Top 11 Process Control Engineer Certifications

Certifications for process control engineers are important in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge, skills and experience. Employers look for certifications as evidence that an engineer has been trained and tested in the specific areas of process control engineering. Certifications also give employers assurance that the engineer is up-to-date on the latest technologies and best practices in their field. Additionally, having a certification can set an engineer apart from other applicants and make them more desirable to employers.

The purpose of this article is to review top certifications for Process Control Engineers and explain how they can enhance a process control engineer's career.

What are Process Control Engineer Certifications?

Process control engineer certification is a qualification that demonstrates an individual’s skills and knowledge in the area of process control engineering. This certification is typically offered by industry organizations, such as the International Society of Automation (ISA). The certification assesses an individual’s ability to design, install, operate, and maintain process control systems. It also tests a person’s understanding of process control theory and principles.

Having a process control engineer certification can help employers identify qualified candidates for engineering positions. It also shows potential employers that the certified individual has the necessary skills to perform their job effectively. The certification can also help engineers advance their careers by providing them with a competitive edge over other applicants for job openings. Additionally, having a process control engineer certification may provide access to higher paying jobs and more career advancement opportunities than those without the qualification. Furthermore, some employers may offer higher salaries or bonuses to individuals with this type of certification. Finally, having a process control engineer certification can be beneficial for those looking to become experts in their field as it provides recognition from professional organizations and peers for their expertise in this area.

Pro Tip: Before applying for process control engineer certification, make sure to research the requirements and prerequisites in your area. It's important to know what type of training and education is required to become certified, as well as any other qualifications or experience that may be necessary. Additionally, if you're considering taking an online course or program, be sure to read reviews and check out the credentials of the school or instructor offering it.

Related: What does a Process Control Engineer do?

Top 11 Process Control Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Automation Professional (CAP)

Certified Automation Professional (CAP) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). The CAP program is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated technical expertise in automation and control systems. It is the highest level of professional certification available in the field of automation.

To become a Certified Automation Professional, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam. Eligibility requirements include having at least five years of experience working with automation and control systems, as well as a bachelor's degree or equivalent in engineering or related fields.

The certification process typically takes about three months to complete, depending on how quickly you can prepare for and take the exam. To get started, you will need to apply for the certification through ISA's website and submit your application materials. Once your application has been approved, you will be given access to study materials and practice exams that can help you prepare for the actual exam.

The cost of becoming a Certified Automation Professional varies depending on whether you are an ISA member or non-member. For ISA members, it costs $495 USD; for non-members, it costs $595 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at certain testing centers or if you need to retake the exam.

2. Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)

Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of industrial control systems. The CCST certification is offered through the International Society of Automation (ISA).

The CCST certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and experience in the field of industrial automation. It requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience as well as passing a comprehensive exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety, electrical theory, instrumentation, process control, and troubleshooting.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the requirements for the CCST certification. Candidates must first obtain two years of relevant work experience before they can apply for the exam. Once they have applied for the exam, they must pass a comprehensive written exam with a score of 70% or higher in order to be certified.

The cost for taking the CCST certification exam varies depending on where you take it and what materials you need to purchase in order to prepare for it. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$800 USD to take the exam.

3. Instrumentation, Systems, and Automation Society (ISA) Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)

The Instrumentation, Systems, and Automation Society (ISA) Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) is a certification program that is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of industrial automation. The CCST certification is offered by ISA and it is recognized worldwide as a symbol of excellence in the field of automation.

The CCST certification requires a minimum of two years of practical experience working with control systems. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as process control, instrumentation, system design, programming, networking, safety and troubleshooting. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to obtain the CCST certification, candidates must first register for the exam through the ISA website. The registration fee for the exam is $400 USD. Once registered, candidates must then schedule their exam at an approved testing center. After passing the exam, candidates will receive their official CCST certificate from ISA.

Overall, obtaining the CCST certification can take anywhere from one month to several months depending on when you are able to take the exam and how quickly you are able to prepare for it.

4. ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP)

The ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP) is an internationally recognized certification program for automation professionals. It is designed to identify and recognize individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of automation engineering. The CAP program consists of a series of examinations that measure the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to be successful in the field of automation engineering.

The CAP certification process includes three components: a written exam, an oral exam, and a practical project. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as systems analysis, control system design, instrumentation, programming languages, networking protocols and more. The oral exam focuses on problem solving and critical thinking skills related to automation engineering. Finally, the practical project requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge by designing and building a working automated system.

It typically takes about two years for an individual to complete all three components of the CAP certification process. However, this timeline can vary depending on each person’s experience level with automation engineering concepts.

To get started with the CAP certification process, applicants must first register for the exams through ISA’s website or through one of its authorized testing centers around the world. Once registered, applicants will receive study materials from ISA that will help them prepare for the exams. Applicants must also submit proof of professional experience in order to be eligible for the oral exam portion of the certification process.

The cost for taking all three components of the CAP certification process varies depending on where you take your exams and which study materials you purchase from ISA. In general, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$2,500 USD to become certified as an ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP).

5. ISA Certified Industrial and Systems Technologist (CIST)

The ISA Certified Industrial and Systems Technologist (CIST) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of industrial automation professionals. The CIST certification is offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA), which is an international organization dedicated to advancing automation technologies.

The CIST certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of industrial automation systems, including process control, instrumentation, robotics, and computer-integrated manufacturing. Applicants must also demonstrate their proficiency in using various software tools for designing, programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining automated systems.

To become certified as a CIST, applicants must pass a written exam that covers topics such as process control theory, instrumentation principles, robotic programming fundamentals, computer-integrated manufacturing systems design principles, and system optimization techniques. The exam typically takes about two hours to complete.

In order to prepare for the CIST exam, applicants can take courses offered by ISA or other organizations that provide training on industrial automation topics. Additionally, there are several study guides available that can help applicants prepare for the exam.

The cost of taking the CIST exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it typically costs around $300 USD. After passing the exam and becoming certified as a CIST, applicants must renew their certification every three years in order to maintain their status as a certified technologist.

6. ISA Certified Measurement and Control Technician (CMCT)

ISA Certified Measurement and Control Technician (CMCT) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of measurement and control technology. The CMCT certification program is open to any individual who has completed an accredited educational program in measurement and control technology, or who has at least two years of experience in the field.

The CMCT certification requires applicants to pass an examination that covers topics such as instrumentation, automation, process control systems, data acquisition systems, electrical/electronic principles, signal conditioning, and communication protocols. The exam consists of 75 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

To get certified as a CMCT, you must first apply for the certification through ISA's website. You will need to provide proof of your educational background or work experience in order to be eligible for the exam. Once you are approved for the exam, you can register for it online or through ISA's customer service department. After registering for the exam, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to access the exam.

The cost of becoming an ISA Certified Measurement and Control Technician (CMCT) varies depending on where you take the exam. The fee includes all materials needed for taking the test as well as access to online study resources provided by ISA. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD to become certified as a CMCT.

7. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals and organizations improve their processes and performance. It is based on the Six Sigma methodology, which focuses on reducing variation in processes, eliminating defects, and improving customer satisfaction.

The Six Sigma Green Belt Certification program typically takes between 8 and 12 weeks to complete. This includes both online learning modules as well as in-person instruction from an experienced Six Sigma practitioner. The curriculum covers topics such as process improvement techniques, project management tools, data analysis techniques, problem solving strategies, and more.

To get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must first pass a written exam administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering the topics listed above. After passing the exam, you must also complete a project that demonstrates your mastery of the Six Sigma methodology. This can be done either through an employer or independently.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the provider you choose; however, it typically ranges from $500 to $2,000 USD for all materials and fees associated with taking the exam and completing the project.

8. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification program designed to recognize the expertise of project managers. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to successfully manage projects, as well as their knowledge and experience in the field.

The PMP certification process includes an exam that tests an individual’s understanding of project management principles and practices. To qualify for the exam, individuals must have either a four-year degree or at least three years of project management experience. Candidates must also complete 35 hours of project management education prior to taking the exam.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost of the exam varies depending on geographic location, but typically ranges from $405-$555 USD.

Once candidates have passed the PMP exam, they will be granted full certification status as a PMP for a period of three years. After three years, certified PMPs must earn 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years in order to maintain their credentials. PDUs can be earned through attending seminars, conferences, workshops, or other educational activities related to project management.

Overall, obtaining your PMP certification requires significant effort and dedication but is worth it for those who are serious about advancing their career in project management.

9. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to help organizations improve their processes and eliminate waste.

The certification requires a minimum of three months of study and practice, with a focus on the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) process. The certification is typically obtained through an accredited training organization or university program.

To obtain the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification, individuals must complete a series of courses and exams covering topics such as project management, process improvement, data analysis and problem solving. After completing the coursework and exams, individuals must pass a final exam to earn the certification.

The cost of obtaining the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification varies depending on the organization providing the training. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000 to $5,000 USD for the entire program.

10. Total Quality Management (TQM) Certification

Total Quality Management (TQM) Certification is a certification program designed to help organizations improve their overall performance by implementing and managing quality standards. It is based on the principles of Total Quality Management (TQM), which is an approach to organizational management that focuses on continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

The TQM Certification program typically consists of two parts: a self-study component and a formal assessment. The self-study component involves studying the principles of TQM, including topics such as process improvement, problem solving, customer service, and team building. The formal assessment is an exam that tests knowledge of the material covered in the self-study component.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on how much time you are able to devote to studying for the exam. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months depending on your level of commitment and dedication.

In order to get certified, you must first complete the self-study component and then pass the formal assessment with a passing grade. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official TQM Certification from an accredited organization such as ASQ or ISO 9001:2015.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on which organization you choose to go through for certification. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$1000 USD depending on the specific organization’s requirements and fees associated with their certification process.

11. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Engineer (CQE).

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s expertise in quality engineering. The CQE credential demonstrates knowledge and understanding of quality principles, tools, and techniques used to ensure products and services meet customer requirements.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to prepare for the CQE exam. To get the CQE certification, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as quality systems, management responsibility, product design and development, process control, measurement and analysis, and improvement. You also must have at least 8 years of quality engineering experience or a combination of education and experience.

The cost of the CQE certification varies depending on the type of membership you have with ASQ. For non-members it costs $419 while members pay $299. Additionally there are renewal fees every three years which cost $90 for members and $120 for non-members.

Do You Really Need a Process Control Engineer Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a Process Control Engineer Certificate to become a process control engineer. However, having a certificate could certainly give you an edge in the job market and demonstrate that you have the technical skills necessary for the role.

A Process Control Engineer Certificate would show potential employers that you have taken courses and developed skills specific to this field. It can also provide evidence of your commitment to staying up-to-date with trends and technology related to process control engineering. This could be particularly helpful if you are looking to move into a more advanced position or change industries.

In addition, some employers may require certification as part of their hiring criteria or consider it when evaluating applicants for certain positions. If this is the case, then having a Process Control Engineer Certificate would be essential for gaining an interview or being considered for the job.

Overall, while having a Process Control Engineer Certificate is not essential to becoming a process control engineer, it can definitely be beneficial and help set you apart from other candidates in the job market.

Related: Process Control Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Process Control Engineer Certifications

1. What is a Process Control Engineer Certification?

Answer: A Process Control Engineer Certification is a professional credential that validates the competency of process control engineers in their field. It demonstrates that the engineer has the knowledge and skills necessary to design, implement, and maintain process control systems in manufacturing and industrial settings.

2. How do I become certified as a Process Control Engineer?

Answer: To become certified as a Process Control Engineer, you must complete relevant coursework or training courses, such as those offered by accredited universities or organizations like ISA (International Society of Automation). You may also need to pass an exam administered by an authorized certification body such as ISA or IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission).

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Process Control Engineer?

Answer: Becoming certified as a process control engineer can help open doors to more advanced positions within your organization or even new job opportunities outside your current company. It also gives employers assurance that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the job correctly and safely. Additionally, it can help you stand out from other job applicants in competitive markets.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Process Control Engineer?

Answer: The amount of time required for certification depends on your experience level and whether you choose to pursue self-study or classroom-based courses. Generally speaking, it takes approximately two years of study and practice before taking the certification exam; however, some individuals are able to complete the process faster depending on their individual circumstances.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Process Control Engineer?

Answer: Yes, there are usually prerequisites for becoming certified as a process control engineer such as having some prior experience with process control systems or related technology, completing certain coursework or training programs, or passing an exam administered by an authorized certification body such as ISA or IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission).