Top 11 Operation Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for operation engineers in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the engineer has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the required tasks. Certifications also show that an engineer is dedicated to keeping up with new technologies, industry standards, and best practices. This helps employers assess whether a candidate is a good fit for their organization and can help provide assurance that they have the right qualifications for the job. Additionally, certifications can be used as evidence of continuing education and provide a competitive edge over other candidates in the job market.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Operation Engineers, outlining how they can contribute to an operation engineer's career.

What are Operation Engineer Certifications?

Operation engineer certification is a program offered by various organizations to certify individuals in the operation of various types of engineering systems. It is designed to give engineers a better understanding of how these systems work and how to maintain them. This certification can help engineers become more knowledgeable and efficient in their roles. It also provides an opportunity for engineers to gain recognition in their field and increase their career prospects. With this certification, engineers can be more confident when working with engineering systems, as they will have a better understanding of the processes involved. Additionally, having this certification will demonstrate that an engineer has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their job correctly, increasing their value in the job market.

Pro Tip: When considering an operation engineer certification, research the specific requirements and qualifications for the program you are interested in. Make sure it is recognized by industry professionals and employers, and take advantage of any resources available to help prepare for the exam.

Related: What does an Operation Engineer do?

Top 11 Operation Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Operation Engineers today.

1. AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional

AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional is a certification offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS) that validates an individual’s ability to design, manage, and maintain applications on the AWS platform. This certification is designed for experienced IT professionals who are looking to demonstrate their advanced knowledge and skills in deploying and managing applications on the AWS platform.

It typically takes around three months of preparation to get this certification, depending on the individual’s experience level. To get the AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional certification, individuals must pass two exams: The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional exam and the AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional exam.

The cost of taking both exams is $300 each. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with training materials or courses related to preparing for the exams.

2. Microsoft Certified Azure DevOps Engineer Expert

Microsoft Certified Azure DevOps Engineer Expert is a certification from Microsoft that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in deploying, managing and operating applications on the Azure cloud platform. This certification is designed for professionals who are responsible for designing, implementing, monitoring and maintaining applications on the Azure platform. It requires knowledge of both the Azure platform and DevOps practices.

It typically takes around two to four months to prepare for the exam, depending on the amount of prior experience with Azure and DevOps. To get this certification, you must pass two exams: AZ-400: Microsoft Azure DevOps Solutions and AZ-303: Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies. The cost of these exams varies depending on your region but generally range from $165 to $200 USD each.

3. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program from Red Hat, Inc. that demonstrates the skills and knowledge required to be a successful Linux system administrator. It is designed for IT professionals who are responsible for managing Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems in an enterprise environment. The RHCSA certification validates the skills and knowledge necessary to perform essential system administration tasks on Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems.

It typically takes between two to three months of study and practice to prepare for the RHCSA exam. The exam consists of performance-based tasks that measure the candidate’s ability to configure local storage, manage users and groups, deploy software packages, configure network services, troubleshoot system issues, and more.

To get the RHCSA certification you must first register for and pass the Red Hat Certified System Administrator Exam (EX200). This exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center or online at home with remote proctoring. The cost of this exam is $400 USD per attempt. Once you have passed the exam you will receive your official RHCSA certification from Red Hat, Inc.

4. CompTIA Linux+ Powered by LPI

CompTIA Linux+ Powered by LPI is a certification program that provides an industry-recognized credential for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their skills in the Linux operating system. The program is designed to validate the skills of IT professionals who have already acquired some knowledge of Linux, and it is also intended to help them develop their understanding of the system and its capabilities.

The CompTIA Linux+ Powered by LPI certification exam consists of two parts: LX0-103 and LX0-104. The LX0-103 exam covers basic topics such as installation, configuration, command line tools, network services, security and troubleshooting. The LX0-104 exam covers more advanced topics such as scripting, system administration and networking.

It usually takes between six months to one year to prepare for the CompTIA Linux+ Powered by LPI exams. During this time, candidates should focus on studying materials provided by CompTIA or third party vendors that specialize in preparing for the exams. Candidates should also practice using a real Linux environment to gain hands-on experience with the operating system.

To get certified, candidates must pass both parts of the CompTIA Linux+ Powered by LPI exams with a score of 750 or higher on each part. Candidates can register for the exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

The cost of taking the CompTIA Linux+ Powered by LPI exams varies depending on where you take them and which version you are taking (LX0-103 or LX0-104). Generally speaking, each exam costs around $200 USD per attempt.

5. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Data Center

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Data Center is a professional-level certification program from Cisco Systems that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, implementing, configuring, and troubleshooting data center technologies. It is designed for IT professionals who work with data center infrastructure and want to demonstrate their expertise in the field.

The CCNP Data Center certification requires successful completion of three exams: Implementing Cisco Data Center Infrastructure (DCII), Designing Cisco Data Center Infrastructure (DCDI), and Troubleshooting Cisco Data Center Infrastructure (TDCI). The exams are offered through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

The entire certification process can take anywhere from six months to one year depending on the individual's experience level and study habits. To get started, individuals should review the exam topics for each test, purchase study materials such as books or online courses, practice with mock exams, and then schedule the tests at a testing center.

The cost of the CCNP Data Center certification varies depending on the number of exams taken. Each exam costs $300 USD, so if all three exams are taken at once it will cost $900 USD total.

6. VMware Certified Professional – Cloud Management and Automation (VCP-CMA)

The VMware Certified Professional – Cloud Management and Automation (VCP-CMA) is a certification program from VMware that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of cloud management and automation. It is designed for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in managing and automating cloud infrastructure, services, and applications.

To become certified as a VCP-CMA, individuals must pass two exams: the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Cloud Management and Automation (VCP6-CMA) exam, which covers topics such as vRealize Automation 7.x, vRealize Orchestrator 7.x, vRealize Operations Manager 6.x, and vRealize Business for Cloud 7.x; and the VMware Certified Associate 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCA6-DCV) exam, which covers topics such as virtualization fundamentals, storage technologies, networking concepts, resource management techniques, security best practices, troubleshooting strategies, and more.

It typically takes about three months of study to prepare for the exams required to earn the VCP-CMA certification. The cost of taking both exams is approximately $500 USD. To register for either exam or learn more about the VCP-CMA program requirements visit vmware.com/go/vcpcma

7. Puppet Certified Professional

Puppet Certified Professional is a certification program for system administrators and IT professionals who use Puppet to automate their infrastructure. It demonstrates the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage and deploy Puppet in production environments.

The certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a hands-on lab exam. The written exam tests a candidate's understanding of Puppet concepts, best practices, and troubleshooting techniques. The lab exam requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to configure and manage Puppet nodes using real-world scenarios.

It typically takes between 6-12 months of study and practice to prepare for the certification exams. Candidates should have a good understanding of Linux/Unix systems administration, networking concepts, version control systems, automation tools, security principles, and basic programming knowledge.

The cost for the certification exams varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD per exam.

8. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized qualification that validates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL). It is the entry-level certification for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in IT service management.

The ITIL Foundation certification exam takes approximately one hour and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 65% or 26 out of 40 correct answers.

To get certified, candidates must attend an accredited training course or self-study using approved materials. The course covers all aspects of ITIL best practices and provides a comprehensive overview of the framework. After completing the course, candidates can register for the exam online or through their training provider.

The cost of the ITIL Foundation certification varies depending on the training provider, but typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD.

9. Google Cloud Platform Professional Cloud Architect

Google Cloud Platform Professional Cloud Architect is a certification program designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in designing and managing Google Cloud solutions. It is intended for individuals with experience in designing, developing, and managing cloud solutions on Google Cloud Platform.

The Professional Cloud Architect certification requires passing two exams: the Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect exam and the Google Cloud Certified Associate Cloud Engineer exam. The Professional Cloud Architect exam focuses on architecting secure, reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions on Google Cloud Platform. The Associate Cloud Engineer exam focuses on deploying applications, monitoring operations, and managing enterprise solutions on Google Cloud Platform.

It typically takes about 4-6 months of study to prepare for these exams. You can find courses online that provide comprehensive training for both exams. Additionally, there are practice tests available to help you assess your readiness for the actual exams.

The cost of the two exams varies depending on where you take them but typically runs around $200 USD each.

10. Docker Certified Associate

Docker Certified Associate (DCA) is a certification program designed to validate and recognize the skills of IT professionals who are proficient in using Docker technologies. This certification is offered by Docker, Inc., the company behind the popular open source container platform. The DCA exam tests candidates’ knowledge and proficiency in using Docker for deploying applications, managing images, networking, storage, security, and other related topics.

The DCA exam typically takes about two hours to complete. It consists of 50 multiple-choice questions that must be answered within the allotted time frame. The passing score for the exam is 70%.

To get certified as a Docker Certified Associate, you must first register with the official certification provider, Pearson VUE. Once you have registered and paid the required fee (which varies depending on your country), you will receive an email with instructions on how to access your exam voucher. You can then schedule your exam at any Pearson VUE test center near you or online through their website.

The cost of taking the DCA exam varies depending on which country you are located in. In general, it costs around $200 USD per attempt.

11. Splunk Core Certified Power User

Splunk Core Certified Power User is a certification program offered by Splunk that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in using the Splunk platform. It is designed for individuals who are experienced with the Splunk platform and want to demonstrate their expertise.

The certification consists of a two-hour, multiple-choice exam that covers topics such as data ingestion, search, reporting, alerting, dashboard development, data analysis, and more. The exam is administered online and can be taken from anywhere in the world.

It typically takes about four to six weeks to prepare for the exam. To get ready for the exam, it is recommended that you review the official Splunk documentation and tutorials as well as practice with hands-on exercises. You should also become familiar with Splunk best practices and understand how to use different search commands.

The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $200-$250 USD. After passing the exam, you will receive a digital certificate and badge that can be added to your resume or LinkedIn profile.

Do You Really Need a Operation Engineer Certificate?

The short answer is no, you don't need an Operation Engineer Certificate to be successful in the field of operations engineering. However, depending on your goals and career aspirations, it may be beneficial for you to obtain a certification in this area.

Certifications are often sought after by employers when recruiting for operations engineers because they demonstrate a high level of knowledge and competence in the field. Additionally, certifications can provide recognition of your skillset and accomplishments that can help you stand out from other job applicants.

In addition to providing recognition of your abilities, certifications can also provide access to new opportunities or higher pay grades that may not be available without them. Furthermore, they can also help you gain access to networks and industry events where you can learn more about the profession.

It is important to note that obtaining a certification does not guarantee success in operations engineering; however, it can help open doors that would otherwise remain closed. Therefore, if you are serious about pursuing a career as an operations engineer or advancing within the profession, then obtaining a certification could be beneficial for your professional development.

Related: Operation Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Operation Engineer Certifications

Q1. How long does it take to become a certified Operation Engineer?

A1. The length of time it takes to become a certified Operation Engineer depends on the specific certification program you choose, as well as your prior experience and knowledge. Generally, most programs require at least two years of work experience or equivalent education in an operations engineering field before you can apply for certification.

Q2. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Operation Engineer?

A2. Becoming a certified Operation Engineer provides several benefits including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and greater respect from employers and other professionals in the industry. Additionally, the certification is an indication of your commitment to the profession and demonstrates that you have acquired necessary skills and knowledge for success.

Q3. What types of certifications are available for Operation Engineers?

A3. There are several certifications available for Operation Engineers, such as Certified Professional in Operations Engineering (CPOE), Certified Reliability Professional (CRP), Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP), Certified Quality Technologist (CQT), Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) and more.

Q4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a certified Operation Engineer?

A4. Yes, most programs require at least two years of work experience or equivalent education in an operations engineering field before you can apply for certification. Additionally, some programs may also require additional testing or training courses prior to applying for certification.

Q5. How much does it cost to become a certified Operation Engineer?

A5. The cost of becoming a certified Operation Engineer varies depending on the specific program you choose and may include application fees, exam fees, training course fees and more. It is important to research each program thoroughly to determine its associated costs before committing to any particular program