Top 11 Manufacturing Planner Certifications

Certifications are important for a manufacturing planner in the job market because they demonstrate to employers a commitment to professional development and career growth. Certifications help validate an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the manufacturing planning field. They also help employers recognize the planner's expertise and abilities in the area of production planning, scheduling, inventory management, cost control, quality assurance, and other related areas. In addition to demonstrating competency in the field, certifications can also be used as a bargaining tool during salary negotiations or when seeking promotions.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Manufacturing Planners and explain how they can enhance a manufacturing planner's career.

What are Manufacturing Planner Certifications?

Manufacturing Planner Certification is a professional certification that helps those in the manufacturing industry to demonstrate their competency in the field of planning and scheduling production operations. The certification requires individuals to complete a comprehensive examination that covers topics such as materials management, scheduling principles, production process analysis, capacity planning, inventory control, quality management systems, project management, and forecasting. This certification provides employers with assurance that the certified individual has the necessary knowledge and experience to effectively plan and schedule production operations.

The certification can help individuals by providing them with an advantage when seeking employment or promotion within the manufacturing industry. It demonstrates to potential employers that they have a strong understanding of the concepts related to manufacturing planning and scheduling. Additionally, it can provide access to networking opportunities within the industry as well as recognition among peers for their proficiency in this area. Furthermore, it can also be beneficial in providing individuals with increased job security since they will have a better understanding of how different aspects of the production process interact and affect one another.

Pro Tip: When considering a manufacturing planner certification, make sure to research certifying organizations and programs to ensure that the program is accredited and meets industry standards. Additionally, look for programs that include hands-on experience as this will help you develop the necessary skills for success in the field.

Related: What does a Manufacturing Planner do?

Top 11 Manufacturing Planner Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Manufacturing Planners today.

1. Certified Manufacturing Production and Inventory Management (CM-PIM)

Certified Manufacturing Production and Inventory Management (CM-PIM) is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of professionals in the manufacturing industry. It is offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). The certification is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and techniques of production and inventory management.

The CM-PIM certification requires applicants to complete an online self-assessment exam, followed by a proctored exam at an APICS testing center. The self-assessment exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions that are used to assess the applicant’s knowledge in areas such as supply chain management, operations planning, production control, inventory management, and quality assurance. After completing the self-assessment exam, applicants must pass a proctored exam at an APICS testing center. This exam consists of 120 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as materials management, purchasing and supplier relationships, forecasting techniques, production scheduling methods, inventory control systems, and quality assurance processes.

The CM-PIM certification process typically takes between six and eight weeks from start to finish. Applicants must register for their exams online with APICS prior to taking them. The fee for registering for the self-assessment exam is $125 USD; the fee for registering for the proctored exam is $295 USD.

2. Certified Professional in Production and Inventory Management (CPPIM)

Certified Professional in Production and Inventory Management (CPPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). This certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in production and inventory management.

The CPPIM program requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, production planning and scheduling, quality assurance, cost accounting, and operations research. The exam is administered by APICS and consists of multiple-choice questions.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CPPIM exam. Applicants must first complete an application form with their contact information and educational background. They must also submit proof of their work experience in production and inventory management. After submitting the application form, applicants will receive study materials from APICS which they can use to prepare for the exam.

To obtain the CPPIM certification, applicants must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%. Once they have passed the exam, they will be awarded the CPPIM certification.

The cost of registering for the CPPIM exam varies depending on whether or not you are an APICS member. For non-members, it costs $495 USD while members pay $395 USD.

3. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of supply chain professionals. The CSCP program provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as global supply chain management, customer relations management, inventory and warehouse management, transportation and logistics, and more.

It takes approximately 18-24 months to complete the CSCP program. To get certified, applicants must first complete an online application form and submit it to ASCM. After approval of the application, applicants must complete an online learning program that consists of three courses: Fundamentals of Supply Chain Management; Advanced Supply Chain Management; and Global Sourcing & Logistics. Upon successful completion of all three courses, applicants must pass a rigorous exam in order to become certified.

The cost for the CSCP program varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of ASCM. For members, the cost is $1,495 USD while for non-members it is $1,795 USD. This includes access to all three courses as well as the exam fee.

4. APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)

APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate expertise in logistics, transportation and distribution. The CLTD certification is the first of its kind to focus specifically on these three areas. It provides professionals with an understanding of the latest industry trends, best practices and technologies related to global logistics, transportation and distribution.

The CLTD certification requires successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as: supply chain management, inventory management, warehousing operations, order fulfillment processes, transport operations and customer service. It also includes knowledge of international trade regulations and customs compliance requirements.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have a minimum of two years' experience in logistics, transportation or distribution within the past five years or one year's experience plus a college degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.

To obtain the certification, individuals must pass the exam with a score of at least 500 out of 800 points. The cost for taking the exam is $695 USD for APICS members ($795 USD for non-members). Additional fees may apply if you need to retake the exam or if you are taking it outside North America.

5. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is a certification that demonstrates proficiency in the Lean Six Sigma methodology, which is an improvement process used to reduce waste and increase efficiency. It is designed for professionals who have experience leading or participating in improvement projects and want to learn more about the Lean Six Sigma approach.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification typically takes 8-10 weeks to complete, depending on the program provider. To get certified, you must complete a course of study that covers topics such as understanding customer requirements, using data to identify problems and opportunities for improvement, developing solutions, and implementing improvements. You will also need to pass an exam at the end of the course.

The cost of getting certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt varies depending on the program provider. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 USD.

6. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt is a certification program designed to help individuals develop the skills necessary to identify, analyze, and solve problems in any organization. It combines the principles of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma, two of the most widely used methodologies for improving operational efficiency.

The Lean Six Sigma Black Belt program typically takes three to four months to complete depending on the provider. The course consists of classroom instruction, online learning modules, and hands-on project work. Participants must demonstrate their knowledge of the material by passing a written exam at the end of the program.

To become certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, you must have a minimum of three years’ experience in operations or process improvement. You must also have completed a formal training program from an accredited provider. In some cases, employers may require additional qualifications such as college degrees or certifications in related fields.

The cost of becoming certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt can vary depending on the provider and location. Generally speaking, it will cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 USD for all materials and fees associated with the program. This includes tuition fees, books and materials, exam fees, and other miscellaneous costs such as travel expenses if applicable.

7. Master of Science in Operations Research

Master of Science in Operations Research is a graduate degree program that focuses on the application of quantitative techniques to solve complex problems. It combines elements from mathematics, computer science, engineering, and economics to create models and algorithms for decision making. The program typically takes two years to complete and includes courses in optimization theory, linear programming, probability and statistics, simulation modeling, stochastic processes, and operations research methods.

To get a Master of Science in Operations Research degree, you must have a bachelor's degree in a related field such as mathematics, engineering or computer science. You will need to complete core courses in operations research as well as electives related to your area of specialization. Depending on the school you attend, you may also be required to complete an internship or research project.

The cost of a Master of Science in Operations Research varies depending on the institution you attend. Tuition fees can range from $10,000-$50,000 per year depending on the school and location. In addition to tuition fees there are other costs associated with attending graduate school such as books and materials which can add up quickly.

8. Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

The Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is a graduate degree program that focuses on the management and optimization of global supply chain systems. It covers topics such as logistics, inventory control, transportation, operations research, customer service, global sourcing and procurement, international trade regulations, and information technology. The program typically takes two years to complete if taken full-time or three to four years if taken part-time.

To get a Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree, you must have an undergraduate degree in a related field such as business administration or engineering. You will also need to meet the entrance requirements for the school you are applying to. This usually includes submitting transcripts from your previous college/university studies, letters of recommendation from professors/employers, and taking an admissions test such as the GRE or GMAT.

The cost of a Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management will vary depending on the school you attend and any scholarships or financial aid you may be eligible for. Generally speaking, tuition fees range from $15000-$40000 per year depending on the university. Additional costs may include books and materials fees as well as living expenses (if attending a school away from home).

Overall, getting a Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management can be an expensive but worthwhile investment for those looking to advance their career prospects in this field.

9. American Society for Quality Certified Quality Engineer

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge of quality engineering principles and practices. The CQE certification is designed to validate the skills and abilities of experienced quality engineers in the fields of design, development, production, installation, and service.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CQE exam. Preparation includes studying the ASQ Body of Knowledge, attending review courses or seminars, and/or participating in self-study programs.

To get the CQE certification, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam administered by ASQ. To be eligible to take the exam, you must have either a four-year degree in engineering or at least eight years of experience in quality engineering activities such as design control, process improvement, statistical analysis techniques, reliability engineering methods, etc.

The cost to take the CQE exam is $375 for ASQ members and $525 for non-members. Additionally, there are fees associated with applying for the exam and becoming certified.

10. American Society for Quality Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of quality management principles and practices. This certification is intended for managers and leaders in the field of quality, who have the responsibility to lead their organizations in achieving excellence in quality performance.

The CMQ/OE certification consists of two parts: an exam and experience requirements. The exam tests knowledge in the areas of quality planning, assurance, control, improvement, customer satisfaction, operations management, and organizational excellence. The experience requirement verifies that the candidate has a minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience within the past 10 years.

In order to obtain this certification, it typically takes about 6-12 months depending on how quickly you can study for and pass the exam. It is recommended that you take advantage of any training courses or materials offered by ASQ or other providers as these will help you prepare for the exam more effectively.

The cost for this certification varies depending on your membership status with ASQ. For non-members, it costs $895 USD while members pay $695 USD.

11. International Society of Logistics Credentialed Logistician

The International Society of Logistics Credentialed Logistician (ISLC) is a professional credentialing program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of logistics professionals. It is an internationally recognized certification that validates a professional’s experience and expertise in the field of logistics.

To be eligible for the ISLC, applicants must have at least five years of experience in logistics or supply chain management, with three years in a leadership role. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as inventory management, transportation, warehousing, global supply chain management, and project management.

It typically takes about four months to complete the process from start to finish. The first step is to register online and pay the application fee. After that, applicants must submit their resume along with any supporting documents such as letters of recommendation or proof of work experience. Once all documents are submitted, applicants will be invited to take the exam.

The cost for the ISLC credentialing program is $500 USD plus applicable taxes. This fee covers all materials needed for the exam including study guides, practice tests, and other resources. In addition, there may be additional costs associated with travel and lodging if an applicant needs to take the exam at a testing center outside their home country.

Do You Really Need a Manufacturing Planner Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a manufacturing planner certificate to be successful in the field of manufacturing planning. However, having the certificate will certainly give you an edge over other applicants and open up more job opportunities and higher pay.

A manufacturing planner certificate is a professional credential that shows employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of production planning. It indicates that you have taken courses on topics such as supply chain management, project management, cost analysis, and quality control. Additionally, many certificates require a certain number of years of experience in the industry before they can be obtained.

Having a manufacturing planner certificate can help to increase your chances of landing a job in this field, as it demonstrates a commitment to learning about the industry and developing your skills as a professional. It also serves as proof that you possess specialized training which may prove invaluable when applying for positions with higher levels of responsibility or increased pay. Furthermore, employers may view those with certifications as more reliable or trustworthy than their counterparts without the same credentials.

In conclusion, while it is not essential to have a manufacturing planner certificate to work in this field, it can certainly give you an advantage over other applicants who do not have one. The time and effort put into obtaining such certification may well be worth it if it leads to better opportunities or increased pay down the line.

Related: Manufacturing Planner Resume Examples

FAQs About Manufacturing Planner Certifications

1. What is a Manufacturing Planner Certification?

A Manufacturing Planner Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of manufacturing planning. It is designed to demonstrate the ability to plan, schedule and coordinate activities within a manufacturing organization.

2. Who should get a Manufacturing Planner Certification?

The certification is beneficial for anyone working in the field of manufacturing, from executive level professionals to entry-level employees. It can help provide employers with assurance that their staff have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage the production process.

3. How do I obtain a Manufacturing Planner Certification?

To obtain a Manufacturing Planner Certification, individuals must complete an accredited program such as those offered by APICS or ISM and then pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the topics covered in the coursework.

4. What are the benefits of having a Manufacturing Planner Certification?

Having a Manufacturing Planner Certification demonstrates expertise in production planning, scheduling and coordinating activities within a manufacturing organization which can help open doors to higher-level positions or promotions within your current organization. Additionally, it can be beneficial when applying for new positions since many employers seek out certified professionals due to their increased knowledge and experience in this field.

5. Does having a Manufacturing Planner Certification guarantee me employment?

No, having a certification does not guarantee employment as there are other factors such as job availability, location and qualifications that also play into whether or not you will be hired for any particular position. However, having certifications can make you more attractive to potential employers as they demonstrate your commitment to your profession and your dedication to furthering your skillset through additional education and training.