Top 11 Production Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for production technicians in the job market because they demonstrate a technician's knowledge and skills in a particular area. They can help technicians stand out in the job market and prove to employers that they have the specialized skills needed to be successful in a given field. Additionally, certifications can also open up opportunities for advancement within an organization or even lead to higher salaries. Lastly, having certifications may make it easier for production technicians to find employment as employers will know they have been trained and tested on their skills.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Production Technicians and how they can help advance a production technician's career.

What are Production Technician Certifications?

Production Technician Certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates a technician’s knowledge and skills related to the production process. It is designed to ensure that technicians are capable of performing their job duties in a safe and efficient manner.

This certification can provide a number of benefits including increased job security, higher wages, and improved employee morale. For employers, it can help improve quality control, reduce costs associated with training and retraining personnel, and increase customer satisfaction. Additionally, it may make employees eligible for specialized positions or promotions within the company.

For technicians, this certification can provide them with an edge over the competition when applying for jobs in the production industry. It also provides them with an opportunity to demonstrate their proficiency in production processes and techniques as well as their commitment to safety standards. Furthermore, this certification may give individuals access to more advanced educational resources such as seminars and workshops which can further increase their knowledge base related to production processes.

Overall, Production Technician Certification is an invaluable asset for both employers and technicians alike. It allows employers to hire qualified technicians who have proven their competence while providing technicians with a way to stand out from other applicants when seeking employment opportunities in the production field.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the certification requirements for production technicians in your particular field before committing to any program. It's important to understand what type of certification is required and what skills will be tested so you can make an informed decision about which program is right for you.

Related: What does a Production Technician do?

Top 11 Production Technician Certifications

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

1. Certified Production Technician (CPT)

Certified Production Technician (CPT) is a nationally recognized certification that verifies the knowledge and skills of production technicians. It is designed to ensure that production technicians have the necessary skills to work in a variety of manufacturing environments. The CPT certification program is administered by the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC).

To become certified, individuals must complete an approved training program and pass an exam. The MSSC offers two levels of CPT certification: Core and Advanced. The Core level covers basic safety, quality, maintenance awareness, and manufacturing processes; while the Advanced level covers more complex topics such as problem solving, teamwork, communication, and advanced manufacturing processes.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual's background and experience. Generally speaking, it can take up to six months for someone with no prior experience or education in production technology to complete the requirements for Core certification. For those with some prior experience or education in production technology, it may take less than six months to become certified at either level.

In order to get certified at either level, individuals must first register with MSSC and pay a fee of $175 for the Core exam or $225 for the Advanced exam. After registering with MSSC, individuals must then complete an approved training program specific to their chosen level of certification (Core or Advanced). Once they have completed their training program they can then schedule their exam through Prometric Testing Centers or other approved testing centers across the country.

The cost associated with becoming certified includes registration fees for both exams ($175 for Core and $225 for Advanced), plus any additional fees associated with completing an approved training program (which vary depending on provider).

2. Certified Manufacturing Technician (CMT)

Certified Manufacturing Technician (CMT) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals in the manufacturing industry. The CMT certification is offered by the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC). It is a nationally recognized credential that validates an individual’s ability to work safely and efficiently in a modern manufacturing environment.

The CMT certification consists of two parts: Core and Specialty Modules. To become certified, individuals must complete both parts. The Core Module covers topics such as safety, quality control, production processes, maintenance fundamentals, and problem-solving techniques. The Specialty Modules cover specific areas such as welding, robotics, machining, electronics assembly, and more.

The CMT certification process typically takes between 8-12 weeks to complete depending on the individual's experience level and availability of courses in their area. To get started with the CMT process individuals must first register for an MSSC account on their website. After registering they can then purchase access to the online course material which includes instructional videos and practice exams for each module.

The cost for the CMT certification varies depending on whether or not you are purchasing access to just one module or all modules at once. Access to one module typically costs around $150 while access to all modules costs around $400-$500 depending on promotions available at the time of purchase. Upon successful completion of both parts of the CMT exam individuals will receive their official CMT certificate from MSSC as well as recognition from employers across the country that they have achieved a high level of proficiency in manufacturing operations.

3. Certified Quality Technician (CQT)

Certified Quality Technician (CQT) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge and understanding of quality principles, concepts, and tools. The CQT certification is based on a comprehensive body of knowledge that covers topics such as quality assurance, quality control, problem solving, statistics, auditing, and inspection.

It typically takes six months to two years to complete the requirements for the CQT certification. To become certified, you must pass an exam that consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering the body of knowledge. You can prepare for the exam by taking courses or studying independently.

The cost of becoming a Certified Quality Technician varies depending on your preparation method. If you choose to take courses or attend seminars, the cost will be higher than if you study independently. However, most people find that taking courses or attending seminars helps them better understand and retain the material needed to pass the exam.

In addition to passing the exam, you must also have at least three years of full-time work experience in quality assurance or related fields in order to qualify for CQT certification.

4. Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (CIMM)

Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic (CIMM) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of industrial maintenance mechanics. The CIMM certification program is offered by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS). It is a nationally recognized credential that validates an individual’s competency in industrial maintenance mechanic-related tasks.

To become certified, individuals must successfully complete the NIMS Certified Industrial Maintenance Mechanic exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety, electrical systems, mechanical systems, fluid power systems, and welding. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience as an industrial maintenance mechanic or equivalent experience in a related field.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $150-$200 to take the exam at an authorized testing center.

The entire process from application to certification can take up to six weeks or more depending on how quickly you complete your application and submit all required documents.

5. Certified Automation Professional (CAP)

Certified Automation Professional (CAP) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). The CAP program was designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in automation and control systems. It is intended to provide employers with a reliable means of assessing the qualifications and capabilities of automation professionals.

To become a Certified Automation Professional, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as process control, instrumentation, programming, networking, safety, and troubleshooting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is administered online or at ISA testing centers around the world. The exam typically takes about three hours to complete.

The cost to take the CAP exam varies depending on your location. In most cases, it costs around $400 USD for members of ISA and $500 USD for non-members. To become an ISA member and receive discounted pricing on the CAP exam, you can join online or contact ISA directly.

In addition to passing the CAP exam, applicants must also meet certain educational requirements in order to be eligible for certification. Applicants must have at least four years of experience in automation technology or related fields, as well as either a bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent experience in engineering technology.

Once all requirements are met and the application is approved by ISA, applicants will receive their official Certified Automation Professional certificate from ISA within two weeks after passing the exam.

6. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and ability to use the Six Sigma methodology in their organization. The Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is designed to help professionals become more effective at problem solving, process improvement, and data analysis.

The certification process typically takes between four and six months to complete. To get certified, individuals must first complete a training program that covers the basics of the Six Sigma methodology, such as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control). Upon completion of the training program, individuals are then required to take an exam that tests their understanding of the material covered in the course.

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more. It is important to note that some organizations may offer discounts for groups or employees who are interested in getting certified together.

In addition to completing a training program and taking an exam, individuals must also demonstrate proficiency in applying their knowledge by completing a project using the Six Sigma methodology. This project will be reviewed by a panel of experts who will assess whether or not the individual has met all of the necessary criteria for certification.

7. OSHA 10-Hour Safety Training Certificate

The OSHA 10-Hour Safety Training Certificate is a certification program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This program provides safety training to workers in order to reduce workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. It is designed to provide employers with an easy way to ensure that their employees are properly trained on safety protocols.

The OSHA 10-Hour Safety Training Certificate requires 10 hours of instruction time. The content of the course covers topics such as hazard recognition and avoidance, accident prevention, and emergency response.

In order to receive the OSHA 10-Hour Safety Training Certificate, you must complete an approved course from a qualified instructor or provider. You can find a list of approved courses on the OSHA website.

The cost of the OSHA 10-Hour Safety Training Certificate varies depending on the provider you choose. Generally speaking, it will cost between $50 and $100 per person for the course materials and instructor fees.

Once you have completed the course, you will receive your certificate from your instructor or provider. Your certificate will be valid for five years from the date of completion.

8. ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Certification

ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Certification is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a person’s ability to audit and assess the quality management system of an organization. It is awarded by accredited certifying bodies, such as the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA).

The certification process typically takes between four to six weeks to complete. The first step is to complete a training course in ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Certification. This course provides knowledge and skills related to auditing a quality management system according to the requirements of the standard. After completing the course, you must then take and pass an exam in order to become certified.

In order to get ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Certification, you must find an IRCA-accredited training provider and register for their course. The cost of the course will vary depending on the provider, but it usually ranges from $1,000-$3,000 USD. Once you have completed the course and passed the exam, you will be issued with your certificate which is valid for three years.

Overall, ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Certification is a valuable qualification that demonstrates your competence in auditing quality management systems according to international standards. It can open up career opportunities in many industries and help you progress further in your chosen field.

9. Lean Manufacturing Certification

Lean Manufacturing Certification is a certification program designed to help organizations and individuals learn the principles of Lean Manufacturing. It is based on the teachings of Taiichi Ohno, the founder of Toyota Production System (TPS). The certification focuses on improving efficiency, reducing waste, and increasing customer satisfaction.

The Lean Manufacturing Certification program typically takes about three months to complete and consists of four modules: Introduction to Lean Manufacturing, Value Stream Mapping & Analysis, Kaizen & Continuous Improvement, and Lean Leadership. Each module covers a different aspect of Lean Manufacturing and includes lectures, case studies, simulations, and hands-on exercises.

To get certified in Lean Manufacturing you must first complete the four modules mentioned above. After completing all four modules you will be eligible to take the final exam which is administered by an independent third-party organization. Upon passing this exam you will receive your Lean Manufacturing Certification.

The cost for the entire program varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 USD.

10. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ is a globally recognized certification for IT professionals. It is the most popular entry-level certification for those looking to break into the IT field. The certification validates a technician’s ability to troubleshoot, configure, and maintain PCs, laptops, mobile devices, operating systems, and printers.

The CompTIA A+ exam consists of two parts: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). To earn the CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass both exams. Each exam takes 90 minutes to complete and contains 90 questions.

To get CompTIA A+, you must first register for the exams through Pearson VUE or Certiport testing centers. You can also purchase practice tests from various providers such as ExamForce or Kaplan IT Training. After registering for your exams, you will need to study for them using materials provided by CompTIA or third-party vendors. Once you feel ready to take the exams, you can schedule them at an authorized testing center near you.

The cost of CompTIA A+ varies depending on where you take the exams and which provider you use to purchase practice tests or study materials. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$400 USD per exam plus any additional fees associated with purchasing practice tests or other materials from third-party vendors.

Overall, it typically takes about 3 months of studying and preparation before taking the exams in order to pass them both and receive your CompTIA A+ Certification.

11. Automation and Robotics Technician Certificate

Automation and Robotics Technician Certificate is a program designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful automation and robotics technician. This certificate program typically takes one year to complete, depending on the institution offering the course. It covers topics such as automation systems, robotic programming, electrical engineering, computer programming, and more.

In order to get an Automation and Robotics Technician Certificate, you must first complete the required courses in the program. These courses can be taken at either a college or university or through online learning programs. After completing all of the required courses, you will need to pass an exam in order to receive your certificate.

The cost of an Automation and Robotics Technician Certificate will vary depending on where you take the course and what type of materials are included in the program. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$4,000 for tuition alone. Additional costs may include textbooks and other materials needed for completing the coursework.

Do You Really Need a Production Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their goals. A Production Technician Certificate may be beneficial for those who are looking to advance their career in production, as it shows employers that an individual has received a certain level of training and is knowledgeable about the industry.

For someone who is just starting out in production or is looking to break into the field, a Production Technician Certificate may not be necessary. However, if an individual wants to pursue a career in production and gain access to higher-level positions, obtaining a certificate can be beneficial. Having a certificate will demonstrate to potential employers that they possess the skills and knowledge needed for the job. Additionally, many employers prefer candidates with certifications because they indicate that an individual has taken the initiative to stay up-to-date on industry trends and practices.

Ultimately, whether or not someone should obtain a Production Technician Certificate depends on their goals and what they want to get out of their career in production. If they are serious about pursuing a long-term career in the field, obtaining a certificate could be beneficial as it can help them stand out from other applicants and give them greater access to more advanced positions.

Related: Production Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Production Technician Certifications

1. What is a Production Technician Certification?

Answer: A Production Technician Certification is a professional certificate that demonstrates proficiency in production operations, manufacturing processes, and safety protocols. It is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills for the role of a production technician in various industries.

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

Answer: To become certified as a Production Technician, you must successfully complete an accredited certification program that includes instruction in safety protocols, production operations and manufacturing processes. You may also need to pass an exam or demonstrate competence through practical assessments.

3. Is there any cost associated with obtaining a Production Technician Certification?

Answer: Yes, there are typically costs associated with obtaining a Production Technician Certification such as course fees or exam fees. However, many employers offer tuition reimbursement plans or other financial assistance for those seeking certifications in their field of work.

4. How long does it take to complete the certification process?

Answer: The time it takes to complete the certification process varies depending on the type of program you choose and how quickly you complete the coursework or exams. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within 6 months to 1 year depending on your individual progress and availability of courses or exams.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Production Technician?

Answer: Yes, some certification programs may have prerequisites such as prior experience working in production operations or completion of certain courses related to manufacturing processes and safety protocols before enrolling in the program or taking the exam. Be sure to check with your chosen certification program for specific requirements before enrolling in the program.