Membership fees vary depending on the type of membership chosen.

Once you have become an AFE member, you can register for any or all of the four modules. The cost for each module varies depending on whether you are taking it online or in person at one of AFE's approved training centers. After successfully completing each module, you will receive your certificate from AFE.

Once you have completed all four modules and passed the exams associated with them, you will be awarded your Certified Plant Engineer credential from AFE. This credential is valid for five years before needing to be renewed through continuing education credits or retaking certain exams.

3. Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP)

Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and experience in the field of maintenance, reliability, and asset management. It is administered by the Society for Maintenance & Reliability Professionals (SMRP).

The CMRP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as maintenance planning, scheduling, and execution; preventive/predictive maintenance; reliability engineering; root cause analysis; lubrication practices; asset management; safety and quality assurance; and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to become certified, applicants must have at least five years of experience in the field. They must also submit an application with a fee of $295 USD. Once approved, applicants can register for the exam online or via mail. The exam fee is $395 USD for non-members and $295 USD for members of SMRP.

Once applicants pass the exam, they will receive their CMRP certification which is valid for three years. To maintain their certification status, they must earn 45 continuing education credits within those three years or retake the exam every three years.

4. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a professional designation given by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). CEMs are trained professionals who specialize in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainability. They are responsible for developing and implementing energy management strategies to reduce energy costs, optimize operations, and improve environmental performance.

It typically takes between 18-24 months to complete the requirements for the CEM designation. The process involves completing an approved AEE training program, passing an exam administered by AEE, and submitting a portfolio of documented experience related to energy management.

The cost of obtaining the CEM designation varies depending on the training program chosen. Generally, it costs between $1,500-$3,000 to complete all requirements for the certification.

5. Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP)

Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP) is a certification program offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and experience in building commissioning. The CBCP credential is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed the AEE’s comprehensive training program and passed an examination.

The CBCP training program consists of two components: an online course, which covers topics such as energy efficiency, building systems, and commissioning processes; and an on-site assessment, which evaluates the applicant’s ability to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting. The entire program takes approximately 12 weeks to complete.

To become certified as a CBCP, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least five years of professional experience in building commissioning or related fields. They must also pass a written exam that tests their knowledge of building systems and commissioning processes.

The cost for the CBCP certification program varies depending on the location and provider chosen. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000 - $2,000 USD.

6. LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP)

LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) is a professional designation given to individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of green building principles and practices. The LEED AP credential is awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), which administers the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to become a LEED AP, depending on your level of experience and knowledge. To become a LEED AP, you must first pass the LEED Green Associate exam, which tests your knowledge of green building principles and practices. Once you have passed the exam, you can then take the LEED AP exam, which tests your ability to apply that knowledge in real-world situations.

To get started on becoming a LEED AP, you will need to register with the USGBC and pay an application fee of $50. You will also need to purchase study materials for both exams, such as textbooks or online courses. After passing both exams, you will receive your official certification from the USGBC.

The cost of becoming a LEED AP varies depending on how much preparation you do beforehand and what materials you use for studying. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200-$500 for all related expenses including registration fees, study materials, and exam fees.

7. Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)

A Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) is a professional who specializes in the identification, assessment, and control of environmental hazards in the workplace. CIHs are trained to identify and evaluate hazardous materials, chemicals, physical agents, biological agents, and ergonomic factors that can cause illness or injury to workers. They also develop strategies to prevent or reduce exposure to these hazards.

To become a CIH, one must first obtain a bachelor's degree in industrial hygiene or a related field such as engineering, biology, chemistry, or public health. After completing an undergraduate degree program, individuals must then pass the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH) certification exam. The ABIH certification exam consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral examination. To be eligible for the ABIH certification exam, applicants must have at least four years of experience in industrial hygiene practice.

The cost for taking the ABIH certification exam is $500 for members of the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) and $600 for non-members. The cost covers both parts of the exam and all associated fees. Additionally, some employers may cover part or all of the cost of taking the ABIH certification exam as part of their employee benefits package.

Once certified as a CIH by passing the ABIH certification exam, individuals must maintain their credentials by completing continuing education credits every three years in order to remain certified.

8. Certified Facility Manager (CFM)

Certified Facility Manager (CFM) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and experience of facility managers in the areas of operations, maintenance, finance, engineering, environmental health and safety, security, and risk management. The CFM credential is awarded by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA).

To become certified as a CFM, an individual must have at least five years of experience in facility management or related fields. They must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of facility management. Additionally, applicants must have either a bachelor’s degree or an associate’s degree with at least two years of relevant work experience.

The process to become certified as a CFM typically takes six months to one year to complete. During this time, applicants should prepare for the exam by studying material provided by IFMA and attending review courses offered by IFMA-approved providers. Once they are ready to take the exam, they can register through IFMA’s website and schedule their test date.

The cost for taking the CFM exam varies depending on whether you are an IFMA member or non-member. For members it costs $400 USD while non-members pay $500 USD. There is also an additional cost for review courses which range from $200-$1000 USD depending on the provider.

9. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Certification

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, experience, and competence in the fields of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR). The certification is designed to ensure that HVACR professionals are knowledgeable about industry standards and best practices.

To get ASHRAE Certification, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least four years of documented work experience in the HVACR industry as well as passing an exam administered by ASHRAE. Applicants must also demonstrate their commitment to continuing education by completing at least 24 hours of approved continuing education credits within three years prior to applying for certification.

The process of getting ASHRAE Certification typically takes several months to complete. After meeting the eligibility requirements and submitting an application with all necessary documentation, applicants must then register for and pass the ASHRAE certification exam. Once they have successfully passed the exam, they will receive their official certification from ASHRAE.

The cost of obtaining ASHRAE Certification varies depending on the type of certification sought. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD for a single-level certification or $600-$700 USD for multiple-level certifications. This fee covers the cost of registration for the exam as well as any additional materials needed for preparation.

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

National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in engineering technology and related disciplines. It is designed to certify individuals who are knowledgeable in the principles, practices, and techniques of engineering technology.

The NICET certification process typically takes between six months to a year to complete. To become certified, candidates must pass an exam administered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, and other related fields.

To get the NICET certification, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements which include having at least two years of relevant work experience or an associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university. After meeting these requirements, applicants must then register with NICET and pay the applicable fees. Once registered with NICET, applicants will be assigned a study guide containing information about the exam topics and recommended study materials.

The cost of the NICET certification varies depending on the level of certification sought. Generally speaking, it can range from $100-$400 for each level of certification sought.

Do You Really Need a Facilities Engineer Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Facilities Engineer Certificate depends on your individual career goals and the requirements of the job you are applying to. Generally, having a certificate in facilities engineering can give you an edge when competing for jobs, as it demonstrates knowledge and expertise in the field. Additionally, some employers may require that applicants have a certificate in order to be considered for certain positions.

For those who are new to the field and want to gain the necessary skills and knowledge required for a job in facilities engineering, obtaining a Facilities Engineer Certificate can be beneficial. A certificate program provides students with an introduction to key concepts including building systems design, operations management and maintenance, energy conservation strategies, safety regulations, and more. It is also important for those already working in this field to stay up-to-date on current trends and technologies in order to remain competitive.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Facilities Engineer Certificate depends on your desired career path and the specific needs of your chosen employer. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, obtaining a certificate can be an excellent way to demonstrate your commitment to learning and professionalism. However, if you already possess relevant experience or education that meets an employer’s requirements, then a certificate may not be necessary.

Related: Facilities Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Facilities Engineer Certifications

1. What is a Facilities Engineer Certification?

A Facilities Engineer Certification is a professional certification that verifies the knowledge and experience of a facilities engineer. The certification recognizes the skills and abilities necessary to maintain and manage buildings, systems, and equipment.

2. What are the benefits of having a Facilities Engineer Certification?

Having a Facilities Engineer Certification provides assurance to employers that you have the technical knowledge and experience required for this profession. It also serves as an indicator of commitment to your profession, which can lead to increased job opportunities and higher wages.

3. How do I become certified as a Facilities Engineer?

In order to become certified as a Facilities Engineer, you must meet certain educational requirements, pass an exam administered by an accredited organization, and demonstrate your knowledge in the field through relevant work experience or on-the-job training.

4. How long does it take to earn a Facilities Engineer Certification?

The amount of time it takes to earn a Facilities Engineer Certification varies depending on individual circumstances such as prior education and work experience. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all of the necessary requirements for certification.

5. How much does it cost to get certified as a Facilities Engineer?

The cost of getting certified as a Facilities Engineer varies depending on the certifying organization you choose and other factors such as study materials or courses that may be required in order to achieve certification status. Generally speaking, costs range from several hundred dollars up into the thousands for more comprehensive certifications.