Top 11 Pump Operator Certifications

Certifications are important for pump operators in the job market because they demonstrate the operator's knowledge, skills and experience in operating pumps. A certification allows employers to quickly assess the qualifications of an individual for a specific job. Certified pump operators demonstrate their commitment to safety, efficiency and professionalism. Certifications also provide assurance that the operator is knowledgeable about current industry standards and regulations related to pump operation. Having a certification not only increases an operator's chances of getting a job, but it can also lead to higher wages due to the added expertise they bring.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Pump Operators and explains how they can help to boost a pump operator's career.

What are Pump Operator Certifications?

Pump operator certification is a professional designation awarded to individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively operate and maintain pumps. This certification helps ensure that pump operators are up-to-date on the latest industry best practices, safety protocols, and regulations. By having certified pump operators, businesses can trust that their staff is knowledgeable in the operation of pumps and can help reduce downtime due to malfunctions or improper use of equipment. Additionally, this certification can also help businesses lower their insurance premiums as certified pump operators are less likely to engage in risky behavior that could lead to an accident or injury. Finally, certified pump operators may also be able to increase their value in the job market as employers often look for those with certifications when hiring.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the specific requirements for pump operator certification in your state or country before beginning the process. This will help ensure you have all the necessary documentation and training needed to become certified.

Related: What does a Pump Operator do?

Top 11 Pump Operator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Pump Operators today.

1. National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO)

The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) is a nonprofit organization that provides certification programs for crane operators. It is dedicated to promoting safety and quality in the crane industry through its comprehensive certification program. The NCCCO program was developed to ensure that all crane operators have the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to safely operate cranes in any environment.

To become certified as a crane operator, an individual must pass both a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as rigging, load chart interpretation, signaling, and operating techniques. The practical exam requires the applicant to demonstrate their ability to safely operate a crane in various scenarios.

It typically takes 2-3 months to complete the certification process from start to finish. To get started, applicants must first register with NCCCO and pay the registration fee of $200 USD. Once registered, applicants can begin studying for the written and practical exams using materials provided by NCCCO or other approved sources. After passing both exams with a score of 70% or higher, applicants will receive their official NCCCO certificate of completion.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on which type of certification an individual is seeking (e.g., mobile crane operator or tower crane operator). Generally speaking, however, it costs around $500 USD for each type of certification plus any additional fees associated with taking the exams (e.g., travel expenses).

2. American Petroleum Institute (API) Pump Operator Certification

American Petroleum Institute (API) Pump Operator Certification is a certification program that provides recognition for individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the safe operation of pumps used in the petroleum industry. The certification is designed to ensure that individuals are knowledgeable and competent in the operation of these pumps.

The API Pump Operator Certification Program consists of two parts: a written exam and an on-site practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as safety procedures, pump maintenance, troubleshooting, and operational principles. The practical assessment requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to safely operate a pump in a variety of scenarios.

To become certified, applicants must first successfully complete both the written exam and the practical assessment. Applicants must also meet certain prerequisites, including having at least two years of experience operating pumps in the petroleum industry or completing an approved training course.

The cost for obtaining API Pump Operator Certification varies depending on the particular certification program chosen by the applicant. Generally, costs range from $200 to $500 USD for both parts of the program combined.

In most cases, it takes between 2-4 weeks to obtain API Pump Operator Certification once all requirements have been met.

3. National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) Certified Pump Operator

The National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) Certified Pump Operator is a certification program that provides pump operators with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively operate pumps. It is designed to ensure that individuals have a comprehensive understanding of the principles of pump operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The NACE Certified Pump Operator program covers topics such as:

• Pump types and components
• Operation and maintenance procedures
• Troubleshooting techniques
• Safety considerations
• Regulatory requirements
• System design considerations
• System performance optimization

It typically takes about 40 hours to complete the NACE Certified Pump Operator coursework, which consists of online modules, lectures, hands-on activities, and exams. The cost for the program varies depending on the provider but usually ranges from $500-$1,000. To become certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by NACE International.

4. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour Pump Operator Training Course

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour Pump Operator Training Course is a comprehensive safety training program designed to provide pump operators with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate pumps in the workplace. The course covers topics such as basic pump operation, safety hazards associated with pumps, preventive maintenance and troubleshooting of pumps. It also includes hands-on demonstrations and activities that allow participants to practice their skills.

The OSHA 10-Hour Pump Operator Training Course typically takes two days to complete. Participants must attend both days in order to receive certification. The course can be taken online or in a classroom setting, depending on the provider.

The cost of the OSHA 10-Hour Pump Operator Training Course varies depending on the provider and location. Generally, it costs between $150-$200 per person for the two day course.

To get certified, participants must successfully complete all required elements of the course including attending both days of instruction, passing an open book test at the end of each day, and completing any additional requirements set by their employer or instructor. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive an OSHA 10-Hour Pump Operator Training Certificate from their instructor or employer.

5. International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) Certified Pump Operator

The International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) Certified Pump Operator is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to safely and effectively operate drilling fluid pumps. This certification is intended for personnel who are responsible for the operation, maintenance and troubleshooting of various types of drilling fluid pumps.

It typically takes four to six weeks to complete the training required for IADC Certified Pump Operator certification. The training consists of classroom instruction as well as hands-on experience with actual drilling fluid pumps. Upon successful completion of the training, participants must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

To get IADC Certified Pump Operator certification, you must first complete the appropriate training course offered by an accredited provider. You can find a list of accredited providers on the IADC website. Once you have completed the training course, you will need to register with IADC and pay a fee in order to take the exam. The fee for taking the exam varies depending on whether or not you are already an IADC member.

The cost of getting IADC Certified Pump Operator certification depends on several factors, including where you take your training course and whether or not you are already an IADC member. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2000 USD to become certified.

6. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Pump Operator

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Pump Operator is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and efficiently operate pumps. This certification is designed for those who are responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of pumps in industrial and commercial settings.

To become an ASME Certified Pump Operator, applicants must complete a training course that covers topics such as pump design, operation, troubleshooting, maintenance, and safety. The course typically takes two days to complete and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice with actual pumps. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants must then pass an exam administered by ASME to receive their certification.

The cost of the ASME Certified Pump Operator program varies depending on the provider offering it but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

Once certified, individuals will receive a certificate from ASME that is valid for three years. To maintain their certification, they will need to renew it every three years by completing additional training or taking an exam if one is offered by their provider.

7. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Pump Operator

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Pump Operator program is a certification program that provides training and certification for individuals who operate fire pumps. This certification is designed to ensure that pump operators have the necessary knowledge and skills to safely and effectively operate fire pumps.

In order to obtain NFPA Certified Pump Operator certification, individuals must complete an approved training course. The length of the course varies depending on the provider, but typically takes between 8-16 hours to complete. After completing the course, individuals will be required to pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the training course and exam vary depending on the provider, but typically range from $250-$500 USD. In addition, some providers may require additional fees for materials or other services.

Once an individual has successfully completed their training and passed their exam, they will receive a certificate from NFPA confirming their certification as a Certified Pump Operator. This certificate is valid for three years from the date of issue, after which time individuals must renew their certification by completing additional training or taking another exam.

8. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Pump Operator

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Pump Operator is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively operate pumps in industrial, commercial, and residential settings. The certification program is based on the AWS Standard for Qualification of Pump Operators (AWS D18.1).

To become certified as an AWS Certified Pump Operator, you must pass a written examination that tests your knowledge of pump operation, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. It takes approximately two hours to complete the exam.

You can take the exam at any AWS-approved testing center or online through a third-party provider such as Prometric or Pearson VUE. To register for the exam, you will need to provide proof of your identity, pay the required fee (which varies by location), and schedule an appointment with the testing center or online provider.

The cost of taking the AWS Certified Pump Operator exam varies by location but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD depending on whether you take it in person or online.

9. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2008 Certified Pump Operator

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2008 Certified Pump Operator is a certification program that recognizes pump operators who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the operation of pumps. This certification program is designed to ensure that pump operators have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and efficiently operate pumps in industrial settings.

It typically takes six months to one year to complete the ISO 9001:2008 Certified Pump Operator certification program, depending on the individual’s prior experience and training. The program consists of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and an assessment exam. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals will receive a certificate from ISO verifying their proficiency as an ISO 9001:2008 Certified Pump Operator.

To become an ISO 9001:2008 Certified Pump Operator, individuals must first obtain a copy of the ISO 9001:2008 standard from their local standards organization or from the International Organization for Standardization website. They must then complete all required coursework and pass the assessment exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost of becoming an ISO 9001:2008 Certified Pump Operator varies depending on where you take your courses and how much hands-on experience you need. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD depending on your specific needs.

10. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)-Certified Industrial Pump Technician

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Certified Industrial Pump Technician is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, and repair industrial pumps. This certification is offered by the BLS in partnership with the National Association of Pump Technicians (NAPT).

To become certified as an Industrial Pump Technician, applicants must pass an exam administered by NAPT. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of industrial pumps. Applicants must also demonstrate at least two years of experience in the field or complete a qualifying course to be eligible for the exam.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on whether you are a member of NAPT or not. For non-members, it costs $250 USD; for members, it costs $200 USD. The exam fee includes a study guide and access to online practice tests.

The amount of time required to prepare for the exam depends on each individual’s experience level and study habits. Generally speaking, it is recommended that applicants spend at least 40 hours studying before taking the test.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official BLS Certified Industrial Pump Technician certification from NAPT. This certification is valid for three years from date of issue and can be renewed upon successful completion of continuing education requirements every three years thereafter.

11. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)-Certified Automotive Technician

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a professional certification program for automotive technicians. It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the automotive service industry. The ASE Certified Automotive Technician credential is awarded to those who have demonstrated knowledge and skill in the field of automotive repair and maintenance.

To become an ASE-Certified Automotive Technician, individuals must pass a series of tests that evaluate their knowledge and skills in specific areas of automotive repair. There are currently nine different tests available, each covering a different area of expertise such as engine repair, electrical systems, brakes, heating & air conditioning, etc.

In order to take the tests, applicants must first register with ASE and pay a fee of $50 per test. Once registered, applicants can choose which tests they would like to take and when they would like to take them. Tests are offered year-round at various locations throughout the United States.

Once all required tests have been passed, applicants will receive their certification from ASE. This certification is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years by retaking the appropriate tests or completing continuing education courses approved by ASE.

The cost of becoming an ASE-Certified Automotive Technician varies depending on how many tests are taken and how often they are taken. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 - $1,000 to become certified depending on how many tests are taken at once and how often they need to be retaken for renewal purposes.

Do You Really Need a Pump Operator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the type of work you plan to do. If you are planning to work in a pump operation position, such as a pump operator, then yes, you will need a Pump Operator Certificate. This certificate is issued by the state or local government and certifies that you have received the necessary training and knowledge to operate pumps safely. It also demonstrates that you have met all of the safety requirements for operating pumps in your area.

Pump operators must be knowledgeable about the maintenance and operation of pumps, including how to troubleshoot and repair them if needed. They must be able to identify potential hazards associated with pump operations and take appropriate steps to mitigate them. Additionally, they must know how to respond to emergency situations that could arise while operating a pump.

Having a Pump Operator Certificate shows employers that you are qualified for the job and can perform it safely and effectively. Without one, it may be difficult for employers to trust that you can handle the responsibility of operating pumps properly and safely. Furthermore, some states require certification in order for someone to legally operate a pump within their jurisdiction.

In summary, if you plan on working as a pump operator then having a Pump Operator Certificate is highly recommended as it verifies your qualifications and demonstrates your commitment to safety.

Related: Pump Operator Resume Examples

FAQs About Pump Operator Certifications

1. How do I become a certified pump operator?

Answer: To become a certified pump operator, you must complete a training program approved by the National Environmental Services Center (NESC). Once you have completed the training program, you must pass an exam to receive your certification.

2. What are the requirements for certification?

Answer: The requirements vary depending on the type of pump operator certification you are seeking. Generally, you will need to demonstrate knowledge of operation and maintenance principles as well as safety procedures related to pumps and pumping systems. You may also be required to have experience working with pumps and/or obtain additional certifications such as Hazwoper or First Aid/CPR certifications.

3. Are there any online programs available for certification?

Answer: Yes, several online programs are available for pump operator certification. These programs typically include interactive coursework, quizzes, and practice exams that can help prepare you for the final exam necessary for certification.

4. How much does it cost to become a certified pump operator?

Answer: The cost of becoming a certified pump operator varies depending on the type of certification sought and whether or not online courses are taken instead of in-person classes. Generally speaking, costs range from $500-$1500 depending on these factors.

5. How long is my pump operator certification valid?

Answer: Pump operator certifications are typically valid for three years before they must be renewed or recertified by taking an updated course or passing an updated exam.