Top 10 Production Planner Certifications

Certifications are important for a production planner in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and skill in the field. They provide evidence that the candidate has a specific knowledge base and is qualified to perform certain duties. Certifications also help potential employers to determine if an applicant is suitable for the position, as they show an individual's commitment to their field and the dedication required to achieve certification. Additionally, certifications can be used as a way to differentiate one candidate from another when applying for jobs, making them more attractive to employers.

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

What are Production Planner Certifications?

Production planner certification is a program designed to help individuals become better production planners and managers. It provides training in the fundamentals of production planning, including resource planning, scheduling, forecasting, inventory management, and cost control. With this training, production planners can develop the skills necessary to effectively manage the entire process from raw material acquisition to finished product delivery. This certification also helps individuals understand how their decisions impact the bottom line of their organization and how they can use their knowledge to improve processes and reduce costs. Additionally, certification may provide access to job opportunities in production planning or related fields. Finally, it can help demonstrate an individual’s commitment to professional development and enhance their marketability when seeking employment.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the requirements for production planner certification prior to applying. Many certifying organizations have specific prerequisites that must be met before taking a certification exam, such as certain educational qualifications or experience in the field. Additionally, it is important to understand the cost and time commitment associated with obtaining certification.

Related: What does a Production Planner do?

Top 10 Production Planner Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Production Planners 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 professionals who have demonstrated a mastery of production and inventory management concepts, principles, and techniques. The CPIM program consists of two exams: the Basics of Supply Chain Management exam and the Master Planning of Resources exam.

The Basics of Supply Chain Management exam covers topics such as demand forecasting, purchasing and procurement, inventory control, supply chain management strategies, and quality assurance. The Master Planning of Resources exam focuses on topics such as capacity planning, scheduling, material requirements planning (MRP), enterprise resource planning (ERP), and project management.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the CPIM program. To get started, you must first become an APICS member. Once you are a member, you can register for the exams through APICS’ website or by calling their customer service number. You will need to purchase study materials from APICS in order to prepare for the exams.

The cost for taking both exams is $1,065 for members ($1,265 for non-members). This includes all study materials as well as access to online practice tests. Additional fees may apply if you need to retake either exam or if you require special accommodations during testing.

2. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is an internationally recognized certification offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management principles and their application in the global marketplace.

The CSCP program takes approximately 150 hours of study time, depending on the individual's background and experience. The program consists of three components: a self-study course, an online exam, and a professional development workshop. The self-study course covers topics such as supply chain design, planning, operations, sourcing and procurement, inventory management, customer service and logistics. The online exam tests the knowledge gained from the self-study course. Finally, the professional development workshop provides hands-on experience with real-world applications of supply chain concepts.

To get certified as a CSCP, you must first complete the self-study course and pass the online exam with a score of 70% or higher. After passing the exam, you must attend an ASCM approved professional development workshop to complete your certification requirements.

The cost to become certified as a CSCP varies depending on your location and whether you are an ASCM member or not. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,200 for non-members to become certified as a CSCP while members pay around $900.

3. APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)

APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program that is designed to demonstrate mastery of logistics, transportation and distribution topics. It is administered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), formerly known as APICS. The CLTD designation recognizes individuals who have mastered a comprehensive body of knowledge in the field of logistics, transportation and distribution.

It typically takes about four months to complete the CLTD certification process. First, you must purchase the CLTD Learning System, which includes study materials and access to an online learning platform. Next, you must pass the CLTD exam within one year of purchasing the system. Once you have passed the exam, you will be eligible to receive your CLTD certificate.

To get started with your CLTD certification journey, visit ASCM’s website and purchase the CLTD Learning System for $695 USD (plus applicable taxes). This fee covers all required materials for studying for and taking the exam. You can also choose to pay an additional fee for additional study resources such as practice exams or instructor-led courses.

Once you have purchased your CLTD Learning System, you will need to complete all required coursework before taking your exam. This includes completing modules on topics such as supply chain management principles; inventory management; warehouse operations; transportation management; global logistics strategies; customer service; sustainability; legal/regulatory compliance; and more.

When you are ready to take your exam, register with ASCM’s testing partner Prometric at least two weeks in advance of your desired test date. The cost of the exam is $495 USD (plus applicable taxes). After passing your CLTD exam, you will receive a digital copy of your certificate via email within two weeks of passing your exam.

4. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to equip individuals with the skills necessary to identify, analyze and solve problems in any organization using the Lean Six Sigma approach.

The certification process typically takes about three months to complete and includes both online instruction and hands-on training. The online portion of the certification requires approximately 40 hours of instruction, while the hands-on portion requires approximately 20 hours of practice. During this time, students learn how to apply Lean Six Sigma principles to their own work environment, as well as how to use various tools such as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) and SIPOC (Suppliers, Inputs, Processes, Outputs and Customers).

In order to obtain a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, individuals must first complete an accredited training program. There are many different providers offering these programs at varying levels of cost. Generally speaking, these programs range from $1,000-$2,500 depending on the length of the course and its content. After completing an accredited program successfully, individuals must then pass an exam administered by a third party in order to receive their certification.

Once certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Professional, individuals can demonstrate their expertise in problem solving and process improvement through their knowledge of the Lean Six Sigma methodology. This can help them stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions within their current organization or when seeking new opportunities elsewhere.

5. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of supply management. The CPSM program provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to manage the procurement process effectively and efficiently.

The CPSM program consists of three levels: Foundations, Professional, and Executive. Each level has its own set of exams that must be passed in order to obtain the certification. The Foundations level requires passing two exams; the Professional level requires passing three exams; and the Executive level requires passing four exams.

In order to apply for the CPSM program, applicants must have a minimum of five years' experience in supply management or related fields. Applicants must also submit an application fee and provide proof of their work experience.

The cost of obtaining a CPSM certification depends on which level you are applying for. The Foundations level costs $495 USD; the Professional level costs $595 USD; and the Executive level costs $695 USD. All fees include registration for all required exams as well as access to ISM's online study materials.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all three levels of the CPSM program, depending on how quickly you are able to pass each exam.

6. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is the most sought-after and respected project management credential in the world. PMP certification demonstrates an individual’s experience, education, and competency to lead and direct projects.

It usually takes about three months to prepare for the PMP exam. This includes studying for the exam, completing practice exams, attending training courses or seminars, and reading relevant books.

To get PMP certified, you must have a minimum of 4500 hours of project management experience in addition to 35 contact hours of formal project management education or training. You must also pass an examination that covers five process groups: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring & controlling, and closing.

The cost of the PMP certification varies depending on whether you are a member of PMI or not. For non-members it costs $555 USD while members pay only $405 USD.

7. International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Certified Logistician

The International Society of Logistics (SOLE) Certified Logistician is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced logistics professionals. This certification is offered by SOLE, an international organization that promotes the advancement of logistics and supply chain management.

The Certified Logistician program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as inventory control, transportation, warehousing, distribution, customer service, and global logistics. The practical exam tests the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

In order to become certified, candidates must pass both the written and practical exams. It typically takes 6-12 months to complete all requirements for certification. Candidates must also have at least three years of experience in logistics or supply chain management in order to be eligible for certification.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the country where you are taking the exams and other factors such as whether you are taking the exams online or in person. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for both exams combined.

8. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Resource Manager

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Resource Manager (CRM) is an internationally recognized certification program for professionals in the field of supply chain and operations management. It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the areas of inventory management, production planning, purchasing, logistics, and customer service.

To become APICS CRM-certified, individuals must complete a series of courses and exams administered by APICS. The program typically takes between six months and one year to complete depending on the individual’s prior experience and knowledge.

In order to get started with the APICS CRM program, individuals must first join APICS as a member. Membership fees vary based on whether you are an individual or a corporate member. After joining, individuals can then purchase access to the online courses and exams needed to become certified. The cost of the courses varies depending on which ones you choose to take but generally range from $200-$500 USD per course.

Once all of the required courses have been completed, individuals must pass two exams: the Core Exam and one elective exam of their choice. The Core Exam covers topics such as inventory management, production planning, purchasing, logistics, customer service, quality management systems and more. The elective exam covers topics related to specific industries or processes such as healthcare supply chain or lean manufacturing.

Once both exams have been passed successfully, individuals will receive their official APICS CRM certification which will be valid for three years before needing renewal.

9. Institute of Business Forecasting & Planning (IBF) Certified Forecasting Professional

The Institute of Business Forecasting & Planning (IBF) Certified Forecasting Professional (CFP) is a certification program that provides professionals with the skills and knowledge to become successful forecasting practitioners. The IBF CFP recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the principles, techniques, and best practices of business forecasting and planning.

The program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as forecasting fundamentals, data analysis, modeling techniques, and decision making. It takes approximately 20 hours to complete the course. Upon successful completion of the course, students can take the IBF CFP exam which is administered by Prometric Testing Centers. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions on topics covered in the online course and takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

To be eligible for the IBF CFP certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in business forecasting or related fields such as economics or finance. They must also pass the IBF CFP exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost for taking the IBF CFP exam is $495 USD plus applicable taxes and fees. There are no additional fees for taking the online course or for maintaining your certification once you have passed the exam.

10. Total Quality Management Certification

Total Quality Management (TQM) Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of quality management principles and practices. It is designed to help organizations improve their processes and products, as well as increase customer satisfaction.

The certification process typically takes six to twelve months, depending on the complexity of the project and the applicant's experience level. To get certified, applicants must pass an exam administered by a recognized body such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The exam covers topics such as quality assurance, quality control, continuous improvement, problem solving and root cause analysis.

The cost of TQM Certification varies depending on the organization offering it. Some organizations offer free or discounted rates for students or members of certain professional organizations. In general, expect to pay between $300-$500 for the exam fee alone. Additional fees may be required for study materials or other services related to taking the exam.

Once certified, individuals can use their TQM credentials to demonstrate their commitment to quality management principles and practices in their job search or current role. They can also use it to advance their career by obtaining promotions or higher-level positions within their organization.

Do You Really Need a Production Planner Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a production planner certificate to pursue a career in the field. That said, having a certificate could certainly be beneficial and could give you an advantage over other job applicants.

A production planner certificate can provide you with the knowledge, skills and credentials needed to become a successful production planner. It will give you an understanding of the basic principles of production planning and help you develop your skills in areas such as scheduling, inventory management and cost control. It also provides proof that you have taken the time to learn about production planning and are committed to becoming an expert in this field.

Having a certificate may also increase your chances of getting hired for a position. Many employers prefer job candidates who have some formal education or training in their field of choice. A certificate gives employers assurance that you have taken the initiative to learn about the industry and are serious about pursuing a career in it.

Overall, whether or not you decide to get a production planner certificate depends on your individual circumstances and goals. If you are just starting out in this field and don’t have much experience yet, obtaining a certificate is likely worth considering as it can help set you apart from other job applicants. However, if you already have several years of experience working as a production planner, then getting certified may not be necessary for furthering your career prospects.

Related: Production Planner Resume Examples

FAQs About Production Planner Certifications

1. What is a Production Planner Certification?

Answer: A Production Planner Certification is a professional qualification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and competencies in the area of production planning. It typically includes courses on topics such as inventory control, scheduling, supply chain management and material requirements planning.

2. How do I become certified as a Production Planner?

Answer: To become certified as a Production Planner, you must complete a certification program offered by an accredited institution or organization. The program will include courses covering topics such as inventory control, scheduling, supply chain management and material requirements planning.

3. What are the benefits of having a Production Planner Certification?

Answer: Having a Production Planner Certification can help individuals gain credibility within their organizations and demonstrate their expertise in the field of production planning. It can also be beneficial for those looking to advance their career or pursue higher-level positions within their organization. Additionally, having this certification may make it easier to secure employment opportunities with other organizations.

4. Is there an exam required to obtain my Production Planner Certification?

Answer: Yes, there is usually an exam required to obtain your Production Planner Certification. This exam tests your understanding of the topics covered in the coursework and is used to assess your competency level in the field of production planning.

5. How long does it take to complete a Production Planner Certification Program?

Answer: The length of time it takes to complete a Production Planner Certification Program varies depending on the institution or organization offering the program and how many courses are required for completion. Generally speaking, most programs require between 18-24 months to complete all necessary coursework and exams for certification.