Top 11 Principal Mechanical Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for principal mechanical engineers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. Certifications help to validate an engineer’s experience, prove their ability to apply technical knowledge to solve problems, and show that they have a commitment to staying current on the latest industry trends and technology. Having certifications can also give engineers an edge over other applicants who may not have them. This is especially true for more senior positions where employers are looking for engineers with specialized skills and knowledge.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Principal Mechanical Engineers and explains how they can help advance a principal mechanical engineer's career.

What are Principal Mechanical Engineer Certifications?

Principal Mechanical Engineer (PME) certification is a professional credential offered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). This certification recognizes the highest level of expertise in mechanical engineering, and is designed to give employers assurance that engineers with this credential have the necessary knowledge and experience to practice as an independent engineer.

The certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and experience in mechanical engineering. To do so, applicants must pass two exams: a Fundamentals of Engineering exam, which tests general engineering knowledge; and a Principles and Practice of Engineering exam, which tests specific mechanical engineering topics. In addition to passing these exams, applicants must also have at least eight years of experience in mechanical engineering.

For those who hold PME certification, it can provide numerous benefits including increased job opportunities, higher salaries due to increased marketability, greater respect from peers and clients due to their demonstrated expertise, and more credibility when representing themselves as experts in their field. Additionally, PME certification can open up new career options such as consulting or teaching at a university level.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to become a principal mechanical engineer, make sure to check with your local state licensing board for the most up-to-date certification requirements. Different states may have different requirements, so it is important to understand the specific regulations in your area before pursuing any type of certification.

Related: What does a Principal Mechanical Engineer do?

Top 11 Principal Mechanical Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Engineer (PE)

Certified Professional Engineer (PE) is a professional license that allows engineers to practice engineering in the United States. It is issued by the state government after an engineer has met certain educational, experience, and ethical requirements.

It typically takes four years of work experience to become eligible for a PE license. This experience must be under the direct supervision of a licensed PE and must include activities such as design, analysis, testing, or inspection of engineering projects. Additionally, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program and must pass two exams administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

The cost for obtaining a PE license varies depending on the state in which you are applying. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 to apply for the license, plus any additional fees required by your state board. The exam fee is typically around $350 per exam and can vary depending on your state board. Additionally, some states may require continuing education credits in order to maintain your license.

Overall, becoming a Certified Professional Engineer (PE) requires dedication and hard work but can be very rewarding in terms of career opportunities and job security.

2. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in energy management and energy efficiency. The CEM credential is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence in the field of energy management.

The CEM program requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as energy auditing, energy economics, renewable energy, and building systems. Applicants must also have at least three years of experience in the field of energy management or engineering.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all requirements for the CEM certification. This includes studying for the exam, obtaining the necessary experience, and completing any other requirements set forth by AEE.

To obtain the CEM certification, applicants must first submit an application to AEE along with proof of their experience and education credentials. Once approved, they can then register for the exam which is administered by Prometric Testing Centers around the world. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CEM certificate from AEE.

The cost for taking the CEM exam varies depending on location and other factors but generally ranges from $400-$600 USD.

3. Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

A Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional designation given to individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in the field of reliability engineering. This certification is awarded by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

To become a CRE, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of five years of professional experience in reliability engineering or related fields. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as probability and statistics, quality control, system reliability, maintenance management, and design of experiments.

The exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost for taking the exam is $400 for ASQ members and $525 for non-members.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will receive their CRE certification from ASQ. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

4. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQE certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and experience in quality engineering principles, practices, and technology.

It typically takes about one year to prepare for the CQE exam. To get certified, you must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as quality concepts, product design, process control, statistical analysis, and problem solving. You must also have at least three years of full-time work experience in a quality-related field.

To get the CQE certification, you must first become an ASQ member and then register for the exam. The cost of the exam varies depending on your membership status but typically ranges from $250 to $350.

5. Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)

Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) is a professional certification provided by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). It is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates expertise in the field of manufacturing engineering.

The certification process involves passing an examination, providing proof of experience, and meeting educational requirements. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as materials science, manufacturing processes, and quality assurance. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least four years of full-time work experience in the field of manufacturing engineering or related fields. In addition, applicants must have completed a minimum of 30 semester hours (or 45 quarter hours) in an accredited college or university program with courses related to manufacturing engineering.

The exam can be taken at any Prometric testing center located throughout the United States and Canada. The cost for the exam is $400 USD for ASME members and $500 USD for non-members. The exam typically takes about three hours to complete.

Once certified, CMfgEs are expected to adhere to a code of ethics and maintain their knowledge through continuing education activities every three years in order to remain certified.

6. Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB) is a certification designed to recognize professionals who have mastered the tools and techniques of Lean Six Sigma, a methodology used to improve business processes. The certification requires individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the principles, tools, and techniques of Lean Six Sigma.

The CLSSBB certification typically takes between three months and one year to complete depending on the individual's experience level. To get certified, individuals must complete a training program that covers topics such as process improvement, data analysis, project management, problem-solving, and team dynamics. After completing the training program, individuals must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ or IASSC.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the provider and can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Additionally, some providers may offer discounts for group enrollment or payment plans for those who cannot pay in full upfront.

7. Certified Design for Six Sigma Green Belt (DFSSGB)

Certified Design for Six Sigma Green Belt (DFSSGB) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to lead successful design projects. This certification is intended for professionals who are responsible for leading or participating in design projects that use the Six Sigma methodology. It provides an overview of the principles of Six Sigma, as well as specific tools and techniques used in design projects.

The DFSSGB certification program typically takes about one month to complete, depending on the individual’s background and experience. The program consists of three parts: a self-study guide, an online exam, and a hands-on project. The self-study guide covers topics such as Six Sigma methodology, process improvement tools, and project management. The online exam tests the individual’s understanding of the material covered in the self-study guide. Finally, the hands-on project allows individuals to apply their knowledge by working on a real-world design project.

To get certified as a DFSSGB, individuals must first pass the online exam with a score of 70% or higher. Once they have passed this exam, they will be eligible to take part in a hands-on project that will be evaluated by qualified instructors from ASQ (American Society for Quality). After completing this project successfully, individuals will receive their DFSSGB certification.

The cost of obtaining Certified Design for Six Sigma Green Belt (DFSSGB) varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,000-$3,000 USD depending on which provider you choose and what materials are included in your course package.

8. American Society of Mechanical Engineers Senior Member Certification

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Senior Member Certification is a professional certification that recognizes the achievements of experienced mechanical engineers. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of technical and engineering expertise, as well as leadership and management skills.

To become an ASME Senior Member, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having at least eight years of experience in the mechanical engineering field and having achieved significant accomplishments in their field. Applicants must also be members of ASME for at least three years prior to applying for the certification.

The application process for ASME Senior Member Certification typically takes around six months from start to finish. During this time, applicants will need to submit an application form along with supporting documents such as references, transcripts, and professional certifications. Once the application has been reviewed by the ASME Board of Governors, applicants will be notified if they have been approved for certification or not.

The cost of becoming an ASME Senior Member varies depending on the type of membership chosen. For example, individual memberships are $125 per year while corporate memberships are $1,000 per year. Additionally, there are fees associated with submitting an application for certification which range from $50-$250 depending on the type of membership chosen.

9. International Council on Systems Engineering Certification

The International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and experience of systems engineers. The certification is designed to provide assurance to employers, colleagues, and customers that the certified individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively apply systems engineering principles in their work.

The INCOSE Certification Program consists of three levels: Associate Systems Engineering Professional (ASEP), Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), and Expert Systems Engineering Professional (ESEP). Each level requires progressively more experience, education, and training.

To obtain an ASEP certification, applicants must pass an online exam administered by INCOSE. The exam covers topics such as systems engineering fundamentals, requirements engineering, risk management, system architecture design, verification & validation, project management, and more. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and costs $250 USD.

To obtain a CSEP certification, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in systems engineering or related fields and pass an online exam administered by INCOSE. The exam covers topics such as systems engineering principles & processes; system life cycle; requirements analysis & management; system architecture design; integration & testing; risk management; project management; and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $500 USD.

To obtain an ESEP certification, applicants must have at least ten years of professional experience in systems engineering or related fields and pass an online exam administered by INCOSE. The exam covers topics such as advanced system life cycle models; advanced requirements analysis & management; advanced system architecture design; advanced integration & testing; advanced risk management; advanced project management; leadership & communication skills for systems engineers; and more. The exam takes approximately six hours to complete and costs $750 USD.

In addition to passing the exams for each level of certification, applicants are also required to submit letters of reference from current or former employers attesting to their professional experience in systems engineering or related fields.

10. Professional Maintenance Manager Certification

Professional Maintenance Manager Certification (PMMC) is a certification program designed to provide maintenance professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to effectively manage their organization’s maintenance operations. The program consists of three courses: Maintenance Management Fundamentals, Maintenance Planning and Scheduling, and Maintenance Performance Measurement.

The PMMC program is offered by the Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE). It takes approximately two years to complete the program, depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying. To get certified, you must pass all three courses and submit a portfolio of your work that demonstrates your mastery of the material.

The cost of the PMMC program varies depending on where you take it. Generally, it costs between $2,000 and $3,000 for all three courses plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam or submitting your portfolio.

In addition to completing the coursework, you must also have at least five years of professional experience in maintenance management before you can become certified as a Professional Maintenance Manager.

11. Project Management Professional Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in project management. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and is considered to be one of the most sought-after certifications in the field.

To become certified, you must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements, as well as pass a rigorous exam. Once you have met these criteria, you will receive your PMP certification.

In order to qualify for the PMP certification, you must have a minimum of three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects, or a minimum of five years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects. You must also have 35 contact hours of formal education in project management topics.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions that cover five process groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $405 for members of PMI or $555 for non-members.

Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements for certification, you will receive your official PMP certification from PMI. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by completing 60 professional development units (PDUs).

Do You Really Need a Principal Mechanical Engineer Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Principal Mechanical Engineer Certificate depends on the type of engineering work you plan to do. If you plan to work as a design engineer, then having the certificate may be beneficial since it will demonstrate your competence in mechanical engineering principles and knowledge. It may also be useful if you are looking for a position with an employer that requires the certificate.

However, if you are looking for a job in maintenance engineering or production engineering, then having the certificate may not be necessary. In those areas, experience and hands-on skills often take precedence over certificates or degrees. Additionally, employers may prefer candidates who have more experience in the specific industry they are hiring for rather than just having a general mechanical engineering certification.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Principal Mechanical Engineer Certificate depends on what type of engineering work you plan to do and what kind of job opportunities you are pursuing.

Related: Principal Mechanical Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Principal Mechanical Engineer Certifications

1. What is a Principal Mechanical Engineer Certification?

Answer: A Principal Mechanical Engineer Certification is an advanced certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of mechanical engineering. The certification requires applicants to pass a rigorous examination and meet other requirements, such as completing continuing education courses.

2. How do I become certified?

Answer: To become certified, you must first meet certain eligibility criteria such as having at least 8 years of related engineering experience or having a degree in mechanical engineering. You then need to complete the application process, which includes submitting an application and passing the certification exam.

3. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified can vary depending on your experience and how quickly you complete the application process and exam. Generally speaking, it takes approximately 6 months from start to finish to obtain your certification.

4. What are the benefits of being a Principal Mechanical Engineer Certified?

Answer: Being certified provides many benefits including increased professional credibility, job opportunities, potential salary increases, networking opportunities with other professionals in the field, and access to exclusive resources such as training materials and job postings.

5. What is the cost of becoming a Principal Mechanical Engineer Certified?

Answer: The cost for becoming certified varies depending on where you live and what type of testing center you use for taking the exam but typically ranges from $400-$700 USD including fees associated with registering for the exam and any necessary study materials or courses needed for preparation.