Top 10 Maintenance Mechanic Certifications

Certifications are important for maintenance mechanics in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has a certain level of expertise and knowledge in their field. Certifications provide employers with the assurance that an employee is capable of performing the duties required by a particular job. Additionally, certifications may provide access to higher paying or more desirable positions. Certifications also show that an individual is committed to their profession and willing to invest time and effort into becoming more knowledgeable and skilled.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Maintenance Mechanics and explains how they can help enhance and advance a maintenance mechanic's career.

What are Maintenance Mechanic Certifications?

Maintenance mechanic certification is a type of professional credential that validates the skills and knowledge of individuals who work as maintenance mechanics. Maintenance mechanics are responsible for the repair and maintenance of industrial and commercial equipment, such as pumps, motors, engines, conveyors, boilers, and other components. Achieving certification in this field demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in troubleshooting and repairing these types of equipment.

Having a maintenance mechanic certification can help individuals secure more job opportunities in this field since employers prefer to hire certified professionals who have demonstrated their ability to perform these tasks safely and effectively. It can also help those who already work in this field advance their careers by increasing their marketability. Additionally, certifications provide a platform for maintenance mechanics to stay up-to-date on the latest technology and industry standards. Certified professionals also receive discounts on products or services related to their work. Finally, having a maintenance mechanic certification can open doors to higher paying positions or specialized roles within companies.

Pro Tip: When obtaining a maintenance mechanic certification, make sure to look for certifications that are accredited by a reputable organization and that have been verified by industry experts. This will ensure that you are receiving the highest quality of education and training available.

Related: What does a Maintenance Mechanic do?

Top 10 Maintenance Mechanic Certifications

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

1. Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP)

Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) is a certification program offered by the Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in maintenance and reliability practices. The certification is based on a comprehensive body of knowledge that covers topics such as maintenance planning, scheduling, preventive/predictive maintenance, root cause analysis, asset management, and safety.

To obtain the CMRP certification, applicants must pass an examination that tests their knowledge of maintenance and reliability principles. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that are divided into four sections: maintenance planning and scheduling, preventive/predictive maintenance, root cause analysis, and asset management. Applicants must answer at least 75% of the questions correctly to pass the exam.

The cost to take the CMRP exam varies depending on whether or not you are an SMRP member. For non-members, the fee is $450 USD; for members, it is $350 USD. The exam can be taken online or at one of SMRP's testing centers located throughout the United States.

It typically takes about two weeks for applicants to receive their results after taking the exam. If successful in passing the exam, applicants will receive their CMRP certification within six weeks from when they applied for it.

2. Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM)

Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced plant maintenance managers. It is offered by the Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE), an international organization dedicated to advancing professional development in the engineering and facility management industry.

The CPMM certification requires applicants to have a minimum of five years of experience in plant maintenance management, as well as a bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field. The program consists of two parts: an online assessment and an on-site examination. The online assessment covers topics such as safety, maintenance planning, scheduling, budgeting, and project management. The on-site exam focuses on hands-on skills such as troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and equipment repair.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CPMM certification process from start to finish. To get started, applicants must register with AFE and pay a $150 registration fee. Once registered, applicants will receive study materials that include practice tests and other resources to prepare for the assessments. After completing the online assessment and passing the on-site exam, applicants will receive their CPMM certification from AFE.

The cost of obtaining a CPMM certification includes the $150 registration fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exams or purchasing study materials. Depending on individual circumstances, these costs can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.

3. Certified Maintenance and Operations Technician (CMOT)

Certified Maintenance and Operations Technician (CMOT) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who work in the maintenance and operations field. It is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of maintenance and operations including safety, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, installation, and more.

The CMOT certification is offered by the Association for Maintenance Professionals (AMP). To receive this certification, applicants must meet certain prerequisites such as having a minimum of two years of experience in the field or completing an approved training program. Once these requirements are met, applicants can take an online exam to demonstrate their knowledge of the topics covered in the CMOT curriculum. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of maintenance and operations.

The cost to take the CMOT exam varies depending on whether you are taking it for recertification or initial certification. For initial certification, it costs $395 USD plus applicable taxes; for recertification it costs $295 USD plus applicable taxes. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your official CMOT certificate which is valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years you will need to renew your certification by taking an additional online exam or attending a refresher course.

4. Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (CIMM)

Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (CIMM) is a credential that recognizes the expertise and experience of industrial maintenance mechanics. The certification is offered by the International Maintenance Institute (IMI), an organization dedicated to providing professional development and certification for industrial maintenance professionals.

To qualify for the CIMM, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in industrial maintenance or related fields, as well as a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as safety, electrical systems, pneumatics, hydraulics, and mechanical systems.

The process to become certified typically takes about six months. To get started, applicants must fill out an application form and submit it to IMI along with their resume and proof of experience. Once approved, applicants will receive a study guide and can register for the exam. The exam fee is $200 USD and can be taken online or in person at one of IMI's testing centers.

The cost to become certified varies depending on whether you take the exam online or in person, but overall it usually costs around $400 USD including the application fee and exam fee.

5. Journeyman Industrial Mechanic (JIM)

Journeyman Industrial Mechanic (JIM) is a certification that is awarded to individuals who have completed an apprenticeship program and successfully passed the certification exam. This certification shows employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform industrial maintenance tasks.

It typically takes four years of on-the-job training and related instruction to complete an apprenticeship program in order to become a Journeyman Industrial Mechanic. Apprentices must also pass a comprehensive exam in order to receive their certification.

In order to get started, interested individuals should contact their local trade union or apprenticeship office for more information about available programs. They should also research potential employers in their area that may offer apprenticeships. Once accepted into an apprenticeship program, individuals will be required to attend classes and gain hands-on experience under the supervision of a qualified journeyman industrial mechanic.

The cost of becoming a Journeyman Industrial Mechanic varies depending on the program chosen, but most programs require tuition fees, books, tools and other materials. Additionally, some programs may require additional fees for testing or licensing.

6. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification is a nationally recognized certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of automotive service professionals. It is an independent, third-party organization that tests and certifies automotive technicians in the United States and Canada. The ASE Certification program was created to help ensure that technicians have the necessary skills to properly diagnose, repair, and maintain today’s complex vehicles.

The ASE Certification program consists of a series of exams covering different areas of automotive service. To become certified, technicians must pass at least one exam in each of the eight specialty areas: Automobile & Light Truck, Medium/Heavy Truck, Collision Repair & Refinish, Parts Specialist, Advanced Engine Performance Specialist, Electronic Diesel Engine Diagnosis Specialist, Automotive Maintenance & Light Repair Technician, and School Bus Technician. Technicians can also choose to take additional exams for other specialties such as Alternative Fuels or Undercar Specialist.

It typically takes about two years for a technician to complete all of the required exams for ASE Certification. Each exam costs $44 for members and $54 for non-members. There are also study materials available from ASE which can help prepare technicians for their exams.

To get started with the ASE Certification process, technicians should first register with ASE by creating an account on their website. After registering they will be able to view available exam dates and locations as well as purchase study materials if desired. On the day of their exam they will need to bring two forms of identification such as a driver’s license or passport along with payment for their exam fee(s). Once they have passed all required exams they will receive their official ASE Certification card in the mail within 4-6 weeks after testing.

7. HVAC/R Certification

HVAC/R Certification is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's knowledge and skills in the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems (HVAC/R). This certification is typically obtained through a trade school or other educational institution.

The length of time it takes to obtain HVAC/R Certification depends on the individual's experience level. For those with no prior experience in the field, it may take up to two years to complete the necessary coursework and training. Those with prior experience may be able to complete the program in less time.

To get HVAC/R Certification, individuals must pass a written exam administered by a third-party organization such as NATE (North American Technician Excellence), RSES (Refrigeration Service Engineers Society), or HVAC Excellence. The exam tests an individual's understanding of HVAC/R principles, practices, and procedures.

The cost of obtaining HVAC/R Certification varies depending on the program chosen and any additional materials needed for study. Generally speaking, tuition for a two-year program can range from $5,000-$15,000; however, some programs offer discounted rates for veterans or those who qualify for financial aid. Additionally, many programs offer payment plans to help make tuition more affordable.

8. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification is a professional certification program that tests and certifies automotive professionals in the repair, maintenance, and diagnosis of vehicles. It is designed to ensure that automotive technicians have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality service.

To become ASE certified, an individual must pass one or more of the ASE examinations. The exams cover a variety of topics related to vehicle repair, including brakes, engine performance, electrical systems, air conditioning, suspension and steering systems, and more. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions and must be taken at an authorized testing center.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all the requirements for ASE certification. To get started on the path to becoming ASE certified, individuals must first register with ASE and pay a registration fee. After registering with ASE, individuals can then purchase study materials from their local auto parts store or online from ASE's website. Once they have studied for the exams and feel prepared to take them, they can schedule an appointment at an authorized testing center.

The cost of becoming ASE certified varies depending on how many exams are taken; however, it typically ranges from $50-$150 per exam plus any applicable registration fees.

9. National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certification

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) is an industry-recognized certification program that provides standardized, industry-recognized credentials to construction professionals. It is designed to assess the knowledge and skills of individuals in various areas of the construction industry.

NCCER Certification is available in a variety of areas, such as carpentry, electrical, welding, masonry, plumbing, HVACR and more. The certification process typically takes between four and eight weeks to complete depending on the type of credential being sought. To obtain NCCER Certification, individuals must first complete a minimum number of hours of training in their chosen field. Once this requirement has been met, they must then pass an assessment test administered by NCCER.

The cost for obtaining NCCER Certification varies depending on the type of credential being sought. Generally speaking, most credentials cost between $100 and $300 per person. This fee covers the cost of the training materials and assessment test required for certification.

10. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder program is a certification program that recognizes welders who demonstrate their knowledge and skills in welding technology. The AWS Certified Welder program is designed to provide employers with assurance of the welder’s qualifications and abilities.

To become an AWS Certified Welder, candidates must pass a written test and complete a hands-on welding performance qualification test. The written test covers topics such as welding theory, safety, metallurgy, and quality control. The performance qualification test requires welders to demonstrate their ability to produce sound welds according to specified criteria.

It typically takes about two weeks for a candidate to complete the process of becoming an AWS Certified Welder. Candidates must first register for the exam online or by mail. Once registered, they will receive information on the testing location and dates. They will also receive study materials for the written portion of the exam. After studying for the exam, candidates can take the written portion at any approved testing center.

Once they have passed the written portion of the exam, they will be given instructions on how to schedule their performance qualification test with an approved testing facility or instructor. During this part of the process, they will be required to demonstrate their welding skills using specific techniques and materials in order to pass the performance qualification test.

The cost of becoming an AWS Certified Welder varies depending on factors such as location and type of certification sought (e.g., Structural Steel). Generally speaking, it costs approximately $400-$600 USD for both parts of the exam (written & practical).

Do You Really Need a Maintenance Mechanic Certificate?

The short answer is yes, you really need a maintenance mechanic certificate. A maintenance mechanic certificate can open up a world of opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career in the field. It serves as proof that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the tasks associated with being a maintenance mechanic.

In addition to providing proof of your competency in the field, having a maintenance mechanic certificate also gives employers confidence that you are qualified to work on their machinery and equipment. This means they are more likely to hire and promote you over someone without such credentials.

A maintenance mechanic certificate can also provide an edge over other applicants when it comes time for job interviews. Employers often look for candidates who have taken the initiative to further their education and demonstrate commitment to their chosen field. Having a certificate shows that you are serious about your career and have invested time and effort into becoming well-versed in the necessary skills.

Finally, having a maintenance mechanic certificate provides access to valuable resources that can help further your career growth. These resources may include industry associations, trade publications, or even continuing education courses or workshops that offer specialized training applicable to the field. These opportunities can help you stay ahead of changes in technology and keep up with current best practices in machine maintenance.

In conclusion, having a maintenance mechanic certificate is essential if you want to pursue this type of career path. It provides proof of your qualifications, gives employers confidence in your abilities, and opens up new opportunities for professional growth and development.

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FAQs About Maintenance Mechanic Certifications

1. What is a Maintenance Mechanic Certification?

Answer: A Maintenance Mechanic Certification is a certificate that recognizes an individual’s skill and knowledge in the maintenance and repair of industrial machinery and equipment. It is issued by professional organizations, such as the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), or through post-secondary institutions.

2. Are Maintenance Mechanic Certifications required for employment?

Answer: While certifications are not always required for employment, they can be beneficial to demonstrate proficiency in the field. Many employers prefer to hire individuals with certification, as it shows a commitment to ongoing education and training.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a Maintenance Mechanic?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified depends on the specific program or institution offering the certification. Generally, most programs require between one and two years of study and practice before taking the final exam.

4. What do I need to do to maintain my Maintenance Mechanic Certification?

Answer: Most certifying bodies require that you complete continuing education credits each year in order to maintain your certification status. This may include attending workshops, seminars or conferences related to maintenance mechanics topics, or taking additional courses related to your field of expertise.

5. Are there any other benefits associated with having a Maintenance Mechanic Certification?

Answer: Yes! Having a certification can often lead to higher wages, increased job opportunities, better job security, and more respect from employers and co-workers alike. Additionally, many certifications come with access to exclusive industry resources that can help further your career development over time.