Top 10 Quality Assurance Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for a quality assurance technician in the job market because they demonstrate knowledge, skills, and experience in the field. Certifications also show employers that an individual has taken the initiative to develop their skills and stay up-to-date on industry trends. Quality assurance certifications indicate to employers that an individual is qualified to handle complex tasks related to quality control and assurance, which can help them stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs. Additionally, certifications can lead to increased salary opportunities as they can demonstrate a mastery of specific areas related to quality assurance.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the best certifications for Quality Assurance Technicians, and how they can help to further a technician's career.

What are Quality Assurance Technician Certifications?

Quality assurance technician certification is a designation that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and understanding of quality assurance principles and processes. Quality assurance technicians are responsible for ensuring that products meet or exceed customer expectations, as well as industry standards. By obtaining certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to the field and gain recognition for their expertise in quality assurance practices.

By earning a quality assurance technician certification, individuals can set themselves apart from other job applicants, making them more attractive to potential employers. Certification may also help increase salaries and advancement opportunities. In addition, certified technicians have access to exclusive resources such as conferences, webinars, and professional networks that provide valuable insights into the field of quality assurance. Furthermore, certified technicians are better equipped to stay abreast of changes in the field and ensure they remain up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices.

Overall, quality assurance technician certification provides individuals with a competitive edge in the job market by demonstrating their expertise in the field and providing access to exclusive resources and networks.

Pro Tip: When considering a Quality Assurance Technician Certification, make sure to research the organization offering the certification and check for accreditation. Additionally, look into the program's curriculum to ensure that it covers all the relevant topics necessary for your field of work.

Related: What does a Quality Assurance Technician do?

Top 10 Quality Assurance Technician Certifications

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

1. Certified Quality Assurance Technician (CQAT)

A Certified Quality Assurance Technician (CQAT) is a professional certification that demonstrates a commitment to quality assurance and the ability to ensure product safety and reliability. The certification is offered through the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

To become certified, an individual must pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management, process improvement, problem solving, and statistical analysis. The exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and takes three hours to complete. Candidates must also have at least two years of full-time experience in quality assurance or a related field.

The cost of the CQAT certification exam varies by region but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD. Once certified, individuals can use the CQAT designation on their resume and business cards to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in quality assurance.

2. Certified Quality Inspector (CQI)

A Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) is a professional who has been certified to inspect products and services to ensure they meet quality standards. CQI certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), an internationally recognized organization that promotes quality assurance and improvement. The CQI certification program provides a comprehensive overview of quality assurance principles and techniques, as well as practical application of these concepts.

The CQI certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in quality inspection or related fields, such as manufacturing, engineering, or supply chain management. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as product design, process control, measurement systems analysis, statistical process control, root cause analysis, and corrective action.

It typically takes about six months to complete the entire certification process. To begin the process, applicants must first register with ASQ and pay the associated fee. After registering with ASQ, applicants will be given access to training materials and resources that can help them prepare for the exam. Once they have completed their studies and passed the exam, they will receive their official CQI certificate from ASQ.

The cost of obtaining a CQI certification varies depending on the level of certification sought (e.g., Associate or Senior). Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 for Associate-level certification and $800-$1,000 for Senior-level certification.

3. 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 have demonstrated knowledge and skills in quality engineering principles and practices. The CQE credential is intended to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to quality engineering and provide employers with assurance of a qualified workforce.

The CQE certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as quality management, design of experiments, process improvement, reliability engineering, and statistical analysis. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least eight years of experience in quality engineering or related fields.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the CQE exam. Applicants should plan on studying topics such as quality management systems, design of experiments, process control techniques, statistical analysis methods, and other related subjects. A variety of study materials are available from ASQ or from online vendors.

To get the CQE certification, applicants must pass the CQE exam with a score of at least 70%. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that are divided into five sections: Quality Management Systems; Design of Experiments; Process Control Techniques; Statistical Analysis Methods; and Reliability Engineering Principles. The exam fee is $295 USD for ASQ members or $395 USD for non-members.

4. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certification in Quality Assurance

American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certification in Quality Assurance is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge, skills and abilities in quality assurance. ASQ certifications are highly respected in the industry and can be used to demonstrate expertise in quality assurance to employers and customers.

The certification process typically takes about three months from start to finish. To get certified, you must first pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management principles, tools and techniques, project management, statistical analysis, problem solving, measurement systems analysis and more. After passing the exam, you must complete an application process which includes submitting proof of work experience related to quality assurance.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the type of certification you are seeking. The cost may include exam fees, application fees and other associated costs such as travel expenses or course fees for preparation materials. Generally speaking, the cost of getting certified ranges from $400 - $1000 USD.

5. International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Foundation Level

The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Foundation Level is an international certification program designed to provide a basic understanding of software testing and its related processes. The Foundation Level is the entry-level certification for individuals who are new to software testing, or those who want to gain a better understanding of the fundamentals of software testing. It provides a comprehensive overview of the key concepts, principles and techniques used in software testing.

The ISTQB Foundation Level takes approximately 30 hours to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level and learning speed. To get certified, individuals must pass an exam that consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. The exam can be taken at any approved examination center or online through an accredited provider.

The cost for taking the ISTQB Foundation Level exam varies depending on location and provider, but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD.

6. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001 Lead Auditor

International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001 Lead Auditor is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to audit the quality management system of an organization. It is designed to ensure that auditors are knowledgeable and competent in the field of quality management systems.

In order to become certified as an ISO 9001 Lead Auditor, individuals must successfully complete a training course offered by an accredited provider. The length of the course varies depending on the provider, but typically takes between four and five days.

The cost of the course also varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,000 USD. In addition to the cost of the course, there may be additional fees associated with taking exams or obtaining a certificate.

In order to become certified as an ISO 9001 Lead Auditor, individuals must pass both a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam tests knowledge of quality management principles and concepts related to ISO 9001 standards. The practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to audit and assess conformance with ISO 9001 requirements.

Once all requirements have been met, individuals will receive their certification as an ISO 9001 Lead Auditor. This certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by completing additional training or passing another exam.

7. Six Sigma Green Belt

Six Sigma Green Belt is a certification program designed to help individuals become proficient in the Six Sigma methodology and its tools. It is a process improvement system that uses statistical and analytical methods to identify and eliminate defects in processes, products, and services.

The Six Sigma Green Belt certification typically takes about four weeks of intensive study to complete. The program includes classroom instruction, hands-on training, and an examination at the end of the course. During the program, participants will learn how to use data-driven decision making to improve processes, reduce costs, increase customer satisfaction, and build quality into products and services.

To get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must complete a training program that meets the standards set by the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC). There are many providers of these programs available online or through universities or colleges. The cost of these courses vary depending on the provider but typically range from $1,500-$4,000 USD.

In addition to completing a training program, individuals must also pass an exam administered by IASSC in order to receive their certification. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as process design and improvement techniques; project management; problem solving; data analysis; measurement systems; quality control; and more. The cost of this exam is around $400 USD.

Once certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt professional, individuals have access to resources such as webinars and other learning materials that can help them stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices for process improvement initiatives.

8. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) QA/QC Certification

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) QA/QC Certification is a certification program that provides quality assurance and quality control professionals with the knowledge and skills to ensure that products and services meet customer requirements. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to excellence in their field.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to obtain the ASME QA/QC Certification, depending on the level of experience and expertise of the applicant. To get certified, applicants must first complete an application form and submit it along with supporting documents such as proof of education, professional references, and a resume. After submitting the application, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics related to quality assurance and quality control management.

The cost of obtaining ASME QA/QC Certification varies depending on the level of certification desired. Generally, it costs between $500-$2,000 for individuals who are seeking certification at the basic or intermediate levels. For those looking for advanced certifications, it can cost up to $4,000 or more.

Overall, obtaining ASME QA/QC Certification is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in their field. It provides employers with assurance that they are hiring qualified professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge in quality assurance and quality control management practices.

9. Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

A Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in reliability engineering. It is awarded by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CRE credential requires a combination of experience and education, as well as passing an exam.

To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of full-time work experience in reliability engineering or related fields such as quality assurance and product design. In addition, they must hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering or science from an accredited college or university.

The CRE exam consists of 175 multiple choice questions and covers topics such as reliability analysis, system design, maintenance planning, and quality control. The exam takes four hours to complete and costs $320 for ASQ members and $405 for non-members.

Once certified, individuals must maintain their credentials by earning continuing education credits every three years. This can be done through attending conferences, workshops, seminars, or other approved activities.

10. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is one of the most sought-after certifications in the project management field. The PMP credential demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge and experience to lead and direct projects successfully.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to prepare for the PMP exam, depending on your background and experience. To get certified, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of 4500 hours of project management experience over the past 8 years or 7500 hours if you have a bachelor’s degree. You must also complete 35 contact hours of project management education.

Once you have met all of these requirements, you can register for the PMP exam through PMI’s website. The cost for taking the exam is $405 for members of PMI and $555 for non-members.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions which are divided into five different domains: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing. You will have four hours to complete the exam and must score at least 61% in order to pass. Once you pass the exam, you will become a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).

Do You Really Need a Quality Assurance Technician Certificate?

Yes, I think a Quality Assurance Technician Certificate is an important part of a career in the Quality Assurance field. A QAT certificate will demonstrate to employers that you possess the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in this role. It also provides potential employers with an assurance that you have been trained and are knowledgeable about Quality Assurance processes and procedures.

In addition, having a Quality Assurance Technician Certificate can help you stand out from other applicants when competing for jobs. Employers may view your certification as evidence of your commitment to the profession. This certification offers employers the assurance that you understand the importance of quality assurance and can help them ensure their products meet the highest standards of safety and performance.

Finally, having a Quality Assurance Technician Certificate shows your dedication to staying up-to-date on industry trends and developments. It demonstrates that you are committed to learning new techniques, tools, and technologies in order to remain competitive in the job market. This is particularly important when applying for positions with organizations that require specific technical knowledge or expertise.

Overall, possessing a Quality Assurance Technician Certificate can provide you with many advantages when it comes to pursuing a career in this field by demonstrating your knowledge, expertise, and commitment to quality assurance processes and procedures.

Related: Quality Assurance Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Quality Assurance Technician Certifications

Q1: What is a Quality Assurance Technician Certification?

A1: A Quality Assurance Technician Certification is a qualification that demonstrates an individual’s understanding of quality assurance principles and procedures. It provides proof that the holder has sufficient knowledge to carry out quality assurance activities in a professional environment.

Q2: How do I become certified as a Quality Assurance Technician?

A2: To become certified as a Quality Assurance Technician, you must complete an approved training program and pass the certification exam. The training program will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in this field. Once you have completed the program and passed the exam, you will receive your certification.

Q3: What is included in a Quality Assurance Technician Certification Program?

A3: Quality Assurance Technician Certification Programs typically include topics such as quality control processes, inspection techniques, product testing methods, auditing standards, and documentation requirements. Additionally, courses may also cover topics such as root cause analysis, problem-solving strategies, customer service skills, and communication techniques.

Q4: How long does it take to complete a Quality Assurance Technician Certification Program?

A4: The length of time required to complete a Quality Assurance Technician Certification Program varies depending on the program chosen. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within 3-6 months if studied full-time or 6-12 months if studied part-time.

Q5: Is there an exam after completing a Quality Assurance Technician Certification Program?

A5: Yes – most programs require students to pass an exam in order to receive their certification. The exam tests knowledge of quality assurance principles and procedures and assesses an individual’s ability to apply them in real-world situations.