Top 11 Maintenance Electrician Certifications

Certifications for a maintenance electrician are important for several reasons. First, certifications demonstrate that the individual has achieved a certain level of knowledge and proficiency in the field. This is valuable to employers, who can rely on certified individuals to perform maintenance tasks safely and correctly. Additionally, certifications can help an individual stand out among other applicants when searching for a job, as they show that the applicant has taken extra steps to become knowledgeable in the field. Finally, some employers may require certifications in order to be considered for a job or promotion, making them essential for those looking to advance their career.

The purpose of this article is to provide a review of the top certifications for Maintenance Electricians and explain how they can contribute to a maintenance electrician's career.

What are Maintenance Electrician Certifications?

Maintenance electrician certification is a type of accreditation that demonstrates the professional has achieved a high level of competency in the field of electrical maintenance. This certification is often required by employers when hiring a maintenance electrician, and it can help demonstrate to potential employers that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform electrical maintenance tasks safely and effectively.

Maintenance electricians are responsible for troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems in commercial, industrial, or residential settings. With proper training and certification, they can ensure that all components of an electrical system are functioning correctly, safely, and efficiently. Certification also provides assurance to employers that an individual has been trained in industry-accepted safety practices.

Certification also helps ensure that maintenance electricians stay up-to-date on new technologies and techniques used in the industry. This can help them better serve their customers by providing superior service at competitive prices. Additionally, having a certifications shows employers that an individual is dedicated to their profession and willing to go above and beyond what is required to be successful.

Pro Tip: When considering a maintenance electrician certification, make sure to check the requirements of the certifying organization. Some certifications may require completion of an approved training program or apprenticeship, while others may only require passing a written exam. Additionally, research the specific roles and responsibilities associated with each certification to ensure it meets your career goals.

Related: What does a Maintenance Electrician do?

Top 11 Maintenance Electrician Certifications

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

1. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) is a certification program that provides recognition to individuals who demonstrate knowledge, experience, and proficiency in engineering technology. This certification is offered by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce.

NICET certification is available in four levels: Level I, Level II, Level III, and Level IV. Each level requires a different set of qualifications and experience. In order to become certified at any level, applicants must pass an examination administered by NICET.

The amount of time it takes to get NICET certified depends on the individual’s qualifications and experience. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete all requirements for certification at each level.

In order to get certified by NICET, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria outlined by NIST. These include having a minimum number of years of relevant work experience or education; passing an exam; submitting an application; and paying applicable fees. The cost for each level varies depending on the type of examination taken and other factors such as study materials purchased or additional fees incurred during the application process.

2. International Society of Automation (ISA) Certified Maintenance Technician

The International Society of Automation (ISA) Certified Maintenance Technician (CMT) certification is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the maintenance field. The CMT certification is designed to demonstrate competency in the areas of electrical, mechanical, fluid power, and instrumentation/control systems.

To become an ISA Certified Maintenance Technician, applicants must pass two exams: one on general maintenance principles and practices and the other on specific maintenance technologies. The exams are offered at various locations throughout the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The cost for taking both exams is $400 USD. It typically takes about six months to complete all of the requirements for certification.

In order to qualify for the CMT exam, applicants must have a minimum of three years of industrial maintenance experience or two years of post-secondary education in a related field plus one year of industrial maintenance experience. Applicants must also submit proof of their educational background or employment history as part of their application package.

Once certified, individuals will be required to renew their certification every three years by submitting proof of continuing education credits or passing a renewal exam.

3. Electrical Apprenticeship Program

An Electrical Apprenticeship Program is a program designed to provide on-the-job training and education in the field of electrical engineering. The program typically combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience in order to prepare individuals for a career as an electrician. It is usually sponsored by local unions, trade associations, or employers.

The length of an Electrical Apprenticeship Program varies depending on the specific requirements of the sponsoring organization. Generally, apprenticeships last between two and five years, although some may be shorter or longer depending on the complexity of the work being trained for. During this time, apprentices are expected to complete a certain number of hours of classroom instruction and hands-on training.

In order to get an Electrical Apprenticeship Program, individuals must first apply to the sponsoring organization. This application process typically includes submitting a resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in becoming an apprentice. Additionally, applicants may be required to pass an aptitude test or interview in order to demonstrate their knowledge and abilities in the field.

The cost of an Electrical Apprenticeship Program varies depending on the sponsoring organization. Some programs may require payment for tuition or other fees associated with classroom instruction while others may offer free or discounted tuition for those who qualify financially. Additionally, some organizations may offer stipends or other forms of financial assistance for those who need it most.

4. Journeyman Electrician Certification

Journeyman Electrician Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a level of competency and skill in the electrical trade. It is awarded by state or local governments to individuals who have completed an approved apprenticeship program, passed an exam, and met other requirements.

The length of time it takes to obtain Journeyman Electrician Certification varies by state, but generally it takes four to five years of on-the-job training and education. During this time, electricians must complete a minimum number of hours of classroom instruction and hands-on experience in order to qualify for certification.

In order to become certified as a Journeyman Electrician, applicants must first complete an approved apprenticeship program or equivalent. Apprenticeships are typically sponsored by unions or employers, and they provide the necessary training and experience required for certification. After completing the apprenticeship program, applicants must pass an examination administered by their state or local government in order to be eligible for certification. Applicants may also need to meet additional requirements such as background checks or drug tests before they can receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining Journeyman Electrician Certification varies depending on the state or local government where you live. Generally speaking, there are fees associated with taking the exam as well as any additional requirements that may be necessary for certification. Additionally, some states require electricians to pay annual fees in order to maintain their certification status.

5. National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Maintenance Electrician

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Maintenance Electrician is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform maintenance and repair work on electrical systems. The program consists of two parts: Core Curriculum and Specialty Modules.

The Core Curriculum includes topics such as basic electricity, electrical safety, wiring methods, motors and controls, troubleshooting techniques, and other related topics. The Specialty Modules are more specific to the individual’s field of expertise and include topics such as industrial motor control systems, lighting systems, power distribution systems, fire alarm systems, HVAC systems, communication systems, etc.

In order to become an NCCER Certified Maintenance Electrician (CMEL), an individual must complete both the Core Curriculum and at least one Specialty Module. This typically takes between six months to a year depending on the individual’s availability for study time.

To get started in the program an individual must register with NCCER by visiting their website or calling their customer service line. Once registered they will be provided with access to all of the materials needed to complete the program including textbooks and online resources.

The cost of becoming an NCCER Certified Maintenance Electrician varies depending on which modules are chosen but typically ranges from $500 - $1,000 USD.

6. American Technical Institute (ATI) Electrical Maintenance Technician Certification

American Technical Institute (ATI) Electrical Maintenance Technician Certification is a certification program designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair electrical systems. The certification is available at two levels: Level I and Level II.

Level I of the ATI Electrical Maintenance Technician Certification requires applicants to have a minimum of three years of experience in the electrical maintenance field. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as safety practices, basic electricity, wiring diagrams, installation procedures, troubleshooting techniques, and more. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants receive a certificate indicating their level of certification.

Level II of the ATI Electrical Maintenance Technician Certification requires applicants to have a minimum of five years of experience in the electrical maintenance field. In addition to passing an exam covering topics from Level I, applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in advanced topics such as motor control systems, power distribution systems, and instrumentation systems. Successful completion of this level results in a higher-level certificate indicating their expertise in electrical maintenance.

The entire process for achieving ATI Electrical Maintenance Technician Certification typically takes between six months and one year depending on how quickly the applicant completes all requirements. To get certified, applicants must first register for either Level I or Level II certification through ATI's website or by mail. After registering for the program, they will be sent study materials for their chosen level along with instructions on how to complete all necessary requirements for certification.

The cost to obtain ATI Electrical Maintenance Technician Certification varies depending on which level you are seeking certification at; however it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD per level.

7. National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Certified Maintenance Electrician Program

The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Certified Maintenance Electrician Program is a certification program for electricians who specialize in maintenance and repair of electrical systems. The program is designed to provide electricians with the knowledge and skills needed to safely and effectively maintain, diagnose, and repair electrical systems.

The program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on assessment. The online course covers topics such as safety, electrical theory, circuit protection, troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, and more. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete the online course. After completing the course, a hands-on assessment must be taken at an approved NECA facility. This assessment tests the applicant’s ability to apply their knowledge of electrical systems in a practical setting.

To become certified as a NECA Certified Maintenance Electrician, applicants must pass both the online course and hands-on assessment with a score of 80% or higher. The cost of the program varies depending on the location of the training facility but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

8. International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Journeyman Electrician Certification

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Journeyman Electrician Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the skills and knowledge of electricians who have met certain standards in the electrical industry. This certification is recognized throughout North America and is awarded by the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (NJATC).

To become certified as an IBEW Journeyman Electrician, one must complete a four-year apprenticeship program. This program consists of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 880 hours of classroom instruction. The apprenticeship must be approved by the NJATC, which sets the minimum requirements for each state. Upon completion of the apprenticeship, applicants must pass two exams: a written exam covering electrical theory and safety practices, and a practical exam demonstrating their ability to install wiring systems safely and correctly.

The cost to become an IBEW Journeyman Electrician varies depending on the state in which you are applying. Generally, there is an application fee plus any fees associated with taking the exams. In addition, some states may require additional fees or certifications prior to taking the exams.

Once you have completed your apprenticeship program and passed both exams, you will receive your IBEW Journeyman Electrician Certification from the NJATC. This certification will be valid for five years before it needs to be renewed.

9. American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Certified Maintenance Electrician

The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Certified Maintenance Electrician (CME) is a professional certification program for qualified electricians who work in industrial and commercial maintenance settings. This certification is designed to provide safety professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, prevent, and mitigate potential electrical hazards in the workplace.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the CME program. To qualify, applicants must have at least four years of experience as an electrician in industrial or commercial maintenance settings. In addition, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as electrical theory, installation methods, troubleshooting techniques, safety practices, and applicable codes and standards.

To obtain the CME certification, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume and proof of experience. They must also pay a fee of $200 USD for the exam. Once approved by ASSP, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion that covers general knowledge about electrical systems and a practical portion that tests hands-on skills related to wiring installations and repairs.

After passing both portions of the exam, applicants will receive their CME certificate from ASSP. The certification is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed by taking an additional exam or completing continuing education courses related to electrical safety topics.

10. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Maintenance Electrician

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Maintenance Electrician is a certification program that provides electricians with the knowledge and skills to properly maintain electrical systems. This certification is designed for those who are responsible for the maintenance, repair, installation, and inspection of electrical systems in residential, commercial, or industrial settings.

To become an NFPA Certified Maintenance Electrician, individuals must have a minimum of five years of experience in the field and must pass an exam administered by the National Fire Protection Association. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as electrical safety, circuit protection devices, wiring methods, grounding systems, and other related topics. The practical portion requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to properly install and maintain electrical equipment.

The cost to become an NFPA Certified Maintenance Electrician varies depending on the provider offering the certification program. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $400-$800 USD for both portions of the exam. Additionally, some providers may also require applicants to purchase study materials or attend training courses prior to taking the exam.

Overall, becoming an NFPA Certified Maintenance Electrician is a great way for electricians to demonstrate their expertise in maintaining electrical systems safely and efficiently. It can also provide them with additional job opportunities as many employers prefer hiring certified professionals over those without any certifications or qualifications.

11. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour Electrical Safety Training Course

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour Electrical Safety Training Course is a comprehensive training program designed to provide workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to work safely around electricity. The course covers topics such as electrical safety, lockout/tagout procedures, grounding and bonding, arc flash hazards, and more. It is intended for workers who are exposed to electrical hazards in the workplace.

The OSHA 10-Hour Electrical Safety Training Course typically takes 10 hours to complete. This includes classroom instruction as well as hands-on activities that reinforce the concepts taught in the course. The course can be taken online or in person at an approved training center.

The cost of the OSHA 10-Hour Electrical Safety Training Course varies depending on where you take it and how you take it. Online courses typically cost between $50-$100 while in-person courses may cost up to $200 or more depending on location and provider.

Overall, the OSHA 10-Hour Electrical Safety Training Course provides workers with essential knowledge about working safely around electricity so they can protect themselves from potential hazards in their workplace.

Do You Really Need a Maintenance Electrician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on what type of electrical work you plan to do. If you are only working on a few small projects, then the answer is probably no, you do not need a maintenance electrician certificate. However, if you plan to take on larger projects or work with more complex systems, then it would be wise to obtain a maintenance electrician certificate.

A maintenance electrician certificate is issued by an accredited institution and requires that the individual demonstrate competency in electrical safety and installation. This includes knowledge of building codes and safety regulations, as well as being able to troubleshoot and repair electrical systems. A maintenance electrician must also be certified in basic first aid, CPR, and be able to read blueprints and diagrams.

Having a maintenance electrician certificate can help make sure that the job is done correctly the first time. It also shows potential employers that you are knowledgeable in the field of electrical work and have taken the time to become certified in it. This demonstrates your commitment to safety and quality workmanship which can set you apart from other applicants.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a maintenance electrician certificate depends on what type of electrical work you plan to do. If you are taking on larger projects or working with more complex systems, then obtaining a certificate will show potential employers that you are committed to safety and quality workmanship.

Related: Maintenance Electrician Resume Examples

FAQs About Maintenance Electrician Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a maintenance electrician?

Answer: To become a maintenance electrician, you must have a valid electrical certification, such as an Electrician's Certificate of Qualification or Journeyman Electrician's License. You may also need to complete additional training and meet local licensing requirements.

2. How much does it cost to get certified as a maintenance electrician?

Answer: The cost of obtaining certification as a maintenance electrician varies depending on the type of certification you are seeking and your location. Generally, the cost can range from $200 to $1000 or more.

3. What is the difference between a journeyman and master electrician license?

Answer: A journeyman electrician license allows an individual to work under the supervision of a master electrician in the installation and repair of electrical systems. A master electrician license allows an individual to design, install, maintain, and repair all types of electrical systems without direct supervision.

4. Is there any way to renew my maintenance electrician certification?

Answer: Yes, you can renew your maintenance electrician certification by completing continuing education courses or by taking an exam administered by your state’s electrical board.

5. Are there any special requirements for working with hazardous materials?

Answer: Yes, if you will be working with hazardous materials, such as flammable liquids or gases, you may need additional certifications or training in order to comply with safety regulations.