Top 11 Plant Operator Certifications

Certifications for plant operators demonstrate competency and proficiency in the specific area of operation. Holding a certification shows employers that the applicant is knowledgeable and has a higher level of expertise than those without certifications. This can give applicants an edge in the job market, as employers are more likely to hire someone with verified qualifications. Certifications also help plant operators stay up-to-date on best practices, safety standards, and industry regulations, which can help reduce workplace accidents and improve operational efficiency.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Plant Operators and explains how they can contribute to a plant operator's career, helping them to gain new skills and advance in their field.

What are Plant Operator Certifications?

Plant operator certification is a program designed to provide industry-recognized training and qualifications for individuals who work in the operation of industrial plants. This certification program is administered by organizations such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and provides a comprehensive set of standards, guidelines, and best practices that industrial plant operators must adhere to in order to become certified. Plant operator certification helps ensure that personnel are adequately trained in plant operations, safety procedures, and other important topics related to the efficient running of an industrial plant. It also provides employers with assurance that their operators have been properly trained and qualified for the job. Certification can also help operators gain higher wages or find more opportunities for advancement as they demonstrate their commitment to professional excellence.

Pro Tip: When seeking plant operator certification, make sure you have all the necessary qualifications and certifications to ensure that you meet the requirements of the job. Additionally, take the time to research any relevant local regulations or laws so that you are up to date on any legal requirements when it comes to operating a plant.

Related: What does a Plant Operator do?

Top 11 Plant Operator Certifications

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

1. Certified Plant Operator (CPO)

Certified Plant Operator (CPO) is a professional certification program offered by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in the operation and maintenance of power plants. The CPO program provides an opportunity for those working in the power generation industry to demonstrate their expertise and gain recognition for their accomplishments.

The CPO certification process consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical assessment. The online exam covers topics such as safety, operations, maintenance, troubleshooting, and management. It takes approximately three hours to complete the exam. After passing the online exam, applicants must complete a practical assessment at an approved NSPE facility or through an approved training provider. During this assessment, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge and skills in operating a plant safely and efficiently.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on whether you take the online exam or attend an approved training provider. If you take the online exam, it costs $350 USD; if you attend an approved training provider, it costs $1,000 USD.

In order to get certified as a CPO, applicants must meet certain requirements including having at least five years of experience in power plant operations or related fields; passing both the online exam and practical assessment; completing continuing education requirements every four years; and maintaining ethical standards set forth by NSPE. Once all these requirements are met, applicants will receive their CPO certificate from NSPE.

2. Certified Utility Operator (CUO)

Certified Utility Operator (CUO) is a certification program developed by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of competence in water and wastewater operations. The CUO designation is awarded to individuals who have met the rigorous criteria set forth by AWWA, including passing an exam that tests their knowledge and experience in water and wastewater operations.

The CUO program consists of two levels: Certified Utility Operator I (CUO-I) and Certified Utility Operator II (CUO-II). To become a CUO-I, applicants must have at least one year of experience working in water or wastewater operations, as well as pass an exam administered by the AWWA. To become a CUO-II, applicants must have at least three years of experience in water or wastewater operations, as well as pass an exam administered by the AWWA.

The process for obtaining the CUO certification typically takes several months to complete. Applicants must first submit an application to the AWWA, which includes providing proof of their work experience and submitting payment for the application fee. Once approved, applicants will be sent instructions on how to register for the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate from AWWA within six weeks.

The cost for becoming a CUO varies depending on whether you are applying for CUO-I or CUO-II certification. The application fee for CUO-I certification is $150 USD while the application fee for CUO-II certification is $300 USD. Additionally, there is a $100 USD fee for taking each level’s exam.

3. Certified Refinery Operator (CRO)

Certified Refinery Operator (CRO) is a certification program designed to provide refinery operators with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and efficiently operate a refinery. The CRO certification is offered by the American Petroleum Institute (API).

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as safety, operations, maintenance, environmental protection, and emergency response. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. Applicants must also demonstrate two years of experience in the oil and gas industry.

The cost for the exam varies depending on the country where you take it. In the US, it costs $500 USD plus applicable taxes. The fee includes access to study materials and a practice test.

Once certified, CROs must renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education courses or taking a recertification exam.

4. Certified Power Plant Operator (CPPO)

Certified Power Plant Operator (CPPO) is a certification program designed to provide an industry-recognized credential for operators of power plants. The CPPO certification is offered by the Association of Power Engineers, Inc. (APEI).

The CPPO program consists of four levels of certification: Level I, Level II, Level III, and Master Power Plant Operator. Each level requires a certain number of hours of training and/or experience in order to qualify for the certification. The CPPO program also includes continuing education requirements in order to maintain the certification.

In order to obtain the CPPO certification, applicants must first pass an exam administered by APEI. The exam covers topics such as safety, operations and maintenance, energy management, environmental regulations and more. Applicants must also meet the prerequisites for each level in order to be eligible for the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CPPO certification varies depending on which level you are seeking. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD per level to take the exam and receive your certificate.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete all four levels of the CPPO program depending on how quickly you can complete all of the required training and experience hours.

5. Certified Petroleum Plant Operator (CPPO)

Certified Petroleum Plant Operator (CPPO) is a professional certification program that provides recognition and validation of the knowledge, skills and abilities of petroleum plant operators. The CPPO program is administered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). The program is designed to assess an individual’s knowledge and experience in the operation and maintenance of petroleum plants.

The CPPO certification requires applicants to have at least two years of documented experience in the operation or maintenance of petroleum plants. Applicants must also pass a written exam that covers topics such as safety, plant operations, equipment maintenance, process control, environmental regulations, and troubleshooting.

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions with a three-hour time limit. The cost for taking the exam is $325 USD. After passing the exam, applicants must submit an application packet to NICET for review and approval. Once approved, applicants will receive their CPPO certificate within 4-6 weeks.

6. Certified Chemical Plant Operator (CCPO)

Certified Chemical Plant Operator (CCPO) is a professional certification that proves an individual has the knowledge and experience to safely and effectively operate chemical plants. CCPO certification is offered by the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE).

To become certified, individuals must have at least three years of experience in chemical plant operations and must pass a written exam covering topics such as safety, plant design, process control, instrumentation and troubleshooting. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for taking the CCPO exam varies depending on whether or not you are a member of AIChE. For non-members, the fee is $450; for members, it is $350. Additionally, there is a $50 application fee for all applicants.

Once certified, CCPOs must renew their certification every five years by taking continuing education courses or passing a recertification exam.

7. Certified Water Treatment Plant Operator (CWTPO)

Certified Water Treatment Plant Operator (CWTPO) is a professional certification program for individuals who work in the water treatment industry. This certification is offered by the American Water Works Association (AWWA). The program provides an opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and skills in water treatment plant operations and maintenance.

It typically takes around one year to complete the requirements for CWTPO certification. To become certified, candidates must first pass a written exam that covers topics such as water chemistry, process control, safety, regulations, and operations. After passing the written exam, candidates must then complete a practical examination that tests their ability to operate and maintain a water treatment plant.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the region and type of certification sought. Generally speaking, it costs between $250-$500 to take the written exam and another $200-$400 for the practical examination. The total cost of becoming certified can range from $450-$900 depending on where you live and what type of certification you are seeking.

Overall, becoming certified as a Certified Water Treatment Plant Operator (CWTPO) is an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in this field. It also provides an opportunity for career advancement and higher pay rates within the industry.

8. Certified Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (CWWTPO)

Certified Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (CWWTPO) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the competency of wastewater treatment plant operators. This certification is offered by the National Association of Boards of Certification (NABC) and is recognized by many state regulatory agencies.

The CWWTPO certification requires applicants to have a minimum of two years of experience in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities, as well as passing an exam administered by NABC. The exam consists of both written and practical components that test the applicant’s knowledge and skills related to wastewater treatment processes, operations, safety, regulations, and other topics.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the requirements for CWWTPO certification. Applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements which include having at least two years of experience in operating or maintaining a wastewater treatment facility, completing an approved training course or equivalent education program, and passing a criminal background check. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for the examination through NABC’s website.

The cost for taking the CWWTPO exam varies depending on where you live and whether you are taking it online or in person. The fee for taking the exam online ranges from $150-$200 while taking it in person costs around $250-$300. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining study materials or attending review classes.

9. Certified Air Pollution Control Equipment Operator (CAPCEO)

Certified Air Pollution Control Equipment Operator (CAPCEO) is a certification program for individuals who operate air pollution control equipment. CAPCEO certification is administered by the National Air Filtration Association (NAFA), an independent, non-profit organization that provides professional education and certification in air filtration, air pollution control, and related technologies. The program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the operation of air pollution control equipment.

The CAPCEO program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as air quality regulations, safety practices, maintenance procedures, operational principles, system design and troubleshooting. The practical exam evaluates the applicant's ability to properly operate various types of air pollution control equipment.

The written exam takes approximately four hours to complete; the practical exam takes approximately six hours. Both exams must be completed within one year from the date of application in order to receive certification. Applicants must also meet certain prerequisites before they can take the exams; these include having at least three years of experience operating air pollution control equipment or completing an approved training course in this field.

The cost for taking both exams is $450 USD for NAFA members and $550 USD for non-members. This fee does not include any additional costs associated with travel or lodging if necessary.

10. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Level I or II in Power Generation Operations

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Level I or II in Power Generation Operations is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform power generation operations. This certification is offered at two levels: Level I and Level II.

Level I is designed for entry-level personnel who are new to the power generation field. It requires a minimum of six months of relevant work experience, as well as successful completion of an approved NICET examination. The exam covers topics such as safety practices, electrical systems, combustion principles, and more. Once certified at this level, individuals may be eligible for higher-level positions within their organization or industry.

Level II is designed for experienced personnel who have a minimum of two years of relevant work experience and successful completion of an approved NICET examination. The exam covers topics such as advanced safety practices, design principles, system operation and maintenance, and more. Once certified at this level, individuals may be eligible for higher-level positions within their organization or industry.

It typically takes three to six months to complete the certification process depending on the individual’s experience level and preparation time. To get certified at either level, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as proof of education/training/experience and payment of fees. Fees vary by state but generally range from $200-$500 USD per level depending on the state you are applying in.

11. International Society of Automation-Certified Automation Professional Program in Process Control and Instrumentation

The International Society of Automation (ISA) Certified Automation Professional Program in Process Control and Instrumentation is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of process control and instrumentation. It is designed to identify those professionals who demonstrate knowledge, skill, and experience in the areas of process control and instrumentation.

The program consists of two examinations: an online exam, which covers general knowledge topics related to process control and instrumentation; and a hands-on laboratory exam, which tests practical skills related to process control systems. The online exam must be passed before taking the laboratory exam.

The program takes approximately three months to complete. To get certified, applicants must first register for the program through ISA's website. After registering, applicants will receive access to study materials and practice exams that can help them prepare for the online exam. Once they pass the online exam, they will be eligible to take the laboratory exam at an ISA-approved testing center.

The cost of the program depends on several factors, including whether or not you are an ISA member. For non-members, the cost is $425 USD for both exams; for members it is $375 USD for both exams. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the laboratory exam at an approved testing center.

Do You Really Need a Plant Operator Certificate?

The answer to this question will depend on the specific job you are seeking. If you are interested in becoming a plant operator, then it is highly recommended that you obtain a plant operator certificate. This certification is designed to help operators gain the skills and knowledge necessary to safely and efficiently operate a variety of types of plants, such as power plants, chemical plants, oil refineries, and water treatment plants.

In addition to providing an important credential for potential employers, having a plant operator certificate also allows operators to stay up-to-date with industry standards and best practices. This can be beneficial for both safety and efficiency reasons. For example, if you have up-to-date training in operating modern equipment or new safety protocols, you may be able to better protect yourself from accidents or other dangerous situations while working in the plant environment.

Moreover, having this certification can help demonstrate your commitment to professional development and give employers confidence that you possess the required skills and knowledge needed for the job. A certification can also provide evidence that you have met the minimum requirements for employment as well as any additional qualifications that may be required by law or company regulations.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a plant operator certificate will depend on the type of job you are seeking and what qualifications are required by potential employers. However, obtaining one can be beneficial in terms of demonstrating your commitment to professional development as well as giving employers confidence that you possess the necessary skills and knowledge needed for the job.

Related: Plant Operator Resume Examples

FAQs About Plant Operator Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a certified plant operator?

Answer: You will need to have a high school diploma or GED, complete an approved training program, and pass the relevant certification exam.

2. How long does it take for a plant operator certification to be issued?

Answer: The time it takes for the certification to be issued varies depending on the certifying agency, but it typically takes anywhere from 4-6 weeks.

3. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying agencies require that you complete a certain number of continuing education hours in order to keep your certification active.

4. Can I transfer my certification from one state to another?

Answer: Yes, many certifications are nationally recognized and can be transferred from one state to another with relative ease.

5. What is the cost of obtaining a plant operator certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a plant operator certification varies depending on the certifying agency and type of certificate desired, but generally ranges between $200-$500 USD.