Top 11 Facility Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for facility technicians in the job market because they can demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. Certifications also provide an opportunity to expand one’s skill set and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in the field. They can also potentially lead to higher salaries, more job opportunities, and better career prospects.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain how certifications can help Facility Technicians advance their careers.

What are Facility Technician Certifications?

Facility technician certification is a program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to maintain and operate facilities. It is designed for those who are looking to advance their career in the field of facility maintenance and operations. Certification can help an individual stand out from other applicants when applying for positions, as it demonstrates their commitment to the industry and their level of expertise. It also gives employers assurance that they are hiring someone who has been trained in best practices and safety standards. Certification also provides professionals with access to additional resources such as conferences, seminars, and networking opportunities that can help them stay on top of the latest developments in facility maintenance and operations.

Pro Tip: Get certified as a facility technician to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession. Certification is typically offered through professional organizations and can provide you with the knowledge and experience needed to succeed in a facility technician role. Additionally, having certification may help you stand out when applying for jobs or promotions.

Related: What does a Facility Technician do?

Top 11 Facility Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Facility Technicians today.

1. Certified Facility Manager (CFM)

Certified Facility Manager (CFM) is a professional certification program offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of facility managers in the field. The CFM credential is widely recognized as a benchmark of excellence among employers and peers in the facility management industry.

The CFM program requires applicants to have at least three years of full-time experience in facility management or related fields. In addition, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as operations and maintenance, finance and business, human factors, project management, communications and technology, environmental stewardship, emergency preparedness and security.

It typically takes six to twelve months to complete the CFM program. During this time period, applicants should become familiar with IFMA’s Body of Knowledge which covers all aspects of facility management. Additionally, applicants should review study materials such as textbooks or online courses provided by IFMA or other accredited organizations.

The cost for obtaining the CFM credential varies depending on the type of study materials used. The exam fee is $395 for members of IFMA ($495 for non-members). Additional fees may apply if additional study materials are purchased from IFMA or other organizations.

2. Certified Building Maintenance Technician (CBMT)

Certified Building Maintenance Technician (CBMT) is a certification program offered by the National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI). The CBMT certification is designed to provide apartment professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain, repair, and upgrade rental properties.

The CBMT program consists of three courses: Maintenance Management, Building Systems, and Safety & Risk Management. Each course must be completed in order to earn the CBMT certification. The courses are offered online or in-person at NAAEI’s training centers.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete all three courses depending on how quickly you work through the material.

To get certified as a CBMT, you must first register for the program and pay the registration fee of $495. Once registered, you can begin taking the courses online or in person at one of NAAEI’s training centers. After completing all three courses and passing their exams, you will receive your CBMT certificate from NAAEI.

The cost of the CBMT program varies depending on whether you take the courses online or in person. For online courses, it costs $495 for registration plus an additional fee for each course ($195 per course). For in-person courses, it costs $995 for registration plus an additional fee for each course ($295 per course).

3. Certified Plant Maintenance Technician (CPMT)

Certified Plant Maintenance Technician (CPMT) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of experienced technicians who specialize in the maintenance and repair of industrial plants. The certification is offered by the Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE).

The CPMT certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in the field, as well as passing an exam. The exam covers topics such as safety, electrical systems, mechanical systems, instrumentation, process control, and more.

In order to become certified, applicants must submit an application to AFE along with proof of experience and payment of the application fee. Once approved, applicants must then register for and pass the CPMT exam. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

Once certified, CPMTs are required to maintain their certification through continuing education credits every three years. This ensures that they stay up-to-date on new technologies and industry practices.

4. Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP)

Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) is a certification issued by the Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge of maintenance and reliability principles, practices, and technologies. The CMRP credential is the only globally recognized certification for maintenance and reliability professionals.

In order to become certified as a CMRP, an individual must meet certain criteria. This includes having at least three years of professional experience in the field of maintenance or reliability engineering, or two years of experience in a related field plus a degree from an accredited college or university. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam administered by SMRP that tests their knowledge of maintenance and reliability principles, practices, and technologies.

The exam typically takes between four to six hours to complete. It consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as asset management, predictive maintenance strategies, root cause analysis techniques, quality assurance processes, safety regulations, environmental regulations, cost reduction strategies, inventory management systems, failure analysis methods, lubrication best practices, and more.

The cost to take the exam varies based on whether you are a member of SMRP or not. For members it costs $450 USD while for non-members it costs $550 USD. Once you have passed the exam you will receive your CMRP certification which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

5. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a professional designation awarded by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). The CEM certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the energy industry. To become certified, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of energy management principles and practices through a combination of education, experience, and examination.

To be eligible to take the CEM exam, applicants must have a minimum of five years’ work experience in energy management or related fields. They must also have completed at least 30 hours of AEE-approved continuing education courses within the past three years.

The CEM exam is offered twice per year, typically in May and October. It consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that are divided into four sections: energy fundamentals; energy efficiency; renewable energy; and economics, finance, and project management. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for taking the CEM exam is $550 for members of AEE and $750 for non-members. Once an applicant passes the exam, they will receive their official CEM certification from AEE.

6. HVAC/R Certification

HVAC/R Certification is a certification program that provides recognition for technicians who have achieved a certain level of expertise in the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems. This certification is typically obtained by completing an accredited HVAC/R training program.

The length of time it takes to get HVAC/R Certification depends on the type of program chosen. Most programs can be completed in 6-12 months depending on the number of credits required for completion.

To get HVAC/R Certification, individuals must complete an accredited training program and pass an exam administered by a professional association or certifying body. The cost of the training program varies depending on the school or institution offering it; however, most programs range from $2,000-$10,000. The cost of taking the exam also varies depending on the certifying body administering it; however, most exams range from $100-$200.

7. EPA 608 Certification

EPA 608 Certification is a certification program administered by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that certifies individuals who work with air conditioning and refrigeration systems. It is designed to ensure that technicians working on these systems are knowledgeable about their proper installation, maintenance, and repair.

The EPA 608 Certification consists of three levels: Type I, Type II, and Type III. Each level requires passing an exam and covers different areas of knowledge relating to HVAC/R systems.

Type I certification covers the servicing of small appliances such as window air conditioners and dehumidifiers. Type II certification covers high-pressure appliances such as chillers and large commercial air conditioning units. Type III certification covers low-pressure appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, and ice makers.

It typically takes two to four weeks for individuals to complete the coursework and pass the exams necessary for EPA 608 Certification. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider but can range from $100-$300 USD per type of certification.

Individuals interested in obtaining EPA 608 Certification must contact an accredited training provider in their area or online to enroll in a course. After completing the coursework, individuals will need to take a proctored exam at an approved testing center before receiving their certificate from the EPA.

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

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) is a professional certification program for engineering technicians. It is designed to recognize the technical knowledge and experience of those who work in engineering technology fields. The program is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

To become certified, applicants must meet minimum requirements for education and experience, as well as pass an exam that covers the specific field they are seeking certification in. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is administered at testing centers throughout the United States.

The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual’s background and how much time they can devote to studying. Generally, it takes between two to four months to prepare for the exam, with most applicants taking three months or less.

To get certified, applicants must first apply online through the NCEES website. Applicants will then be required to submit documentation verifying their educational qualifications, such as transcripts or diplomas, as well as proof of their work experience in the field they are seeking certification in. Once all documents have been received and approved, applicants will be able to register for an upcoming exam date at a testing center near them.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on which level of certification you are applying for, but typically ranges from $150-$400 USD. This cost includes both the application fee and exam fee.

9. Electrical Safety Certificate

An Electrical Safety Certificate (ESC) is a document issued by an accredited electrician that certifies that all electrical work in a property has been completed to the required safety standards. This includes any installations, repairs, alterations or replacements of electrical systems and components.

The ESC must be obtained before any new tenant moves into a rental property. It is also recommended for homeowners who are selling their property, as it provides assurance to potential buyers that the electrics are safe and compliant with current regulations.

It usually takes around 1-2 hours for an electrician to complete an ESC inspection. The cost of obtaining an ESC varies depending on the size of the property and the type of work being carried out, but typically ranges from £50-£200.

To obtain an ESC, you will need to contact a qualified electrician who is registered with a recognised body such as NICEIC or ELECSA. They will then visit your property and carry out an inspection of all electrical systems and components, including wiring, sockets, switches and light fittings. If any issues are identified during the inspection they will advise on what needs to be done in order to bring the electrics up to standard before issuing the certificate.

10. OSHA 10-Hour Card

The OSHA 10-Hour Card is a certificate of completion for the OSHA 10-Hour Outreach Training Program. This program is designed to provide workers with an introduction to safety and health hazards in the workplace. The OSHA 10-Hour Card is issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and is valid for five years from the date of completion.

The OSHA 10-Hour Outreach Training Program consists of two parts: a classroom component and an online component. The classroom component includes instruction on topics such as hazard recognition, safety equipment, accident prevention, and more. The online component involves completing an online course that covers similar topics to the classroom portion.

It typically takes two days to complete the program; however, some employers may require additional time or additional training before issuing a card. It is important to check with your employer prior to enrolling in the program as requirements may vary by company.

To obtain an OSHA 10-Hour Card, individuals must successfully complete both the classroom and online components of the program. Upon successful completion, participants will receive their cards within four weeks of completing the program.

The cost of obtaining an OSHA 10-Hour Card varies depending on where you take it and who provides it. Generally speaking, most courses are offered at no cost; however, some courses may have associated fees or costs associated with them such as materials or registration fees.

11. LEED Green Associate Certification

LEED Green Associate Certification is a professional credential program offered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). It is designed to recognize professionals who have a basic understanding of green building principles and practices, and who are committed to advancing sustainability in the built environment.

The LEED Green Associate exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed within two hours. The exam focuses on topics such as green building fundamentals, project management, environmental impacts of buildings, and the LEED rating system.

To become certified as a LEED Green Associate, you must pass the exam with a score of 170 or higher. You must also pay an application fee of $100 USD and an examination fee of $50 USD. The entire process typically takes about three weeks from registration to certification.

To prepare for the exam, USGBC offers a variety of study materials including books, online courses, and practice exams. Additionally, there are many organizations that offer LEED Green Associate training courses at varying costs depending on the provider.

Do You Really Need a Facility Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question really depends on your individual needs and goals. If you are looking to become a facility technician, then yes, a facility technician certificate can be beneficial. A certificate in this field can provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to properly maintain and repair equipment used in a variety of facilities. It can also give you an edge over other candidates for jobs as it shows that you have taken the initiative to gain additional qualifications.

On the other hand, if you already have experience in the field or are just looking for a job that requires basic maintenance skills, then a facility technician certificate may not be necessary. Depending on your current level of knowledge and skill set, employers may be willing to hire you without any formal certification. However, if your goal is to move up the ladder into more advanced positions or specialize in particular areas of facility maintenance and repair, then having a facility technician certificate could be very beneficial.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a facility technician certificate depends largely on your individual situation and goals. If you believe that obtaining such certification would benefit your career path, then it is worth considering investing the time and effort into gaining it.

Related: Facility Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Facility Technician Certifications

1. What is a Facility Technician Certification?

Answer: A Facility Technician Certification is a professional credential that certifies an individual’s knowledge and skill in performing essential maintenance and repair tasks related to industrial, commercial, or residential facilities.

2. How do I become certified as a Facility Technician?

Answer: To become certified as a Facility Technician, you must complete an accredited training program and pass an industry-recognized certification exam.

3. What topics are covered in the Facility Technician Certification exam?

Answer: The topics covered on the Facility Technician Certification exam include safety protocols, electrical systems, HVAC systems, plumbing systems, building codes and regulations, preventative maintenance practices, and more.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a Facility Technician?

Answer: It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the training program and prepare for the certification exam. Once you have passed the exam, you will be officially certified as a Facility Technician.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Facility Technician?

Answer: Yes – in order to become certified as a Facility Technician, you must have at least 1 year of experience working in facility maintenance or related fields such as construction or engineering.