Top 10 Laboratory Supervisor Certifications

Certifications are important for laboratory supervisors in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and expertise in their field. Certification also shows that the supervisor is knowledgeable about industry standards and has a commitment to ongoing professional development. Certified laboratory supervisors can often command higher salaries, as employers recognize their skill set and experience. Additionally, certifications provide a competitive edge when it comes to job applications and promotions within the laboratory setting. Finally, certifications often provide access to continuing education programs which help keep laboratory supervisors up-to-date on current trends and techniques in the field.

This article reviews the top certifications for Laboratory Supervisors and explains how they can help a laboratory supervisor advance their career.

What are Laboratory Supervisor Certifications?

Laboratory supervisor certification is a program designed to help laboratory supervisors acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage their laboratory operations. This certification gives supervisors the tools they need to ensure safety, cost-effectiveness, and accuracy in their laboratories. Through this certification, supervisors can develop an understanding of the principles of quality management, including risk assessment and control, hazard identification and prevention, and process improvement. It also provides supervisors with the knowledge of laboratory regulations and industry standards that are used to ensure safe working conditions for lab personnel.

In addition to providing supervisors with a better understanding of lab operations and regulations, laboratory supervisor certification can help them become more effective leaders within their organizations. Certification can help them develop problem-solving skills that will allow them to identify potential issues before they arise in the lab setting. Furthermore, it can give supervisors an opportunity to network with other professionals in the field who may be able to provide valuable insights into different aspects of laboratory management. Ultimately, achieving laboratory supervisor certification can lead to higher job satisfaction among employees due to better communication between staff members and improved safety practices within the workplace.

Pro Tip: Make sure you understand the regulatory requirements for laboratory supervisor certification in your state or country before beginning the process. This will help ensure you have all of the necessary qualifications and documentation to successfully complete the certification process.

Related: What does a Laboratory Supervisor do?

Top 10 Laboratory Supervisor Certifications

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

1. Certified Laboratory Supervisor (CLS)

A Certified Laboratory Supervisor (CLS) is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of laboratory management. The CLS credential is offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

To become certified, individuals must meet certain educational and work experience requirements, pass a certification examination, and adhere to a code of ethics. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have either a bachelor's degree in medical technology or a related field or an associate degree with at least five years of full-time clinical laboratory experience.

The certification exam covers topics such as laboratory safety, personnel management, quality assurance, instrumentation, and laboratory information systems. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost to take the certification exam is $250 for ASCP members and $400 for nonmembers. Additionally, there are fees associated with maintaining the certification every two years ($50 for members/$100 for nonmembers).

2. Certified Quality Manager (CQM)

Certified Quality Manager (CQM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in quality management. The CQM program is administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CQM program consists of two parts: an exam and a portfolio review. The exam covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer service, and project management. To pass the exam, candidates must demonstrate their knowledge of quality management principles and practices.

The portfolio review requires candidates to provide evidence of their involvement in successful quality initiatives. This includes documents such as project plans, reports, and presentations that demonstrate the candidate’s ability to lead successful projects.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CQM program. Candidates should plan on spending at least 20 hours per week studying for the exam and preparing their portfolio.

The cost of the CQM program varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or non-member. For ASQ members, it costs $495 for the exam and $395 for the portfolio review; for non-members, it costs $595 for the exam and $495 for the portfolio review.

3. Certified Quality Assurance Professional (CQAP)

Certified Quality Assurance Professional (CQAP) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in quality assurance and related disciplines. The CQAP certification is based on the ASQ Body of Knowledge, which covers topics such as quality management systems, quality control, process improvement, and customer service.

The CQAP certification typically takes about 12-18 months to complete. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. Candidates must also have at least three years of professional experience in a quality assurance role.

The cost of the CQAP certification varies depending on whether or not you are an ASQ member. If you are an ASQ member, the cost is $399; if you are not an ASQ member, the cost is $599. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam and purchasing study materials.

4. Certified Safety Professional (CSP)

The Certified Safety Professional (CSP) is a professional certification provided by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). It is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual's competence in safety, health, and environmental practice. The CSP certification requires individuals to demonstrate knowledge and experience in seven core competency areas: hazard recognition and control; legal compliance; risk assessment and management; emergency planning and preparedness; training and communication; occupational health; and management systems.

To become certified as a CSP, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, have at least four years of safety-related work experience, pass an exam administered by the BCSP, and agree to abide by the BCSP Code of Ethics. The exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions covering all seven core competencies. It takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to apply for the CSP exam, you must first register with the BCSP. Registration costs $50 USD plus applicable taxes. Once registered, you will need to pay an additional fee for the exam itself which varies based on your country of residence. In the United States, this fee is currently $350 USD plus applicable taxes.

Overall, it can take anywhere from six months to one year or longer to prepare for and obtain your CSP certification depending on how quickly you are able to study for the exam and meet all other requirements.

5. Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM)

Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM). The CHMM certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, experience and expertise in hazardous materials management. It is the highest level of professional recognition available for hazardous materials management professionals.

The CHMM certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in hazardous materials management and passing an exam administered by IHMM. Candidates must also meet certain educational requirements, such as having a bachelor's degree or higher in environmental science, engineering, chemistry, or related field.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass.

The cost of the CHMM certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of IHMM. For members, the cost is $425 for the application fee plus $400 for the exam fee; for non-members, it's $700 for both fees combined.

Once you have successfully passed the exam and met all other requirements, you will receive your CHMM certificate within two weeks after submitting your application.

6. American Society for Quality – Certified Quality Technician (ASQ-CQT)

The American Society for Quality – Certified Quality Technician (ASQ-CQT) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and skills in quality assurance and control. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to identify, analyze, and solve complex quality problems.

To obtain the ASQ-CQT certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as quality control, statistical process control, inspection techniques, problem solving methods, and documentation requirements. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions with a time limit of 3 hours.

To become eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of full-time work experience in a quality-related field or hold a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline plus one year of full-time work experience in a quality-related field. They must also complete an application form and submit it to ASQ along with the required fees.

The cost of the exam varies depending on the country where you are taking it but typically ranges from $250 - $400 USD. The fee includes the cost of the exam itself as well as study materials and other related expenses.

Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements, you will be awarded the ASQ-CQT certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue. To maintain your certification status, you must renew it every three years by completing continuing education activities or passing an updated version of the CQT exam.

7. American Society for Quality – Certified Quality Engineer (ASQ-CQE)

The American Society for Quality – Certified Quality Engineer (ASQ-CQE) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate knowledge and experience in quality engineering. The ASQ-CQE certification is designed to evaluate an individual’s ability to use the principles of quality engineering to solve problems, develop solutions, and improve processes.

In order to become certified as an ASQ-CQE, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as quality systems, statistics and sampling, process improvement techniques, problem solving, design of experiments, and other related areas. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and can take up to four hours to complete.

To get started with the ASQ-CQE certification process, individuals must first apply for the exam by submitting an application form along with the associated fees. Once approved, applicants will be assigned a testing date and location. After successfully passing the exam, applicants will receive their CQE certificate within 8 weeks.

The cost of obtaining the ASQ-CQE certification varies depending on your membership status with ASQ. If you are not a member of ASQ then the cost is $399 USD; if you are an existing member then it is $299 USD; if you are a student member then it is $199 USD; and if you are a senior or retired member then it is free of charge.

8. American Society for Clinical Pathology – Medical Technologist Certification (ASCP-MT)

The American Society for Clinical Pathology – Medical Technologist Certification (ASCP-MT) is a certification program administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). The ASCP-MT certification is designed to recognize and validate professional competency in medical technology. It is an important credential for those who wish to work as medical technologists or laboratory technicians in clinical laboratories.

To qualify for the ASCP-MT certification, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in medical technology or a related field, and must have completed an approved clinical training program. They must also pass the ASCP Board of Certification Examination. This exam covers topics such as safety, laboratory techniques, quality control, and data analysis.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the exam and obtain all necessary documents. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD. Once applicants pass the exam, they will receive their ASCP-MT certification which is valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

In addition to passing the examination, applicants may need to meet additional requirements depending on their state or jurisdiction. These may include completing continuing education credits or passing additional exams.

9. International Organization for Standardization – ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Lead Assessor Certification

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental, international organization that develops and publishes standards to ensure the quality, safety and efficiency of products, services and systems. ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Lead Assessor Certification is a certification program designed to help assessors become proficient in the assessment of laboratory quality management systems according to the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017.

What is it?

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Lead Assessor Certification is a professional certification program which provides training and recognition for those who demonstrate proficiency in assessing laboratory quality management systems against the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017. The certification includes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills related to the assessment process. It also covers topics such as understanding laboratory operations, risk management, customer service, data analysis and reporting.

How long does it take to get it?

It typically takes around 6 months to complete the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Lead Assessor Certification program. This includes completing all coursework, passing all exams, and completing any required field work or internships.

How to get it?

In order to obtain ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Lead Assessor Certification, you must first meet certain eligibility criteria including having at least two years’ experience in quality assurance or laboratory operations. You must then complete an accredited training program which includes classroom instruction as well as field work or internships. Once you have completed all coursework and passed all exams, you will be eligible for certification from an accredited certifying body such as ANSI or IAS.

How much does it cost?

The cost of obtaining ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Lead Assessor Certification can vary depending on the certifying body you choose as well as other factors such as location and duration of the training program. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,500-$5,000 USD for the entire certification process including coursework fees and exam fees.

10. National Institute of Standards and Technology – NIST 800-53 Security Compliance Auditor Certification

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 800-53 Security Compliance Auditor Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in auditing information systems for compliance with NIST security standards. The certification requires the successful completion of a rigorous examination that covers topics such as risk management, security control assessment, audit planning, and reporting. It also requires the candidate to demonstrate their ability to apply NIST guidance to real-world scenarios.

The exam typically takes two hours to complete and consists of multiple choice questions. Candidates must have at least three years of experience in information security or auditing in order to be eligible for the certification.

In order to obtain the certification, candidates must register for the exam through a testing center and pay a fee. The fee varies depending on the country where the exam is taken, but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. After passing the exam, candidates will receive their NIST 800-53 Security Compliance Auditor Certification within 6-8 weeks.

In addition to passing the exam, candidates must also adhere to NIST’s Code of Ethics which outlines ethical principles and guidelines for professionals working with information security systems.

Overall, obtaining the NIST 800-53 Security Compliance Auditor Certification can take several months depending on when you register for the exam and how quickly you are able to study for it. The cost of taking the exam can range from $200-$400 USD depending on where you take it.

Do You Really Need a Laboratory Supervisor Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals. For those who are looking to pursue a career in the field of laboratory sciences, a Laboratory Supervisor Certificate may be beneficial. A certificate in laboratory supervision can provide students with knowledge and skills that are necessary for success in the laboratory setting. It can also help individuals stand out among their peers when applying for jobs, as it demonstrates a commitment to excellence in the field.

Laboratory supervisors must be knowledgeable about safety protocols, laboratory equipment, and testing procedures. They must also possess strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. With a Laboratory Supervisor Certificate, individuals gain an understanding of these topics and can demonstrate their willingness to take on more responsibility within a lab setting. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire individuals who have obtained such certification as it shows dedication to the profession and provides evidence that they are well-versed in important aspects of lab work.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a Laboratory Supervisor Certificate is up to them and their individual goals. Those who wish to advance their career within the laboratory sciences should strongly consider obtaining certification as it will put them at an advantage when seeking employment opportunities or promotions within the field.

Related: Laboratory Supervisor Resume Examples

FAQs About Laboratory Supervisor Certifications

1. What qualifications are needed to become a laboratory supervisor?

Answer: To become a laboratory supervisor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a field related to the lab such as biology, chemistry, or engineering. You may also need additional certifications or licenses depending on the state and type of lab you plan to work in.

2. How can I obtain my laboratory supervisor certification?

Answer: You can obtain your laboratory supervisor certification by completing an accredited program and passing an exam administered by the appropriate governing body. Depending on your state and type of lab you plan to work in, you may also need additional certifications or licenses.

3. Are there any online courses available for becoming a laboratory supervisor?

Answer: Yes, there are several online courses available for becoming a laboratory supervisor. These courses cover topics such as safety protocols, quality assurance processes, data analysis techniques, and more. Many of these courses are offered through accredited institutions and may be accepted for credit towards obtaining your certification.

4. What is the cost associated with obtaining my laboratory supervisor certification?

Answer: The cost associated with obtaining your laboratory supervisor certification will depend on what type of training or coursework you plan to take in order to prepare for the exam. In general, costs can range from around $500-$1000 depending on how many courses you take and whether or not they are offered through an accredited institution.

5. How long does it take to get certified as a laboratory supervisor?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified as a laboratory supervisor will vary depending on the amount of preparation required for the exam and individual learning speed. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months up to 2 years or more to complete all necessary coursework and pass the exam required for certification.