Top 10 Field Test Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for field test engineers in the job market as they demonstrate that an individual is knowledgeable and experienced in the field. They can help to set candidates apart from other applicants and show employers that the applicant has met certain standards of expertise. Certifications also provide a way for employers to easily verify qualifications, which can be helpful when making hiring decisions. Additionally, certifications may be required by certain employers or industry organizations, so having them can open up more job opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications available for Field Test Engineers and how they can contribute to their career development.

What are Field Test Engineer Certifications?

Field Test Engineer Certification is a certification program designed to help engineers develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively test, troubleshoot, and repair various types of electronic products. The certification is offered by the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET) and requires successful completion of an exam as well as meeting certain educational requirements.

Field Test Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and testing electronic systems used in a variety of applications. As such, they must understand how to interpret schematics, analyze circuit components and signals, utilize diagnostic equipment such as oscilloscopes and spectrum analyzers, determine component tolerances and specifications, select proper components for use in the system design process, develop test procedures to ensure product reliability, troubleshoot failed systems or components, and make repairs when necessary.

By becoming certified as a Field Test Engineer through ISCET's program, individuals demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in this field. This certification can be beneficial for job seekers looking for positions in this field as it provides employers with assurance that the individual has met certain standards of proficiency. It can also be beneficial for those already working in this field as it demonstrates a commitment to professional development that may lead to increased job opportunities or promotions within their current organization. Additionally, having this certification may qualify individuals for higher salary levels than those without it.

Pro Tip: Make sure to stay up-to-date with the latest industry certifications, as this will help you stand out as a field test engineer and increase your chances of securing a job. Additionally, be sure to research the specific requirements for each certification, as some may require additional courses or tests in order to qualify.

Related: What does a Field Test Engineer do?

Top 10 Field Test Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Field Test Engineer (CFTE)

Certified Field Test Engineer (CFTE) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in field testing of electronic products. This certification is offered by the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET).

To become a CFTE, applicants must have at least three years of experience in field testing of electronic products and pass an exam administered by ISCET. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety, troubleshooting, instrumentation, and test methods. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and costs $250 USD.

In order to maintain the CFTE certification, individuals must participate in continuing education activities every three years and pay an annual fee of $50 USD.

2. Certified Professional in Field Testing (CPFT)

Certified Professional in Field Testing (CPFT) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the field testing process and related technologies. It is offered by the International Society for Field Testing (ISFT). The CPFT certification requires passing an exam, which covers topics such as test planning, test execution, analysis, reporting, and best practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice and essay questions.

The exam typically takes between four to six hours to complete. Candidates must register for the exam at least two weeks prior to the scheduled date and pay a registration fee of $395 USD. After completing the exam, candidates will receive their results within four weeks.

To become certified, candidates must meet certain requirements including having at least two years of experience in field testing or related fields, attending an approved training course or workshop on field testing topics, or having a degree in engineering or another related field.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on how you choose to obtain your certification. If you take an approved training course or workshop on field testing topics, the cost could range from $500-$1000 USD. If you opt to take the exam without any additional training courses or workshops, then it will cost $395 USD for the registration fee plus any additional costs associated with taking the exam such as travel expenses if it is not available near you.

3. Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP)

Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP) is a certification program that provides training and certifications related to wireless networking. It is designed for IT professionals who are looking to gain expertise in the field of wireless networking. The CWNP certification program consists of four levels, each requiring different prerequisites and exams.

The first level of the CWNP program is Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA). This certification requires passing the CWNA-107 exam and covers topics such as RF fundamentals, 802.11 networks, network security, and troubleshooting. The second level is Certified Wireless Security Professional (CWSP), which requires passing the CWSP-205 exam and covers topics such as wireless security protocols, authentication methods, encryption techniques, and network security best practices.

The third level of the CWNP program is Certified Wireless Design Professional (CWDP). This certification requires passing the CWDP-303 exam and covers topics such as RF site survey analysis, antenna design principles, WLAN design methodology, and Wi-Fi system optimization. The fourth level is Certified Wireless Analysis Professional (CWAP), which requires passing the CWAP-402 exam and covers topics such as packet analysis techniques, troubleshooting tools, protocol analysis concepts, and advanced Wi-Fi system optimization.

It typically takes three to six months to complete each of these certifications depending on your experience with wireless networking technologies. To get certified in any of these levels you must first purchase a study guide or course material from an approved provider such as Global Knowledge or CompTIA. You will then need to register for an exam at a Pearson VUE testing center or online through Pearson VUE's website. After registering for an exam you will receive a voucher code that can be used to pay for the cost of the exam. The cost of each individual CWNP certification varies depending on the country in which you are taking it but typically ranges from $150-$250 USD per exam.

4. Certified Electronic Test Engineer (CETE)

Certified Electronic Test Engineer (CETE) is a certification program provided by the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET). The certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the field of electronic testing. It is intended to be an industry-recognized credential that employers can use to identify qualified professionals.

The CETE certification requires applicants to pass an exam and demonstrate their knowledge in the areas of electronics, test procedures, safety, and troubleshooting. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and covers topics such as digital circuits, analog circuits, test equipment operation, and system troubleshooting.

The certification process typically takes about six months from start to finish. To get started, applicants must first submit an application form and fee to ISCET. Once approved, they will receive study materials which must be completed before taking the exam. After passing the exam, applicants must complete a minimum number of hours in practical experience before being awarded the CETE certification.

The cost for obtaining the CETE certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of ISCET. For members it costs $400 USD while for non-members it costs $600 USD. This includes both the application fee and exam fee.

5. Certified Automated Test Engineer (CATE)

Certified Automated Test Engineer (CATE) is a certification program offered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB). It is designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of professionals who are involved in automated testing activities. The CATE certification is intended for test engineers, software developers, and anyone else involved in automated testing.

The CATE certification requires that candidates have at least two years of experience in software testing or related fields. In addition, they must pass an examination that covers topics such as test automation frameworks, scripting languages, test execution tools, and test data management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes up to three hours to complete.

To get the CATE certification, candidates must first register with the ISTQB and pay a fee of $250 USD. Once registered, they can then take the exam at one of the many accredited examination centers around the world. After successfully passing the exam, candidates will receive their CATE certificate from ISTQB.

The cost of taking the CATE exam varies depending on where you take it; however, most examinations cost between $200-$300 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with travel or other expenses related to taking the exam.

6. Certified Software Quality Assurance Engineer (CSQAE)

Certified Software Quality Assurance Engineer (CSQAE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills of software quality assurance engineers. The certification is offered by the International Institute for Software Testing (IIST), an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of software testing.

To become certified as a CSQAE, applicants must have at least two years of experience in software quality assurance engineering and pass a comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as software development processes, test planning and design, test execution and analysis, defect tracking and management, and software metrics.

The cost of becoming a CSQAE varies depending on the country where you take the exam. In most countries, it costs around $500 USD to register for the exam. Once you have registered for the exam, you will be given an estimated date when you can take it. Depending on your availability, it should take up to three months to complete all parts of the certification process.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your CSQAE certificate from IIST along with access to their online resources and community forums. You will also be listed in their public directory so that employers can easily find qualified candidates for software quality assurance positions.

7. International Society of Automation Certified Control Systems Technician (ISA CCT)

The International Society of Automation (ISA) Certified Control Systems Technician (CCT) certification is a professional credential for those who work in the field of automation and control systems. The CCT certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the areas of instrumentation, control systems, programming, networking, and safety.

To become certified as an ISA CCT, you must pass a two-part exam. The first part consists of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of basic principles related to automation and control systems. The second part is a practical exam that requires you to demonstrate your ability to troubleshoot and maintain automated systems.

In order to be eligible for the ISA CCT certification exam, you must have at least two years of experience working with automation or control systems. Additionally, you must complete an approved training program or equivalent coursework from an accredited college or university before taking the exam.

The cost for taking the ISA CCT certification exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it will cost around $250 USD for the entire process (including registration fees). However, some locations may offer discounts or other incentives that can reduce this cost significantly.

Once you have passed both parts of the exam, you will receive your official ISA CCT certificate in the mail within 6-8 weeks. This certificate will serve as proof that you are officially recognized as an ISA Certified Control Systems Technician.

8. Agilent Technologies Field Test Certification Program

Agilent Technologies Field Test Certification Program is a program designed to provide customers with the highest level of technical support and expertise in the field. The program is designed to ensure that Agilent customers receive the most up-to-date information, tools and resources needed to successfully install, configure and maintain their products.

The certification process typically takes approximately 2 weeks to complete. To obtain certification, an individual must first submit an application for the program, which includes a background check. Once approved, individuals are required to attend a two-day training course at one of Agilent's authorized training centers. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive their Field Test Certification.

The cost for the certification program varies depending on the type of product being certified for. Generally speaking, it costs around $2,500 per person for the two-day training course and certification exam.

9. National Instruments LabVIEW Field Test Certification Program

The National Instruments LabVIEW Field Test Certification Program is a program designed to help professionals demonstrate their proficiency in the use of LabVIEW software. The program is open to any individual who has completed a LabVIEW course or has at least six months experience using the software.

To become certified, individuals must pass an online exam that covers topics such as programming and debugging, data acquisition and analysis, and system integration. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. After passing the exam, individuals receive a certificate of completion from National Instruments.

The cost for the certification exam is $125 USD, which includes access to the online exam and a certificate upon successful completion. It typically takes about three weeks from when you register for the exam until you receive your certificate.

10. EXFO Fiber Optic Testing and Certification Program

The EXFO Fiber Optic Testing and Certification Program is a comprehensive program that provides training, certification, and testing of fiber optic technicians. The program consists of three levels: Basic, Advanced, and Expert.

Basic level certification covers the fundamentals of fiber optics including installation, termination, splicing, testing, and troubleshooting. This certification can be completed in two days with a minimum passing score of 70%.

Advanced level certification covers topics such as advanced optical power measurements and loss budgeting. This certification can be completed in four days with a minimum passing score of 80%.

Expert level certification covers topics such as advanced optical network design and analysis. This certification requires an additional five days to complete with a minimum passing score of 90%.

In order to get certified through the EXFO Fiber Optic Testing and Certification Program, you must first register for the course online or by mail. After registration is complete you will receive a confirmation letter along with instructions on how to prepare for the exam. Once you have successfully passed the exam you will receive your certificate in the mail.

The cost of the EXFO Fiber Optic Testing and Certification Program varies depending on which level you are taking but typically ranges from $300-$1000 USD per person.

Do You Really Need a Field Test Engineer Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Field Test Engineer Certificate depends on your individual career goals. If you are interested in pursuing a career in engineering and have the necessary qualifications, then it can be beneficial to obtain a Field Test Engineer Certificate. This certificate can help demonstrate your technical knowledge and expertise in the field of engineering, as well as provide evidence of your commitment to professional development.

The Field Test Engineer Certificate is offered by organizations such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). This certification program tests an individual's knowledge and competence in various aspects of engineering, including safety, electrical testing, troubleshooting, etc. The certificate validates that the engineer has the skills and experience necessary to perform their job effectively.

Obtaining a Field Test Engineer Certificate can also open up new opportunities for advancement within their chosen field. It demonstrates that you have taken initiative to expand your knowledge base and gain additional skills and understanding in the area of engineering. This can be especially helpful if you are hoping to move up within an organization or find more specialized positions within the industry.

In conclusion, obtaining a Field Test Engineer Certificate is not essential for everyone but it can be beneficial for those looking to advance their careers in the field of engineering. It provides evidence that you have invested time and effort into expanding your knowledge base and gaining further insight into this particular field of work.

Related: Field Test Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Field Test Engineer Certifications

Q1: What is a Field Test Engineer Certification?

A1: A Field Test Engineer Certification is a technical certification that verifies the knowledge and skills of individuals in the field of testing and engineering. It typically covers topics such as system design, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair.

Q2: What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Field Test Engineer?

A2: Becoming certified as a Field Test Engineer can help you advance your career by increasing your value to employers, giving you more job opportunities, and providing recognition for your expertise. Additionally, being certified may also open up new possibilities for career advancement.

Q3: How do I become a Certified Field Test Engineer?

A3: To become certified as a Field Test Engineer, you must first complete the required training coursework and pass the certification exam. Depending on your experience level and education background, additional requirements may be necessary to qualify for the certification.

Q4: What is included in the certification exam?

A4: The certification exam typically includes questions on topics such as system design, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair. It may also include questions related to safety protocols or industry standards/regulations.

Q5: How long does it take to get certified as a Field Test Engineer?

A5: The amount of time it takes to become certified will depend on several factors including how much prior experience you have with testing and engineering principles, what type of training coursework you take to prepare for the exam, and how well you perform on the actual exam itself. Generally speaking though, most people can expect to receive their certification within 6-12 months after completing their training coursework.