Top 11 Production Scheduler Certifications

Certifications are important for a production scheduler in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has a certain level of expertise and knowledge required for their specific job. By having certifications, it shows employers that the individual is committed to their profession and has taken the initiative to learn and stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and best practices. Certifications can also help production schedulers stand out from other candidates who may not have any certifications or experience in the field. Furthermore, certifications can often lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities as employers view certified professionals as more qualified than those without certification.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Production Schedulers and discuss how they can enhance a production scheduler's career.

What are Production Scheduler Certifications?

Production scheduler certification is a type of professional certification that focuses on the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to efficiently and effectively plan, coordinate, and manage production activities. This certification can be beneficial for those who work in the manufacturing industry as it provides an understanding of the principles and techniques used to develop and maintain an effective production schedule. It also covers topics such as inventory management, scheduling optimization, capacity planning, resource allocation, forecasting, project management, and more. The certification can help individuals hone their skills in this area so they can become better equipped to handle their responsibilities in production scheduling. Additionally, having a production scheduler certification may help individuals stand out among other job applicants when applying for positions within the manufacturing industry.

Pro Tip: Consider obtaining a production scheduler certification from an accredited institution to demonstrate your commitment to the field and increase your chances of success in the job market. Certification can provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful production scheduler and help you stand out from other applicants.

Related: What does a Production Scheduler do?

Top 11 Production Scheduler Certifications

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

1. APICS Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

APICS Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of essential terminology, concepts, and strategies related to production and inventory management. It is one of the most widely recognized certifications in the field of supply chain management.

The CPIM program consists of five courses: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. Each course is offered in both online and classroom formats. The entire program can be completed in as little as six months or up to two years depending on individual learning styles.

To get the CPIM certification, candidates must first complete all five courses with a minimum passing score on each exam. Candidates must also pass a comprehensive exam at the end of the program that tests their knowledge across all areas covered in the courses. Upon successful completion of all requirements, candidates will receive their CPIM certification from APICS.

The cost for obtaining the CPIM certification varies based on how you choose to take each course (online or classroom). Generally speaking, it costs around $2,000-$3,000 for the entire program including course fees and exams fees.

2. APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a globally recognized certification that offers professionals the knowledge and skills to effectively manage global supply chain activities. This certification is designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in supply chain management, from strategic design to tactical implementation.

The CSCP program takes approximately 200 hours of study time, depending on the individual’s experience and background. The program consists of three parts: self-study, online learning system, and an exam. The self-study portion includes reading the APICS CSCP Learning System textbook and studying for the exam. The online learning system provides interactive tools such as practice exams, flashcards, and quizzes to help prepare for the exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and must be completed within four hours.

To get the CSCP certification, individuals must first apply for it through APICS’ website. Once approved, they can purchase the CSCP Learning System which includes all materials needed for studying for the exam. After completing their studies and passing the exam, they will receive their official certificate from APICS.

The cost of obtaining the CSCP certification varies depending on whether an individual is a member or non-member of APICS. For members, it costs $995 USD while non-members pay $1,295 USD.

3. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge of logistics, transportation and distribution. This certification is intended for professionals who are responsible for the planning, implementation, and control of the physical flow of materials, services, and related information from point of origin to point of consumption.

It typically takes 3-6 months to prepare for the CLTD exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as supply chain management, inventory management, transportation management, warehouse operations, global logistics strategies and more. To get certified in CLTD you must pass the exam with a score of at least 500 out of 800 points.

To get certified in CLTD you must purchase an APICS membership package which includes access to study materials such as practice exams and textbooks. You can also purchase additional study materials such as online courses or instructor-led classes through APICS. The cost of the membership package varies depending on your needs but generally ranges from $200-$500 USD.

4. Association for Operations Management (APICS) Certified Professional in Scheduling (CPS)

The Association for Operations Management (APICS) Certified Professional in Scheduling (CPS) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of scheduling. The CPS certification is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of professionals who are responsible for developing, maintaining, and managing production schedules.

To become a CPS, applicants must have at least three years of experience in scheduling or related functions, such as supply chain management, production planning, or inventory control. Candidates must also pass an exam administered by APICS that covers topics such as capacity planning and scheduling principles, operations research techniques, project management tools and techniques, and supply chain management concepts.

The cost of the CPS certification varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or not. For non-members, the cost is $695 plus applicable taxes. For members of APICS, the cost is $595 plus applicable taxes. The exam fee may be paid online using a credit card or through other payment methods accepted by APICS.

Once you register for the exam and pay the fee, you will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule your exam appointment. You can choose from several testing centers located throughout North America and Europe. The total time it takes to complete the application process and take the exam is approximately 6-8 weeks; however this may vary depending on when you register for the exam and when your test center has available dates to take it.

5. Project Management Institute (PMI) Project Scheduling Professional (PSP)

Project Management Institute (PMI) Project Scheduling Professional (PSP) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of professionals who are responsible for creating, maintaining, and optimizing project schedules. The PSP credential is intended for those who are involved in the development of project plans and schedules, as well as those who monitor and control their execution.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the PSP exam depending on your level of experience. To become certified, you must complete an application process that includes submitting proof of professional experience, passing an exam, and agreeing to adhere to PMI's Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

To get started with the PSP certification process you will need to create a PMI account online or through their mobile app. Once your account is created you can begin the application process by providing evidence of your work experience in project scheduling and completing a background check. After your application is approved you will be able to register for the exam which must be completed within one year from date of registration.

The cost for the PSP certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI. For members, it costs $405 USD while non-members pay $555 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam such as proctoring fees if taking it remotely or travel expenses if taking it at a testing center location.

6. International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) Agile Scheduling Practitioner Certification

The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) Agile Scheduling Practitioner Certification is a professional certification that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge to effectively plan, manage, and deliver agile projects. This certification is designed for professionals who are responsible for scheduling and managing agile projects. It covers topics such as understanding agile principles, developing an agile schedule, estimating costs, monitoring progress, and reporting results.

The IIBA Agile Scheduling Practitioner Certification requires a minimum of 25 hours of training in order to be eligible for the exam. The training can be completed online or in-person through an approved provider. Once the training has been completed, individuals can then register to take the exam. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and must be passed with a score of 70% or higher in order to receive the certification.

The cost of the IIBA Agile Scheduling Practitioner Certification varies depending on where you take your training from. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 USD depending on the provider you choose.

In summary, the IIBA Agile Scheduling Practitioner Certification is a professional certification that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge to effectively plan, manage, and deliver agile projects. It requires 25 hours of training before taking an exam which consists of 50 multiple-choice questions. The cost of this certification ranges from $500-$2,000 USD depending on where you take your training from.

7. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s understanding of the Six Sigma methodology and their ability to apply it to improve business processes. The certification is offered by various organizations, including ASQ (American Society for Quality) and IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification).

The duration of the certification depends on the organization offering it. Generally, it takes around 40-50 hours of study time to complete the certification. This includes completing coursework, attending classes, taking practice exams, and passing a final exam.

To get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must first complete an accredited training program. These programs are offered by many universities and other organizations around the world. Once you have completed your training program, you can then take the final exam to earn your certification.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the organization offering it and whether or not you choose to attend classes or take online courses. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $400-$2000 USD. However, some organizations may offer discounts or scholarships to help cover the cost of certification.

Once you have earned your Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, you will be able to demonstrate your knowledge of the methodology and use it in any workplace setting to improve processes and increase efficiency.

8. Microsoft Project Certification

Microsoft Project Certification is a professional certification program that enables individuals to demonstrate their expertise in the Microsoft Project software suite. It covers topics such as project planning, scheduling, resource allocation and tracking, budgeting and reporting.

The certification consists of two exams: Microsoft Project 2016 Core (77-427) and Microsoft Project 2016 Expert (77-428). The Core exam focuses on the fundamentals of using the software for project management, while the Expert exam covers more advanced topics such as resource management, customizing views and reports, and creating project plans from scratch.

It typically takes around four weeks of preparation to pass both exams. The best way to prepare is by taking an online course or attending a classroom training session. There are also many books available that can help you prepare for the exams.

The cost of the certification depends on where you take it. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay around $300-$500 for each exam. This includes registration fees, study materials and any other associated costs.

Overall, obtaining your Microsoft Project Certification is an excellent way to demonstrate your proficiency with this powerful software suite and increase your earning potential in the job market.

9. Oracle Primavera P6 Enterprise Project Portfolio Management Certification

Oracle Primavera P6 Enterprise Project Portfolio Management (EPPM) Certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates a professional’s expertise in the use of Oracle Primavera P6 EPPM software. The certification is designed to demonstrate that the individual has the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage projects, portfolios, and resources with Oracle Primavera P6 EPPM.

The certification process involves taking an online exam that covers topics such as project scheduling, resource management, portfolio management, reporting and analytics, and project lifecycle management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

In order to obtain Oracle Primavera P6 EPPM Certification, you must first register for the exam on Oracle’s website. You will then be able to purchase the exam voucher from Oracle or from a third-party vendor. The cost of the exam varies depending on where you purchase it from but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. You must also have a valid Oracle account in order to take the exam.

Once you have purchased your exam voucher and created your Oracle account, you can schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center near you. It is recommended that you allow at least 3 weeks for preparation before taking the exam. After successfully passing the exam, you will receive your official certification via email within 5 business days.

Oracle Primavera P6 EPPM Certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by passing another certification exam or completing approved continuing education courses.

10. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals develop the skills necessary to lead, manage, and facilitate Lean Six Sigma projects. The certification program is based on the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology which is used to identify and eliminate waste in processes.

The certification process typically takes between three and six months depending on the individual's experience level and commitment to completing the coursework. To become certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, individuals must complete a series of courses that cover topics such as project management, problem solving, data analysis, and process improvement. After completing the coursework, individuals must take an exam administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ or IASSC.

The cost of obtaining Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification varies depending on the type of training program chosen. Online programs can range from $500-$2,000 while in-person programs may cost up to $10,000 or more. Additionally, some organizations may offer discounts for group enrollments or special pricing for veterans or military personnel.

Once certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt professional, individuals will have access to job opportunities in industries ranging from healthcare to manufacturing where they can use their expertise to improve processes and reduce costs.

11. APICS Master Planning of Resources Certification

APICS Master Planning of Resources (MPR) Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the area of supply chain planning. It is designed for individuals who want to develop their skills in the areas of demand planning, inventory management, and production scheduling.

The MPR Certification program consists of two parts: a self-assessment exam and a professional development workshop. The self-assessment exam is an online test that covers topics such as demand forecasting, inventory management, and production scheduling. The professional development workshop provides hands-on practice with software tools used in supply chain planning.

It typically takes about three months to complete the MPR Certification program. To get started, you must first register for the self-assessment exam on APICS’ website. Once you have completed the exam, you will be eligible to attend the professional development workshop.

The cost of the MPR Certification program varies depending on your location and whether or not you are an APICS member. In general, it costs around $1,000 USD for non-members and $800 USD for members.

Do You Really Need a Production Scheduler Certificate?

No, you do not need a production scheduler certificate to work in this field. However, having a certificate may make you more desirable to potential employers and increase your chances of getting hired.

A production scheduler certificate can prove your knowledge of the industry and demonstrate that you have the skills necessary for the job. It can also give employers an indication of your commitment to learning and development within the industry. A certification also shows that you understand processes and systems related to production scheduling and can help employers assess whether or not you are qualified for the role.

Having a certification can be beneficial if you are applying for entry-level positions, as it will demonstrate that you have some understanding of the industry. Additionally, certifications may be required by some employers or organizations when hiring for certain roles.

Overall, while a production scheduler certificate is not necessary to work in this field, it could be beneficial in helping you stand out from other applicants and increasing your chances of getting hired.

Related: Production Scheduler Resume Examples

FAQs About Production Scheduler Certifications

Q1: What types of Production Scheduler certifications are available?

A1: The most common Production Scheduler certifications include the APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM), the American Society for Quality's Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) and the International Institute for Learning's Project Management Professional (PMP).

Q2: How long does it take to become certified as a Production Scheduler?

A2: The amount of time required to become certified depends on the certification program chosen. Generally, it takes anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete a certification program.

Q3: What is covered in a Production Scheduler certification program?

A3: A typical production scheduler certification program covers topics such as inventory management, project management, supply chain management, manufacturing processes, quality control and cost control.

Q4: Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Production Scheduler?

A4: Most programs require applicants to have at least two years of professional experience in production scheduling or related fields. Some programs may also require applicants to have completed certain courses or exams prior to applying.

Q5: How much do Production Scheduler certifications typically cost?

A5: Costs vary depending on the type of certification and provider; however, most certifications range from $500 - $3000 USD.