Top 11 Field Operator Certifications

Certifications are important for field operators in the job market because they provide proof of knowledge, skills and experience. They demonstrate a level of competency that employers look for when hiring. Certifications also show potential employers that the field operator has taken the initiative to further their education and stay up-to-date with industry developments. Having certifications can give a field operator an edge over other applicants and open up more job opportunities.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Field Operators and explains how they can help to further an operator's career.

What are Field Operator Certifications?

Field Operator Certification is a certification program designed to improve safety in the workforce and ensure that workers are properly trained and qualified to safely operate industrial machinery. It can help by providing employers with assurance that their employees are competent and capable of performing their assigned tasks, as well as providing employees with the necessary knowledge and skills to safely operate equipment. The certification program consists of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and a final assessment. Upon successful completion of the program, participants receive a certificate indicating they have achieved field operator proficiency. This certification provides employers with an assurance that their workers possess the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate machinery, while also ensuring that workers are aware of all safety protocols required for safe operation. Additionally, it allows employers to easily identify which workers are qualified to operate certain types of machinery, allowing them to assign specific duties based on individuals’ qualifications.

Pro Tip: Make sure to stay up-to-date on the latest field operator certification standards and requirements, as they are constantly changing. This will ensure that you remain compliant with all applicable regulations and that your operations remain safe and efficient.

Related: What does a Field Operator do?

Top 11 Field Operator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Field Operators today.

1. Certified Petroleum Field Operator (CPFO)

Certified Petroleum Field Operator (CPFO) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC). The CPFO certification is designed to recognize individuals who have obtained a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of petroleum operations.

The CPFO certification requires applicants to complete a written examination, which covers topics such as safety, drilling operations, production operations, and well control. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CPFO certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in the petroleum industry, including three years in an operational role. Additionally, applicants must pass both the written and practical examinations with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost to obtain the CPFO certification varies depending on the country where you are applying from. Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$500 USD for US residents and between $600-$700 USD for non-US residents.

2. Certified Natural Gas Field Operator (CNGFO)

A Certified Natural Gas Field Operator (CNGFO) is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of natural gas production, processing, and distribution. This certification is offered by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and is designed to help ensure the safe and efficient operation of natural gas facilities.

To become certified as a CNGFO, individuals must have at least five years of experience in natural gas operations or production engineering. They must also pass a written exam administered by API. The exam covers topics such as safety regulations, environmental regulations, equipment operation, and maintenance procedures.

The cost for taking the CNGFO certification exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200 to $400 USD. It takes approximately two to three months to prepare for the exam and receive results.

3. Certified Oil and Gas Production Technician (COGPT)

Certified Oil and Gas Production Technician (COGPT) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC). It is designed to certify individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in oil and gas production operations. The certification is valid for three years, after which the individual must renew their certification.

To become certified, an individual must complete an online course that consists of six modules: Introduction to Oil and Gas Production Operations; Well Completion, Workover, and Stimulation; Production Equipment; Safety Practices; Troubleshooting; and Regulatory Compliance. Upon successful completion of the course, the individual must pass a final exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for the COGPT certification program is $1,200 USD. This fee covers all materials needed for the course as well as access to the online learning platform. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the final exam at an IADC-approved testing center.

In total, it takes approximately 8-12 weeks to complete the COGPT certification program depending on how quickly you are able to work through the material.

4. Certified Pipeline Operator (CPO)

Certified Pipeline Operator (CPO) is a certification program for pipeline operators. It is designed to help ensure that operators have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and efficiently operate pipelines. The CPO program is administered by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and consists of two levels: Certified Pipeline Operator I (CPO-I) and Certified Pipeline Operator II (CPO-II).

To become certified, applicants must pass a written examination that covers topics such as pipeline operations, safety, maintenance, and regulatory requirements. Applicants must also have at least one year of experience in pipeline operations or related fields. The exam typically takes about three hours to complete.

The cost for the CPO exam varies depending on the level being taken; however, it typically ranges from $200 to $400 USD. Once an applicant passes the exam, they will receive their CPO certification within four weeks.

The CPO certification is valid for five years and can be renewed by taking an additional written exam or completing an approved continuing education course.

5. Certified Refinery Operator (CRO)

A Certified Refinery Operator (CRO) is an individual who has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API) as having the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate a petroleum refinery. The certification is designed to ensure that operators have the technical proficiency to properly manage refinery operations and maintain safety standards.

The certification process typically takes about four months, depending on the applicant's experience level. To obtain CRO certification, applicants must pass a written exam and complete an approved training program. Applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge of refinery operations through a series of practical tests.

The cost of obtaining CRO certification varies depending on the applicant's experience level and the type of training program they are enrolled in. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 for the entire process.

In addition to passing the written exam and completing an approved training program, applicants must also meet certain work experience requirements in order to be eligible for CRO certification. These requirements vary depending on the applicant's experience level and may include at least two years of full-time work in a petroleum refining environment or equivalent experience in other related fields such as engineering or chemistry.

6. Certified Offshore Platform Operator (COPO)

Certified Offshore Platform Operator (COPO) is a certification program designed to provide offshore platform operators with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively operate a fixed or floating offshore platform. The COPO program is administered by the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC).

The COPO certification requires that applicants have at least two years of experience in the oil and gas industry, as well as a valid offshore medical certificate. Applicants must also pass an online examination, which covers topics such as safety, operations, maintenance, environmental protection, and emergency response.

It typically takes up to six months to complete the entire COPO certification process. First, applicants must submit their application and supporting documents to IADC for review. Once approved, they will be given access to the online exam portal where they can take the exam at their own pace. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their COPO certification card within two weeks.

The cost of obtaining a Certified Offshore Platform Operator (COPO) certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

7. Certified Wellhead Control System Technician (CWCT)

Certified Wellhead Control System Technician (CWCT) is a certification program designed to provide wellhead control system technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively maintain, troubleshoot, and repair wellhead control systems. The certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment.

The written exam covers topics such as safety, electrical theory, instrumentation, hydraulics, pneumatics, valves, actuators, controllers, and other related topics. The practical assessment requires the technician to demonstrate their ability to safely install and maintain wellhead control systems. The practical assessment includes tasks such as installing components in the correct sequence; testing for proper operation; troubleshooting malfunctions; replacing components; calibrating instruments; and performing preventive maintenance.

It typically takes between three months and one year to complete the CWCT certification program depending on the individual’s experience level. To get certified as a CWCT technician, individuals must first complete an accredited training program that meets the requirements of the American Petroleum Institute (API). After completing the training program, individuals must pass both the written exam and practical assessment in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining CWCT certification varies depending on which training provider is chosen. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000-$2,500 for both parts of the certification process.

8. Certified Rigging and Crane Operator (CRCO)

Certified Rigging and Crane Operator (CRCO) is a certification program for crane operators and riggers. The program is administered by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) and is designed to ensure that crane operators and riggers are knowledgeable in safety, operation, maintenance, inspection, and rigging principles.

It usually takes up to six months to complete the CRCO certification process. To get certified, applicants must pass two written exams as well as a practical exam. The written exams cover topics such as crane operations, rigging principles, safety regulations, maintenance requirements, and inspection procedures. The practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge of crane operations in a simulated environment.

The cost of the CRCO certification varies depending on the number of tests taken and the type of test taken. Generally speaking, it costs around $300-$400 per test plus additional fees for registration and processing.

9. Certified Compressor Station Operator (CCSO)

A Certified Compressor Station Operator (CCSO) is a professional designation that certifies an individual has the knowledge and skills to safely operate, maintain, and troubleshoot compressor stations used in natural gas transmission systems. Compressor stations are used to increase pressure of natural gas as it moves through pipelines. The CCSO certification is issued by the American Petroleum Institute (API), a trade organization representing the oil and natural gas industry.

In order to become certified, an individual must complete an API-approved training program and pass an exam. The training program typically takes between 8-10 weeks to complete, depending on the provider. Training programs can be completed online or in person at a vocational school or college.

The cost of the CCSO certification varies depending on the provider, but generally ranges from $500-$1000 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or travel expenses if taking the exam in person.

10. Certified Tank Cleaning Technician (CTCT)

A Certified Tank Cleaning Technician (CTCT) is a professional designation that recognizes the expertise and knowledge of an individual in the field of tank cleaning. The certification is offered by the National Association of Tank Cleaners (NATC), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing education, training, and certification for tank cleaners.

The CTCT certification program is designed to ensure that all tank cleaners have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and effectively clean tanks. The program consists of classroom instruction, hands-on experience, and a written exam. To become certified, applicants must pass both the written exam and an on-site practical assessment. The entire process typically takes around three months to complete.

To get certified, applicants must first submit an application to NATC along with proof of their qualifications and experience in tank cleaning. Once approved, they will be sent a study guide containing information about the topics covered in the exam. After studying this material, applicants can then register for the exam at one of NATC’s testing centers located around the country.

The cost for becoming a CTCT varies depending on where you take your exam and other factors such as whether you need additional training or materials. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 to become certified. This includes registration fees, study materials, testing fees, and any additional training needed to pass the exam.

11. Certified Chemical Injection System Technician (CCIST).

Certified Chemical Injection System Technician (CCIST) is a certification program offered by the American Petroleum Institute (API). The CCIST program is designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively maintain, inspect, and repair chemical injection systems used in the oil and gas industry.

The CCIST program consists of two parts: an online course and a written exam. The online course covers topics such as system components, installation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, safety considerations, and industry standards. The course takes approximately 16 hours to complete. Upon successful completion of the course, candidates must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the CCIST certification varies depending on where you take the course and exam. Generally speaking, it can range from $200-$500 USD for both the course and exam.

To become certified as a CCIST technician, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least two years of experience working with chemical injection systems or related equipment in the oil and gas industry. Candidates must also have a valid driver’s license or equivalent identification document issued by their country of residence.

Once all eligibility requirements are met, candidates can register for the CCIST program through API’s website or through an approved training provider. After registering for the program, candidates will receive access to the online course material as well as instructions on how to schedule their written exam.

Do You Really Need a Field Operator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the specific industry and job you are looking for. If you are considering a career in the oil and gas industry, then yes, you will most likely need a Field Operator Certificate. This certificate is designed to certify that an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge required to operate field equipment safely and efficiently.

In addition to the safety aspect of having a Field Operator Certificate, it can also give employers confidence in your ability to do the job. The certificate proves that you have been trained in certain areas such as operating heavy machinery, working with hazardous materials, safety protocols, and more. It also shows employers that you are knowledgeable about the industry and can be trusted with important tasks.

Furthermore, having a Field Operator Certificate may open up more job opportunities for you because companies may prefer to hire those who have already received certification. Even if your current employer does not require it, having one could still come in handy when applying for other positions within your field or when looking for new jobs elsewhere.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Field Operator Certificate depends on what type of work you plan on doing and where you plan on doing it. However, it is generally recommended that anyone who wants to pursue a career in the oil and gas industry should get certified as it can provide many benefits both now and in the future.

Related: Field Operator Resume Examples

FAQs About Field Operator Certifications

1. What is a Field Operator Certification?

A Field Operator Certification is an industry-recognized certification that verifies a person's knowledge and skills related to the operation of field equipment such as pumps, valves, compressors, etc. The certification is designed to provide employers with assurance that their operators are properly trained and qualified to safely and efficiently operate field equipment.

2. How do I obtain a Field Operator Certification?

There are a variety of organizations that offer certification programs for field operators. Some certifications can be obtained through online courses or in-person training sessions; others may require passing an exam or completing hands-on practical exercises. In addition, some organizations may require applicants to have prior experience in the industry before taking the certification exam.

3. How long does a Field Operator Certification last?

Field Operator Certifications typically last for two years from the date of issue, after which you must renew your certification by re-taking the exam or completing additional training requirements.

4. What are the benefits of obtaining a Field Operator Certification?

Having a Field Operator Certification provides employers with assurance that their operators are properly trained and qualified to safely and efficiently operate field equipment; it also serves as proof of your knowledge and experience in the industry, which can help you stand out when looking for employment opportunities or promotions within your organization. Additionally, having this certification can make you more marketable in other industries where similar skills may be required.

5. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Field Operator Certification?

Many organizations have specific prerequisites that must be met before taking their certification exams; these requirements vary depending on the organization, but typically include completing certain courses or having prior experience in the industry. It’s important to research each organization’s requirements thoroughly before applying for their program so that you know what to expect once you begin studying for your certification exam.