Top 11 Food Production Supervisor Certifications

Certifications are important for a food production supervisor in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has achieved a certain level of expertise in their field. Certifications can show employers that the individual has been trained and tested on food safety, sanitation, and other important topics related to food production. They also give potential employers an indication of the individual's commitment to their profession and knowledge of industry standards. Having certifications can make a job seeker more competitive in the job market, as they have proven themselves to be knowledgeable and capable in their chosen field.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications available to Food Production Supervisors and explain how they can contribute to career advancement.

What are Food Production Supervisor Certifications?

Food production supervisor certification is a credential that is designed to help ensure that food production supervisors have the necessary knowledge and skills to safely and effectively manage food production operations. This certification is offered through various organizations, such as the National Institute of Food Safety and Technology (NIFST), which awards it to those who successfully complete their Food Production Supervisor Certification Program.

The certification program covers topics such as food safety, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs), proper sanitation techniques, personnel management, product quality control, and more. With this certification, food production supervisors are able to demonstrate that they are knowledgeable in these areas and can apply them to their work environment in order to ensure the safe production of food products.

Having a food production supervisor certification can also help employers by providing assurance that supervisors have been trained in the latest industry standards for food safety and quality control. This can help reduce risks associated with improper handling or processing of foods, which could result in costly recalls or other legal action. Furthermore, having certified supervisors on staff can also help increase customer confidence in a company’s products.

Pro Tip: To become a certified food production supervisor, it's important to take advantage of continuing education opportunities. Many organizations offer online or in-person courses that can help you stay up to date on industry standards and best practices. Additionally, taking the time to network with other professionals in the field can help you gain valuable knowledge and insight into the role.

Related: What does a Food Production Supervisor do?

Top 11 Food Production Supervisor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Food Production Supervisors today.

1. Certified Production Supervisor (CPS)

Certified Production Supervisor (CPS) is a professional certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in production management. The CPS certification provides employers with assurance that those who hold it have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage production operations.

The CPS certification requires a minimum of two years of work experience in production management, as well as successful completion of an APICS-approved CPS course. The course consists of four modules: Introduction to Production Management, Planning and Scheduling, Quality Assurance, and Cost Control. Each module must be completed within 12 months from the start date of the first module.

The cost for the CPS certification depends on whether you take the course online or in person. Online courses typically cost between $2,000 and $3,000 USD, while in-person courses can range from $3,500 to $4,500 USD.

To get certified as a CPS, you must complete the APICS-approved course and pass an exam at the end of each module. After completing all four modules and passing all four exams, you will receive your official Certified Production Supervisor certificate from APICS.

2. Certified Food Safety Manager (CFSM)

A Certified Food Safety Manager (CFSM) is a professional certification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and understanding of food safety principles and practices. To become certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by an accredited certifying body. The exam covers topics such as foodborne illness prevention, food safety regulations, sanitation practices, and hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP).

The process of becoming certified typically takes several weeks to complete. First, applicants must register for the exam with their chosen certifying body. After registration is complete, applicants can begin studying for the exam using materials provided by the certifying body or through self-study. Once they are ready to take the exam, applicants can schedule a time to take it at a local testing center.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on which certifying body you choose. Generally speaking, CFSMs can expect to pay between $150-$300 for all associated costs including registration fees and study materials.

Once an individual has passed the exam they will be issued a certificate that is valid for five years. During this time they will be required to maintain their certification by completing continuing education courses related to food safety topics in order to renew their certification after five years have elapsed.

3. Certified Quality Technician (CQT)

Certified Quality Technician (CQT) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge and understanding of quality control principles, techniques, and tools. The CQT certification is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence in quality assurance.

The CQT exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality control principles, statistical process control, inspection methods, sampling plans, calibration systems, problem solving techniques, and more. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

To become certified as a CQT, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least three years of full-time work experience in a quality-related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience; passing the CQT exam; and completing an application form with supporting documentation.

The cost for the CQT certification varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or nonmember. For ASQ members, the cost is $299 USD; for nonmembers it is $399 USD.

4. Certified HACCP Auditor (CHA)

A Certified HACCP Auditor (CHA) is an individual who has been trained and certified to audit the implementation of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) systems. The purpose of a CHA is to ensure that food safety management systems are in place, functioning effectively, and compliant with applicable regulations.

The certification process typically takes up to six months to complete. It involves taking a course on HACCP principles, passing an exam, and completing an on-site audit of a facility’s HACCP system. The cost for the certification varies depending on the provider but can range from $500-$2,000.

In order to become a CHA, individuals must have at least two years of experience in food safety or quality assurance in the food industry or related field. They must also be knowledgeable about food safety regulations and have good communication skills. Additionally, they must pass the certification exam administered by their chosen provider.

5. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals understand and apply the Six Sigma methodology. It is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to quality and process improvement.

The Six Sigma Green Belt Certification program typically takes six months to complete, depending on the provider. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on experience in the application of Six Sigma tools and techniques. During the course, participants learn how to identify process issues, develop solutions, measure performance, and analyze data.

To get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ or IASSC. You must also have a minimum of three years of work experience in a related field or demonstrate mastery of certain topics through a portfolio review.

The cost of getting certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt varies depending on the provider; however, it can range from $1,000 - $3,000 USD for self-study courses or up to $5,000 USD for instructor-led courses.

6. Lean Manufacturing Certification

Lean Manufacturing Certification is a certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the principles and practices of Lean Manufacturing. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the Lean philosophy, tools, and techniques used to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness.

The certification process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete. To get certified, individuals must first complete an approved Lean Manufacturing course or program. After completing the course or program, they must then pass an examination administered by an accredited organization such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

In addition to completing an approved course or program, applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge and skills through a portfolio review process. This includes providing evidence of their experience in applying Lean principles and practices in their work environment.

The cost of obtaining Lean Manufacturing Certification varies depending on the organization offering the certification. Typically, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD for the course or program plus any associated fees for taking the exam and portfolio review.

7. OSHA 10-Hour Certification

OSHA 10-Hour Certification is a course that provides workers with safety and health information about their workplace. It is designed to help employers and employees recognize, reduce, and eliminate safety hazards in the workplace. The course covers topics such as hazard recognition, accident prevention, personal protective equipment (PPE), fire protection, electrical safety, machine guarding, ergonomics, and more.

The OSHA 10-Hour Certification takes approximately 10 hours to complete. It can be taken in an instructor-led classroom setting or online through an approved provider. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $50-$200.

To get OSHA 10-Hour Certification, you must first find an approved provider who offers the training program. You can search for providers in your area by visiting OSHA's website or using their Training Provider Search Tool. Once you have selected a provider and registered for the course, you will need to complete all of the required modules within 10 hours in order to receive your certification. Upon completion of the course, you will receive a wallet card showing that you have successfully completed the training program.

8. ServSafe Food Handler Certificate

ServSafe Food Handler Certificate is a certification program for food handlers. It is designed to help ensure that all food handlers have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely handle and prepare foods. The certificate is valid for five years, after which time it must be renewed.

The ServSafe Food Handler Certificate program consists of an online course and exam. The course covers topics such as food safety regulations, personal hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, temperature control, and safe storage practices. The exam tests a person’s knowledge of these topics and their ability to apply them in real-world situations.

The online course takes approximately two hours to complete, depending on the individual's learning style and speed. After completing the course, the individual must pass the exam with a score of at least 75%. Once they have passed the exam they will receive their ServSafe Food Handler Certificate.

The cost of the ServSafe Food Handler Certificate program varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $10-$15 USD.

9. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Certification

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Certification is an internationally recognized system for food safety management. It is designed to identify, assess, and control food safety hazards in the production process. HACCP certification requires a business to analyze their processes and create a plan to prevent, reduce, or eliminate potential hazards that could lead to food-borne illness. This plan must be documented and monitored regularly.

The amount of time it takes to get HACCP certification depends on the size of the business and how well prepared they are for the process. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from two weeks to several months for a business to become certified.

To get HACCP certification, businesses must first complete an application with their local health department or other certifying body. They will then need to provide evidence that their processes meet all of the necessary requirements outlined by HACCP standards. This includes creating a Hazard Analysis Plan (HAP) and implementing a monitoring system for critical control points (CCPs). The business must also demonstrate that they have trained staff in proper food handling techniques and have implemented procedures for corrective action if any hazards are identified. Finally, they will need to provide evidence that they have conducted regular reviews of their processes and updated them as needed.

The cost of getting HACCP certification varies depending on the size of the business and the certifying body used. Generally speaking, businesses should expect to pay anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD for certification services.

10. International Food Safety Management System (IFSMS) Certification

International Food Safety Management System (IFSMS) Certification is a certification program for food safety management systems that was developed by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). The IFSMS Certification is based on the principles of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) and the Codex Alimentarius, which are international standards for food safety.

The IFSMS Certification process involves an audit of a company’s food safety management system to ensure it meets the requirements set out by GFSI. This audit is conducted by an independent third-party auditor who will assess the company’s policies, procedures, and practices to ensure they meet GFSI’s requirements. Once all requirements have been met, the company will be awarded an IFSMS Certificate.

The length of time it takes to get IFSMS Certified depends on how well prepared a company is for the audit and how quickly they can address any non-conformance issues identified during the audit. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one to three months to complete the process from start to finish.

In order to get IFSMS Certified, companies must first contact a GFSI approved certification body who will provide them with information about their services and fees. Companies must then prepare their food safety management system for inspection, including developing HACCP plans and implementing procedures that meet GFSI’s requirements. Finally, they must arrange for an auditor to come in and conduct an onsite assessment of their facility.

The cost of getting IFSMS Certified varies depending on factors such as the size of the facility being audited and how much preparation work needs to be done prior to the audit. Generally speaking, costs can range anywhere from $2,000 - $10,000 USD depending on these factors.

11. Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) Certification

The Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) is an international collaboration between leading food safety experts, retailers, manufacturers and service providers. It was established in 2000 to develop a global benchmark for food safety standards that can be used by the food industry worldwide. The GFSI provides guidance on food safety management systems and certifies them against its benchmarked standards.

Getting GFSI certification involves meeting a set of requirements that are outlined in the GFSI Guidance Document. These include establishing a hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP) system, implementing a quality management system, conducting regular internal audits and training staff on food safety practices. The process also requires companies to have their facilities inspected by an independent third-party auditor who will assess whether they meet the GFSI requirements.

The time it takes to get GFSI certification depends on how well prepared the company is for the process. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all of the steps required for certification.

To get GFSI certification, companies must first register with one of the approved certification bodies listed on the GFSI website. They will then need to submit their application along with supporting documentation such as HACCP plans, quality management system documents and training records. After this is done, an independent auditor will conduct an inspection of their facility and provide a report detailing any areas where improvements are needed before certification can be granted.

The cost of getting GFSI certification varies depending on factors such as the size of the facility, number of employees and type of products being produced. Generally speaking, it can range from several thousand dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars or more for larger operations with multiple sites or complex processes.

Do You Really Need a Food Production Supervisor Certificate?

Yes, a Food Production Supervisor Certificate is important for anyone who wants to work in the food production industry. The certificate provides proof that an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to manage a food production facility in a safe, efficient and effective manner. It also shows employers that the individual has been trained to meet the industry standards for food safety and quality control.

The certificate provides evidence of an individual’s ability to manage staff, ensure production schedules are met and maintain product quality. It also demonstrates that they have studied the most current regulations related to food safety and quality assurance. This means that they understand how to ensure products are safe for consumption, as well as ensuring all employees are following proper procedures.

Having a Food Production Supervisor Certificate is also beneficial because it can help individuals stand out when applying for jobs in the food production industry. Employers often look for candidates who have taken the time to obtain such a certificate because it shows their commitment to their career and willingness to stay up-to-date with industry trends. Additionally, having a Food Production Supervisor Certificate can increase an individual’s salary potential as well as provide them with more job opportunities due to their specialized training.

Overall, obtaining a Food Production Supervisor Certificate is essential for anyone wanting to pursue a career in this field. The certificate not only proves one’s competency but also helps them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs.

Related: Food Production Supervisor Resume Examples

FAQs About Food Production Supervisor Certifications

Q1. What qualifications do I need to become a Food Production Supervisor?

A1. To become a Food Production Supervisor, you will need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience in food production or related field. You may also need additional certifications depending on the specific requirements of your employer.

Q2. How long does it take to get certified as a Food Production Supervisor?

A2. The amount of time it takes to get certified as a Food Production Supervisor can vary based on the type of certification you are pursuing, but typically it takes between 6 months and 1 year for most certifications.

Q3. What is the cost of becoming a Food Production Supervisor?

A3. The cost of becoming a Food Production Supervisor can vary based on the type of certification you are pursuing, but typically ranges from $100 - $1000 or more depending on the certification program and provider you choose.

Q4. Are there any online courses available for becoming a Food Production Supervisor?

A4. Yes, there are many online courses available for becoming a Food Production Supervisor that can help you gain knowledge and skills in this field while preparing you to take certification exams if necessary.

Q5. What types of jobs are available with a Food Production Supervisor Certification?

A5: With a Food Production Supervisor Certification, you could qualify for positions such as Manufacturing Manager, Quality Assurance Technician, Safety Manager, Operations Manager, or Process Engineer in various industries including food production, manufacturing, and retail operations.