Top 10 Maintenance Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for a maintenance specialist in the job market because they provide proof of the individual’s skills and qualifications. Certifications can help demonstrate a person’s competency and knowledge of certain areas, such as electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC systems, and carpentry. Having these certifications can give a maintenance specialist an edge over other applicants who may not have them. Additionally, some employers may require certifications in order to be considered for certain positions or promotions. Certifications can also serve as a way to build credibility and trust with potential customers and employers.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Maintenance Specialists and explains how they can help to advance a Maintenance Specialist's career.

What are Maintenance Specialist Certifications?

Maintenance specialist certification is a professional credential for individuals who specialize in preventative and corrective maintenance of industrial equipment. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge, skills and abilities in the areas of safety, electrical, mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Maintenance specialists play an important role in the operation of large-scale industrial facilities by ensuring that equipment is running properly and safely.

Maintenance specialist certification can help individuals gain recognition for their expertise in the field and provide them with the opportunity to advance their careers. It also demonstrates a commitment to safety and best practices in maintenance operations. With a certification, employers are more likely to trust that an individual has the necessary skills to perform their job effectively. Additionally, having a certification may give an individual access to higher-level positions or increased pay due to increased responsibility or specialized knowledge. Finally, it can provide a sense of accomplishment as well as pride in the work they do each day.

Pro Tip: When considering a maintenance specialist certification, look for programs that are accredited by a recognized authority in the field. This will ensure that you receive the most up-to-date information and guidance on best practices for proper maintenance of equipment and systems.

Related: What does a Maintenance Specialist do?

Top 10 Maintenance Specialist Certifications

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

1. HVAC/R Maintenance Technician Certification

HVAC/R Maintenance Technician Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. This certification is typically obtained through a program at a technical school or community college.

The length of time it takes to get certified varies depending on the program. Generally, it takes between six months and two years to complete the required coursework and obtain certification.

To become certified as an HVAC/R Maintenance Technician, individuals must complete an approved program at a technical school or community college. After completing the program, they must pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying organization such as NATE (North American Technician Excellence) or HVAC Excellence.

The cost of obtaining HVAC/R Maintenance Technician Certification depends on the program chosen. Generally speaking, programs range from $1,000 to $4,000 for tuition and fees. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the certification exam.

2. Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP)

Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) is a certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skills, and abilities in maintenance, reliability, and physical asset management. This certification is offered through the Society for Maintenance & Reliability Professionals (SMRP).

The CMRP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that tests their knowledge of maintenance and reliability principles. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as maintenance planning and scheduling, root cause analysis, lubrication practices, condition monitoring, and safety procedures.

To be eligible to sit for the CMRP exam, applicants must meet certain educational or work experience requirements. Those with a bachelor’s degree or higher in engineering or technology can qualify with three years of related work experience. Those without a four-year degree must have five years of related work experience.

The cost to take the CMRP exam is $450 for SMRP members and $550 for non-members. The exam is offered twice per year at testing centers around the world. It typically takes up to six weeks after registering to receive an authorization letter from SMRP allowing you to schedule your exam date.

3. Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM)

Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM) is a certification program offered by the Association of Asset Management Professionals (AAMP). The certification is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in managing the maintenance and operations of industrial plants.

The CPMM certification program consists of four core modules: Plant Maintenance Fundamentals, Plant Maintenance Management, Plant Maintenance Operations, and Plant Maintenance Safety. Each module requires completion of a series of courses and exams. Upon successful completion of all four modules, candidates are eligible to receive their CPMM certification.

The entire process can take up to six months depending on the candidate's availability and commitment to completing the required coursework. Candidates must also be able to demonstrate their knowledge through an exam, which is administered at AAMP-approved testing centers.

The cost for the CPMM certification program varies depending on the number of modules completed and other factors such as location and fees associated with testing centers. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD.

4. Certified Maintenance and Operations Management Professional (CMOMP)

Certified Maintenance and Operations Management Professional (CMOMP) is a professional certification offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and proficiency in maintenance and operations management.

The CMOMP certification requires passing an exam, which covers topics such as maintenance strategies, preventive maintenance, asset management, safety and environmental compliance, quality control, supply chain management, and project management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and can take up to three hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CMOMP certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in maintenance or operations management roles. They must also have completed at least 40 hours of professional development activities related to the field within the last three years.

The cost of taking the CMOMP exam varies depending on your country or region. In the United States, it costs $495 for members of APICS and $595 for non-members.

5. Certified Building Maintenance Supervisor (CBMS)

Certified Building Maintenance Supervisor (CBMS) is a professional certification program developed by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). It is designed to recognize and certify individuals who have demonstrated superior knowledge and experience in the field of building maintenance. The program focuses on core competencies such as preventive maintenance, energy management, safety and environmental compliance, customer service, budgeting and financial management, project management, and technical troubleshooting.

The CBMS program consists of three levels: Certified Building Maintenance Technician (CBMT), Certified Building Maintenance Manager (CBMM), and Certified Building Maintenance Supervisor (CBMS). To be eligible for the CBMS certification, an individual must first earn the CBMT or CBMM certifications.

It typically takes two to three years to complete all three levels of certification. The cost varies depending on the level of certification being sought. The cost for the CBMT certification is $395 USD; for the CBMM it is $495 USD; and for the CBMS it is $595 USD.

6. Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Certification (IMM)

Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Certification (IMM) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of industrial maintenance mechanics. The IMM certification is offered by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and is recognized as a standard of excellence in the industry.

The IMM certification requires an individual to pass an exam that covers topics such as safety, electrical systems, mechanical systems, welding, hydraulics, pneumatics, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours.

To get certified, individuals must first complete an approved training program or have at least three years of documented experience in industrial maintenance mechanic work. After completing the required training or experience requirements, individuals can then register for the IMM exam through NCCER's website.

The cost of taking the IMM exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically costs around $200-$300. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining your IMM certification once you pass the exam.

Overall, obtaining your Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Certification can take anywhere from several months to a year depending on how quickly you complete your training or gain experience in the field.

7. Certified Facility Manager (CFM)

Certified Facility Manager (CFM) is a professional certification program offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). The CFM credential is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of facility management professionals.

The CFM program consists of three components: an online application, a comprehensive exam, and a professional portfolio review. The application process requires applicants to provide evidence of their educational background, work experience, and other qualifications related to facility management. Once the application is approved, applicants must pass the comprehensive exam which covers topics such as operations and maintenance, finance and business management, human resources and communications, environmental stewardship and sustainability, leadership and strategy, project management, risk management and safety.

The final step in obtaining the CFM credential is to submit a professional portfolio for review. This portfolio should include documents that demonstrate an applicant’s knowledge in facility management practices such as policies & procedures manuals; budgeting & financial analysis; space planning & design; energy conservation plans; emergency preparedness plans; environmental compliance reports; sustainability initiatives; etc.

It usually takes 3-6 months to complete all steps of the CFM certification process from start to finish. The cost of obtaining the CFM credential depends on whether you are an IFMA member or not. For non-members it typically costs between $600-$800 USD while members pay around $400-$500 USD for their certification fees.

8. Building Automation System Technician Certification

Building Automation System Technician Certification is a professional certification program that provides recognition to individuals who demonstrate knowledge and expertise in the installation, programming, maintenance, and troubleshooting of building automation systems. This certification is offered by the Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA).

The certification process requires applicants to pass a written exam that covers topics such as system design, installation, programming, maintenance and troubleshooting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must also have at least two years of experience in the field of building automation systems or equivalent education.

To obtain the certification, applicants must submit an application form along with the appropriate fees. The fee for taking the exam is $200 USD. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their Building Automation System Technician Certification certificate.

The certification is valid for three years from the date it was issued. To maintain active status after three years, applicants must complete continuing education credits or retake the exam every three years.

Overall, obtaining Building Automation System Technician Certification can be a valuable asset for those looking to advance their careers in this field. It demonstrates knowledge and expertise in this area and can open up new opportunities for employment or advancement within existing positions.

9. Electrical Maintenance Technician Certification

Electrical Maintenance Technician Certification is a professional certification program designed to help technicians demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of electrical maintenance. This certification is offered by organizations such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) and the International Society of Electrical Technicians (ISET).

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on which organization you choose to go through, but typically it takes between six months and two years. To become certified, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as electrical safety, installation, troubleshooting, and repair. You will also need to complete a certain number of hours of hands-on training or experience in the field.

To get certified, you will need to contact the organization offering the certification program and apply for it. You will be required to submit proof of your education and experience, pay any applicable fees, and take the exam. The cost varies depending on which organization you choose to go through, but usually ranges from $200-$500 USD.

Once you have successfully passed the exam and met all other requirements, you will receive your certificate indicating that you are an Electrical Maintenance Technician. This certification can help open up new job opportunities or provide a competitive advantage when applying for jobs in this field.

10. Plumbing Systems Maintenance Technician Certification

Plumbing Systems Maintenance Technician Certification is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE). It is designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain and repair plumbing systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The certification consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on practical exam.

The online course covers topics such as plumbing system components, installation techniques, troubleshooting methods, safety practices, and code compliance. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the course.

The hands-on practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to install and repair plumbing systems in a simulated environment. This exam must be taken at an approved testing center. It typically takes 2-3 hours to complete the exam.

The cost for the Plumbing Systems Maintenance Technician Certification program varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

Do You Really Need a Maintenance Specialist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals. If you are looking for a career in the maintenance field, then having a Maintenance Specialist Certificate may be beneficial for you. With this certificate, you will have proof of your knowledge and expertise in the field which can help you stand out from other job applicants.

Having a Maintenance Specialist Certificate may also give you access to better job opportunities. Employers often look for individuals who have taken the extra step to gain specialized knowledge and skills related to maintenance and repairs. Having this certification may make it easier for employers to identify qualified candidates who have the right qualifications for a particular position.

On the other hand, if you are already working in the maintenance field and just want to expand your knowledge, then obtaining a Maintenance Specialist Certificate may not be necessary. You can still learn more about maintenance through online courses or by reading books and magazines in order to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

Overall, whether or not you need a Maintenance Specialist Certificate depends on what type of career path you wish to take in maintenance and repair work. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, then obtaining this certificate could be beneficial for you as it shows employers that you have taken steps to gain specialized knowledge and skills related to this area of work.

Related: Maintenance Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Maintenance Specialist Certifications

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

Answer: To become a maintenance specialist, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and some on-the-job training or experience. Depending on the type of job, you may also need additional certifications or licenses.

2. Are there any specific certifications for maintenance specialists?

Answer: Yes, there are several certifications available for maintenance specialists, including those from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

3. How much does a maintenance specialist certification cost?

Answer: The cost of certification varies depending on the organization offering it and the type of certification being sought. Generally speaking, costs range from around $400-$900 USD.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a maintenance specialist?

Answer: It typically takes anywhere from three months to one year to complete all the requirements necessary to obtain a certification as a maintenance specialist. This includes completing coursework, attending lectures, and taking exams.

5. What are some of the benefits of becoming certified as a maintenance specialist?

Answer: Becoming certified as a maintenance specialist can open up more opportunities for career advancement and higher pay in the field. Additionally, having this level of specialized knowledge can make you more attractive to potential employers and customers alike as well as give you greater credibility in your field.