Top 11 Lead Technician Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a lead technician’s job market performance. They demonstrate the individual’s knowledge and experience in a particular field, as well as their commitment to professional development. Certifications can help to set lead technicians apart from other job applicants and make them more attractive to employers. Additionally, certifications can provide access to higher paying positions and greater career advancement opportunities. Finally, certifications help to ensure that the lead technician is up-to-date on the latest technologies and industry standards.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Lead Technicians, outlining how they can help further their career prospects.

What are Lead Technician Certifications?

Lead Technician Certification is a professional certification program designed to identify individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the maintenance, installation, repair and operation of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) systems. This certification can help technicians demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field to employers, customers and other industry professionals. It provides recognition for those who have taken the time to learn the latest technology and methods used in HVAC/R systems. Additionally, it may also provide an opportunity for technicians to increase their earning potential by demonstrating their expertise to employers or customers. With lead technician certification, technicians can gain the skills necessary to successfully perform complex repairs on HVAC/R systems while providing superior customer service. Ultimately, this could lead to greater job satisfaction as well as increased job opportunities.

Pro Tip: When considering lead technician certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications of the program you are interested in. Additionally, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and best practices to ensure that you can provide the highest quality service.

Related: What does a Lead Technician do?

Top 11 Lead Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Lead Technicians today.

1. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is an industry-recognized certification for entry-level computer technicians. It is a comprehensive certification that covers the fundamentals of computer technology, networking and security, as well as the skills necessary to install, configure, troubleshoot, repair and maintain PCs.

The CompTIA A+ certification consists of two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams must be passed in order to become certified. The Core 1 exam covers mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing and operational procedures. The Core 2 exam covers installing and configuring operating systems including Windows, iOS, Android, Apple OS X and Linux. It also covers security, software troubleshooting and operational procedures.

To become CompTIA A+ certified you must pass both the Core 1 and Core 2 exams. Each exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete with a maximum score of 900 points each. The total cost for both exams is $339 USD plus applicable taxes. You can take each exam at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through the CompTIA website.

Once you have successfully passed both exams you will receive your CompTIA A+ certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue. To maintain your certification you must recertify every three years by passing either the current version of the CompTIA A+ exam or a higher level CompTIA certification exam such as Network+, Security+, Cloud+, etc.

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program that validates an individual’s skills in designing and implementing Microsoft-based solutions. It requires passing exams in various areas of Windows Server, Exchange Server, SharePoint Server, Lync Server, System Center, and other related technologies.

It typically takes between six to twelve months to complete the MCSE certification process. To get certified as an MCSE, you must pass at least one exam from each of the core technology areas: Windows Server, Exchange Server, SharePoint Server, Lync Server and System Center. You must also pass one elective exam from a list of approved topics.

The cost of getting certified as an MCSE varies depending on the number of exams taken and the type of training used. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more for all the necessary exams and training materials.

3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is an entry-level certification offered by Cisco Systems. It is designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. It also provides the foundation for more advanced certifications such as the CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional).

The CCNA certification requires passing one exam, which consists of 90-110 multiple choice questions. The exam typically takes 90 minutes to complete. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $200-$300 USD.

To prepare for the CCNA exam, you can take self-study courses or attend instructor-led classes provided by Cisco Learning Partners. There are also many online resources available to help you prepare for the exam. Additionally, some employers may offer tuition reimbursement for employees who wish to obtain their CCNA certification.

4. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-recognized certification for IT professionals who work with networking technologies. It validates the knowledge and skills necessary to troubleshoot, configure, and manage networks.

The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam varies by location, but it typically costs around $300 USD.

To get CompTIA Network+, you must first pass the CompTIA Network+ Exam (N10-007). You can prepare for the exam by taking a CompTIA Network+ training course or self-studying with books and practice tests. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official CompTIA Network+ certification.

5. Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) is a certification that validates an individual’s skills in administering and managing Microsoft systems. This certification is designed for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in working with Windows Server, Windows Client, Exchange Server, SQL Server, System Center and other related Microsoft products.

The MCSA certification requires an individual to pass three exams that cover topics such as installation, configuration, troubleshooting and maintenance of the different Microsoft systems. The exams are:

* Exam 70-740: Installation, Storage and Compute with Windows Server 2016

* Exam 70-741: Networking with Windows Server 2016

* Exam 70-742: Identity with Windows Server 2016

It typically takes two to four months to prepare for the exams depending on your experience level. You can find study materials such as books or online courses from various vendors to help you prepare for the exams. Additionally, you can also take practice exams to ensure that you are ready for the real exam.

The cost of each exam varies based on vendor but typically ranges from $150-$200 per exam. Therefore, it will cost around $450-$600 in total to obtain the MCSA certification.

6. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s skills and knowledge in VMware products and technologies. The VCP certification is vendor-neutral, meaning it can be used with any version of VMware products.

To become a VCP, individuals must attend a VMware authorized training course and pass the associated exam. There are several different types of courses available, ranging from basic to advanced levels. Depending on the type of course taken, it may take anywhere from one to five days to complete the training.

The cost of the VCP certification varies depending on the type of course taken and whether or not additional materials are purchased. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $500-$2,500 USD.

Once an individual has completed their training and passed their exam, they will receive their VCP certification. This certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by taking another approved course and passing the associated exam.

7. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is an internationally recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in the field of information security. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers a wide range of topics, including network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, access control and identity management, cryptography, and more.

The exam for CompTIA Security+ takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. The passing score is 750 out of 900 points.

To get CompTIA Security+, you must take and pass the Security+ exam. You can register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $320 - $400 USD.

8. Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP)

Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) is a certification program that validates an individual’s expertise in using Microsoft products and technologies. It is designed to provide IT professionals with the skills they need to design, deploy, and manage Microsoft solutions.

To get the MCITP certification, individuals must pass one or more exams that demonstrate their mastery of the subject matter. The number of exams required varies depending on the specific certification track chosen. For example, the Enterprise Administrator track requires eight exams while the Database Administrator track requires four exams.

The cost for each exam varies depending on the country and currency being used. Generally speaking, most exams cost around $150 USD each. However, some countries may have different pricing structures.

It typically takes at least six months to complete all of the necessary requirements for an MCITP certification. This includes studying for and passing all of the required exams as well as completing any additional training or experience requirements that may be necessary for certain tracks.

9. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is a certification program offered by Apple to help IT professionals gain the necessary skills and knowledge to support Mac users. This certification is designed for IT professionals who are responsible for supporting, troubleshooting, and optimizing Mac systems in an enterprise environment.

It typically takes around 30-40 hours of study time to prepare for the ACSP exam. The exam consists of two parts: a written test and a hands-on lab. The written test covers topics such as system architecture, user accounts, networking, security, automation tools and more. The hands-on lab requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge by performing tasks related to setting up and configuring Macs in an enterprise environment.

To get certified as an ACSP, individuals must pass both the written and lab exams with a score of 80% or higher. Candidates must also have at least six months of experience working with Macs in an enterprise environment before taking the exam.

The cost of the ACSP certification varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $200-$300 USD.

10. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program from Red Hat, Inc., the world’s leading provider of open source software solutions. The RHCSA certification is designed to demonstrate that an individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage a Red Hat Enterprise Linux system. This certification is recommended for system administrators responsible for day-to-day management of Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems.

The RHCSA exam typically takes around 2 hours to complete and covers topics such as installation and configuration of Red Hat Enterprise Linux, managing users and groups, working with files, configuring network services, administering storage devices, setting up virtual machines, and troubleshooting issues. It is important to note that the RHCSA exam does not cover scripting or programming languages.

In order to get certified as an RHCSA, you must pass the official Red Hat Exam EX200. The exam can be taken at any authorized training center or online through the Red Hat Learning Subscription service. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official RHCSA certificate from Red Hat which will be valid for three years. To maintain your certification status after this period, you must take a new version of the exam or complete other activities such as attending training courses or participating in community events.

11. Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC)

Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC) is a certification program that provides recognition to individuals who demonstrate proficiency and knowledge of Linux operating systems. It is the most widely recognized Linux certification in the world, with over 400,000 certified professionals.

The LPIC certification consists of four levels: LPIC-1, LPIC-2, LPIC-3, and LPIC-4. Each level requires passing two exams that cover topics such as system administration, networking, security, scripting and automation. The exams are administered by Pearson VUE and Prometric Testing Centers.

It typically takes several months to prepare for the exams depending on your experience with Linux. There are a variety of resources available to help you prepare for the exams including books, online courses, practice tests and study guides.

The cost of each exam varies depending on your location but usually ranges from $100-$200 USD per exam. In addition to the exam fees there may be additional costs associated with preparing for the exams such as books or online courses.

To get an LPIC certification you must pass all four levels of exams within five years of your initial registration date. Once you have passed all four levels you will receive an official certificate from the Linux Professional Institute recognizing your achievement.

Do You Really Need a Lead Technician Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Lead Technician Certificate really depends on the type of job you’re looking for. If you’re interested in becoming a technician in a specific field, such as automotive repair, HVAC, or computer repair, then having a Lead Technician Certificate can be beneficial. It can demonstrate to employers that you have advanced knowledge and experience in the field, which can help you stand out among other applicants.

Having a Lead Technician Certificate can also be beneficial if you’re looking to move up the ladder in your current position. Many employers require technicians to have certain certifications before they will consider them for promotion. With a Lead Technician Certificate, you’ll be able to show that you have the necessary skills and knowledge needed for an advanced role.

However, if your current job doesn’t require any special certifications or qualifications then it may not be necessary to get one. You may still find it helpful to take classes and learn more about your field in order to stay up-to-date on industry trends and new technologies. This could also help make you more marketable when applying for jobs in the future.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Lead Technician Certificate depends on what type of job you’re looking for and what level of experience and knowledge is required for that position. If it’s something that will benefit your career goals then it could definitely be worth getting one.

Related: Lead Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Lead Technician Certifications

Q1. What is a Lead Technician Certification?

A1. A Lead Technician Certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in their field. It typically requires passing an exam or completing a course of study to demonstrate proficiency in the areas of technical knowledge, problem solving, and customer service.

Q2. What are the benefits of becoming a Lead Technician Certified?

A2. Having a Lead Technician Certification can help professionals stand out from other technicians by demonstrating their expertise and commitment to excellence. It also provides access to higher-level job opportunities and increased earning potential through better pay or promotions.

Q3. How much does it cost to become Lead Technician Certified?

A3. The cost for certification will vary depending on the program you choose and any additional materials or courses you may need to complete. Generally, the cost ranges from $150-$500 USD for most certifications.

Q4. How long does it take to become Lead Technician Certified?

A4: The length of time it takes to become certified will depend on the program you choose and how much time you are able to commit to studying for the exam or completing any required courses or programs. Generally, it can take anywhere from three months up to one year depending on your dedication and preparation for the certification process.

Q5: Is there any ongoing maintenance required for my Lead Technician Certification?

A5: Yes, most certifications require that holders maintain their certification status by taking continuing education courses or retaking exams every few years in order to stay current with industry standards and trends.