Top 11 Operations Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market for operations coordinators because they provide a way to demonstrate knowledge and skills in specific areas. They also provide evidence that a person has taken the time to learn about and understand the concepts of operations management. This can be useful in distinguishing one candidate from another and can help employers select the best-qualified individual for the job. Certifications also show potential employers that an operations coordinator is dedicated to staying up-to-date on industry trends, tools, and resources. Finally, certifications can open up new career opportunities by giving coordinators access to professional networks, such as those associated with the International Association of Operations Management (IAOM).

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Operations Coordinators and explain how they can enhance an operations coordinator's career.

What are Operations Coordinator Certifications?

Operations coordinator certification is a professional credential that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead and manage operations within an organization. It is designed to help those who are responsible for managing day-to-day operations, such as customer service, production, logistics, inventory control, and product distribution. This certification can help individuals gain the necessary skills to improve their job performance, increase their earning potential, and advance in their career.

The operations coordinator certification program covers topics such as project management principles and techniques, budgeting and financial management, supply chain management best practices, quality assurance processes and procedures, customer service principles and standards of practice. Individuals will also learn how to use software programs such as Microsoft Office Suite products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), QuickBooks accounting software, and SAP enterprise resource planning system. Additionally, they will gain an understanding of communication techniques in order to be able to effectively communicate with teams across various departments.

By obtaining an operations coordinator certification individuals will be able to demonstrate a commitment to excellence in their field. They will also possess the skills necessary to ensure the successful execution of operational strategies within their organization. These certifications can help employers identify qualified candidates who have the knowledge needed to manage complex projects while meeting organizational goals. Ultimately it can help them become more efficient at managing daily operations while improving customer satisfaction levels.

Pro Tip: Look for an operations coordinator certification program that offers comprehensive, hands-on training designed to give you the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in your role. Additionally, seek out programs that offer post-certification support and resources to help you stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and best practices.

Related: What does an Operations Coordinator do?

Top 11 Operations Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Operations Coordinators today.

1. Certified Professional Logistics Coordinator (CPL)

Certified Professional Logistics Coordinator (CPL) is a professional certification designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage logistics operations. It is offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L).

The CPL program consists of a series of courses that cover topics such as supply chain management, inventory control, transportation, warehousing, customer service, and quality assurance. The program also includes an exam which tests the candidate's knowledge in these areas.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CPL program. During this time, candidates must complete all required coursework and pass the final exam.

To get certified as a CPL, individuals must first apply for admission to AST&L’s certification program. After being accepted into the program, applicants must then register for the courses they wish to take and pay any applicable fees. Once all coursework has been completed and passed with a grade of at least 70%, applicants can then take the final exam.

The cost of obtaining a CPL certification varies depending on which courses are taken and how many credits are earned. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 to become certified as a CPL.

2. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate excellence in supply chain management. The CSCP program provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage global supply chains.

The CSCP certification process consists of two parts: an online exam and a comprehensive case study project. The online exam covers topics such as supply chain design, operations, inventory management, logistics, customer service, and more. The case study project requires applicants to analyze a real-world supply chain problem and develop a solution.

It typically takes three to six months to complete all requirements for the CSCP certification. To get started, applicants must first register for the exam through APICS’s website. Once registered, they can access study materials and practice exams online or through their local APICS chapter. After studying for the exam, applicants must submit their application form and payment before taking the online exam.

The cost of obtaining the CSCP certification varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or not. For non-members, it costs $695 USD for the registration fee plus $495 USD for each retake of the exam if necessary. For members, it costs $495 USD for registration plus $295 USD per retake if necessary.

3. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program developed by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to help professionals develop and demonstrate their mastery of production and inventory management principles, practices, and techniques.

The CPIM program consists of five courses: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, Strategic Management of Resources. Each course is offered online or in-person through APICS-approved providers. The entire program takes approximately six months to complete if taken online or twelve months if taken in-person.

To become certified as a CPIM, you must pass all five exams within three years. To get started with the CPIM program, you must first register with APICS and pay the required fees. After registering, you can purchase the study materials from APICS or from an approved provider. Once you have completed the courses and passed all five exams, you will receive your CPIM certification.

The cost for the CPIM program varies depending on which study materials you choose to purchase and whether you take the courses online or in-person. Generally speaking, it typically costs between $1,500-$2,500 USD for the entire program.

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

Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is designed for those who work in the logistics, transportation and distribution industries. The CLTD Certification focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to manage global supply chains effectively.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CLTD program. To get certified, you must first complete an online application and pay a one-time fee of $495. After that, you must take an online exam that consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as logistics operations, customer service management, international trade compliance, inventory management and more. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your CLTD certification.

The cost of the CLTD program includes all study materials, the exam fee and any additional fees associated with taking the exam. The cost may vary depending on where you take it but generally ranges between $500-$600.

5. Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB)

Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB) is a professional certification designed to help individuals become more effective in their roles as process improvement leaders. It provides knowledge and skills related to the application of Six Sigma tools and techniques, which are used to improve processes, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction. The certification is awarded by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

It typically takes about six months for an individual to prepare for the CSSGB exam. Preparation includes studying the ASQ Body of Knowledge (BOK), attending training courses, and completing practice tests. It is also recommended that individuals have at least three years of experience in a business or technical role before taking the exam.

To get certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as project management, data analysis, problem solving, and process improvement techniques. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $400-$600 USD.

Once certified, individuals will receive a certificate from ASQ that can be used to demonstrate their expertise in Six Sigma methodology. They may also be eligible for promotions or salary increases due to their new credentials.

6. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and experience of project managers. The PMP certification demonstrates that an individual has the necessary education, experience, and competency to lead and direct projects.

It typically takes around 6-12 months to prepare for the PMP exam. To become eligible to take the exam, applicants must meet certain criteria such as having at least 4500 hours of project management experience over the last 8 years or 7500 hours if you have a bachelor's degree or higher. Additionally, applicants must have 35 contact hours of formal project management education.

To get the PMP certification, applicants must pass an online examination that consists of 200 multiple choice questions. The exam covers five domains: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing. Applicants have four hours to complete the exam.

The cost of obtaining a PMP certification depends on whether you are a member of PMI or not. For non-members it costs $555 USD while members pay $405 USD for the application fee plus $150 USD for each examination retake if needed.

7. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB)

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB) is a certification program that is designed to help professionals develop and demonstrate their expertise in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. This certification is typically sought by individuals who are looking to advance their career in process improvement, operational excellence, or project management.

The Lean Six Sigma Black Belt program requires a minimum of 4 weeks of training, which can be completed through either an online course or an in-person course. During this training, participants will learn the principles of Lean Six Sigma and how to apply them to real-world business scenarios. Participants will also gain experience with problem solving tools such as DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) and data analysis techniques like Pareto Charts and Control Charts.

In order to become certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, participants must pass an exam administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and must be taken within one year of completing the training program.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $3,000-$5,000 USD. This cost includes both the training course fees and the examination fee.

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

APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD-APICS) is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the global logistics, transportation and distribution industry. The CLTD-APICS certification program provides a comprehensive body of knowledge that covers topics such as supply chain management, logistics operations, inventory management, materials handling, transportation and distribution.

The CLTD-APICS certification program consists of nine modules: Supply Chain Management Fundamentals; Logistics Operations; Inventory Management; Materials Handling; Transportation and Distribution; International Logistics; Quality Control & Compliance; Warehouse Design & Operations; and Performance Measurement & Cost Analysis. To obtain the certification, candidates must pass an exam after completing all nine modules.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the CLTD-APICS program. Candidates are encouraged to study for at least 10 hours per week in order to prepare for the exam.

The cost of the CLTD-APICS program varies depending on how you choose to take it. The cost of taking the course online is $1,795 USD while attending an in-person class is $2,195 USD. Additionally, there is a one time exam fee of $495 USD for both online and in-person courses.

9. Certified Professional Purchasing Manager (CPPM)

Certified Professional Purchasing Manager (CPPM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). The CPPM designation is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in purchasing management. This certification is widely recognized in the business world as a mark of excellence in the field of purchasing.

To be eligible for the CPPM program, applicants must have at least five years of experience in purchasing or related fields, such as supply chain management or logistics. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as procurement principles and practices, contract law, and strategic sourcing.

The CPPM program typically takes about six months to complete. During this time, applicants are required to complete four online courses and pass two exams. The cost of the program varies depending on whether you choose to take the courses online or through an ISM-approved training provider. Online courses typically cost between $1,000 - $2,000 while training providers may charge up to $10,000 for their services.

Once an individual has successfully completed all requirements of the program they will receive their official CPPM certification from ISM. This certification will serve as proof that they possess a high level of knowledge and expertise in purchasing management and can help them stand out among other job candidates when applying for positions within the field.

10. International Society of Logistics (SOLE)-Certified Professional Logistician Program

The International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Certified Professional Logistician Program is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge, skills and abilities of logisticians. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the knowledge and experience of individuals in logistics, supply chain management, inventory control, materials management, transportation and distribution.

The program consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical project. The online exam is designed to assess the individual’s understanding of the principles and practices of logistics and supply chain management. It consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as inventory control, materials management, transportation and distribution.

The practical project is designed to evaluate the individual’s ability to apply their knowledge in a real-world situation. This includes developing an effective logistics plan for a specific company or organization. The project must be completed within six months from the time it was assigned by SOLE.

To become certified as a Professional Logistician through SOLE, individuals must pass both parts of the program with a minimum score of 70%. Once they have passed both parts, they will receive their certification from SOLE.

The cost for the program varies depending on whether you are taking it online or in person. Online courses typically cost between $400-$800 USD while in-person courses can range from $1,000-$2,500 USD.

11. Global Supply Chain Professional Certification Program from the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals

The Global Supply Chain Professional Certification Program from the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) is a comprehensive program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of supply chain professionals. The program is designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in the field of supply chain management, providing them with an edge in the job market.

The certification program consists of four levels: Associate, Professional, Senior Professional, and Fellow. Each level requires a different set of criteria to be met in order to qualify for certification.

Associate Level: This level requires completion of CSCMP's Introduction to Supply Chain Management course or equivalent knowledge and experience. It also requires passing an online exam that tests basic knowledge in areas such as logistics, operations, procurement, inventory management, and customer service. This level can be completed in approximately one month.

Professional Level: This level requires completion of CSCMP's Advanced Supply Chain Management course or equivalent knowledge and experience. It also requires passing an online exam that tests advanced knowledge in areas such as global supply chain design and management, risk management, sustainability practices, data analytics, and technology integration. This level can be completed in approximately three months.

Senior Professional Level: This level requires completion of CSCMP's Executive Leadership course or equivalent knowledge and experience. It also requires passing an online exam that tests executive-level knowledge in areas such as strategic planning, leadership development, organizational change management, financial analysis, performance measurement systems design/implementation/management, project/program management best practices/methodologies/techniques/toolsets/processes/strategies/tactics etc., cross-functional collaboration & communication strategies & tactics etc.. This level can be completed in approximately six months.

Fellow Level: This level is reserved for experienced professionals who have made significant contributions to the field of supply chain management through research or practice over many years; it does not require any additional courses or exams but rather relies on peer review by a panel of experts appointed by CSCMP’s Board of Directors. To apply for this level you must have at least 10 years' experience working within the field of supply chain management and submit evidence demonstrating your professional accomplishments to support your application.

The cost for each certification level varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of CSCMP; members receive discounted rates on all certifications levels (Associate $175 USD; Professional $275 USD; Senior Professional $375 USD; Fellow No Cost). Non-members pay full price (Associate $225 USD; Professional $325 USD; Senior Professional $425 USD). In addition to these fees there may be additional costs associated with taking courses or exams required for each certification level if they are not already included with membership fees or other discounts offered by CSCMP.

Do You Really Need a Operations Coordinator Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need an operations coordinator certificate to become an operations coordinator. However, depending on the industry and specific role you are seeking, a certification may give you an edge over other applicants and demonstrate your commitment to the profession.

In some industries, such as healthcare or government, having an operations coordinator certificate is a requirement for certain roles. In these cases, you must obtain the certification in order to be considered for the job. Other organizations may view having a certification as beneficial when considering applicants for the same position. For instance, if two candidates have similar qualifications but one has a certification in operations coordination while the other does not, then the certified candidate will likely be more attractive to employers.

Having a certificate can also demonstrate your knowledge of operations coordination principles and techniques. It shows that you understand how processes should be designed and managed in order to achieve organizational goals. Additionally, it can highlight your ability to analyze data and create reports that help inform decision-making processes within an organization.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an operations coordinator certificate depends on what kind of role you are looking for and what industry you want to work in. If certification is required or could provide a competitive advantage during the hiring process, then obtaining one would certainly be beneficial for advancement in this field.

Related: Operations Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Operations Coordinator Certifications

1. What is an Operations Coordinator Certification?

Answer: An Operations Coordinator Certification is a credential that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and skills in coordinating operations for businesses. It typically covers topics such as project management, customer service, supply chain management, and financial analysis.

2. What qualifications are required to become an Operations Coordinator?

Answer: Generally speaking, most employers require applicants to have at least a bachelor's degree in business or a related field such as industrial engineering or logistics. In addition, some employers may prefer candidates who have previous experience in the field.

3. How long does it take to get certified as an Operations Coordinator?

Answer: The length of time it takes to obtain certification depends on the program you choose and your level of experience. Some programs offer accelerated courses which may take as little as 6 months while others may take up to 2 years.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming an Operations Coordinator?

Answer: Most certifications require applicants to have at least two years of work experience in the field and/or a relevant bachelor’s degree before they can apply for certification. Additionally, some certifications may also require additional coursework or training prior to taking the exam.

5. What types of jobs can I get with an Operations Coordinator Certification?

Answer: With an Operations Coordinator Certification, you will be qualified for various positions including project manager, operations manager, supply chain manager, logistics coordinator, customer service representative, and more!