Top 10 Operation Specialist Certifications

Certifications are an important asset for any operation specialist in the job market. Certifications demonstrate a certain level of expertise and knowledge that employers value. They provide proof of competency in a particular area and show employers that you have the necessary skills to perform the job duties required. They also give employers confidence in your abilities, as they can verify that you have achieved a certain level of proficiency in your field. Certifications also make you more competitive for hiring and promotions, as they can help set you apart from other candidates. In addition, certifications keep operations specialists up to date on industry trends and best practices, which is essential for successful performance in their role.

The purpose of this article is to review certifications for Operation Specialists and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Operation Specialist Certifications?

Operation specialist certification is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise and experience of operations specialists in a variety of industries. This certification helps to validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those who work within the operations field and demonstrates their commitment to excellence. Operation specialist certification can be used by employers as a way to ensure they are hiring qualified individuals with the necessary qualifications for management positions. It also provides opportunities for advancement within the organization and can be used as a tool for career development and advancement.

Operation specialist certification can help organizations improve their customer service, increase efficiency, reduce costs, and better manage resources. It is designed to help operations professionals better understand business processes, develop problem-solving skills, stay up-to-date on industry trends, and develop strategic plans for success. Additionally, it can provide individuals with greater job security and higher salaries due to their increased knowledge and experience in the field.

Pro Tip: When considering an operation specialist certification, make sure to research and understand the requirements of the program. Many programs have specific prerequisites or experience requirements that must be met in order to qualify for certification. Additionally, look into the cost of the program and any associated fees that may be required. Lastly, make sure to read through any reviews or feedback from past participants to ensure you are making an informed decision about the best program for your needs.

Related: What does an Operation Specialist do?

Top 10 Operation Specialist Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Data Management and Analytics

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Data Management and Analytics is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in designing, implementing, and managing data solutions. This certification provides the knowledge and skills needed to build secure, reliable, and scalable data solutions using Microsoft SQL Server technologies.

The MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification requires passing two exams: 70-767 Implementing a Data Warehouse using SQL Server 2016 and 70-768 Developing SQL Data Models. These exams are designed to test your understanding of the core concepts of data warehousing, database design principles, and the implementation of data models using SQL Server 2016.

In order to become certified, you must pass both exams within 12 months of each other. The cost for each exam is $165 USD. You can register for the exam online through Pearson VUE or by calling their customer service line. Once you have passed both exams, you will receive an official certificate from Microsoft that verifies your achievement.

The MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification is an industry-recognized credential that can open up new opportunities in the field of data management and analytics. It can also help you stand out from other job applicants when applying for positions in this field.

2. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Operations

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Operations is a certification for individuals who have expertise in designing and deploying scalable, highly available, and fault-tolerant systems on AWS. This certification is intended for those who are already experienced with AWS and want to demonstrate their knowledge of operational best practices.

To get the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Operations certification, you must pass the corresponding exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions that cover topics such as network architecture, security, monitoring, automation, cost optimization, and troubleshooting. The exam typically takes around 90 minutes to complete and costs $150 USD.

In order to prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you have a minimum of two years’ experience working in an operations role on AWS. Additionally, it is beneficial to take an online course or attend a training session to review the material covered by the exam.

3. CompTIA Cloud+ Certification

CompTIA Cloud+ is an industry-recognized certification designed to validate the skills needed to maintain and optimize cloud infrastructure services. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers a wide range of cloud computing topics, including security, resource management, virtualization, storage, and networking.

It typically takes about 4-6 months to prepare for the CompTIA Cloud+ exam. The best way to get started is by taking online courses or attending instructor-led classes. Additionally, there are many free practice tests available online that can help you prepare for the exam.

The cost of the CompTIA Cloud+ exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $300 USD. However, some training providers may offer discounts or other incentives that could reduce the cost of the exam.

In order to earn your CompTIA Cloud+ certification, you must pass one 90-minute multiple choice exam with a score of 750 out of 900 points (on a scale from 100-900). Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official certificate in the mail within 6 weeks.

4. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc., the world's leading provider of open source solutions. The RHCSA certification is designed to validate an individual's skills in administering and managing Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. It is the most widely recognized and respected certification for system administrators in the industry.

It typically takes around 40 hours of study time to prepare for the exam, depending on your existing knowledge of Linux systems administration. The exam itself consists of multiple choice and performance-based questions that assess your ability to configure local storage, network services, security settings, system maintenance tasks, and troubleshooting.

To get certified as an RHCSA you must pass a single exam (EX200). This exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE or Kryterion testing center worldwide. The cost of the exam varies from country to country but generally ranges from $400-$500 USD.

5. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is an entry-level certification that provides a comprehensive understanding of the ITIL framework and how it can be used to improve the quality of IT service management. The certification is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage IT services in any organization.

The ITIL Foundation Certification exam takes approximately two hours and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 65% or higher on all questions. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on location, but typically ranges from $200 - $400 USD.

To become certified, individuals must first complete an approved training course. There are a variety of online and in-person courses available, with prices ranging from $500 - $1,000 USD depending on the provider. After completing a course, individuals can register for their ITIL Foundation Certification Exam through PeopleCert or Prometric testing centers.

6. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Cloud Platform

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Cloud Platform is a certification program designed to help IT professionals gain the skills and knowledge needed to successfully design, implement, and manage cloud-based solutions. It covers topics such as cloud computing concepts, Windows Server, Microsoft Azure services, storage solutions, networking technologies, identity management, virtualization technologies, system management tools and more.

It typically takes about six months of study and preparation to obtain the MCSA: Cloud Platform certification. To get the certification you must pass two exams: Exam 70-532 Developing Microsoft Azure Solutions and Exam 70-533 Implementing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions. The cost of each exam is $165 USD.

To prepare for these exams you can take online courses or use self-study materials such as books or practice tests. You can also attend instructor-led training courses offered by Microsoft Learning Partners. Additionally, you may want to join an online community of other IT professionals who are preparing for the same exams.

7. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) – Data Center

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Data Center is a professional-level certification program that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who work with data center technologies. The CCNP Data Center certification provides IT professionals with the knowledge and skills to design, implement, and manage data center infrastructures. It also covers topics such as storage networking, virtualization, automation, network services, unified computing, and security.

The CCNP Data Center certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in designing and managing Cisco Data Center solutions. To obtain the CCNP Data Center certification, candidates must pass two exams: one core exam (350-601 DCICN) and one concentration exam (300-610 DCID).

It typically takes about six months to complete the entire CCNP Data Center certification process. Candidates should plan to spend at least 30 hours per week studying for the exams.

The cost of the CCNP Data Center certification varies depending on which exams you take. The core exam costs $300 USD while each concentration exam costs $300 USD. Therefore, it can cost up to $900 USD to get your CCNP Data Center certification.

8. VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV)

VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in virtualizing and managing data centers using VMware vSphere 6.

The VCP6-DCV certification requires that candidates have at least six months of experience with vSphere 6, pass two exams, and attend an authorized VMware training course. The two exams are the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) Exam, which tests your knowledge of vSphere 6 features and functions, and the VMware Certified Associate 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCA6-DCV) Exam, which tests your basic understanding of virtualization concepts.

The process to become VCP6-DCV certified typically takes 3-4 months. Candidates must first register for the VCP6-DCV exam through the Pearson VUE website. After passing both exams, they must submit their exam results to VMware and then enroll in an authorized training course. Once they complete their training course, they can submit their course completion certificate to VMware for final certification.

The cost of becoming VCP6-DCV certified varies depending on the type of training course taken. A self-paced online training course costs around $400-$500 while an instructor led classroom based training course can cost up to $3000 or more depending on location and duration. The cost of taking both exams is approximately $450 in total.

9. Linux Professional Institute (LPI) Level 1 Certification

Linux Professional Institute (LPI) Level 1 Certification is an entry-level certification that is designed to demonstrate a basic understanding of Linux system administration. It is also known as LPIC-1. The exam covers topics such as system architecture, package management, and command line tools.

The LPI Level 1 Certification requires passing two exams: the 101 and 102 exams. Each exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes. The pass rate for each exam is 70%.

To get the LPI Level 1 Certification, you must register for the exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric and pay the associated fees. The cost of the exams varies by country but typically ranges from $200 - $300 USD per exam.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your official LPI Level 1 Certification card in the mail which will include your name, certification number, and expiration date (which is three years after completion).

10. Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional is a certification program that verifies an individual's expertise in administering Oracle Database 12c. The certification requires a combination of hands-on experience and knowledge of the Oracle Database 12c architecture, features, and functions.

It typically takes between one to two months to complete the necessary training and pass the associated exams. To get certified, you must first complete a course from an Oracle University authorized training provider and then take two exams: 1Z0-062: Oracle Database 12c: Installation and Administration and 1Z0-063: Oracle Database 12c: Advanced Administration.

The cost for the certification varies depending on your country of residence and whether you are taking the exams online or at a testing center. Generally speaking, it will cost around $1,000 USD for both exams, plus any additional fees associated with taking them at a testing center.

Do You Really Need a Operation Specialist Certificate?

When it comes to deciding whether or not you need an Operation Specialist Certificate, the answer depends on your individual situation and goals. If you are looking to pursue a career in operations management or a related field, then the answer is likely yes. Having an Operation Specialist Certificate can give you an edge when competing for jobs and positions as it demonstrates that you have a level of expertise in the field.

An Operation Specialist Certificate provides you with a deeper understanding of the principles and practices related to operations management. It also gives you the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage resources and processes within organizations. This includes topics such as budgeting, scheduling, problem solving, customer service, and cost analysis. With this certificate, employers know that you have the necessary expertise to handle complex operations tasks.

Additionally, having an Operation Specialist Certificate may make it easier for you to advance in your career. Many employers prefer candidates who have certifications that demonstrate their proficiency in a particular field. The certificate may also open up new opportunities for career development such as attending conferences or taking additional courses related to operations management.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an Operation Specialist Certificate comes down to your own goals and objectives. If gaining an advantage in the job market or advancing your career are important considerations for you, then obtaining a certification could be beneficial.

Related: Operation Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Operation Specialist Certifications

1. What are the requirements for obtaining an Operation Specialist Certification?

Answer: Requirements vary depending on the certification, but generally include completing a training program and passing an exam. Some certifications may also require previous work experience or other qualifications.

2. How long does it take to become certified as an Operation Specialist?

Answer: The length of time required to obtain a certification depends on the specific certification program and how much time you are able to devote to studying and preparing for the exam. Generally, most programs can be completed within one year.

3. What type of job opportunities are available with an Operation Specialist Certification?

Answer: With a certification in operations specialist, you may qualify for positions such as production supervisor or project manager in manufacturing, logistics, or supply chain management. You may also be able to find work in areas such as warehouse management, inventory control, customer service, and more.

4. Are there continuing education requirements associated with Operation Specialist Certifications?

Answer: Yes, some certifications require ongoing professional development activities such as attending seminars or taking refresher courses in order to maintain your certification status.

5. Are there any online resources available to help prepare for an Operation Specialist Certification Exam?

Answer: Yes, there are a number of online resources available that provide practice tests and study materials specifically designed to prepare you for your certification exam.