Top 11 General Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for general engineers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency, knowledge and skill in a particular area. Having certifications can help engineers stand out from the competition and make them more attractive to employers who are looking for qualified professionals. Additionally, certifications provide credibility to an engineer’s work experience and can prove their ability to perform certain tasks. Certifications also show that an engineer is up-to-date on current engineering trends and technologies, which can be beneficial when competing for jobs.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of some of the top certifications for General Engineers and explain how they can help to advance a general engineer's career.

What are General Engineer Certifications?

General engineer certification is a professional accreditation that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of engineering. It is awarded by a number of organizations, including the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).

Having general engineer certification can help an individual demonstrate their knowledge, proficiency, and commitment to professional standards. By obtaining this certification, engineers can demonstrate their ability to apply analytical methods and problem-solving skills to solve complex engineering problems. The certification also serves as evidence that an engineer has met certain educational requirements or has completed specific training courses.

The benefits of having general engineer certification include increased job security, higher salaries, better career opportunities, and greater respect from employers and colleagues. With this certification, engineers may have access to specialized positions that require a high level of technical knowledge or experience in their field. In addition, those with general engineer certifications may be eligible for promotions or salary increases more quickly than those without it. Lastly, having this type of certification can help build credibility with employers and potential clients who are looking for qualified professionals to work on their projects.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to become certified as a general engineer, make sure to research the various types of certifications available and the requirements for each. Different certifications may require different levels of experience or education, so it is important to understand what is needed in order to be eligible for certification. Additionally, some certifications may require continuing education or recertification after a certain period of time has passed. Knowing this information ahead of time can help ensure that you have met all the requirements necessary for successful certification.

Related: What does a General Engineer do?

Top 11 General Engineer Certifications

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

1. Professional Engineer (PE) Certification

Professional Engineer (PE) Certification is a professional license that allows engineers to practice engineering in the United States. It is a voluntary process that is regulated by state boards of engineering and land surveying. The PE certification is designed to protect the public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring that only qualified individuals are allowed to practice engineering.

To become a Professional Engineer, an individual must meet certain education and experience requirements, pass two exams, and complete an ethics course. Education requirements vary from state to state but typically include a four-year degree in engineering from an accredited program. Experience requirements also vary but typically require at least four years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed engineer.

The two exams required for PE certification are the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam (FE) and the Principles & Practice of Engineering Exam (PE). The FE exam is taken after graduating from college while the PE exam can be taken after completing four years of work experience. Both exams are administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

The cost for taking both exams varies depending on the state but generally ranges from $400-$600. Additionally, most states require applicants to pay an application fee when submitting their application for licensure which can range from $50-$100.

Overall, it can take several years to become a Professional Engineer as applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements as well as pass two exams before they can be certified.

2. Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) Certification

The Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the principles and practices of manufacturing engineering. It is awarded by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), an international organization dedicated to advancing manufacturing knowledge and technology.

To become certified as a CMfgE, applicants must have at least five years of experience in the field and pass an exam administered by SME. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as production systems, quality control, materials management, and automation.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CMfgE exam. Applicants can study independently or take classes offered by SME or other organizations. The cost of the exam is $225 for members of SME and $325 for non-members.

3. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) Certification

The Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge, skills, and abilities in quality engineering. The CQE certification is intended to demonstrate that an individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively practice quality engineering.

In order to obtain the CQE certification, an individual must pass the CQE exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as statistical analysis, quality systems, process improvement, design of experiments, and product/service reliability. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CQE exam, an individual must have at least eight years of work experience in quality engineering or related fields. This experience must include at least three years of direct involvement in quality engineering activities. Additionally, applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or have completed coursework in mathematics and statistics equivalent to those required for a Bachelor’s degree program.

The cost of taking the CQE exam varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or non-member. For ASQ members, the cost is $349 USD; for non-members it is $549 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam and scheduling a testing appointment at a Pearson VUE test center near you.

4. Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) Certification

Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in reliability engineering. The certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting quality assurance and improvement.

The CRE certification requires passing an exam that tests the candidate's understanding of reliability principles, processes, and methods. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as reliability engineering fundamentals, failure modes and effects analysis, design of experiments, life data analysis, system safety analysis, and preventive maintenance. Candidates must have at least four years of experience in reliability engineering or a related field to be eligible to take the exam.

It typically takes around four months to prepare for the CRE exam. Candidates should study relevant materials such as textbooks, online courses, and practice tests to ensure they are well prepared for the exam.

The cost of taking the CRE exam varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or non-member. For members, it costs $299 USD; for non-members it costs $399 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees for rescheduling or canceling an appointment with ASQ.

5. Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

The Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s experience, education and competency in leading and directing projects. PMP certification holders are highly sought after by organizations as they possess the skills necessary to successfully manage projects from start to finish.

It typically takes 3-6 months to prepare for the PMP exam depending on how much time you dedicate to studying. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions and must be completed within four hours. In order to apply for the PMP certification, you must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) plus at least 5 years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education or a four-year degree plus at least 3 years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

The cost of the PMP Certification Exam is $555 USD for members of the Project Management Institute (PMI). Non-members pay an additional $60 USD fee. After passing the exam, there is an annual maintenance fee of $60 USD for members and $150 USD for non-members in order to maintain your certification status.

6. Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals become more effective problem-solvers. It is based on the principles of Six Sigma, which is a set of techniques and tools used to improve business processes and reduce variation in quality. The certification is offered by several organizations, including the American Society for Quality (ASQ), the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC), and the Council for Six Sigma Certifications (CSSC).

The Six Sigma Black Belt Certification program typically takes about four months to complete. During this time, candidates must complete a series of courses that cover topics such as process improvement, data analysis, project management, and team dynamics. After completing these courses, candidates must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

In order to get certified as a Six Sigma Black Belt, you will need to have at least three years of experience in a related field or have completed an accredited training program. You will also need to demonstrate your knowledge through an application process that includes submitting proof of relevant work experience or course completion certificates.

The cost of getting certified as a Six Sigma Black Belt varies depending on the organization offering the certification. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,500-$3,000 USD for the entire program including course fees and exam fees.

7. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program that focuses on the principles and practices of Lean Six Sigma. This certification is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to lead projects, improve processes, and drive business results. The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is typically completed in two to four weeks, depending on the provider.

To obtain the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, individuals must complete a training program that covers topics such as process improvement, problem solving, data analysis, and project management. After completing the training program, individuals must pass an exam to demonstrate their understanding of the concepts taught during the course.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies by provider; however, it typically ranges from $500 - $2,000 USD.

8. Certified Safety Professional (CSP) Certification

Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification is a professional certification program offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). It is designed to recognize safety professionals who demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to practice safety at a professional level.

The CSP certification process consists of three components: an application review, a written exam, and a work experience verification. The application review requires applicants to submit their educational background and work experience for review. The written exam covers topics such as safety management systems, hazard recognition and control, legal requirements and standards, occupational health principles, emergency response planning, and more. Finally, applicants must provide verification of their work experience in safety-related fields.

In order to be eligible for the CSP certification program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in any field plus four years of full-time safety work experience or a master’s degree in any field plus two years of full-time safety work experience. Applicants must also pass the written exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for the CSP certification program is $595 USD for BCSP members and $795 USD for non-members. The fee includes the application review fee ($50), the exam fee ($395), and the work experience verification fee ($150). It typically takes about six months from start to finish to complete the entire process.

9. Certified Environmental Engineer (CEE) Certification

Certified Environmental Engineer (CEE) Certification is a professional certification awarded by the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES). It is designed to recognize environmental engineers who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skills, and experience in their field. CEE certification is a voluntary process that requires applicants to demonstrate their expertise through education, professional experience, and passing an exam.

The process for obtaining CEE certification typically takes between six months and one year to complete. The first step is to submit an application to the AAEES which includes information about your educational background, professional experience, and other qualifications. Once your application is approved, you will be required to take the CEE Exam. This exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as environmental regulations, engineering principles, and management practices. After successfully completing the exam, you will receive your CEE Certificate.

The cost of obtaining CEE certification varies depending on the type of application you submit. For example, if you are applying as an individual it can cost anywhere from $200-400; however if you are applying as a company or organization it could cost up to $1,000 or more. Additionally there may be additional fees for taking the exam or for any additional materials needed during the process.

Overall, obtaining CEE certification requires significant effort but can provide many benefits including increased job opportunities and higher salaries. It also demonstrates that you have achieved a certain level of expertise in environmental engineering which can help boost your career prospects in this field.

10. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certifications

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) is a professional organization that provides certifications to individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform engineering activities. ASME Certifications are designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of expertise in their field.

The ASME Certification Program offers three levels of certification: Certified Engineering Technologist (CET), Professional Engineer (PE), and Certified Engineering Technician (CET). Each level requires different qualifications, such as education, experience, and/or examination.

It typically takes between six months and two years to obtain an ASME Certification depending on the level of certification being sought. In order to become certified, applicants must meet the requirements for their desired certification level and submit an application with supporting documents. The application process includes submitting transcripts or other evidence of educational background, passing an exam, providing references from employers or other professionals in the field, and paying a fee.

The cost for obtaining an ASME Certification varies depending on the level of certification sought. The CET Level 1 Certification costs $150; the PE Level 2 Certification costs $250; and the CET Level 3 Certification costs $400. Additional fees may be required for additional exams or services related to obtaining certification.

Overall, obtaining an ASME Certification is a great way for individuals to demonstrate their skills in mechanical engineering and gain recognition from employers in their field.

11. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certifications

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a professional association dedicated to the promotion and development of quality assurance, control, and improvement initiatives. ASQ offers a variety of certifications that demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in specific areas. These certifications are designed to provide employers with evidence that the individual has achieved a certain level of expertise in their field.

The length of time it takes to get an ASQ certification depends on the type of certification being pursued. Some certifications may require only a few months of study, while others may take up to two years or more. The amount of time required also depends on the individual's prior experience and education in the field.

To get an ASQ certification, individuals must first pass an exam that tests their knowledge and skills in the particular area they are seeking certification in. After passing the exam, they must then submit proof of their qualifications and experience to ASQ for review. Once approved, they will receive their certificate from ASQ which will be valid for three years before needing renewal.

The cost of obtaining an ASQ certification varies depending on the type of certification being pursued as well as other factors such as location and materials needed for preparation. Generally speaking, exams range from $150-$400 USD per exam, with some additional fees for application processing and renewal fees after three years.

Do You Really Need a General Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their career goals. For some, a general engineer certificate may be beneficial, while for others it may not be necessary.

For those who are looking to pursue a career in engineering, a general engineer certificate can be extremely helpful. It provides an overview of the basic principles of engineering, such as mathematics, physics, materials science, and more. Having a general understanding of these topics can help engineers make informed decisions when designing or troubleshooting systems. Additionally, having a general engineer certificate may improve job prospects by demonstrating that an individual has a comprehensive understanding of engineering fundamentals.

On the other hand, if someone is interested in pursuing a career in another field that does not require knowledge of engineering principles or technical skills, then obtaining a general engineer certificate may not be necessary. In this case, it may be more beneficial to focus on courses and experiences related to the desired field instead of spending time and money obtaining an unneeded certificate.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a general engineer certificate depends on their individual goals and aspirations. It is important for individuals to carefully consider all aspects before deciding whether or not obtaining such certification is right for them.

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FAQs About General Engineer Certifications

1. What is a General Engineering Certification?

Answer: A General Engineering Certification is a formal certification that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and skills in the field of general engineering, which includes areas such as electrical, mechanical, civil, and industrial engineering.

2. How do I obtain a General Engineering Certification?

Answer: Depending on the type of certification, you may need to complete coursework or pass an exam to obtain a general engineering certification. Additionally, some certifications may require specific experience in the field or additional qualifications.

3. What are the benefits of having a General Engineering Certification?

Answer: Having a general engineering certification can demonstrate your expertise and knowledge to employers and help you stand out from other job applicants. It can also open up opportunities for career advancement and higher salaries.

4. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the type of certification you are pursuing and how much work experience you have in the field. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several months to several years before you receive your certification.

5. Are there any prerequisites for getting certified?

Answer: Depending on the type of certification you are seeking, there may be certain prerequisites such as completing coursework or having a minimum number of years of experience in the field that must be met before you can become certified.