Top 11 Production Chemist Certifications

Certifications for production chemists are important for demonstrating their competency and expertise to employers. They provide evidence that the chemist has a solid understanding of the field and is capable of performing complex tasks to a high standard. Certifications also serve as a way to differentiate between potential hires, as they allow employers to quickly assess a job candidate’s qualifications and knowledge. Furthermore, certifications help production chemists stay up-to-date on new developments in the field, which can be beneficial when applying for more advanced roles or higher salaries.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Production Chemists and explain how they can help advance a production chemist's career.

What are Production Chemist Certifications?

Production chemist certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the production of chemicals, including those used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and other consumer products. The certification is awarded by the American Chemical Society (ACS) and requires passing an exam.

Having this certification is beneficial for employers as it demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in the production of chemicals. This can help ensure safe, high-quality products are produced, and that safety protocols are followed. It can also help employers save time and money on training new employees.

For individuals with this certification, it can provide them with recognition from their peers and employers as well as potential career advancement opportunities within their field. It may also provide access to additional resources such as conferences, publications, or research grants related to chemical production.

Pro Tip: When applying for production chemist certification, make sure to research the requirements thoroughly. Most certifications require a certain amount of industry experience and/or education in order to be eligible. Additionally, it is important to be aware of any continuing education requirements that may come with the certification in order to maintain its validity.

Related: What does a Production Chemist do?

Top 11 Production Chemist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Production Chemists today.

1. 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). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the principles and techniques of effective production and inventory management. This certification program provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage production and inventory processes in order to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction.

The CPIM program consists of five modules: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. The exams for each module are administered separately. In order to receive the CPIM designation, candidates must pass all five exams within a three-year period.

To get started on the CPIM program, you must first become an APICS member. Membership fees vary depending on your location but typically range from $150-$200 per year. After becoming a member, you will need to purchase study materials for each module in order to prepare for the exams. These materials cost approximately $300-$400 per module. Once you have completed your studies, you can register for the exams online through APICS’s website or at an authorized testing center.

The cost to take each exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it generally ranges from $200-$300 per exam. Once you have passed all five exams within the three-year period, you will be awarded your CPIM designation along with a certificate recognizing your achievement.

2. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge and skills in quality engineering, management, and assurance. The CQE credential is intended to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to quality engineering principles and practices.

It typically takes about 6-12 months of preparation time to become a CQE. Preparation includes studying for the exam, attending classes or workshops, and gaining experience in quality engineering.

To get certified as a CQE, you must pass the ASQ Certified Quality Engineer Exam. This exam covers topics such as design of experiments, process control, reliability analysis, statistical methods, total quality management, and other related topics.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it and what type of package you purchase. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$600 USD to take the exam.

3. Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB)

Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the use of Six Sigma tools and techniques. The certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to lead and manage projects, analyze data, and develop solutions to improve processes.

It typically takes about four months to complete the requirements for the CSSBB certification. This includes studying for and passing two exams: one on Six Sigma principles, tools, and techniques; and another on project management. Candidates must also demonstrate their knowledge through a project portfolio that shows how they have applied Six Sigma methods in real-world situations.

To get certified as a CSSBB, you must first become an ASQ member. You can then apply for the certification exam online or via mail. The cost of applying for the exam varies depending on your country of residence, but typically ranges from $300-$400 USD. Once you pass both exams, you will receive your certificate within 6-8 weeks after submitting your application materials.

The cost of becoming certified as a CSSBB can vary significantly depending on whether you choose to take an online course or attend a classroom course. Online courses typically range from $1,000-$2,500 USD while classroom courses can be more expensive, ranging from $3,000-$5,000 USD.

4. American Chemical Society Certified Production Chemist (ACS-CPC)

The American Chemical Society Certified Production Chemist (ACS-CPC) is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and experience of chemists who have demonstrated their expertise in production chemistry. The ACS-CPC is designed to recognize individuals who have mastered the principles and practices of production chemistry and can demonstrate their technical proficiency in this field.

It typically takes about three months to complete the process of becoming an ACS-CPC. To become certified, applicants must first pass a written exam that covers topics such as safety, quality control, laboratory operations, and manufacturing processes. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their mastery of production chemistry through a practical exam that includes hands-on activities such as setting up a lab, performing experiments, analyzing data, and interpreting results.

To get started on the path to becoming an ACS-CPC, interested individuals should visit the American Chemical Society website for information on eligibility requirements and application instructions. Applicants must also submit official transcripts from an accredited college or university that show completion of at least 30 semester hours (or 45 quarter hours) in chemistry courses. Once all of these documents are submitted and accepted by the ACS-CPC program staff, applicants will be invited to take the written and practical exams.

The cost for taking the exams is $400 for members of the American Chemical Society ($500 for nonmembers). This fee covers both exams plus any related administrative costs associated with processing applications and issuing certificates.

5. Certified Quality Process Analyst (CQPA)

Certified Quality Process Analyst (CQPA) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in quality process analysis. CQPA certification requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding of quality processes, tools, and techniques used to improve organizational performance.

To become certified as a CQPA, applicants must first pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, problem solving and decision making, root cause analysis, and statistical process control. The exam is offered in both English and Spanish.

The cost of taking the CQPA exam varies depending on the country where it is taken. In the United States, the cost is $495 USD for members of ASQ and $595 USD for non-members.

It typically takes between 4-6 weeks to receive results from the CQPA exam. Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will be issued a certificate from ASQ recognizing them as a Certified Quality Process Analyst (CQPA).

6. International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering Certification in Production and Inventory Control (ISPE-CPIC)

The International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering Certification in Production and Inventory Control (ISPE-CPIC) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the areas of production and inventory control. This certification is offered by the ISPE, a global association of pharmaceutical professionals.

The ISPE-CPIC certification requires applicants to pass an examination that tests their knowledge and understanding of production and inventory control principles, processes, and practices. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as: quality assurance, process validation, packaging design and labeling, distribution systems, regulatory compliance, supply chain management, and more.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the exam. Applicants must complete an online application form and submit it along with the required documents. They must also attend a two-day training course on production and inventory control prior to taking the exam.

The cost of the ISPE-CPIC certification varies depending on the country where you are applying from. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 USD. This includes the cost of the application fee, training course fee, examination fee, and any other associated costs.

In order to maintain their certification status over time, certified individuals are required to complete continuing education activities every two years in order to stay up-to-date with current industry trends and best practices.

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

The American Society of Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to manage quality and organizational excellence in any organization. The certification is based on an internationally recognized body of knowledge, which includes topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, performance metrics, and organizational leadership.

To become certified as an ASQ-CMQ/OE, applicants must have at least eight years of work experience in quality or organizational excellence related roles. This experience can include roles such as quality manager, process improvement specialist, or organizational development consultant. In addition to work experience, applicants must pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics from the CMQ/OE body of knowledge.

It typically takes three to six months to complete the requirements for the ASQ-CMQ/OE certification. During this time period, applicants should study for the exam and complete any additional requirements set forth by ASQ.

The cost for the ASQ-CMQ/OE certification varies depending on the applicant's country of residence and other factors. In general, it costs around $600 USD to take the exam and receive the certification.

8. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies Certified Production Technician (NICET-CPT)

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies Certified Production Technician (NICET-CPT) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of individuals working in production and manufacturing. It is offered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET), an independent, non-profit organization that sets standards for certifying technicians in engineering technology fields.

To obtain the NICET-CPT certification, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements, including a minimum of two years of relevant work experience or educational training. Once these requirements are met, applicants can register online and take the NICET-CPT exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as safety, quality control, production processes, and materials handling.

The cost of the NICET-CPT exam varies depending on the number of sections taken and whether or not you choose to take an online practice exam prior to taking the actual exam. The cost ranges from $100-$400 USD. The exam typically takes 3-4 hours to complete but may vary depending on the individual's level of knowledge and preparation.

Once an applicant has successfully passed the NICET-CPT exam, they will receive their certification within 4-6 weeks after completion. This certification is valid for 5 years before it needs to be renewed with additional continuing education credits.

9. Society of Manufacturing Engineers Certified Manufacturing Technologist (SME-CMT)

The Society of Manufacturing Engineers Certified Manufacturing Technologist (SME-CMT) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary for successful manufacturing operations. The SME-CMT certification is designed for those in the manufacturing industry who are responsible for planning, implementing, and managing production processes. It provides an opportunity to demonstrate expertise in areas such as product design, process control, quality assurance, safety management, and cost reduction.

To become certified as an SME-CMT, you must pass a comprehensive exam covering topics such as materials selection and processing; process planning and control; quality assurance; safety management; cost reduction; and environmental management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test your understanding of the concepts covered in the course material.

The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and can be taken at any approved testing center or online through the SME website. You must register with SME before taking the exam, which requires a fee of $150 USD. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official certification from SME.

The certification is valid for three years after which you will need to renew it by submitting proof of continuing education credits or retaking the exam. The renewal fee is $75 USD per year.

10. American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists Certification in Good Manufacturing Practices (AAPS-CGMP)

The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists Certification in Good Manufacturing Practices (AAPS-CGMP) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and understanding of current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs). The certification is intended to provide assurance that the certified individual understands and can apply cGMP principles and regulations when working in a pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

The AAPS-CGMP certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of cGMP principles, regulations, and terminology. The practical assessment is conducted by an AAPS-certified instructor and evaluates the candidate’s ability to apply cGMP principles in a simulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

It typically takes 6-8 weeks to complete the AAPS-CGMP certification process. Candidates must first register for the program online, then complete the written exam within 90 days of registering. Once they pass the written exam, they must schedule their practical assessment with an AAPS-certified instructor within six months of passing the written exam.

The cost for obtaining AAPS-CGMP certification varies depending on whether or not you are an AAPS member. For nonmembers, it costs $450 USD for registration plus $250 USD for each part of the examination ($700 total). For members, it costs $350 USD for registration plus $200 USD for each part of the examination ($550 total).

11. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully implement Lean Six Sigma projects. It is based on the principles of Lean Six Sigma, which is a business process improvement methodology that focuses on eliminating waste and reducing variation in processes.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification typically takes around 8-10 weeks to complete. The certification consists of two courses: a four-week online course and a four-week in-person course. During the online course, participants will learn about the basics of Lean Six Sigma, including its history, tools, and techniques. They will also learn how to apply these principles to their own organizations. During the in-person course, participants will receive hands-on training from experienced professionals who have implemented Lean Six Sigma projects in their own organizations.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, candidates must first pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ or IASSC. After passing the exam, candidates must then complete both the online and in-person courses before they can receive their certification.

The cost of getting certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt varies depending on the organization offering the certification program and other factors such as location and duration of training. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$2,500 USD for both courses combined.

Do You Really Need a Production Chemist Certificate?

The short answer is no. A production chemist certificate is not required to work in a laboratory or to become a production chemist. However, if you want to increase your credentials and demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field of chemistry, then getting certified may be beneficial.

Certification provides evidence that you have mastered the skills necessary to perform the duties of a production chemist. It also indicates that you have taken the time to learn and understand concepts related to chemical production and safety, as well as principles of laboratory operations. In addition, certification can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions within your current organization.

Having said that, certification does come with some drawbacks. For one thing, it can be expensive and time-consuming to study for and take the exam necessary for certification. Additionally, many employers view certificates as just another piece of paper rather than an indication of real-world experience or knowledge in the field. Finally, there are no guarantees that certification will result in better job opportunities or increased pay; it's ultimately up to each individual employer how much value they place on certifications when making hiring decisions.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a production chemist certificate depends on your own goals and needs: Are you looking for credentials to add credibility to your resume? Do you want recognition from peers within the industry? Or do you simply want assurance that you possess the skills necessary for success? Only by answering these questions can you decide whether getting certified is right for you.

Related: Production Chemist Resume Examples

FAQs About Production Chemist Certifications

1. How do I become a Production Chemist?

Answer: To become a Production Chemist, you must first obtain a degree in chemistry or a related field. You can then apply for positions with companies that specialize in production chemistry or take classes to gain certification as a Production Chemist.

2. What certifications are available for Production Chemists?

Answer: The most common certifications for Production Chemists are the American Chemical Society's Certified Chemical Professional (CCP) and the Institute of Food Technologists' Certified Food Scientist (CFS). Other certifications may be available through specialized organizations.

3. What is the difference between CCP and CFS certifications?

Answer: The CCP certification is designed to recognize expertise in industrial and research chemical production processes, while the CFS certification focuses on food science principles and practices related to food production, processing, packaging and safety.

4. How much does it cost to become certified as a Production Chemist?

Answer: The cost of obtaining certification depends on the type of certification you pursue and can vary widely from one organization to another. Generally, the costs will include an application fee, exam fees, training course fees and continuing education requirements.

5. How long does it take to become certified as a Production Chemist?

Answer: The amount of time required to become certified as a Production Chemist will depend on your experience level and the type of certification you choose to pursue. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months up to several years depending on your background knowledge and experience in the field.