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Top 11 Maintenance Assistant Certifications

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Updated 18 min read

Certifications for a maintenance assistant are important in the job market for several reasons. First, certifications demonstrate to employers that the individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their job duties effectively and safely. This can give them an edge over other applicants who may not have the same level of qualifications. Additionally, certifications show employers that the individual is dedicated to their profession and is willing to go above and beyond what is required of them. Finally, certifications can provide recognition from professional organizations that can open up more opportunities for career advancement.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications available for Maintenance Assistants and explain how they can help further their career prospects.

What are Maintenance Assistant Certifications?

Maintenance assistant certification is a type of certification that is designed to help individuals become qualified for positions in the maintenance field. This certification is designed to provide training and education on the various aspects of maintenance, such as safety, operations, and repair. This certification can be especially beneficial for those who want to become certified in a specific aspect of maintenance, such as HVAC systems or plumbing.

By obtaining a maintenance assistant certification, an individual can demonstrate their knowledge, experience, and competency in the field of maintenance. This certification can help individuals qualify for higher-level positions within the industry, as well as increase their earning potential. Additionally, this certification can be used as evidence of an individual's commitment to professional development and career advancement. Achieving this certification may also open up opportunities for future promotions within the same organization or allow individuals to pursue new job opportunities with other employers.

Pro Tip: When considering a Maintenance Assistant Certification, make sure to research the institution offering the certification and check for any accreditation or industry recognition. This will ensure that you are getting a quality certification that is recognized by employers and will be beneficial to your career.

Related: What does a Maintenance Assistant do?

Top 11 Maintenance Assistant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Maintenance Assistants today.

1. Building Maintenance Technician Certification

Building Maintenance Technician Certification is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a Building Maintenance Technician. The program is offered by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) in partnership with the International Facility Management Association (IFMA).

The certification requires completion of an NCCER-accredited training course and passing of a written exam. The course typically takes between one and three days, depending on the level of experience and knowledge of the individual taking it. Upon successful completion of the course, participants must pass a written exam to receive their certification.

The cost of the certification varies depending on where you take the training course, but typically ranges from $400-$800. This includes both the cost of tuition as well as any materials needed for the course.

In order to maintain your certification, you must complete at least 16 hours of continuing education every two years. This can be done through online courses or attending seminars or workshops related to building maintenance technology.

2. HVAC Technician Certification

HVAC Technician Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems. This certification is highly sought after by employers as it indicates a level of expertise in the field.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the program you choose. Some programs are offered online and can be completed in as little as one month, while other programs may require up to six months or more of classroom instruction.

To become certified, individuals must first complete an accredited HVAC technician training program. After completing the program, applicants must then pass a written exam administered by an accredited agency such as North American Technician Excellence (NATE). Once the exam has been passed, applicants will receive their certification from NATE.

The cost of HVAC technician certification varies depending on the program chosen and any additional fees associated with taking the exam. Generally speaking, however, most programs range from $500 to $2,000 for tuition and materials. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or proctoring fees which could add up to several hundred dollars more.

3. Electrical Technician Certification

Electrical Technician Certification is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become an electrical technician. This type of certification is typically offered by trade schools, technical colleges, or other organizations that specialize in providing training for electricians.

The length of time it takes to obtain Electrical Technician Certification varies depending on the program and the individual’s experience level. Generally, programs can range from a few weeks up to a year or more. In some cases, individuals may be able to complete their certification in as little as six months.

To become certified as an Electrical Technician, individuals must first complete a program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on training. During the course of instruction, students will learn about electrical theory and safety practices as well as how to install and maintain electrical systems. Additionally, students may also be required to take exams in order to demonstrate their understanding of the material covered in class.

The cost of obtaining Electrical Technician Certification depends on the institution offering the program and any additional fees associated with taking exams or completing other requirements for certification. Generally speaking, programs can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars depending on the length of time needed for completion and any additional costs associated with taking exams or completing other requirements for certification.

In addition to completing a program, individuals may also need to pass certain tests in order to earn their certification. These tests typically include both written and practical components which assess an individual’s knowledge of electrical theory and safety practices. Additionally, some states may require individuals seeking Electrical Technician Certification to obtain a license before they can practice professionally in that state.

4. Plumbing Technician Certification

Plumbing Technician Certification is a certification that verifies the knowledge and skills of an individual in the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems. This certification is typically offered by trade organizations or private companies who specialize in plumbing services.

The duration of the certification process varies depending on the type of program selected. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from four to twelve months to complete the necessary coursework and pass the required exams. Some programs may require additional hands-on training or apprenticeship hours before certification is granted.

To get certified as a Plumbing Technician, you must first meet specific educational requirements such as completing a recognized apprenticeship program or earning an associate degree in plumbing technology from an accredited institution. You will then need to pass an exam administered by either a trade organization or a private company specializing in plumbing services.

The cost of obtaining Plumbing Technician Certification varies widely depending on the type of program chosen and whether additional hands-on training or apprenticeship hours are required. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 for the entire process.

5. Carpentry and Masonry Technician Certification

Carpentry and Masonry Technician Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform carpentry and masonry work. This certification is offered by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

The certification process consists of three levels: Core, Level 1, and Level 2. The Core level is an introductory course that covers basic safety, tools, materials, and techniques. After completing the Core level, individuals can move on to Level 1, which focuses on more advanced topics such as framing, roofing, foundations, concrete work, drywall installation, and masonry. Finally, Level 2 covers advanced topics such as plumbing systems and electrical systems.

In order to become certified as a Carpentry and Masonry Technician, individuals must complete all three levels of the program. The program typically takes about two years to complete if taken full-time or four years if taken part-time.

The cost of the program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it will cost around $2,000 for tuition plus any additional fees associated with the school or program you choose.

In order to get certified as a Carpentry and Masonry Technician you must pass an assessment at each level of the program with a score of 70% or higher in order to receive your certificate. Once you have completed all three levels of the program you will be eligible for certification from NCCER.

6. Painting and Decorating Technician Certification

Painting and Decorating Technician Certification is a certification program offered by the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in painting and decorating.

The PDCA Painting and Decorating Technician Certification Program consists of three levels: Apprentice, Journeyman, and Master. Each level requires the completion of specific courses in order to receive the certification. The Apprentice level requires 40 hours of classroom instruction, while the Journeyman level requires 80 hours of classroom instruction. The Master level requires 160 hours of classroom instruction.

In order to obtain the certification, an individual must complete all required courses for their chosen level and pass an exam administered by the PDCA. The exams are designed to assess knowledge in areas such as safety, tools and materials, surface preparation, application techniques, finishing techniques, color theory, business practices, customer service skills, and more.

The cost for each level varies depending on the number of courses taken. Generally speaking, it can range from $200-$500 per course. In addition to this cost there may be additional fees associated with taking the certification exam.

Overall, it typically takes between six months to one year to complete all three levels of the Painting and Decorating Technician Certification Program depending on how quickly you can complete the required courses and pass your exams.

7. Landscaping and Groundskeeping Technician Certification

Landscaping and Groundskeeping Technician Certification is a voluntary certification program offered by the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in landscaping and groundskeeping. The certification requires the completion of an online exam, which covers topics such as plant identification, soil science, turf management, pest control, landscape design, and safety.

It typically takes about two months to complete the certification process. To begin the process, applicants must first register for the exam through PLANET's website. Then they must pay a fee of $395 to take the exam. After passing the exam with a minimum score of 75%, applicants will receive their certification within 30 days.

The cost of the certification includes an annual membership fee of $50 plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam. There are also renewal fees that must be paid annually in order to maintain active status as a certified technician. Renewal fees vary depending on whether or not you have completed continuing education credits during your time as a certified technician.

Overall, becoming a certified Landscaping and Groundskeeping Technician is an excellent way to demonstrate your expertise in this field and can help you stand out from other professionals in this industry.

8. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Maintenance Technician Certification

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Maintenance Technician Certification is a certification program that is designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain, repair, and install refrigeration and air conditioning systems. The certification program typically takes around two years to complete and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.

In order to get certified, an individual must first obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. After that, they must complete an accredited refrigeration and air conditioning maintenance technician certification program. This program typically consists of courses in heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), electrical systems, refrigeration systems, energy management systems, safety practices, customer service skills, and more.

Once the coursework has been completed successfully, the individual will then have to pass a written examination in order to receive their certification. The cost of the certification program varies depending on the institution offering it but generally ranges from $1,000-$2,500 USD.

It is important for individuals interested in obtaining Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Maintenance Technician Certification to research different programs thoroughly before enrolling in one as some may offer better quality instruction than others. Additionally, those who are already employed in this field can often take advantage of employer-sponsored training programs which may reduce the cost of obtaining this certification significantly.

9. Fire Protection System Maintenance Technician Certification

Fire Protection System Maintenance Technician Certification is a certification program that is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to properly maintain fire protection systems. It covers the principles of fire protection system design, installation, operation, maintenance, testing, and inspection.

In order to obtain this certification, individuals must complete a course of study that includes classroom instruction as well as practical experience. The course typically takes between two and four weeks to complete depending on the level of certification being sought. Upon successful completion of the course and passing an exam, individuals will receive their Fire Protection System Maintenance Technician Certification.

The cost for obtaining this certification varies depending on the institution offering the course. Generally speaking, courses range from $1,000-$2,500 in tuition costs plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam or other materials needed for completion of the course.

10. Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technician Certification

Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technician Certification is a professional certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the maintenance of industrial equipment. This certification is designed to help technicians demonstrate their proficiency in the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of industrial equipment.

It typically takes about one year to complete the requirements for Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technician Certification. To become certified, individuals must pass both a written and practical exam administered by a recognized certifying body such as the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET). The written exam covers topics such as electrical safety, troubleshooting techniques, and mechanical principles. The practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to install, operate, maintain, and repair various types of industrial equipment.

The cost for Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technician Certification varies depending on the certifying body chosen. Generally speaking, applicants can expect to pay anywhere from $100 - $500 for the application fee plus additional fees for any required courses or materials needed to prepare for the exams.

11. Boiler Operation and Maintenance Technician Certification

Boiler Operation and Maintenance Technician Certification is a certification program offered by the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI). It is designed to provide boiler operators and maintenance technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate, maintain, inspect, and repair boilers. The certification is valid for five years.

To become certified as a Boiler Operation and Maintenance Technician, applicants must meet certain prerequisites. These include having at least three years of experience in the operation or maintenance of boilers or related equipment; passing a written exam; completing an approved course in boiler safety; and passing a practical examination.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider. Generally, it costs between $500-$1000 for the written exam and $250-$500 for the practical exam. In addition, there may be additional fees for books or other materials needed to complete the coursework or prepare for the exams.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their Boiler Operation and Maintenance Technician Certification from NBBI. This certification is recognized nationally by employers as evidence of an individual’s qualifications to work with boilers and related equipment.

Do You Really Need a Maintenance Assistant Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Maintenance Assistant Certificate depends on your career goals. If you are looking to become a maintenance assistant, then getting a certificate will demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge for the job. It can also provide an edge over competitors who do not have such qualifications.

However, if you already have experience in this field or if you don’t plan on becoming a maintenance assistant, then getting a certificate may not be necessary. Employers may still recognize your experience and knowledge, even without the certificate. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if having the certification is important for your career goals.

Related: Maintenance Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Maintenance Assistant Certifications

Q1. What is Maintenance Assistant Certification?

A1. Maintenance Assistant Certification is a professional credential that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in the area of maintenance and repair. It demonstrates proficiency in troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, and safety procedures, as well as basic electrical and mechanical concepts.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Maintenance Assistant?

A2. To become certified as a Maintenance Assistant, you must complete an approved program or course of study from an accredited institution, pass the certification exam, and meet any other requirements set forth by the certifying authority.

Q3. What kind of job can I get with Maintenance Assistant Certification?

A3. With your certification, you may be eligible for entry-level positions in industrial or commercial maintenance departments or facilities management roles such as custodial assistant or equipment technician. Depending on your experience level and job market demand, you may also qualify for higher-level positions such as lead maintenance technician or facility manager.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified?

A4. The length of time it takes to become certified depends on the program or course of study you choose to pursue; however, most programs can be completed within one year or less. Additionally, some certifying authorities offer accelerated programs that allow candidates to complete their training more quickly than traditional programs do.

Q5. How much does Maintenance Assistant Certification cost?

A5. The cost of obtaining certification varies depending on the program chosen and the certifying authority; however, most courses range from $500-$1000 USD plus additional fees for taking the exam(s).

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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