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Top 11 Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Certifications

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Updated 18 min read

Certifications are important for a mechanical maintenance engineer in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and skill. In today's competitive job market, employers are looking for qualified applicants who can show that they have the skills and qualifications to do the job. Certifications provide evidence that an individual has received additional training and is knowledgeable about the specific subject matter related to mechanical maintenance engineering. They also indicate that an individual is dedicated to furthering their education and keeping up with new technologies and best practices in their field.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Mechanical Maintenance Engineers and explain how they can benefit a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer's career.

What are Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Certifications?

Mechanical maintenance engineer certification is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of mechanical maintenance engineering. The certification is typically awarded by technical trade associations or organizations after an individual has completed a rigorous application process and demonstrated mastery of the core competencies required for the profession. The certification demonstrates to employers that the individual has achieved a level of proficiency in their field and is qualified to work in mechanical maintenance engineering roles.

The benefits of obtaining mechanical maintenance engineer certification include improved job prospects and higher salaries. It also provides recognition from employers, peers and colleagues that the individual has achieved a high level of expertise in the field. Having this certification can help candidates stand out when applying for jobs or promotions, as it shows employers that they have gone above and beyond to demonstrate their commitment to professional development. In addition, many employers prefer to hire certified professionals because they know they have met certain standards for qualifications and training. Finally, having this certification can provide individuals with access to resources such as industry news, networking opportunities, continuing education courses and career guidance services.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the requirements for your mechanical maintenance engineer certification prior to starting the process. Many certifications require a certain level of experience or education in order to be eligible, so it's important to have an understanding of what you need in order to be successful. Additionally, make sure to review any additional resources available – such as online courses or seminars – that can help you prepare for the certification exam.

Related: What does a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer do?

Top 11 Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Mechanical Maintenance Engineers 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 knowledge, skills, and experience in maintenance and reliability. The CMRP program is based on SMRP’s Body of Knowledge (BoK), which outlines the core competencies required for successful maintenance and reliability professionals.

The CMRP exam consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral exam. The written exam covers topics such as asset management, reliability engineering, preventive/predictive maintenance, root cause analysis, safety management, quality assurance, environmental compliance, and more. The oral exam tests the individual’s ability to apply the concepts covered in the written exam in real-world situations.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the CMRP program. During this time, candidates must complete both parts of the exam as well as fulfill any additional requirements set forth by SMRP. Candidates must also maintain their membership with SMRP throughout the duration of their certification period.

The cost to obtain the CMRP certification varies depending on your country or region. In most cases it will range from $300-$500 USD including registration fees and any additional materials needed for study purposes.

2. Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM)

Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM) is a certification program offered by the Association of Maintenance Professionals (AMP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of technical proficiency in plant maintenance and operations. This certification is designed to provide employers with assurance that their maintenance staff has the necessary skills and knowledge to keep their production lines running safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively.

The CPMM certification process requires applicants to demonstrate mastery of plant maintenance principles, practices, and procedures. The certification process includes an online exam, which covers topics such as safety regulations, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting techniques, and equipment repair. Applicants must also complete a hands-on assessment at an AMP-approved facility.

The CPMM certification process typically takes two to three months from start to finish. To get started, applicants must first register for the exam on the AMP website. After registering for the exam, applicants will receive instructions on how to prepare for it. Once they have completed their preparation materials, they can schedule their online exam with AMP or one of its approved testing centers. After passing the online exam, applicants will be required to take a hands-on assessment at an approved facility before receiving their certificate of completion.

The cost of the CPMM certification varies depending on whether you choose to take the online exam or attend a training session at an approved facility. The cost for taking the online exam is $250 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees; attending a training session costs $1,000 USD plus applicable taxes or fees.

3. Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

A Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional who has demonstrated the knowledge and experience needed to ensure the reliability of products and services. This certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CRE certification requires individuals to demonstrate their ability to apply engineering principles, statistical methods, and quality assurance practices to develop, implement, and evaluate reliability programs.

The CRE certification requires a minimum of three years of professional experience in reliability engineering or related fields. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as reliability engineering fundamentals, system design and analysis, failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), maintainability engineering, life cycle cost analysis, warranty management, and root cause analysis.

To obtain the CRE certification, candidates must first register with ASQ and pay a fee of $395 USD. After registering for the exam, candidates can take practice tests online to prepare for the actual exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes about four hours to complete. Once a candidate passes the exam they will be awarded their CRE certification.

The cost of obtaining the CRE certification includes registration fees ($395 USD), study materials ($100-200 USD), practice exams ($50-100 USD), and any travel expenses associated with taking the exam (varies).

4. Certified Maintenance and Lubrication Technician (CMLT)

Certified Maintenance and Lubrication Technician (CMLT) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of maintenance and lubrication technicians. The program is administered by the International Council for Machinery Lubrication (ICML).

The CMLT program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as lubrication fundamentals, lubricant selection, contamination control, oil analysis, storage and handling of lubricants, safety practices, environmental considerations, and troubleshooting. The practical exam tests the candidate's ability to perform various hands-on tasks related to maintenance and lubrication.

In order to qualify for the CMLT certification, candidates must have at least three years of experience in maintenance or lubrication-related activities. Candidates who do not meet this requirement may be eligible for an Associate CMLT certification if they have at least one year of experience in maintenance or lubrication-related activities.

The cost of the CMLT certification varies depending on whether you are taking the written or practical exam. The cost for the written exam is $195 USD plus any applicable taxes. The cost for the practical exam is $295 USD plus any applicable taxes.

It typically takes around six months to complete both parts of the CMLT certification process. This includes studying for and passing both exams as well as submitting all required documentation to ICML.

5. Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (CIMM)

Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (CIMM) is a certification program designed to recognize qualified maintenance technicians who have the knowledge and skills required to perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of industrial machinery. The certification is offered by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).

It typically takes about one year to complete the CIMM program. The program consists of four core modules that cover topics such as safety, electrical systems, mechanical systems, and troubleshooting. After completing the core modules, students must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification.

To get certified as a CIMM technician, you must first complete an approved training program or apprenticeship that meets NCCER’s standards. After completing the training program or apprenticeship, you must then take and pass the written exam administered by NCCER.

The cost of becoming a Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic varies depending on where you take your training courses or apprenticeship. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 for tuition alone.

6. Automated Machine Maintenance Technician (AMMT)

Automated Machine Maintenance Technician (AMMT) is a computer-based system that performs preventive and corrective maintenance on industrial machines. It uses sensors, cameras, and other technologies to monitor the performance of machines in real-time and alert technicians when maintenance is needed. The AMMT system can be used to detect problems before they become serious, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.

The amount of time it takes to get an AMMT system depends on the size of the installation and complexity of the machines being monitored. Generally, it will take several weeks or months to set up an AMMT system, depending on how many machines need to be monitored and how complex the setup is.

To get an AMMT system, you will need to contact a vendor who specializes in providing these systems. The vendor will work with you to determine what type of equipment you need for your particular application and provide a quote for the cost of the installation.

The cost of an AMMT system varies depending on the size of the installation and complexity of the machines being monitored. Generally speaking, an AMMT system can range from a few thousand dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars for larger installations.

7. Certified Mechanical Inspector (CMI)

Certified Mechanical Inspector (CMI) is a certification program that verifies the knowledge and skills of individuals in the field of mechanical inspection. The CMI program is designed to provide an industry-recognized credential for those who have demonstrated their proficiency in the areas of inspection, testing, and maintenance of mechanical systems.

The CMI certification exam takes approximately four hours to complete and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in mechanical inspection and/or related fields. Applicants must also possess a high school diploma or equivalent education.

To get certified as a CMI, applicants must first register with the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). Once registered, applicants can apply for the CMI examination by submitting an application form along with any required supporting documentation. After successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their official CMI certificate.

The cost to become a Certified Mechanical Inspector varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$600 USD to take the exam and receive your certification.

8. Certified Hydraulic Technician (CHT)

Certified Hydraulic Technician (CHT) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals who work in the field of hydraulic systems. The CHT certification is offered by the National Fluid Power Association (NFPA).

The CHT certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in the field and pass a written exam. The exam covers topics such as fluid power principles, component selection, troubleshooting and maintenance, system design, installation and operation.

To get the CHT certification, applicants must first register with the NFPA and pay an application fee. Once registered, applicants can take the online exam which consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. Applicants must score at least 70% on the exam to receive their CHT certification.

The cost for registering for the CHT certification is $200 plus any applicable taxes.

9. Certified Pneumatic Technician (CPT)

Certified Pneumatic Technician (CPT) is a certification program offered by the National Fluid Power Association (NFPA). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of pneumatics.

The CPT program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical skills assessment. The written exam covers topics such as pneumatic system components, troubleshooting techniques, safety, and maintenance procedures. The practical skills assessment tests an individual’s ability to install, operate, repair, and maintain pneumatic systems.

It typically takes about 8-12 weeks to complete the CPT program. To get started, individuals must first register for the program with NFPA. Registration fees vary depending on whether you are a member or non-member of NFPA; members pay $150 while non-members pay $300. Once registered, individuals will receive instructions on how to access the online exam and practical skills assessment.

Once all requirements are completed successfully, individuals will receive their CPT certificate from NFPA. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking additional exams or completing continuing education courses.

10. HVAC/R Certification

HVAC/R Certification is a credential that certifies an individual has the knowledge and skills to work with heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. It is typically offered by trade schools or technical colleges.

How long does it take to get HVAC/R Certification? The length of time it takes to obtain certification varies depending on the program chosen. Most programs require between 6-12 months of study and hands-on training.

How do I get HVAC/R Certification? To become certified, individuals must pass a written exam administered by the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI). They must also complete an apprenticeship program or other approved training program in order to gain experience working with HVAC/R systems.

How much does HVAC/R Certification cost? The cost of certification varies depending on the school or program chosen. Generally, certification costs range from $500-$2000 for tuition and fees.

11. OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health

OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health is a voluntary training program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to help employers, employees, and other stakeholders in the construction industry reduce workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. The program provides safety and health education for workers on various topics related to construction safety. It is designed to help workers recognize and avoid hazards in their work environment.

The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health course takes approximately 10 hours to complete. The course can be taken online or in a classroom setting. Online courses are typically self-paced, allowing students to complete the course at their own pace. Classroom courses are usually instructor-led and typically take two days to complete.

The cost of the OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health course varies depending on the provider offering it. Generally speaking, online courses tend to be more affordable than classroom courses due to the reduced overhead costs associated with providing them.

To get an OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health card, you must successfully complete an approved training program from an authorized provider such as OSHAcademy or 360training.com. Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a wallet card that serves as proof that you have completed the training requirements for this program.

Do You Really Need a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Certificate?

Whether you need a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Certificate or not depends on your career goals. If you are looking to become a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer, then having the certificate will be beneficial. It will demonstrate to potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform this role. Additionally, having the certificate may qualify you for higher salaries and more job opportunities in the field of mechanical engineering.

On the other hand, if you are already working in mechanical engineering and do not plan on becoming a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer, then you may not need to get a certificate. However, if you want to advance your career or increase your earning potential, then it may be worth considering getting certified. Having a certificate shows employers that you have taken the time and effort to learn about the latest industry trends and practices related to maintenance engineering. This could give you an edge over other applicants when applying for promotions or higher-paying jobs.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Certificate depends on your own career goals and aspirations. If becoming a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer is important to you, then getting certified can help open up more opportunities in this field.

Related: Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Mechanical Maintenance Engineer Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer?

A: To become a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer, you typically need an associate's or bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, plus knowledge of mechanical systems and experience working with them.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer?

A: Depending on the certification program you choose, the process can take anywhere from one to two years to complete.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer?

A: Becoming certified as a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer offers many benefits including improved job prospects, higher wages, and greater career advancement opportunities. Additionally, having certification demonstrates your commitment to professional excellence and mastery of industry standards.

4. Are there any online programs available for certifying as a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer?

A: Yes, there are several online programs that offer certifications in mechanical maintenance engineering. These programs may include lectures, videos, and tutorials that cover topics such as safety regulations and equipment operation protocols.

5. Is it worth getting certified as a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer?

A: Yes! Being certified as a Mechanical Maintenance Engineer has numerous advantages including increased job security, higher wages, and greater career advancement opportunities. Additionally, having certification shows employers that you have mastered industry standards and demonstrates your commitment to professional excellence.

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

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Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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