Top 10 Plant Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for plant managers in the job market because they demonstrate that the manager has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage a plant. Certifications also provide evidence of a commitment to professional development and continuing education, which can be attractive to employers. Additionally, certifications can help a manager stand out from other applicants, as they indicate a level of expertise and credibility that may not be available without having earned the certification. Finally, certifications show that the manager is up-to-date on best practices and industry standards, which can give employers confidence in their decision to hire them.

This article reviews the top certifications for Plant Managers and explains how they can benefit a Plant Manager's career by providing specialized knowledge and skills.

What are Plant Manager Certifications?

Plant manager certification is a specialized form of training and professional development for those who are responsible for the overall management of manufacturing or production plants. It provides an opportunity for plant managers to gain expertise in all aspects of plant operations, from safety protocols and quality control to cost-efficiency strategies and employee relations. The certification program covers topics such as process improvement, legal compliance, financial management, labor relations, and organizational effectiveness. With this knowledge base, plant managers can make informed decisions that help their businesses run more efficiently and profitably.

By earning a plant manager certification, those in the field can demonstrate their commitment to the profession and demonstrate their ability to make sound decisions that will ultimately benefit their employers. Plant managers with formal training may also be eligible for promotions or higher-paying positions within the organization. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities with other companies because employers recognize the value that comes with having knowledgeable leaders at the helm of their operations.

Pro Tip: Plant Manager Certification is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to safety and operational excellence. Always make sure to research the certification requirements and be prepared to provide the necessary documentation, including proof of completion of any relevant training courses or certifications. Additionally, stay up-to-date on recent industry developments and regulations to ensure that you are always meeting the highest standards in plant management.

Related: What does a Plant Manager do?

Top 10 Plant Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Plant Managers today.

1. Certified Plant Manager (CPM)

Certified Plant Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced plant managers. The program is administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CPM program consists of three levels: Certified Plant Manager (CPM), Senior Certified Plant Manager (SCPM), and Master Certified Plant Manager (MCPM). Each level requires passing an exam, with the MCPM requiring two exams.

It typically takes six to twelve months to complete all three levels, depending on how much time you can devote to studying and preparing for the exams. To get started, you will need to register with ASQ and purchase their study materials. The cost of registration and study materials varies, but typically ranges from $100-$300.

Once you have passed all three exams, you will receive your CPM certification. This certification is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years in order to remain active.

2. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). CPIM certification is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage production and inventory activities within an organization.

The CPIM program consists of two exams: Basics of Supply Chain Management and Master Planning of Resources. The Basics exam covers topics such as supply chain management, purchasing, inventory control, operations scheduling, production planning, quality assurance, material requirements planning, distribution and logistics. The Master Planning exam covers topics such as demand management, capacity planning, master scheduling, material requirements planning, shop floor control and performance measurements.

It typically takes 8-12 months to complete the CPIM program depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying. To get started with the program you will need to register with APICS and purchase their study materials which include textbooks and online courses. Once you have completed all of the required coursework you can then take the exams at a proctored testing center or online through Pearson VUE.

The cost for the CPIM program varies depending on how many exams you choose to take. The cost for each individual exam is $225 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees. Additionally there are other costs associated with studying for the exams such as textbooks or online courses which can range from $100-$500 USD depending on what materials you choose to purchase.

3. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the Six Sigma methodology. The program focuses on the core concepts of the Six Sigma approach, which includes problem-solving, data analysis, process improvement, and project management.

The certification typically takes between three to four months to complete. To get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must successfully complete an accredited training course and pass an examination. The cost of the training course varies depending on the provider, but generally ranges from $2,000 to $4,000.

In order to become certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must have at least three years of work experience in a related field or have completed an approved undergraduate degree program. You should also have some knowledge of basic statistical methods and be able to use them in problem solving processes. Additionally, you must be able to demonstrate your ability to apply Six Sigma principles in your work environment.

Once you have completed the training course and passed the exam, you will receive your certification as a Six Sigma Green Belt. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking additional courses or passing additional exams.

4. Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP)

Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) is a professional certification offered by the Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP). The CMRP certification is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities in maintenance, reliability, and physical asset management. It is intended to provide employers with assurance that certified professionals possess the necessary qualifications to perform their job duties effectively.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the requirements for the CMRP certification. First, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria such as having at least three years of experience in maintenance or reliability management or a related field. Next, applicants must pass an exam administered by SMRP which covers topics such as asset management principles, preventive/predictive maintenance strategies, root cause analysis techniques, and more. Finally, applicants must submit a portfolio of work samples demonstrating their proficiency in maintenance and reliability management.

The cost of obtaining the CMRP certification varies depending on individual circumstances but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. This includes the application fee ($100 USD), exam fee ($400-$600 USD), and any additional fees associated with submitting a portfolio of work samples.

Overall, obtaining the CMRP certification can be an expensive but worthwhile investment for those looking to advance their career in maintenance and reliability management.

5. Lean Manufacturing Certification

Lean Manufacturing Certification is a certification program designed to help organizations improve their operational efficiency and effectiveness. It is based on the Lean Manufacturing principles developed by Toyota, which emphasize eliminating waste, streamlining processes, and improving quality. The certification requires individuals to have a comprehensive understanding of the Lean Manufacturing principles and how to apply them in their organization.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual's experience level and the type of course they choose to take. Most courses range from one day to several weeks depending on the depth of material covered.

In order to get certified, individuals must complete an approved Lean Manufacturing Certification course offered by an accredited institution or organization. After completing the course, individuals must then pass an exam administered by a third-party organization such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the type of course chosen and other factors such as travel costs and materials fees. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$1,500 USD per person depending on the length and depth of instruction provided.

6. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and experience in project management. The PMP certification is designed to assess an individual’s ability to successfully manage projects of any size or complexity.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to prepare for the PMP exam, depending on the individual’s background and experience. To be eligible to take the PMP exam, individuals must meet certain educational and/or professional experience requirements. Specifically, individuals must have either:

• A four-year degree (bachelor's or equivalent) with at least three years of project management experience, with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects; OR
• A secondary diploma (high school or equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience, with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects.

The cost of taking the PMP exam varies based on whether you are a member of PMI or not. For non-members, it costs $555 for the exam fee plus applicable taxes. For members of PMI, it costs $405 for the exam fee plus applicable taxes. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with studying for and taking the exam such as study materials or courses.

7. OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Safety Training

OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Safety Training is a comprehensive course designed to provide safety and health training for workers in the general industry. It is intended to help employers and employees reduce the number of workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities by teaching them how to recognize and prevent hazards in the workplace. The course covers topics such as hazard identification, accident prevention, personal protective equipment, fire safety, hazardous materials, machine guarding, ergonomics, and more.

The OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Safety Training course typically takes around 30 hours to complete. It can be taken online or in a classroom setting depending on the provider. Most providers offer both options with varying prices. Generally speaking, online courses are less expensive than classroom courses.

The cost of OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Safety Training varies depending on the provider and whether it is taken online or in a classroom setting. Generally speaking, online courses cost between $100-$200 while classroom courses cost between $200-$400.

In order to get OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Safety Training certification you must successfully complete an approved course from an accredited provider. Once you have completed the course you will receive a certificate of completion that can be used to demonstrate your understanding of safety practices in the workplace.

8. ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification

ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s ability to audit and assess the effectiveness of a company’s Quality Management System (QMS) against the ISO 9001 standard. The certification is awarded by accredited organizations such as the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA).

It typically takes around four weeks to complete the training and exams needed to become a certified ISO 9001 Lead Auditor. This includes attending an approved course, completing assignments, passing written and practical exams, and submitting a portfolio of evidence.

To get ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification, you must first identify an appropriate course provider and register for the program. You will then need to attend the course and complete all required assignments and exams. Once you have successfully completed all elements of the program, you will be issued with your certificate from the accrediting organization.

The cost of ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification varies depending on factors such as location, duration of the course, number of participants, etc., but can range from $2,000 - $5,000 USD.

9. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Manager

American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Manager is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and experience in the management of quality processes. The certification is designed to provide quality professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively lead and manage quality initiatives within their organization.

It typically takes around 6-12 months to complete the requirements for this certification, depending on your prior experience and training. To get certified, you must pass two exams: a written exam and a performance-based exam. The written exam tests your knowledge of quality management principles, while the performance-based exam assesses your ability to apply those principles in practice.

The cost of obtaining this certification varies depending on the location where you take the exams, but it usually ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. This fee covers both exams as well as any other associated costs such as study materials or preparation courses.

10. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Plant Engineering Certification

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Plant Engineering Certification is an internationally recognized certification program that provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of plant engineering. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of plant engineering.

The program requires applicants to pass a two-part exam, consisting of a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as safety, operations, maintenance, energy management, and environmental compliance. The practical exam focuses on the use of tools and equipment in the plant engineering environment.

It typically takes approximately six months to complete the certification process. During this time, applicants must complete an application form and submit it along with their resume, educational transcripts, and other required documents. Once these materials are received by ASME, they will review them for eligibility requirements before scheduling an appointment for the exams.

To prepare for the exams, applicants should take advantage of any study materials offered by ASME or other sources such as books or online courses. Additionally, some employers may offer training courses specifically designed to help prepare for the exams.

The cost for the ASME Plant Engineering Certification varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. This fee includes both parts of the examination as well as any additional fees associated with registration or study materials.

Do You Really Need a Plant Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual. A Plant Manager Certificate is a valuable asset for those who are looking to pursue a career in plant management. It shows potential employers that the applicant has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage a plant. The certificate also demonstrates that the applicant has taken the initiative to further their education, which can be an attractive characteristic when applying for higher-level positions.

For those who already have experience in plant management or who do not intend to pursue a career in it, a Plant Manager Certificate may not be necessary. However, if you are looking to advance your career and increase your chances of getting hired as a Plant Manager, then obtaining a Plant Manager Certificate would be beneficial. Additionally, having this certification could give you more credibility when seeking out job opportunities or negotiating salary.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Plant Manager Certificate will depend on your goals and objectives. If you wish to move up within the industry or demonstrate your commitment to professional development, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial.

Related: Plant Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Plant Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Plant Manager Certification?

A1. A Plant Manager Certification is a professional certificate that shows proficiency in managing a plant or factory, including areas such as safety, production, and quality control. It also demonstrates knowledge of the latest techniques and technologies used in the field.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Plant Manager?

A2. To become certified as a Plant Manager, you must complete an accredited training program and pass an exam administered by a recognized educational institution or professional organization. Additional requirements may vary depending on the specific certification program you choose to pursue.

Q3. What topics will be covered in a Plant Manager Certification program?

A3. The topics covered in a Plant Manager Certification program typically include safety regulations, production processes, quality assurance procedures, personnel management techniques, and financial analysis methods. Additional topics may vary depending on the specific certification program you choose to pursue.

Q4. How long does it take to complete a Plant Manager Certification?

A4. The length of time required to complete a Plant Manager Certification varies depending on the specific certification program you choose to pursue and your level of experience with plant management principles and practices prior to enrolling in the program. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within 6-12 months if studied full-time or 12-18 months if studied part-time.

Q5 What are some benefits of obtaining my Plant Manager Certification?

A5 Obtaining your Plant Manager Certification can help enhance your career prospects by demonstrating your expertise in plant management principles and practices to potential employers or clients in the industry. Additionally, it may also provide access to higher salaries and greater job security due to increased marketability for jobs requiring this type of certification.