Top 10 OSP Engineer Certifications

Certifications for OSP engineers are important in the job market because they demonstrate that a person has the necessary knowledge, technical skills, and expertise to succeed in the role. Certifications provide employers with confidence that a candidate is qualified to perform the duties of an OSP engineer and can provide value to their organization. Additionally, certifications can help distinguish potential candidates from others who may not have the same level of expertise or experience. By earning certifications, OSP engineers can demonstrate their commitment to professional development and show employers that they are dedicated to staying up-to-date on industry trends and advances.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for OSP Engineers and explains how they can contribute to an osp engineer's career.

What are OSP Engineer Certifications?

OSP Engineer Certification is a certification program designed to provide individuals with specialized knowledge and skills in the field of Outside Plant (OSP) engineering. This certification demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of OSP networks. It covers topics such as fiber optics, copper cabling, network topology, and network management principles.

Having OSP Engineer Certification can help you stand out from other applicants when seeking a job in the telecommunications industry. It also serves as evidence that you possess the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about OSP networks. Additionally, having this certification can open up career opportunities for advancement within the telecommunications industry. With this certification, you will be able to work on more complex projects and have access to higher-level positions that require more technical expertise. Finally, having OSP Engineer Certification can also make it easier to obtain professional certifications such as Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD).

Pro Tip: When preparing for an OSP Engineering Certification exam, make sure to utilize both online and in-person resources. Online resources such as practice exams and study guides are invaluable for getting a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Additionally, attending seminars or workshops offered by industry professionals can provide valuable insight into real-world scenarios that may appear on the exam.

Related: What does an OSP Engineer do?

Top 10 OSP Engineer Certifications

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

1. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is a professional-level certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of routing, switching, and troubleshooting. It is intended for experienced networking professionals who are looking to further their career by demonstrating their advanced knowledge of Cisco technologies.

In order to obtain the CCNP certification, individuals must pass three exams: ROUTE, SWITCH, and TSHOOT. Each exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and covers topics such as network fundamentals, routing protocols, switching technologies, security solutions, wireless connectivity solutions, and more. In addition to passing these exams, individuals must also have at least one year of experience working with Cisco networks.

The cost of obtaining the CCNP certification varies depending on the country you are located in and whether or not you purchase a learning package from Cisco. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $300-$600 per exam plus any additional fees associated with purchasing learning materials or taking practice tests.

Overall, obtaining the CCNP certification typically takes between 6-12 months depending on how much time an individual has available to study for the exams.

2. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Professional (JNCIP)

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Professional (JNCIP) is a certification program offered by Juniper Networks. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of network professionals who work with Juniper products and technologies. The JNCIP certifies that an individual has the expertise necessary to design, configure, implement, and troubleshoot complex enterprise routing and switching solutions using Juniper products.

The JNCIP requires passing two exams: a core exam (JN0-103) and an advanced exam (JN0-660). The core exam covers topics such as networking fundamentals, routing protocols, security, virtualization, and automation. The advanced exam covers topics such as multicast routing, QoS, IPv6, MPLS VPNs, and BGP.

It typically takes 3-6 months to prepare for the JNCIP exams depending on your experience level and study habits. To prepare for the exams you can take online courses or attend instructor-led classes offered by Juniper Networks or its partners. You can also use practice tests to help you assess your knowledge before taking the actual exams.

The cost of the JNCIP certification depends on where you take the exams. If you take them at a testing center it will cost around $400 per exam plus any additional fees associated with taking the test at that location. If you take them online it will cost around $200 per exam plus any additional fees associated with taking the test online.

3. Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)

Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc., the world’s leading provider of open source enterprise solutions. The RHCE certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s proficiency in administering Linux-based systems using Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). It is one of the most sought-after certifications in the IT industry and can help an individual stand out from the competition.

The RHCE exam consists of two parts: a hands-on lab exam and a written exam. The hands-on lab exam requires candidates to complete various tasks related to system administration, such as configuring network services, setting up user accounts, and troubleshooting system issues. The written exam covers topics such as system security, networking, storage management, and troubleshooting.

It typically takes around 3 months of preparation to get ready for the RHCE exam. Candidates should have a good understanding of Linux commands and be familiar with the Red Hat Enterprise Linux operating system before attempting the exam. Additionally, Red Hat offers training courses that can help individuals prepare for the RHCE certification.

The cost of taking the RHCE exam varies depending on location but usually ranges from $400-$600 USD. Candidates must also pay an additional fee for any training courses they take prior to taking the exam.

4. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program offered by Microsoft to demonstrate an individual’s expertise in designing, implementing, and managing IT solutions with Microsoft technologies. It is designed for IT professionals who have experience in designing and implementing solutions based on the Microsoft platform.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the MCSE certification depending on the individual’s prior experience and knowledge. To get the MCSE certification, you must pass one or more exams that cover topics such as Windows Server, Exchange Server, System Center, SQL Server, SharePoint Server, Office 365, Azure and other related technologies. You can find more information about these exams on the Microsoft website.

The cost of taking an exam varies depending on the country you are located in. In the US for example, each exam costs around $165 USD. After passing all required exams you will receive your MCSE certificate from Microsoft.

5. CompTIA Linux+ Certification

CompTIA Linux+ is an internationally-recognized certification for IT professionals who use and manage Linux systems. It is designed to demonstrate a professional’s knowledge of fundamental Linux concepts, such as installation, configuration, networking, security, system maintenance and troubleshooting.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the CompTIA Linux+ exam. The exam consists of two parts: LX0-103 and LX0-104. The LX0-103 covers basic topics such as installation and configuration of Linux systems, while the LX0-104 focuses on more advanced topics such as network services and security.

To get certified with CompTIA Linux+, you need to pass both exams with a score of at least 750 out of 900 points. You can take each exam separately or together in one sitting. The exams are offered at Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide and can be taken online or in person.

The cost of the CompTIA Linux+ certification exam varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $250-$300 USD per exam.

6. Amazon Web Services Certified Solutions Architect

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect is a professional certification program for individuals who possess the technical skills and expertise to design, deploy, and manage applications and infrastructure on the AWS cloud platform. This certification validates an individual’s ability to effectively design and deploy secure and robust applications on the AWS platform.

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect exam consists of multiple-choice questions that assess an individual’s knowledge of core AWS services, such as Amazon EC2, Amazon S3, Amazon RDS, Amazon VPC, etc. The exam also covers topics related to designing highly available, cost-efficient, fault-tolerant systems in the AWS cloud.

It typically takes around 4-6 months of preparation to pass the AWS Certified Solutions Architect exam. It is important to have a good understanding of core AWS services and their features before attempting the exam. Additionally, it is recommended that you practice with hands-on labs or take an online course to get familiar with the concepts covered in the exam.

To get certified as an AWS Certified Solutions Architect you must first register for an account on the AWS Certification website and then purchase a voucher for the exam. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $150-$300 USD. Once you have purchased your voucher you can schedule your exam at any Pearson VUE testing center near you.

Once you have completed your exam you will receive your results within 48 hours and if successful will be awarded with your official AWS Certified Solutions Architect certificate via email.

7. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification program developed by VMware for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in virtualization and cloud computing. It is the most popular and widely recognized certification for virtualization professionals.

The VCP certification requires candidates to attend an authorized training course and pass two exams: a qualifying exam and a hands-on lab exam. The qualifying exam covers topics such as vSphere architecture, installation, configuration, management, and troubleshooting. The hands-on lab exam tests the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge of vSphere in a simulated environment.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the training and exams required for the VCP certification. The cost of the training varies depending on the provider but usually ranges from $2,000 - $4,000 USD. In addition to the cost of training, there are also fees associated with taking the qualifying and lab exams which range from $250 - $450 USD per exam.

8. Citrix Certified Administrator (CCA)

Citrix Certified Administrator (CCA) is a certification program designed to validate the skills of IT professionals who administer and manage Citrix products. It is an entry-level certification that validates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops 7 solutions. The CCA certification requires passing one exam which covers topics such as installation and configuration of Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops 7; managing user access; configuring policies; administering applications; managing security; monitoring performance; troubleshooting; and more.

The CCA certification typically takes about 2-3 months to complete depending on the individual’s experience level. To get certified, individuals must first register for the exam through a Pearson VUE testing center. The cost of the exam is $200 USD plus applicable taxes. After registering for the exam, individuals should review the official Citrix training materials as well as any other resources available online or in print. Once they feel prepared for the exam, they can then schedule their test date at a Pearson VUE testing center near them.

9. HP ASE - OpenVMS v8 System Administration

HP ASE - OpenVMS v8 System Administration is a certification program offered by HPE. It is designed to help system administrators understand and manage the OpenVMS v8 operating system. This certification focuses on the skills needed to configure, manage, and troubleshoot OpenVMS systems.

The program consists of two exams that must be passed in order to become certified: HP0-A08 (OpenVMS System Administration) and HP0-A09 (OpenVMS Advanced System Administration). The exams are available online through Pearson VUE.

It typically takes around 4-6 months to complete the program, depending on an individual's experience with OpenVMS. To get started, individuals should register for the exams through Pearson VUE and purchase study materials from HPE or other vendors.

The cost of the exams varies depending on where they are taken; however, it can range from $125-$250 per exam.

10. Check Point Security Administration

Check Point Security Administration is a comprehensive security suite that provides organizations with advanced protection against cyber threats. It includes a wide range of tools to protect networks, endpoints, and cloud-based applications from malware, ransomware, and other malicious attacks.

Check Point Security Administration is available as an on-premise solution or as a cloud-based service. The on-premise solution requires the installation of software on an organization’s servers and can take up to several weeks to deploy. The cloud-based service is quicker to set up and can be deployed in just minutes.

To get Check Point Security Administration, organizations need to purchase a license from the company or one of its authorized resellers. Prices vary depending on the size of the organization and the features required. Generally speaking, licenses start at around $1,000 per year for small businesses and go up from there depending on the number of users and features needed.

Do You Really Need a OSP Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on what your career goals are and where you want to take your career. If you are looking to become an Outside Plant (OSP) Engineer, then having a certificate in OSP Engineering can be extremely beneficial. It will show employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills required for the job. Having a certificate in OSP engineering will also make it easier for you to find jobs since many employers prefer hiring people with certifications.

On the other hand, if you already have a degree or extensive experience in the field, then a certificate may not be necessary. Employers are often more interested in seeing proof of your work experience than they are in seeing certificates or degrees. In this case, having an OSP engineer certificate might not help much and could even hurt your chances of getting hired if it is seen as redundant or unnecessary.

In conclusion, whether or not you need an OSP engineer certificate really depends on your individual situation and goals. If you are just starting out in the field and lack experience, then having a certificate could be very beneficial and help set you apart from other applicants. However, if you already have a degree or plenty of relevant experience, then an additional certification might not do much to boost your job prospects.

Related: OSP Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About OSP Engineer Certifications

1. What certifications are available for OSP engineers?

Answer: The main certification for OSP engineers is the Society of Broadband Professionals (SCTE) Certified Outside Plant Engineer (COPE). Other certifications include the Fiber Optics Association (FOA) Certified Fiber Optics Technician (CFOT), and the Broadband Technology Report (BTR) Certified OSP Engineer (COE).

2. How much does an OSP engineer certification cost?

Answer: Costs vary depending on the certification provider, but generally range from $500 to $2,000. Additionally, some providers may offer discounts or financing options.

3. What is the duration of an OSP engineer certification?

Answer: The duration of an OSP engineer certification typically ranges from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the provider. However, many certifications need to be renewed after a certain period of time in order to remain valid.

4. What type of training is required for an OSP engineer certification?

Answer: Training requirements vary depending on the specific certification program and provider, but generally involve a combination of classroom instruction and online study materials. Additionally, some programs may require hands-on experience or fieldwork in order to become certified.

5. Are there additional certifications available for experienced OSP engineers?

Answer: Yes, there are a number of advanced certifications that can be obtained by experienced OSP engineers such as SCTE's Master Certified Outside Plant Engineer (MCOPE) and FOA's Senior Certified Fiber Optics Technician (SCFOT).