Top 10 Mechanical Engineering Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for a mechanical engineering technician in the job market because they demonstrate a high level of knowledge and proficiency in their field. Certifications also show employers that the individual is qualified to work on complex tasks, such as troubleshooting, designing, and manufacturing components. Employers often look for certifications when considering applicants for positions because they provide peace of mind that the applicant has the necessary skills to succeed in their role. Additionally, certifications can be used to further advance in one’s career by allowing them to take on more responsibility or specialize in a certain area. Ultimately, certifications provide an advantage over other applicants who do not possess them, making them an invaluable asset for any mechanical engineering technician looking to stand out from the crowd.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Mechanical Engineering Technicians and explain how they can help to advance their career.

What are Mechanical Engineering Technician Certifications?

Mechanical engineering technician certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and skills in the area of mechanical engineering. This type of certification is typically earned through passing an exam administered by a professional certifying body, such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The certification is designed to show employers that the holder has achieved a certain level of proficiency in the field of mechanical engineering.

Having a mechanical engineering technician certification can be beneficial for those who are looking to start or advance their career in the field. It can help demonstrate to potential employers that you have both experience and knowledge in the field, which can help to make you more attractive as an employee. Furthermore, having this type of certification may give you access to higher-paying jobs or positions that require more responsibility. Additionally, it may serve to open up opportunities for additional training or continuing education courses related to mechanical engineering. Finally, it can also provide employees with an edge when competing for certain job openings or promotions within their current organization.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a mechanical engineering technician certification, it is important to make sure that the program you choose is accredited by a reputable organization. This will ensure that the program meets industry standards and will give you an edge in the job market.

Related: What does a Mechanical Engineering Technician do?

Top 10 Mechanical Engineering Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Mechanical Engineering Technicians today.

1. Certified Mechanical Engineering Technician (CMET)

Certified Mechanical Engineering Technician (CMET) is a professional certification for individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in mechanical engineering technology. It is offered by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and provides recognition of an individual’s expertise in the field.

To become certified, an individual must pass a comprehensive exam, which covers topics such as fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science, and design principles. The exam is administered by ASME and consists of multiple-choice questions and open-ended problems. Candidates must also submit proof of at least two years of relevant professional experience to be eligible for certification.

The cost to take the CMET exam varies depending on the number of exams taken, but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. The exam can be taken at any time during the year and takes approximately 4 hours to complete.

Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their certification status by completing continuing education courses every three years. This ensures that they stay up-to-date with current technologies and industry trends.

2. Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT)

Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT) is a certification program offered by the Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP). The CMRT program is designed to provide an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a technician’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in maintenance and reliability. It is intended to help technicians gain recognition for their contributions to the maintenance and reliability profession.

The CMRT certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in maintenance or reliability roles, as well as passing an exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as asset management, maintenance planning and scheduling, preventive/predictive maintenance techniques, root cause analysis, failure analysis, lubrication fundamentals, electrical systems troubleshooting, mechanical systems troubleshooting, welding/fabrication fundamentals, safety practices/regulations, work order management/documentation processes.

It typically takes about 3 months to prepare for the exam. This includes studying materials provided by SMRP or other resources such as books or online courses. After passing the exam applicants are awarded the CMRT certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue.

The cost of taking the CMRT exam varies depending on whether you are a member of SMRP or not. For non-members it costs $450 USD while members pay $350 USD.

3. Certified Quality Technician (CQT)

Certified Quality Technician (CQT) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to demonstrate a technician’s knowledge and skills in quality assurance, control, and testing. The CQT certification requires completion of an online exam that covers topics such as quality systems, inspection techniques, statistical process control, calibration, problem solving, and auditing.

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for the CQT exam. To get certified, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements which include having at least three years of work experience in a quality-related field or having completed an approved training program. Once eligible, applicants can register for the exam through ASQ's website.

The cost of the CQT certification varies depending on whether you are already an ASQ member or not. For non-members it costs $349 USD; for members it costs $299 USD.

4. Certified Automation Professional (CAP)

Certified Automation Professional (CAP) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). The CAP program is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of automation. The certification is intended to provide assurance to employers that certified professionals possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their job duties effectively and safely.

To become a Certified Automation Professional, an individual must pass an exam that covers topics such as automation systems design, programming, networking, control systems, safety, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum score of 70% to pass.

The CAP exam typically takes about two hours to complete. It can be taken at any ISA-approved testing center or online through the ISA website.

The cost for taking the CAP exam varies depending on whether you are taking it at a testing center or online. At a testing center, the fee is $350 USD; online exams cost $250 USD.

5. National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Machining Level I Certification

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Machining Level I Certification is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the operation of manual machine tools. This certification is designed to provide employers with assurance that their employees possess the necessary skills to safely and accurately operate manual machine tools.

The NIMS Machining Level I Certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a hands-on performance evaluation. The written exam covers topics such as safety, measurement, layout, machining processes, and quality control. The hands-on performance evaluation requires the candidate to demonstrate their ability to set up and operate manual machine tools in accordance with industry standards.

It typically takes about six months to obtain the NIMS Machining Level I Certification. Candidates must complete a training program from an accredited institution or pass an approved apprenticeship program before taking the certification exams. Once they have completed their training or apprenticeship program, candidates can register for the certification exams through NIMS’s website.

The cost of obtaining the NIMS Machining Level I Certification varies depending on where you take your training or apprenticeship program. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1,000 for both parts of the certification exam.

6. National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Machining Level II Certification

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) Machining Level II Certification is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual's proficiency in the machining industry. It is designed to provide employers with an assurance of the skills and knowledge of those who have achieved this certification.

To become certified, individuals must complete a series of tests that cover topics such as safety, tooling, materials, measurement, mathematics, machine operations and quality control. The tests are administered by NIMS-certified test centers and can be taken either online or in person.

The entire process typically takes between six months and one year to complete depending on the individual’s availability and level of experience. To get started, individuals must first apply for certification through NIMS’ website and pay the required fee. Once approved, they will receive a study guide which outlines the topics covered in each test. After studying for the tests, individuals can then register to take them at their local NIMS-certified testing center.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the number of tests taken and whether they are taken online or in person. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$400 per test plus any additional fees associated with taking them at a testing center.

7. National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) CNC Milling Level I Certification

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) CNC Milling Level I Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate Computer Numerical Control (CNC) milling machines. This certification is designed to provide entry-level machinists with the basic understanding of CNC milling operations, safety, and setup procedures. The certification typically takes between four and six weeks to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level and ability to learn. To get certified, individuals must pass a written exam as well as a hands-on practical assessment.

In order to get certified, individuals must first register with NIMS by completing an application form online or in person at their local NIMS office. Once registered, individuals will be assigned a mentor who will help them prepare for the written and practical exams. After passing both exams, individuals will receive their official NIMS CNC Milling Level I Certification certificate in the mail.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the individual’s location and whether they are taking classes or studying independently. Generally speaking, the cost of getting certified ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

8. National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) CNC Milling Level II Certification

The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) CNC Milling Level II Certification is a nationally recognized certification that verifies the knowledge and skills of machinists who have achieved proficiency in programming, setup, operation, and maintenance of CNC milling machines. The certification is designed to ensure that machinists are knowledgeable in the safe and effective use of CNC milling machines.

To receive the NIMS CNC Milling Level II Certification, an individual must first complete a NIMS-approved training program or apprenticeship program. The length of these programs varies depending on the institution offering them. After completing the program, an individual must pass a written exam and demonstrate their skills through a hands-on performance evaluation.

Once an individual has completed the training program and passed both exams, they can apply for the NIMS CNC Milling Level II Certification. To do so, they must submit an application along with proof of completion of their training program and payment of any applicable fees. Once approved, they will receive their certification card as well as access to additional resources from NIMS such as job postings and industry news.

The cost for obtaining the NIMS CNC Milling Level II Certification varies depending on where you take your training program. Generally speaking, it should cost between $500-$1,000 USD to obtain this certification.

9. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder Program

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder Program is a certification program that recognizes welders who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to safely perform welding in accordance with industry standards. The program is designed for welders of all levels, from entry-level to experienced welders.

To become an AWS Certified Welder, applicants must pass an open-book written exam and a hands-on practical test. The written exam consists of questions on welding safety, metallurgy, welding processes, and other related topics. The practical test requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to weld using various techniques and materials.

The entire process can take anywhere from two weeks to several months depending on the individual’s experience level and availability of testing facilities. Applicants must also pay a fee for both the written exam and practical test. The fee varies depending on the type of certification being sought, but typically ranges from $200-$500 USD.

Once certified, AWS Certified Welders are recognized as having achieved a high level of proficiency in welding and are eligible for higher wages, better job opportunities, and increased career advancement opportunities.

10. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Robotic Arc Welding Program

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Robotic Arc Welding Program is a certification program designed to provide welders with the knowledge and skills needed to safely and effectively operate robotic arc welding systems. The program consists of two parts: the AWS Certified Robotic Arc Welder (CRAW) exam and the AWS Certified Robotic Arc Welder Practical Exam.

The CRAW exam is a written test that covers topics such as safety, welding techniques, equipment setup, operation, maintenance and troubleshooting. This exam must be taken at an authorized testing center and can take up to four hours to complete. Upon successful completion of the CRAW exam, individuals will receive their AWS Certified Robotic Arc Welder certificate.

The AWS Certified Robotic Arc Welder Practical Exam is a hands-on assessment that tests an individual’s ability to set up, operate, maintain and troubleshoot robotic arc welding systems in a safe manner. This exam must be taken at an approved training facility or educational institution and can take up to eight hours to complete. Upon successful completion of the practical exam, individuals will receive their AWS Certified Robotic Arc Welder Practical Certificate.

To get this certification, individuals must first register for the exams through the AWS website or by contacting an authorized testing center or training facility/educational institution directly. After registering for the exams, individuals will need to pay all applicable fees before they are allowed to take them. The cost of these exams varies depending on location but typically range from $200-$400 USD per exam.

In total, it can take anywhere from one day up to several weeks or months in order to obtain both parts of this certification depending on scheduling availability at testing centers/training facilities/educational institutions as well as how quickly applicants are able to study for and pass both parts of the exams.

Do You Really Need a Mechanical Engineering Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals and career aspirations. If you are looking to enter the field of mechanical engineering, then a certificate program may be beneficial. A certificate can provide the necessary education and training to equip you with the skills necessary for entry-level jobs in this field. Certification programs also offer an opportunity to learn more advanced topics that can help further your career.

On the other hand, if you are already employed as a mechanical engineer or have extensive experience in the industry, then a certificate program may not be necessary. In this case, it is likely that your current knowledge and experience will be sufficient for most employers. Additionally, continuing education courses may be available through your current employer or through other educational institutions that can help keep your skills up-to-date without needing to obtain a certificate.

Overall, whether or not you need a mechanical engineering technician certificate depends on your individual needs and goals. If you are new to the field and looking to gain entry-level employment, then obtaining a certificate may be beneficial; however, if you already have extensive experience in the industry, then additional certification may not be needed.

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FAQs About Mechanical Engineering Technician Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to be a Mechanical Engineering Technician?

Answer: Generally, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and some post-secondary education in mechanical engineering technology. You may also need to have specific certifications related to your field of work.

2. What type of certifications are available for Mechanical Engineering Technicians?

Answer: There are a variety of certifications available, such as Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMT), Certified Automation Professional (CAP), Certified Quality Technician (CQT), and Certified Reliability Technician (CRT).

3. How much does it cost to get certified as a Mechanical Engineering Technician?

Answer: The cost of certification varies depending on the organization offering the certification and the type of certification you are seeking. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50-$500 for most certifications.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Mechanical Engineering Technician?

Answer: Depending on the type of certification you choose, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to become certified. It is important that you research each certification thoroughly before enrolling in any programs or courses so that you understand what is required of you and how long it will take to complete your certification process.

5. Is there an age limit for becoming a Mechanical Engineering Technician?

Answer: No, there is no age limit for becoming a mechanical engineering technician; however, some employers may require applicants to have at least one year of experience working in the field prior to applying for the position.