Top 11 Maintenance Worker Certifications

Certifications are important for maintenance workers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and knowledge in their profession. They show potential employers that the worker has been trained to handle specific tasks and can be relied upon to complete them correctly. Certifications also provide an extra layer of assurance that the worker is up-to-date on safety protocols and industry standards, which is crucial for any job involving the repair or upkeep of machines and equipment. In addition, certifications are often required for certain positions, so having them can give job seekers a competitive edge over other applicants who lack the same qualifications.

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

What are Maintenance Worker Certifications?

Maintenance worker certification is a professional credential that certifies an individual’s knowledge and skills in maintenance work. It is designed to ensure that individuals have the necessary expertise and experience to effectively perform their duties in a safe and efficient manner. Maintenance workers are responsible for keeping buildings and machinery in good condition, so having a certification helps employers choose qualified individuals who can do the job correctly.

Maintenance worker certification programs usually involve both classroom instruction and hands-on training. During the program, students learn about safety protocols, proper use of tools and equipment, preventive maintenance techniques, troubleshooting procedures, repair methods, and more. The program also provides an opportunity for students to gain practical experience by working with experienced technicians on actual projects. By completing a maintenance worker certification program, individuals demonstrate their commitment to excellence in their field of work.

Having a maintenance worker certification can help employees secure better jobs with higher salaries or advancement opportunities within their companies. It also gives them an edge over other applicants when applying for positions at new companies since they have proven experience in this field. Additionally, many employers require maintenance workers to hold a valid certification as part of their hiring requirements. In some cases, companies may even offer additional benefits or pay increases for certified maintenance workers due to the increased level of proficiency these individuals possess.

Pro Tip: Maintenance worker certification is a great way to ensure that your maintenance staff is up-to-date on the latest safety protocols and techniques. It also provides a valuable credential for job seekers, as employers will often look favorably upon those who have completed such training.

Related: What does a Maintenance Worker do?

Top 11 Maintenance Worker Certifications

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

1. Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP)

Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) is a professional certification issued by the Society for Maintenance & Reliability Professionals (SMRP). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate expertise in maintenance, reliability and physical asset management. The CMRP designation is the only internationally recognized certification for maintenance and reliability professionals.

The CMRP exam consists of 180 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as asset management, preventive/predictive maintenance, root cause analysis, reliability centered maintenance, lubrication and oil analysis, condition monitoring and diagnostics, mechanical components, electrical systems and more. Candidates must have at least two years of experience in the field to qualify for the exam.

To get the CMRP certification, candidates must pass an online exam administered by SMRP. The cost of the exam is $400 USD for SMRP members and $500 USD for non-members. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete. Once a candidate passes the exam they will receive their CMRP designation which is valid for five years before renewal is required.

2. Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM)

Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Asset Management Professionals (AAMP). It is designed to provide plant maintenance professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage a plant's maintenance operations. The CPMM certification is intended for those who have at least five years of experience in the field, and it provides recognition of their expertise and commitment to excellence.

The CPMM certification process requires that applicants complete an online application form, submit supporting documentation, pass an exam, and pay a fee. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as preventive maintenance, safety regulations, budgeting and cost control, asset management principles, plant operations, and more.

The CPMM certification process typically takes between four to six weeks to complete. The cost of the program varies depending on the level of certification sought; however, most certifications range from $500-$1,000 USD.

3. Certified Maintenance and Operations Manager (CMOM)

Certified Maintenance and Operations Manager (CMOM) is a certification program designed to recognize experienced maintenance and operations professionals who have demonstrated the highest level of knowledge, skills, and abilities in managing maintenance and operations activities. It is offered by the American Public Works Association (APWA) and is recognized as a professional credential in the field of public works.

To get CMOM certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least five years of experience in public works or related fields. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as asset management, budgeting and finance, environmental management, safety and security, customer service, personnel management, operational planning and project management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours.

The cost for the CMOM certification program varies depending on the applicant's membership status with APWA. Non-members are required to pay a $400 fee for the application process plus an additional $150 for the examination fee. APWA members can take advantage of discounted rates; they pay only $200 for both fees combined.

Once an applicant has successfully passed their exam, they will receive their CMOM certificate from APWA within four to six weeks after passing their test.

4. Certified Maintenance Technician (CMT)

A Certified Maintenance Technician (CMT) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and skills in the maintenance, repair, and installation of industrial equipment. This certification is offered by the International Society for Automation (ISA).

In order to become a CMT, an individual must pass an exam administered by ISA. The exam covers topics such as electrical systems, mechanical systems, fluid power systems, instrumentation and control systems, safety practices and procedures, and other related topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost of taking the CMT exam varies depending on the country in which it is taken. In the United States, the cost is $200 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or obtaining study materials.

Once an individual has successfully passed the CMT exam they will receive their certification from ISA. This certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires passing a recertification exam or completing continuing education credits.

5. Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (CIMM)

Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (CIMM) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of industrial maintenance mechanics. This certification is offered by the International Maintenance Institute (IMI).

The CIMM program consists of two parts: a written examination and an on-site performance assessment. The written exam covers topics such as safety, electrical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, machine shop operations, mechanical systems, welding and fabrication. The performance assessment requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to troubleshoot and repair equipment in a simulated industrial environment.

To qualify for the CIMM certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in industrial maintenance or equivalent training from an accredited institution. They must also pass the written exam with a score of 80% or higher and complete the performance assessment with a score of 85% or higher.

The cost of the CIMM certification program varies depending on the provider offering it. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 to $2,500 USD for both parts of the program combined. It typically takes anywhere from one to two weeks to complete all requirements for certification.

6. Certified Predictive Maintenance Technician (CPT)

Certified Predictive Maintenance Technician (CPT) is a certification program designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to use predictive maintenance techniques for preventive and corrective maintenance. Predictive maintenance is a proactive approach that uses data-driven analytics and advanced technologies to monitor equipment performance, identify potential problems, and take corrective action before failure occurs.

The CPT certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in the field of predictive maintenance or related disciplines such as industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, or electrical engineering. Applicants must also pass an online exam consisting of multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as vibration analysis, thermography, oil analysis, ultrasonic testing, and other predictive maintenance methods.

The CPT certification can be obtained through the International Society for Predictive Maintenance (ISPMA). The cost of the certification is $395 USD plus applicable taxes. It typically takes about four weeks to receive the results from the online exam.

7. Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a mastery of reliability engineering principles and practices. The CRE certification is globally recognized as a symbol of excellence in reliability engineering.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least four years of experience in quality-related fields, and passing an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as reliability theory, statistical analysis, system design and maintenance, and risk management.

The CRE certification process typically takes between two to six months to complete. Applicants must submit an application form to ASQ along with the required fee before they can take the exam. The fee for the CRE certification is $450 USD for members of ASQ and $650 USD for non-members.

8. Certified Facility Manager (CFM)

Certified Facility Manager (CFM) is a professional designation earned through the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). It is a globally recognized certification that recognizes and validates the knowledge, experience, and expertise of facility managers. The CFM demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their profession and dedication to excellence in facility management.

It takes approximately 8-12 months to get the CFM certification. To be eligible for the CFM, you must meet one of the following criteria: have at least five years of full-time experience in the field of facility management; hold a bachelor’s degree or higher; or have completed IFMA’s Facility Management Professional (FMP) program.

To get your CFM, you must complete an online application and submit it along with a fee of $395 USD ($495 USD for non-members). You will then need to pass an exam covering topics such as leadership, operations & maintenance, finance & business, human factors, project management, quality & risk management, communication & technology. After passing the exam you can become a Certified Facility Manager.

The cost for becoming a Certified Facility Manager includes the application fee ($395 USD/$495 USD for non-members), exam fees ($295 USD/$395 USD for non-members), study materials ($400-$600 USD depending on which materials you choose), and any additional costs associated with travel or lodging if necessary.

9. HVAC Certification

HVAC Certification is a type of certification that is required for those who wish to work in the HVAC field. It is an important credential that demonstrates one’s knowledge and experience in the installation, repair, and maintenance of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.

In order to obtain HVAC Certification, individuals must complete a training program or apprenticeship that meets the standards set by their state or local government. Most programs require at least two years of study and can take up to four years depending on the level of certification desired. During this time, students will learn about air flow dynamics, electrical systems, safety protocols, and other related topics.

Once an individual has completed their training program or apprenticeship they must pass a written exam to become certified. This exam is administered by either a state-approved agency or trade organization such as NATE (North American Technician Excellence). The cost of the exam varies depending on the organization administering it but typically ranges from $200 - $500 USD.

After passing the written exam, some states may also require applicants to pass a practical exam where they demonstrate their skills in installing and repairing HVAC systems. The cost of this exam varies but typically ranges from $100 - $300 USD.

Once an individual has passed all necessary exams they will receive their HVAC Certification which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal typically requires completion of additional courses or continuing education credits approved by their state or local government.

10. EPA 608 Certification

EPA 608 Certification is a certification program offered by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that certifies individuals in the servicing and disposal of regulated refrigerants. It is required for anyone who works with or handles regulated refrigerants, such as those used in air conditioning, heat pumps, and commercial refrigeration systems. The certification covers four types of technician categories: Type I, Type II, Type III, and Universal.

The EPA 608 Certification exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety practices, regulations, handling of refrigerants, and other related topics. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get certified for EPA 608 Certification, you must first register with an approved testing organization such as Prometric or PSI Exams. Once registered, you will be able to schedule your exam at a local testing center. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will receive your certificate within 4-6 weeks.

The cost for EPA 608 Certification varies depending on the testing organization you choose to register with but typically ranges from $50-$100 USD.

11. OSHA 10/30 Certification

OSHA 10/30 Certification is a certification program designed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure that workers are knowledgeable about safety and health standards in the workplace. The OSHA 10/30 Certification program consists of two parts: OSHA 10-Hour Course and OSHA 30-Hour Course.

The OSHA 10-Hour Course is designed for entry-level workers, supervisors, and safety directors who need basic safety and health training. It covers topics such as hazard recognition, accident prevention, workplace safety inspections, personal protective equipment (PPE), fire safety, electrical safety, machine guarding, ergonomics, fall protection, and more. The course takes approximately ten hours to complete and can be taken either online or in person at an approved training center.

The OSHA 30-Hour Course is designed for supervisors or workers with some experience in the field who need more advanced training on topics related to workplace safety. This course covers topics such as hazard communication, lockout/tagout procedures, material handling, scaffolding safety, recordkeeping requirements, hazardous materials management systems (HMMS), emergency action plans (EAPs), bloodborne pathogens standard (BBP), confined space entry procedures, lead exposure control plans (LECPs), and more. The course takes approximately thirty hours to complete and can be taken either online or in person at an approved training center.

To get certified through the OSHA 10/30 Certification program you must complete both the 10-hour course and the 30-hour course within a five year period. Upon successful completion of both courses you will receive your certification card which is valid for five years from the date of issue.

The cost of taking these courses varies depending on where you take them but typically ranges from $100-$500 per person per course.

Do You Really Need a Maintenance Worker Certificate?

When it comes to deciding whether or not you need a Maintenance Worker Certificate, the answer depends on your particular situation. The certificate is an optional qualification that can be beneficial in some cases, but it is not essential for all maintenance workers.

Whether or not you need a Maintenance Worker Certificate depends on what type of work you are doing and where you are doing it. If you are working in a factory, for example, then having a certificate may be required by your employer or it may give you an advantage when competing with other applicants for the same job. In this case, obtaining the certificate could be beneficial to help further your career prospects.

On the other hand, if you are working as a maintenance worker in residential settings such as homes and apartments, then having a certificate may not be necessary. In this case, employers may be more interested in seeing proof of experience and references from previous customers rather than certifications.

In summary, whether or not you need a Maintenance Worker Certificate depends on your specific situation and the type of work that you will be doing. If obtaining the certification is likely to benefit your career prospects then it can definitely be worth considering getting one; however if it is unnecessary for the job then there is no need to pursue it.

Related: Maintenance Worker Resume Examples

FAQs About Maintenance Worker Certifications

1. What certifications are available for maintenance workers?

Answer: There are several certifications available for maintenance workers, such as Certified Maintenance Technician (CMT), Certified Maintenance Reliability Technician (CMRT), Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM), and Certified Building Maintenance Technician (CBMT).

2. What qualifications do I need to become a certified maintenance worker?

Answer: Generally, the qualifications required to become a certified maintenance worker include having at least three years of experience in the field and completing an accredited training program or apprenticeship.

3. How long is a certification valid for?

Answer: Certifications typically remain valid for two to three years, depending on the certification and the issuing organization.

4. Does certification guarantee employment?

Answer: No, certification does not guarantee employment; however, having a certification can make you more attractive to employers and can help you stand out from other applicants.

5. Does certification provide salary increases?

Answer: Yes, many employers offer salary increases for certified maintenance workers due to their greater knowledge and skillset in the field.