Top 11 Failure Analysis Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a failure analysis engineer in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in their field. They show that the individual has taken the time to learn and develop their skills, which employers value. Additionally, certifications can help a failure analysis engineer stand out from other applicants by highlighting their qualifications and experience. Certifications also offer credibility to potential employers, as they serve as an objective measure of competency and proficiency. Finally, certifications can open up new career opportunities for a failure analysis engineer by demonstrating their abilities to handle complex tasks and problems within the industry.

This article reviews some of the top certifications available to Failure Analysis Engineers and explains how they can help to advance their career.

What are Failure Analysis Engineer Certifications?

Failure analysis engineer certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an engineer’s expertise in the field of failure analysis. A failure analysis engineer is responsible for determining the root cause of a failed component or system, and then developing strategies to prevent similar failures in the future. This certification provides employers with assurance that engineers have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively analyze and address system failures.

The certification can help employers evaluate potential hires, as well as current employees who are seeking promotions or additional responsibilities. It also helps engineers stand out from their peers by demonstrating their commitment to their profession and their ability to identify and address failure issues. By earning this certification, engineers can show potential employers that they have the technical knowledge required to effectively analyze and resolve complex failure problems. Additionally, it may give engineers an edge when competing for jobs in which failure analysis is a key part of the job description.

Overall, failure analysis engineer certification can be beneficial for both employers and engineers alike. Employers can trust that certified engineers will be able to identify and address any potential issues related to system failures, while engineers can demonstrate their dedication to their profession by obtaining this professional credential.

Pro Tip: When considering failure analysis engineer certification, be sure to research the different certifications available and select the one that best meets your needs. In addition, make sure you understand the requirements of each certification, as some may require additional training or experience in order to become certified.

Related: What does a Failure Analysis Engineer do?

Top 11 Failure Analysis Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

A Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is an individual who has been certified by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in reliability engineering. The CRE certification is designed to provide assurance that a person has the necessary knowledge and experience to practice reliability engineering at a professional level.

The CRE certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as reliability fundamentals, reliability analysis techniques, system design and development, failure modes and effects analysis, preventive maintenance, warranty management, and quality control. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

In order to become certified as a CRE, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field; four years of professional experience in reliability engineering; completion of a course in reliability engineering; and passage of the ASQ Certified Reliability Engineer Exam.

The cost of becoming certified as a CRE varies depending on your country of residence. In the United States, the cost is $399 USD for ASQ members or $499 USD for non-members. The exam fee includes access to study materials such as textbooks, online tutorials, practice exams, and more.

2. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQE certification is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of quality engineering principles and practices. It is widely recognized as a mark of excellence in the field.

The CQE exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. Candidates must have at least five years of full-time work experience in quality engineering, or three years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree, in order to be eligible to take the exam.

In order to apply for the CQE certification, candidates must first submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts and proof of work experience. Once approved, candidates can register for the exam through ASQ’s online portal.

The cost of taking the CQE exam varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or nonmember. For members, it costs $375 USD; for nonmembers, it costs $475 USD.

3. Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB)

Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of Six Sigma. The certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

Six Sigma is a set of techniques and tools used to improve processes and reduce defects. It is based on the principles of data-driven decision making, process improvement, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement.

The CSSBB certification requires individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of Six Sigma tools and techniques through an exam. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of work experience in a full-time role related to Six Sigma or Lean Six Sigma.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as project management, statistical analysis, design of experiments, process improvement methods, and quality management systems. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for the CSSBB certification varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or non-member. For ASQ members, it costs $399 for the application fee plus $399 for the exam fee; non-members pay $499 for the application fee plus $499 for the exam fee.

Once you have passed the CSSBB exam, you will receive your certificate within 4–6 weeks. You will also be listed in ASQ’s online directory of certified professionals and can use your credentials to demonstrate your commitment to quality excellence in your profession.

4. Certified Failure Analysis Professional (CFAP)

Certified Failure Analysis Professional (CFAP) is a certification offered by the International Association of Certified Failure Analysis Professionals (IACFAP). It is designed to recognize the highest level of expertise and competency in the field of failure analysis. The CFAP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in a variety of areas related to failure analysis.

The CFAP certification process typically takes about six months from start to finish. To become certified, applicants must meet certain requirements, including completing a minimum number of hours of experience in failure analysis, passing an online exam, and submitting an application for review. The cost for the CFAP certification is $450 USD.

In order to receive the CFAP certification, applicants must first complete an application form and submit it along with their resume and any other relevant documents. After submitting their application form, applicants will be required to take an online examination that covers topics such as root cause analysis, problem solving techniques, risk assessment methods, data collection methods, and more. Once they have successfully passed the exam they will then need to submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in failure analysis. This portfolio should include examples of projects completed as well as reports written on those projects.

Once all requirements are met and approved by IACFAP’s Certification Board, applicants can expect to receive their official CFAP certificate within 6-8 weeks after submission.

5. Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA)

Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQIA certification is designed to provide recognition for individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of quality improvement techniques, tools, and processes.

The CQIA certification is a two-part program consisting of an online exam and a hands-on project. The online exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality management principles, quality planning, process improvement, and customer satisfaction. The hands-on project requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to apply quality improvement techniques in a real-world environment.

It typically takes six months to complete the CQIA certification process. To get certified, applicants must first register with ASQ and pay the registration fee. Once registered, they can access the online exam and begin studying for it. After passing the online exam with at least 70%, applicants must then submit their hands-on project for review by ASQ's Certification Board.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or non-member. For members, the total cost is $395; for non-members, it is $495.

6. Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)

A Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) is a professional who has been certified by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) to demonstrate knowledge and experience in auditing quality systems. The CQA certification is designed to assess an individual’s ability to audit, analyze, and report on the effectiveness of a quality system.

The CQA exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. To become certified as a CQA, applicants must have at least five years of work experience in quality assurance or related fields, and must pass the CQA exam with a score of at least 70%.

To get started, applicants should register for the CQA exam through ASQ's website. Once registered, applicants can purchase study materials from ASQ or other vendors. After studying for the exam, applicants will need to schedule an appointment to take the exam at an authorized testing center.

The cost of becoming a CQA varies depending on where you take your exam and what study materials you use. The fee for taking the CQA exam is $399 USD if you are an ASQ member or $499 USD if you are not an ASQ member. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with purchasing study materials or taking practice exams.

7. Certified Quality Manager (CQM)

Certified Quality Manager (CQM) is an internationally recognized professional certification for quality management professionals. It is offered through the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQM certification is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of quality management principles, practices and techniques in order to improve organizational performance.

The CQM certification requires successful completion of two exams: the Quality Management Principles (QMP) and the Quality Management Practices (QMP) exams. The QMP exam covers topics such as quality assurance, process improvement, customer service, and product design. The QMP exam focuses on topics such as quality control, risk management, statistical analysis, and auditing. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions and a written essay.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the CQM exams depending on your prior knowledge and experience with quality management principles. In order to get certified, you must pass both exams within three years of starting the program.

The cost of the CQM program varies depending on which ASQ membership level you choose. For non-members, it costs $600 for both exams plus a one-time application fee of $50. For members, it costs $500 for both exams plus a one-time application fee of $25.

Overall, becoming a Certified Quality Manager requires dedication and commitment to learning about quality management principles and practices in order to improve organizational performance.

8. Root Cause Analysis Certification

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively identify, analyze, and resolve root causes of problems. The certification program is offered by the International Association for Root Cause Analysis (IARCA).

The certification consists of two parts: an online course and a practical exam. The online course can be completed in one day or less, depending on the individual's learning style. The practical exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

To get certified, individuals must successfully complete both parts of the certification program and submit their results to IARCA for review. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals will receive an official certificate from IARCA.

The cost of Root Cause Analysis Certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

9. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and skills in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to help individuals improve their process improvement and problem-solving skills, as well as their ability to lead teams in the implementation of Lean Six Sigma projects.

The certification process typically takes between 3-6 months depending on the provider and the type of course chosen. To get certified, individuals must complete a training program that covers the fundamentals of Lean Six Sigma, such as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) and other related topics. After completing the coursework, individuals must pass an exam to receive their certification.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the provider and type of course chosen. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$2,000 USD for online courses or $3,000-$5,000 USD for in-person courses.

10. System Safety Engineering Certification

System Safety Engineering Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of system safety engineering. The certification is administered by the International System Safety Society (ISSS).

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria and pass an examination. The criteria include having a minimum of three years of experience in system safety engineering, or having completed at least one year of formal education in the field. Applicants must also demonstrate knowledge of safety principles and practices, as well as an understanding of system safety engineering processes.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as risk management, hazard analysis, system design and development, verification and validation, human factors engineering, safety assurance techniques, and more. The exam typically takes 2-3 hours to complete.

The cost for the certification varies depending on whether you are an ISSS member or non-member. For members, the fee is $150 USD; for non-members it is $200 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official System Safety Engineering Certification from ISSS. This certification is valid for three years from the date that it was issued. After three years have passed, you must recertify by taking another examination or completing continuing education requirements.

11. FMEA Professional Certification

FMEA Professional Certification is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) that recognizes individuals who demonstrate an advanced understanding of Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA). FMEA is a quality-improvement tool used to identify potential risks and prioritize corrective actions.

The certification process consists of two parts: an online application and a proctored exam. The application must be completed within one year of submitting it, and the exam must be taken within two years of applying.

To get certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience in the field of FMEA or related quality fields, or have completed at least 30 hours of formal education in FMEA or related topics. Applicants must also pass the proctored exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for the FMEA Professional Certification is $375 for ASQ members and $475 for non-members. This fee includes access to study materials, the online application, and the proctored exam.

Do You Really Need a Failure Analysis Engineer Certificate?

The short answer is no. A Failure Analysis Engineer Certificate is not a requirement for any engineering job and there are many successful engineers who have not obtained this certificate. However, if you are looking to specialize in failure analysis engineering, then having the certificate may increase your chances of success.

Failure analysis engineering involves identifying the cause of a failure in systems or components and developing methods to prevent future failures. It requires knowledge of physics, material science, metallurgy, corrosion science, and other related fields. The Failure Analysis Engineer Certificate is offered by the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) and provides an opportunity to demonstrate expertise in failure analysis engineering.

For those interested in pursuing a career in failure analysis engineering, obtaining the Failure Analysis Engineer Certificate can be beneficial. It can demonstrate your commitment to the field and provide evidence of your expertise. It also signals to employers that you understand the principles behind failure analysis engineering and are able to apply them effectively. Additionally, it may open up opportunities for advancement within companies or organizations that require such certification for their engineers.

Overall, having a Failure Analysis Engineer Certificate is not necessary for all engineers but it can be useful for those specifically seeking a career in this field. Ultimately, it comes down to individual preference; some engineers may prefer to focus on gaining experience rather than obtaining certification while others may benefit from obtaining the certificate as part of their professional development plan.

Related: Failure Analysis Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Failure Analysis Engineer Certifications

1. What are the requirements for becoming a Failure Analysis Engineer?

Answer: To become a Failure Analysis Engineer, you must have a degree in engineering or a related field and experience in failure analysis and/or mechanical engineering. You may also need additional certifications such as Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE), or Certified Professional Engineer (CPE).

2. What is the scope of work for a Failure Analysis Engineer?

Answer: The scope of work for a Failure Analysis Engineer includes investigating product failures and root cause analysis, developing corrective action plans, and providing recommendations to improve product reliability.

3. What kind of certifications can I get as a Failure Analysis Engineer?

Answer: As a Failure Analysis Engineer, you can obtain certifications from organizations such as ASQ, IEC, and IEEE which specialize in quality management and related areas such as reliability engineering.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Failure Analysis Engineer?

Answer: It typically takes between 6 months and 2 years to become certified as a Failure Analysis Engineer depending on your experience level and the organization offering the certification.

5. Are there any online courses available to help me prepare for my certification exam?

Answer: Yes, there are many online courses available that can help you prepare for your certification exam including ASQ's Certified Quality Technician (CQT) course and IEEE's Certified Reliability Professional (CRP) course.