Top 11 Process Development Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a process development engineer in the job market as they demonstrate specialized knowledge and skills. Certified process development engineers have a competitive advantage over non-certified engineers because they demonstrate that they have the technical expertise to handle complex tasks, solve problems, and identify areas of improvement in processes. Certifications also provide proof of ongoing professional development, which is often required by employers as part of their hiring criteria. Additionally, certifications can expand an engineer’s career opportunities and increase their earning potential.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Process Development Engineers and explain how they can enable career growth and advancement.

What are Process Development Engineer Certifications?

Process Development Engineer certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and expertise in the use of methods, tools, and techniques for designing, developing, and improving processes. This certification helps to validate the qualifications of individuals who are involved in process improvement initiatives and provides employers with assurance that their employees have the skills necessary to effectively develop and implement successful process improvements.

The Process Development Engineer certification program covers topics such as process mapping, value stream mapping, process analysis, problem solving, root cause analysis, continuous improvement tools and techniques, Lean/Six Sigma methodologies, statistical process control (SPC), project management principles and practices. The program also includes an examination that tests an individual’s understanding of the subject matter.

By obtaining this certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to continuous improvement efforts by clearly demonstrating their knowledge of how to identify opportunities for improvement within an organization’s processes. In addition to validating the individual’s knowledge base in process development engineering principles and practices, obtaining this certification also allows them to stand out from other applicants when seeking employment opportunities or promotions. It can also help open up new career paths or specializations for those already employed in the field. Finally, it is a great way for employers to show recognition for the work their employees have done in helping improve organizational performance through improved processes.

Pro Tip: When considering process development engineer certification, make sure to research the certifications that are offered in your field. Check for any prerequisites that may be required and look into any continuing education credits you may need to maintain your certification. Additionally, it's wise to network with other professionals in the industry to stay up-to-date on any new developments or innovations in the field.

Related: What does a Process Development Engineer do?

Top 11 Process Development Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Process Development Engineer (CPDE)

Certified Process Development Engineer (CPDE) is a certification program designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and implement effective process improvement initiatives. The certification is offered by the Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE).

To get this certification, you must have at least three years of experience in process engineering or related fields. You must also pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management, process analysis, project management, and systems engineering. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and can be taken online or in-person at an IIE testing center.

The cost for the CPDE certification varies depending on your location. Generally, it costs around $500 USD for the exam fee and any additional materials needed to prepare for the test.

It typically takes 4-6 weeks to receive your results after taking the exam. Once you pass the exam, you will be awarded a certificate that is valid for three years. After that time period has expired, you will need to retake the exam in order to maintain your certification status.

2. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of quality engineering. It is awarded by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), and it is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and understanding in quality engineering principles, practices, and techniques.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CQE certification process. To get certified, applicants must first pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management systems, statistical process control, design of experiments, and reliability engineering. After passing the exam, applicants must then submit evidence of their professional experience in quality engineering. This can include resumes, job descriptions, letters of recommendation from employers or colleagues, and other documents that demonstrate their knowledge and experience in this field.

The cost for taking the CQE exam varies depending on where you take it. The ASQ offers several testing centers throughout the United States and Canada where you can take the exam for $375 USD. Additionally, some employers may provide tuition reimbursement or other incentives to help cover the cost of taking the exam.

Once certified, CQEs are expected to maintain their status by participating in continuing education activities related to quality engineering every three years. This ensures that they stay up-to-date with industry standards and best practices.

3. Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB)

Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the principles and techniques of Six Sigma. It is designed to equip professionals with the tools and techniques needed to successfully lead Six Sigma projects.

The certification typically takes around three months to complete, depending on the training program chosen. To get certified, individuals must complete a training program that covers topics such as project management, process improvement, data analysis, problem solving, and design of experiments. 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 length of the course. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 for a comprehensive course.

4. Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to provide professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead and manage complex process improvement projects. The certification requires a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the Lean Six Sigma methodology, including DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) principles and tools.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for CLSSBB certification. This includes completing a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt training program and passing an exam administered by an approved certifying body. Training programs vary in length from one week to several months depending on the provider.

To get certified as a CLSSBB, you must first complete a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt training course from an accredited provider. After completing the coursework, you must pass an exam administered by either ASQ or IASSC in order to receive your certification.

The cost of getting certified as a CLSSBB varies depending on the provider and type of course you choose. Generally speaking, courses range from $2,000 - $5,000 USD depending on the length and type of course.

5. Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

A Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional designation given by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in reliability engineering.

The CRE credential is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the principles and practices of reliability engineering. To earn the CRE credential, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as reliability analysis techniques, maintenance strategies, quality assurance methods, failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), and other related topics.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the CRE exam. Applicants should familiarize themselves with the ASQ's Body of Knowledge (BoK) which outlines all of the topics tested on the exam. Additionally, applicants should also consider taking a course or two on reliability engineering to ensure they are adequately prepared for the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CRE certification varies depending on where you take your exams and any additional courses you may take to prepare for them. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 USD to obtain this certification.

6. Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)

Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) is a professional certification program administered by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of expertise in the field of manufacturing engineering. This certification provides employers with assurance that an individual has achieved a certain level of knowledge and skill in the area of manufacturing engineering.

In order to become certified as a CMfgE, an individual must pass an exam administered by SME. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as materials selection, process design, quality control, automation, and cost analysis. The exam takes about two hours to complete and costs $225 for members of SME or $300 for non-members.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must have at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or related field from an accredited university or college and at least five years of full-time professional experience in manufacturing engineering.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants can submit their application along with the required fees to SME for review. After successful completion of the review process, applicants will receive their CMfgE certificate and be eligible to use the designation on business cards, resumes, and other documents.

7. American Society for Quality – Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (ASQ-CMQ/OE)

The American Society for Quality – Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (ASQ-CMQ/OE) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in the areas of quality management and organizational excellence. This certification is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in quality management, organizational excellence, and process improvement.

In order to obtain the ASQ-CMQ/OE certification, applicants must first complete an application form, which includes a detailed description of their experience and qualifications in the field of quality management and organizational excellence. They must then pass an exam consisting of multiple choice questions that covers topics such as quality management systems, total quality management, process improvement methods, statistical methods, leadership development, customer service strategies, and more. The exam typically takes between two and three hours to complete.

Once the exam is completed successfully, applicants will receive their ASQ-CMQ/OE certification. The cost for the exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it generally ranges from $500-$700 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining study materials or attending review courses prior to taking the exam.

Overall, obtaining the ASQ-CMQ/OE certification can take several months to complete due to studying for the exam and scheduling a time to take it. However, once certified individuals are recognized as having achieved a high level of expertise in quality management and organizational excellence that can open up many new career opportunities.

8. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is the most widely recognized and respected project management certification in the world. The PMP credential recognizes an individual’s expertise in leading and directing projects.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The questions are based on the PMBOK Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge), which outlines the five process groups and nine knowledge areas of project management. To pass the exam, you must demonstrate your ability to apply project management principles and techniques to real-world scenarios.

To qualify for the PMP certification, you must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma or equivalent) plus at least 5 years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects; or a four-year degree plus at least 3 years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects. You must also complete 35 contact hours of formal education in project management topics such as scheduling, risk management, budgeting, etc.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the PMP exam depending on your level of experience and how much time you can commit to studying each week. The cost for taking the exam is $405 for members of PMI ($555 for non-members).

9. Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers – Certified Professional in Production and Inventory Management (CPPIM)

The Certified Professional in Production and Inventory Management (CPPIM) is an internationally-recognized certification program offered by the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE). This certification is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a level of expertise in production and inventory management. It is intended to demonstrate a commitment to professional excellence and provide employers with assurance that the certified individual has met a standard of knowledge and experience in this field.

To become certified, individuals must meet certain requirements including education, experience, and passing an exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as supply chain management, inventory control systems, material requirements planning, forecasting, quality management systems, project management principles, process improvement techniques, and more. The exam must be taken at an approved testing center and typically takes three hours to complete.

The cost for the CPPIM certification varies depending on the country where you are taking the exam. In the United States it costs $350 USD to take the exam while in Canada it costs $400 CAD. Additionally there may be additional fees for registration or other related services depending on your location.

Once you pass the exam you will receive your official CPPIM certification which is valid for three years from the date of issuance. To maintain your certification status you will need to complete continuing education credits every three years.

10. International Organization for Standardization – ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001 Lead Auditor Certification is a certification designed to help auditors develop the skills and knowledge needed to audit organizations that have implemented an ISO 9001 Quality Management System. The certification requires completion of a training course, passing an examination, and demonstrating practical experience in auditing.

How long does it take to get it?

The duration of the training course varies depending on the provider, but typically takes 5-7 days. After completing the course, you must pass an exam in order to receive your certification.

How to get it?

To become certified as an ISO 9001 Lead Auditor, you must successfully complete a training course offered by an accredited provider. The courses are typically classroom-based and involve lectures, case studies, and practical exercises. After completing the course, you must pass an exam in order to receive your certification.

How much does it cost?

The cost of ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification varies depending on the provider and location of the training course, but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD.

11. International Council on Systems Engineering – Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP).

The International Council on Systems Engineering – Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP) is a professional certification program for systems engineers. It recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who demonstrate a mastery of systems engineering principles and practices. The CSEP credential is awarded by the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE), an international organization dedicated to advancing the state-of-the-art in systems engineering.

To get the CSEP credential, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of five years of professional experience in systems engineering or related fields, and passing an examination that tests their knowledge and understanding of systems engineering principles and practices. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as system architecture, requirements analysis, design, integration, test and evaluation, project management, risk management, quality assurance and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for taking the CSEP exam is $400 USD for INCOSE members and $600 USD for non-members. Additionally, there is an annual maintenance fee of $100 USD for INCOSE members and $150 USD for non-members. This fee covers access to the CSEP online study guide and other resources provided by INCOSE.

Once certified as a CSEP professional, individuals must maintain their credentials by completing at least 45 hours of continuing education credits every three years in order to remain certified.

Do You Really Need a Process Development Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual circumstances. If you are already working as a Process Development Engineer and would like to gain additional knowledge and/or advance in your career, then a Process Development Engineer Certificate may be beneficial. It can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to help you reach new heights in your career.

If, however, you are just starting out and have no prior experience in process engineering or related fields, then it is unlikely that a certificate will be necessary for you to find employment. Employers typically prefer applicants who have at least some practical experience in the field. However, having a certificate may give you an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Process Development Engineer Certificate depends on your individual situation and goals. If you think it will help move your career forward, then pursuing one is certainly an option worth considering.

Related: Process Development Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Process Development Engineer Certifications

1. What certifications are available for Process Development Engineers?

Answer: The most common certifications available for Process Development Engineers include the Certified Professional in Production and Inventory Management (CPPIM) certification from the Association for Operations Management (APICS), the Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (CLSSGB) certification from the American Society for Quality (ASQ), and the Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) certification from ASQ.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Process Development Engineer?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Process Development Engineer will depend on the specific certification, but typically ranges from three months to two years depending on experience and other factors.

3. What qualifications do I need to become a Process Development Engineer?

Answer: In order to become a Process Development Engineer, you must typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field, relevant work experience, and knowledge of Lean Six Sigma principles. Additionally, some certifications may require additional training or specialized courses before they can be obtained.

4. How much does it cost to get certified as a Process Development Engineer?

Answer:The cost of becoming certified as a Process Development Engineer will vary depending on the specific certification and other factors such as materials needed, training courses taken, and exams taken. Generally, certifications range from around $400 - $2000 USD.

5. Are there any online courses available for obtaining a Process Development Engineering certification?

Answer: Yes, there are several online courses available for obtaining various types of process development engineering certifications including those offered by ASQ, APICS, and PMI among others.