Top 11 Field Superintendent Certifications

Certifications are important for a field superintendent in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to effectively perform their duties. Certification indicates that the individual has met certain standards of excellence and can be trusted to do their job well. Certifications also provide employers with assurance that the individual is properly qualified for the position and have the ability to handle complex tasks. Additionally, certifications can provide an edge over non-certified applicants when applying for jobs.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Field Superintendents and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Field Superintendent Certifications?

Field superintendent certification is a professional certification program designed to provide construction professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful as a field superintendent. This certification program is meant to help individuals advance their career in the construction industry by providing them with the tools they need to effectively manage personnel, operations, and projects. It also helps them understand the legal responsibilities associated with managing a project, as well as developing an understanding of safety and environmental regulations.

This certification can help individuals gain recognition for their knowledge and experience in the field of construction, which may lead to higher wages or promotions within their current place of employment. Additionally, it provides individuals with an opportunity to network with other certified professionals in their field, which can open up doors for new job opportunities. Furthermore, having this certification demonstrates that an individual has gone above and beyond what is required of them in terms of their knowledge and experience in the construction industry, which can make employers more likely to hire them for positions that require greater responsibility.

Always stay up to date on the latest certification requirements for field superintendents. Certification requirements can vary from state to state, so it is important to research your local regulations and stay in compliance. Additionally, many certifications require continuing education credits in order to maintain their validity. Make sure you are aware of any deadlines or updates that may be necessary for your certification.

Related: What does a Field Superintendent do?

Top 11 Field Superintendent Certifications

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

1. OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification

OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification is a voluntary program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to educate workers in the construction industry about safety and health hazards on the job. The certification is designed to provide an entry-level worker with an overview of common job site safety issues, including fall protection, scaffolding, hazardous materials, electrical safety, and more.

The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification course typically takes two days to complete. It is available online or in person at various locations across the United States. The cost of the course varies depending on where it is taken and who is providing it, but it generally ranges from $100-$150 per person.

To obtain OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification, participants must attend a two-day course taught by an authorized OSHA instructor. During the course, students will learn about common construction hazards and how to prevent them. At the end of the course, participants must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification card.

Upon successful completion of the course and passing of the exam, participants will receive an official OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification card that is valid for five years from date of issuance.

2. OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification

OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification is a comprehensive training program that provides workers in the construction industry with the knowledge and skills to recognize, avoid, and prevent safety and health hazards in their work environment. This certification is awarded by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) upon successful completion of an approved 30-hour course.

The OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification course typically takes about 30 hours to complete, depending on the provider. The course covers topics such as fall protection, electrical safety, scaffolding, hazard communication, personal protective equipment, fire prevention and protection, recordkeeping requirements, material handling, machine guarding, excavation safety standards, and more.

To get OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification you must take an approved OSHA Outreach Training Program class from an authorized trainer or provider. You can find approved trainers or providers online or through your local OSHA office.

The cost of the OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $100 - $550 per person.

3. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is one of the most sought-after certifications in project management and is recognized worldwide. The PMP Certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to effectively manage projects and ensure successful outcomes.

To obtain the PMP Certification, an individual must have a minimum of 4500 hours of project management experience over the past 8 years, or 7500 hours if they do not hold a college degree. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as initiating, planning, executing, monitoring & controlling, and closing projects. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions and takes up to four hours to complete.

The cost for the PMP Certification varies depending on whether you are a member of PMI or not. For non-members, it costs $555 for the application fee and $405 for the exam fee. For members, it costs $405 for the application fee and $275 for the exam fee.

The entire process from start to finish can take anywhere from two months to six months depending on how quickly you can complete all requirements and take your exam.

4. Certified Construction Manager (CCM) Certification

Certified Construction Manager (CCM) Certification is a professional credential offered by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). It is designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of construction managers who have demonstrated their commitment to professional excellence in the field. The CCM certification is highly respected in the industry and can help individuals advance their careers.

The CCM certification process involves completing an application, passing an exam, and submitting proof of experience. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as project management, risk management, contracts, scheduling, cost estimating, safety and quality control. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CCM certification, applicants must have at least five years of construction management experience or a combination of education and experience that totals at least seven years. Applicants must also submit three letters of recommendation from employers or colleagues attesting to their qualifications for the certification.

The cost for obtaining the CCM certification varies depending on whether you are a CMAA member or non-member. For members, it costs $595; for non-members it costs $695. Additionally, there is an annual recertification fee of $100 for members and $150 for non-members.

Overall, obtaining your Certified Construction Manager (CCM) Certification can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to professional excellence in construction management. It will take some time and effort to complete all the requirements but it can be well worth it in terms of career advancement opportunities.

5. Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) Certification

Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) Certification is an industry-recognized certification program that provides construction professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully manage projects from start to finish. The certification is offered through the American Institute of Constructors (AIC). It is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their professional competence in the field of construction project management.

The CPC exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as project planning, scheduling, budgeting, cost control, risk management, legal issues, contract administration, and quality assurance. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in a related field or a bachelor’s degree in construction management or a related field.

The CPC exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at any Prometric testing center located throughout the United States. Applicants are required to pay a fee of $395 to take the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their official CPC certificate within six weeks.

In addition to passing the CPC exam, applicants must also meet certain continuing education requirements in order to maintain their certification status. These requirements include completing at least 24 hours of continuing education every two years and participating in other professional development activities such as attending conferences or seminars related to construction project management.

Overall, obtaining Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) Certification is an excellent way for construction professionals to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field while also increasing their career prospects.

6. LEED Green Associate Certification

LEED Green Associate Certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have a thorough understanding of green building practices and principles. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, and the certification is offered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

It typically takes about three months to complete the requirements for LEED Green Associate Certification. The process involves studying for and passing an exam, which covers topics such as green building principles, sustainability practices, energy efficiency, water conservation, and more. In order to qualify for the exam, applicants must have completed one of several approved courses or have at least two years of experience in green building design or construction.

To get started on the path to becoming a LEED Green Associate, applicants must first register with USGBC and pay an application fee of $50. After registering, applicants can purchase study materials from USGBC or other sources to prepare for the exam. Once they are ready to take the test, they must pay an additional fee of $200 to take the exam.

Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their LEED Green Associate Certification from USGBC. This certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

7. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Certifications

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) is a professional organization that provides certifications to civil engineers. The ASCE certifications are designed to recognize the knowledge, experience, and expertise of civil engineers in specific areas of practice.

ASCE offers three types of certification: Professional Engineer (PE), Structural Engineering Certification (SE), and Geotechnical Engineering Certification (GE). Each certification requires a different set of qualifications, but all require a valid PE license from the state in which the engineer practices.

To become certified by ASCE, an engineer must first submit an application detailing their education, experience, and other relevant information. Once this application is approved, the engineer must take and pass a written exam that covers the specific area of practice for which they are applying. Depending on the type of certification sought, this exam can take anywhere from one to five hours to complete.

Once an engineer has passed their exam, they will receive their ASCE certification within four to six weeks. This certification is valid for five years and can be renewed by taking additional exams or completing continuing education courses related to the field of practice in which they are certified.

The cost for obtaining an ASCE certification varies depending on the type of certification sought and where it is obtained; however, most certifications cost between $400-$600 USD.

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

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) is a non-profit organization that offers certifications for engineering technicians. The certifications are designed to recognize a technician’s knowledge and experience in specific engineering disciplines.

NICET certifications are available in four levels: Level I (entry level), Level II (intermediate level), Level III (advanced level) and Level IV (master level). Each certification requires the completion of an examination, which tests the applicant's knowledge and skills in the chosen field. The exams are based on national standards established by NICET.

It typically takes between 6 months and 2 years to complete the requirements for each certification, depending on the applicant’s experience and education. To get certified, applicants must first meet certain prerequisites such as having a certain amount of work experience or educational background in their chosen field. They must also submit an application along with supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc. Once the application is accepted, applicants can begin studying for their exam.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on the certification level and whether or not you choose to use any study materials offered by NICET. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$400 per exam plus any additional fees associated with study materials or other services.

9. American Concrete Institute (ACI) Certifications

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) is an organization that provides certifications for professionals in the concrete industry. ACI certifications are designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of concrete technology, design, and construction.

To get an ACI certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having a minimum of three years of experience in the concrete industry or having completed an approved training program. After meeting these requirements, applicants must take and pass a written examination related to their area of expertise. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as concrete materials, design principles, construction methods, and safety practices.

The cost for taking an ACI certification exam varies depending on the type of certification being sought. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 for most exams. The exams can be taken at any approved testing center or online through the ACI website.

Once an applicant passes the exam, they will receive their official certificate from ACI within four weeks. This certificate is valid for five years and can be renewed by taking another exam after that time period has passed.

Overall, obtaining an ACI certification is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and experience in the field of concrete technology and design. It can also help you stand out from other job candidates when applying for positions in this field.

10. Certified Site Safety Professional (CSSP) Certification

The Certified Site Safety Professional (CSSP) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate the highest level of knowledge, skill and ability in the field of construction safety. The certification is offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), an independent certifying body for safety professionals.

To become certified as a CSSP, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must have a minimum of three years of full-time safety experience within the past five years, or two years of full-time safety experience within the past three years, plus one year of college or university coursework in safety or related fields. Additionally, applicants must pass an examination administered by BCSP to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in construction safety.

The CSSP exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost for taking the exam is $250 USD. Once an applicant passes the exam, they will be awarded their CSSP certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue.

In order to maintain their certification, CSSPs must complete at least 30 hours of continuing education every three years in order to renew their certification status.

11. American Welding Society (AWS) Certifications

The American Welding Society (AWS) is a nonprofit organization that promotes and advances the science, technology, and application of welding and related joining disciplines. AWS offers certifications for welders and welding inspectors to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field.

Certification is based on an individual’s knowledge of welding processes, metallurgy, codes, safety standards, and quality control. AWS certification is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence in the welding industry.

To become certified by AWS, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as welding processes, metallurgy, codes, safety standards, and quality control. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and may also include practical tests or demonstrations. Depending on the type of certification sought, exams can take up to 8 hours to complete.

The cost of certification varies depending on the type of certification sought and whether or not you are an AWS member. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 per exam. Additionally there may be additional fees for study materials or other services associated with the exam process.

In order to become certified by AWS one must have at least two years of experience in their chosen field before they can apply for certification. Additionally applicants must meet certain educational requirements which vary depending on the type of certification sought.

Do You Really Need a Field Superintendent Certificate?

Whether you need a field superintendent certificate or not depends on what kind of job you are looking for. If you are looking to work in the construction industry, having a certificate can be important in showing potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this field.

Having a field superintendent certificate can also help demonstrate that you have the leadership abilities needed for such a position. It is not only about having technical knowledge but also about being able to manage people, resources and time efficiently. This is an area where having some type of certification can make a difference in how employers view your qualifications.

In addition, having a field superintendent certificate can help build your credibility among both peers and clients. Having this credential demonstrates that you have taken the time and effort to become educated and experienced in the field, which can often lead to more opportunities both within your current company and future ones as well.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a field superintendent certificate depends on your individual goals and objectives. If it is something that will help make you more marketable then it may be worth considering getting one. However, if it is something that will add little value for your current or future career prospects then it may not be necessary.

Related: Field Superintendent Resume Examples

FAQs About Field Superintendent Certifications

Q1: What qualifications do I need to become a Field Superintendent?

A1: In order to become a Field Superintendent, one must typically have a four-year college degree in an engineering or construction-related discipline, as well as several years of experience in the field. Additionally, many employers may require certifications such as OSHA 10 and 30, Construction Quality Management (CQM), and First Aid/CPR.

Q2: How do I obtain a Field Superintendent certification?

A2: Field Superintendent certifications are typically obtained through professional organizations such as the American Institute of Constructors (AIC). AIC offers two levels of certification - Certified Construction Manager (CCM) and Certified Professional Constructor (CPC). To qualify for either level, applicants must pass an examination, demonstrate their experience in the field and meet other requirements.

Q3: What is the cost of obtaining a Field Superintendent certification?

A3: The cost of obtaining a Field Superintendent certification will vary depending on the organization offering it. Generally speaking, fees for exams and application processing can range from $400-$1000. Furthermore, additional fees may be associated with renewing or maintaining certifications.

Q4: How often do I need to renew my Field Superintendent certification?

A4: Renewal requirements for Field Superintendent certifications vary depending on the organization offering them. Generally speaking, most certifications need to be renewed every three years by completing continuing education courses related to your profession.

Q5: What are some benefits of obtaining a Field Superintendent certification?

A5: Obtaining a Field Superintendent certification demonstrates your commitment to excellence in the field and increases your credibility with employers and clients alike. Additionally, having this certification may open up opportunities for advancement in your career as well as increased pay.