Top 11 Instrument Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for instrument engineers in the job market because they demonstrate that the engineer has achieved a certain level of knowledge and proficiency in their field. Having certifications can increase an engineer’s chances of being considered for higher-level positions and can provide employers with assurance that they are hiring someone who is qualified to do the job. Additionally, certifications can help engineers to stand out from other applicants and may lead to higher salaries or better benefits.

This article reviews the top certifications for Instrument Engineers and explains how they can help advance an instrument engineer's career.

What are Instrument Engineer Certifications?

Instrument engineer certification is a professional credential that is earned by individuals who have the knowledge and expertise in the design, installation, maintenance, calibration, and repair of instrumentation equipment. Instrument engineers are responsible for ensuring that instruments function correctly and accurately measure physical quantities such as temperature, pressure, flow rate, and position.

Instrument engineer certification provides a number of benefits to employers and individuals alike. For employers, it serves as a way to identify qualified personnel who have the necessary skills to handle complex instrumentation systems. It also ensures that only properly trained individuals are working on these systems, which reduces the risk of errors or malfunctions.

For individuals seeking certification, it can provide them with greater job opportunities and higher salaries. It can also help demonstrate their commitment to the profession by showing that they have achieved a certain level of proficiency in their field. Certification can also serve as an important stepping stone for those interested in advancing their career within the instrument engineering field.

Pro Tip: When obtaining instrument engineer certification, make sure to take full advantage of online resources and study guides to ensure you are well prepared for the exam. Additionally, consider joining an instrument engineer certification forum or study group to review material with others who have already passed the exam.

Related: What does an Instrument Engineer do?

Top 11 Instrument Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Instrumentation and Control Technician (CICT)

Certified Instrumentation and Control Technician (CICT) is a certification program designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the instrumentation and control industry. The program is offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA).

The CICT certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in industrial automation, instrumentation, or control systems. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as process measurement and control, electrical safety, calibration, and troubleshooting.

It typically takes around four months to complete the CICT certification program. During this time, applicants must complete coursework, take exams, and submit their application for review. The cost of the CICT certification program varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

2. Certified Automation Professional (CAP)

Certified Automation Professional (CAP) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in the field of industrial automation. The CAP certification is one of the most sought after and respected credentials in the industry.

The CAP exam consists of two parts: an online multiple-choice exam and a practical hands-on assessment. To become certified, candidates must pass both parts with a score of at least 70%. The online multiple-choice exam covers topics such as control system components, programming, networking, safety, and troubleshooting. The practical hands-on assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to design and implement an automated system using actual equipment.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete all the requirements for becoming certified as a CAP. During this time, candidates must take courses in industrial automation, attend seminars or workshops related to automation technology, and gain experience working with automated systems in the field.

To get started on your path towards becoming a Certified Automation Professional (CAP), you will need to register with ISA and pay the associated fees. Registration fees vary depending on whether you are registering as an individual or through an employer/organization. The cost for individual registration is $395 USD plus applicable taxes; for group registration it is $495 USD plus applicable taxes.

3. Certified Measurement & Verification Professional (CMVP)

Certified Measurement & Verification Professional (CMVP) is a credential that is awarded to professionals who have demonstrated expertise in the measurement and verification of energy efficiency projects. The certification is offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), and it is designed to demonstrate a professional’s knowledge and understanding of the principles, methods, and tools used for measuring and verifying energy savings.

To become a CMVP, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, such as having a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field, or having at least five years of experience in energy management or related fields. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by AEE. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as energy audit techniques, project implementation processes, measurement accuracy principles, and data analysis methods.

The process of becoming certified typically takes between three to six months depending on the applicant’s level of preparation. To get started, applicants should register with AEE online or contact them directly to receive an application packet. Once all required materials are submitted, applicants will be notified when they can take the exam.

The cost for the CMVP certification varies based on the type of membership chosen by the applicant. For non-members, the cost is $400 USD; for members it is $300 USD; and for student members it is $200 USD.

4. Certified Process Instrumentation Technician (CPIT)

Certified Process Instrumentation Technician (CPIT) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair process instrumentation systems. The CPIT certification program consists of four modules that cover topics such as system design, installation, calibration, maintenance and troubleshooting.

The CPIT certification program takes approximately six months to complete. In order to be eligible for the certification, applicants must have a minimum of two years of experience in process instrumentation technology or equivalent training.

To obtain the CPIT certification, applicants must successfully pass all four modules of the CPIT program. Each module can be taken independently or as part of a package. After passing all four modules, applicants must also pass an exam administered by ISA in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining the CPIT certification varies depending on how many modules are taken at once. For example, taking all four modules at once costs $1,400 USD while taking them individually costs $500 USD per module.

5. Certified Automation Engineer (CAE)

Certified Automation Engineer (CAE) is a professional certification offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in automation engineering. The CAE credential is awarded to those who have successfully completed the ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP) program, which includes passing an exam and meeting other requirements.

The CAP program consists of four modules: Fundamentals of Automation, Control Systems, Instrumentation & Measurement, and Process Control. Each module requires up to 40 hours of study time. After completing the modules and passing the exam, candidates are eligible for the CAE certification.

The cost for taking the CAP program varies depending on whether you take it online or in person. Online courses typically range from $500-$1000 USD while in-person courses can range from $1500-$2000 USD. Additionally, there is a one-time fee of $150 USD for taking the exam.

Overall, it takes approximately 4-6 months to complete all four modules and pass the exam in order to become certified as a CAE.

6. Certified Industrial Measurement and Control Systems Technician (CIMCT)

A Certified Industrial Measurement and Control Systems Technician (CIMCT) is a professional certification that demonstrates a technician's expertise in the installation, maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of industrial measurement and control systems. This certification is designed to help technicians demonstrate their knowledge and skills in this field to employers, customers, and other stakeholders.

The CIMCT certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in the industrial measurement and control systems field. Applicants must also pass an online exam administered by the International Society for Measurement & Control (ISM&C). The exam covers topics such as electrical safety, system design, instrumentation selection, calibration techniques, troubleshooting methods, and more.

To get the CIMCT certification, applicants must first apply for it through ISM&C's website. After submitting the application form and paying the required fee (currently $495 USD), applicants will be given access to an online study guide that contains all of the information they need to prepare for the exam. Once they have studied for the exam and feel confident enough to take it, they can then register for it on ISM&C’s website.

The cost of taking the CIMCT exam is currently $295 USD. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, applicants will be awarded their CIMCT certification.

7. ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)

The ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the installation, maintenance, and calibration of process control systems. This certification is offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA).

To obtain this certification, an individual must pass a three-hour exam that covers topics such as instrumentation and measurement technology, industrial process control systems, electrical and electronic components, system configuration and operation, and troubleshooting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions as well as performance-based questions that require the candidate to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in a simulated environment.

The CCST certification does not have any prerequisites or educational requirements. However, it is recommended that candidates have at least two years of experience working with process control systems before attempting the exam.

The cost for taking the CCST exam is $250 USD. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide. Once an individual passes the exam, they will receive their CCST certificate within four weeks. The certification is valid for five years from the date of issue.

8. ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP)

The ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP) is an internationally recognized certification program developed by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is designed to recognize and promote the professional development of automation professionals in the field of industrial automation.

The CAP program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as basic engineering principles, process control systems, instrumentation and control systems, system design and implementation, and project management. The practical exam tests the candidate's ability to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

It typically takes six months or more to prepare for the CAP exams. Candidates must have at least three years of experience in industrial automation before they can qualify for the program. They must also complete a series of courses offered by ISA or other approved providers before taking the exams.

The cost for taking both exams is approximately $1,000 USD. This includes registration fees, study materials, exam fees, and any additional costs associated with taking the courses required for certification.

9. NACE International Corrosion Technologist Certification

NACE International Corrosion Technologist Certification (NACE-CT) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of corrosion technology. The NACE-CT certification is awarded by NACE International, the world's leading authority on corrosion prevention and control.

The NACE-CT certification program consists of a two-part examination that covers topics such as corrosion fundamentals, materials selection, inspection methods, coatings and linings, cathodic protection, and environmental considerations. The exam also includes a practical component that tests an individual's ability to apply their knowledge in real-world situations. To become certified, applicants must pass both parts of the exam with a minimum score of 70%.

The entire process typically takes between three months and one year to complete. Applicants must first submit an application for the certification program along with all required supporting documents. Once approved, applicants must then register for the exam and pay the associated fee. After successfully passing both parts of the exam, applicants will receive their certificate in approximately four weeks.

The cost of the NACE-CT certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of NACE International. For nonmembers, the cost is $600 USD; for members it is $450 USD.

10. National Instruments LabVIEW Developer Certification

National Instruments LabVIEW Developer Certification is a professional certification program designed to validate an individual’s proficiency in developing applications using the LabVIEW graphical programming language. The certification is offered by National Instruments, a leading provider of software and hardware for test, measurement, and control systems.

To obtain the certification, individuals must first pass a two-hour exam that covers topics such as basic LabVIEW concepts, dataflow programming, debugging techniques, and application development. Upon successful completion of the exam, individuals will receive their LabVIEW Developer Certification certificate.

The exam can be taken online or at one of National Instrument's certified training centers. The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $100 to $200 USD. It typically takes about one day to complete the exam.

Once certified, individuals are able to demonstrate their expertise in developing applications with LabVIEW and gain recognition from employers and peers alike. They also gain access to exclusive resources including discounts on NI products and services as well as invitations to special events hosted by NI.

11. PLC Programming Certificate from Rockwell Automation

The PLC Programming Certificate from Rockwell Automation is a professional certificate program designed to help individuals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to become proficient in programming Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). The certificate program consists of two courses: Introduction to PLC Programming, and Advanced PLC Programming. The program covers topics such as ladder logic programming, troubleshooting, and communications.

It typically takes about four months to complete the entire certificate program. The courses are offered online or in-person at select Rockwell Automation locations. Online courses are self-paced and can be completed at any time. In-person classes are offered on a regular basis throughout the year and require registration ahead of time.

The cost for the PLC Programming Certificate from Rockwell Automation varies depending on whether you take the course online or in-person. Online courses cost $1,000 per course while in-person classes cost $2,500 per course. There may also be additional fees for materials or other services associated with each course.

Once you have completed both courses, you will receive a certificate of completion from Rockwell Automation that verifies your proficiency in PLC programming. This certification can be used to demonstrate your knowledge and skills when applying for jobs or promotions within the automation industry.

Do You Really Need a Instrument Engineer Certificate?

Yes, an instrument engineer certificate is important for those who wish to pursue a career in the instrument engineering field. A certificate indicates that the individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to work as an instrument engineer. It also shows employers that the individual is committed to learning and can be trusted with complex tasks. Furthermore, having a certificate may make it easier for individuals to find jobs in their chosen field as employers often prefer applicants with certification.

Instrument engineers must have a thorough understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, sensors, actuators, and other components used in automated control systems. This includes being able to read schematics, troubleshoot technical problems, and understand safety protocols. An instrument engineer certificate ensures that the individual has these skills and is competent enough to work safely and effectively in this type of environment.

In addition to demonstrating knowledge and skills, having an instrument engineer certificate can open up opportunities for professional development. For example, some organizations offer continuing education programs which allow certified engineers to stay up-to-date on new technologies or industry trends. This can be beneficial as it gives engineers the chance to further their career by gaining additional qualifications or expanding their skill set.

Overall, getting an instrument engineer certificate is beneficial for anyone looking to pursue a career in this field. It demonstrates commitment and competence while also providing opportunities for professional growth and development.

Related: Instrument Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Instrument Engineer Certifications

1. What is an Instrument Engineer Certification?

Answer: An instrument engineer certification is a credential that demonstrates knowledge and experience in the field of instrument engineering. This type of certification is typically obtained through professional organizations such as the International Society of Automation (ISA) or the National Instruments Corporation (NIC).

2. What are the requirements for obtaining an Instrument Engineer Certification?

Answer: Requirements vary by certifying organization, but generally include passing a written exam and/or demonstrating relevant work experience. Some certifying organizations may also require applicants to submit additional documentation to demonstrate their knowledge.

3. How long does it take to obtain an Instrument Engineer Certification?

Answer: The amount of time required to obtain a certification varies depending on the certifying organization and the individual’s prior experience. Generally, it takes several months to complete all requirements for certification.

4. What are the benefits of earning an Instrument Engineer Certification?

Answer: Earning an instrument engineer certification can help demonstrate your expertise in this field and improve your career prospects by opening up new job opportunities and increasing your salary potential. Additionally, some employers may offer tuition assistance for employees who pursue this type of certification.

5. Where can I find more information about Instrument Engineer Certifications?

Answer: Professional organizations such as ISA or NIC provide detailed information about their respective certifications on their websites, including application instructions, exam requirements, and other helpful resources.