Top 10 Quality Control Auditor Certifications

Certifications demonstrate a quality control auditor’s knowledge in the field of quality assurance and quality control. Employers are looking for highly-skilled professionals who have the necessary qualifications to do the job, and certifications prove that an individual has the expertise and experience to perform at a high level. Certifications also demonstrate that an individual has kept up with industry developments and best practices, which is essential for keeping up with the ever-changing needs of today’s businesses. Additionally, certifications can open the door to new opportunities, such as promotions or higher salaries.

This article reviews the top certifications for Quality Control Auditors and explains how they can help advance an auditor's career.

What are Quality Control Auditor Certifications?

Quality control auditor certification is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and experience in quality assurance and quality control systems. Quality control auditors are responsible for verifying the accuracy of product specifications, testing products to ensure they meet quality standards, identifying and addressing potential problems in the production process, and managing corrective actions.

By becoming certified as a Quality Control Auditor, an individual can demonstrate their expertise in these areas to employers or clients. Certification programs typically involve a combination of training courses and exams that cover topics such as quality assurance principles, sampling and inspection techniques, statistical process control methods, root cause analysis strategies, corrective action processes and more.

Having this certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants when applying for quality-related positions. It also shows employers that the individual has a comprehensive understanding of the principles of quality management and is equipped with the knowledge necessary to identify issues in the production process and recommend solutions. Additionally, it demonstrates a commitment to continued learning in order to stay up-to-date on best practices in the field.

Pro tip: Make sure to verify the quality control auditor certification of any individual you are considering hiring for a QC role. Ensure that the certification is up-to-date and valid, as well as relevant to the industry in which you operate. Additionally, consider what other qualifications or experience the individual may have that would be beneficial in this position.

Related: What does a Quality Control Auditor do?

Top 10 Quality Control Auditor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Quality Control Auditors today.

1. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in quality auditing. The CQA certification is designed to help individuals develop the skills needed to perform quality audits that are consistent with the principles of ISO 9001, the international standard for quality management systems.

To become certified as a CQA, an individual must pass a comprehensive exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as auditing principles and practices, quality management systems, process analysis and improvement, and project management.

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for the CQA exam. During this time, individuals should focus on studying topics related to auditing principles and practices, quality management systems, process analysis and improvement, project management, and other related topics. Additionally, individuals may choose to take preparatory courses or attend seminars offered by ASQ or other organizations.

To register for the CQA exam, individuals must submit an application form along with payment of the applicable fee ($360 USD). Once approved by ASQ, individuals can then schedule their exam at an approved testing center.

The cost of becoming a CQA includes the registration fee ($360 USD), any preparatory courses or seminars taken prior to taking the exam (varies depending on provider), as well as any additional study materials purchased (varies depending on provider).

2. International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA) Certified Lead Auditor

The International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA) Certified Lead Auditor is a certification program that recognizes the competence of auditors to lead and manage quality management system audits. It is designed for professionals who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in auditing quality management systems, such as ISO 9001.

In order to become an IRCA Certified Lead Auditor, you must have at least five years of relevant experience in auditing or managing a quality management system, and you must also pass the IRCA exam. The exam consists of two parts: a multiple-choice test and a practical assessment. The multiple-choice test covers topics such as audit planning, conducting an audit, reporting on audit findings, and follow-up activities. The practical assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to plan and conduct an audit based on a given case study.

The entire process typically takes around six months from start to finish, including preparation for the exam and taking the actual exam. It is recommended that candidates allocate sufficient time for studying prior to taking the exam in order to ensure success.

The cost of becoming an IRCA Certified Lead Auditor varies depending on where you take the exam and which type of certification you pursue (e.g., Foundation or Practitioner). Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,500-$2,500 USD depending on your location and other factors.

3. Exemplar Global Certified Quality Management System Auditor

Exemplar Global Certified Quality Management System Auditor is a certification program that provides professionals with the skills and knowledge to audit quality management systems (QMS) against the requirements of ISO 9001:2015. The certification program is designed to help auditors develop the necessary competencies to effectively audit a QMS and ensure its compliance with applicable standards.

The certification process typically takes between 6-12 months, depending on the individual’s experience and background. To get certified, applicants must complete an application form, pass an online examination, and participate in a practical training course. Once these steps are completed, applicants must submit their application for review by Exemplar Global.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the type of certification you are applying for. Generally speaking, the cost can range from $2,000-$4,000 USD. This includes exam fees, training costs, and other associated costs such as travel expenses.

4. American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) Certified Quality System Auditor

American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) Certified Quality System Auditor is a certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills to audit quality systems in accordance with international standards. It is designed to ensure that auditors have the necessary competencies to assess an organization’s quality system and help them improve their performance. The A2LA Certified Quality System Auditor certification is recognized by many organizations worldwide, including ISO/IEC 17025, ISO 9001, and ISO 13485.

The A2LA Certified Quality System Auditor certification requires successful completion of an online examination. The exam consists of multiple choice questions based on the A2LA standard for quality system auditing and other related topics. The exam typically takes about two hours to complete and must be completed within one year of purchase.

To become certified as an A2LA Certified Quality System Auditor, you must first meet the eligibility requirements, which include having at least three years of experience in quality management or related fields. You must also have successfully completed a training course on the A2LA standard for quality system auditing or have attended a workshop covering this material. Once these requirements are met, you can then register for the online examination through the A2LA website.

The cost of becoming an A2LA Certified Quality System Auditor varies depending on your country of residence and whether you are taking the exam as part of a group or individually. For individuals in the United States, it costs $450 USD to take the exam; however, if you are taking it as part of a group, it costs $350 USD per person.

5. ISO 9001:2015 Internal Auditor Certification

ISO 9001:2015 Internal Auditor Certification is a certification program that provides individuals with the skills, knowledge and understanding to audit an organization’s quality management system (QMS). The certification program is designed to help auditors understand the requirements of ISO 9001:2015, as well as how to perform effective internal audits.

The certification process typically takes between 1-2 months to complete, depending on the individual's level of experience and commitment. To become certified, individuals must first obtain a copy of ISO 9001:2015 from their national standards body or other source. They must then attend an approved training course and pass an examination. The training course covers topics such as QMS principles, internal audit processes, and corrective action plans.

The cost of ISO 9001:2015 Internal Auditor Certification varies depending on the provider and location of the course. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 for a two-day course plus exam fees. Additional costs may be incurred if travel is required or if additional materials are needed.

6. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 19011:2011 Lead Auditor Certification

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 19011:2011 Lead Auditor Certification is a certification program designed to help organizations ensure that their auditing processes are conducted in accordance with the ISO 19011:2011 standard. This certification is a globally recognized qualification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of auditing.

The certification process typically takes between three to six months to complete, depending on the individual’s experience and background. To obtain the certification, individuals must first complete an approved training course from an accredited provider. Upon completion of the course, individuals must then pass a written exam administered by an accredited third-party organization.

The cost of obtaining the ISO 19011:2011 Lead Auditor Certification depends on the training provider and can range from $2,000 - $5,000 USD.

7. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 800-53 Security Control Assessor Certification

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 800-53 Security Control Assessor Certification is a certification program that provides security professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess the security controls of organizations. This certification is designed for individuals who are responsible for assessing the security controls of an organization’s information systems in accordance with NIST Special Publication 800-53, Security and Privacy Controls for Federal Information Systems and Organizations.

The certification process typically takes approximately six months to complete, depending on the individual's experience level. To obtain this certification, applicants must first pass a written exam administered by an approved NIST test center. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as risk management, system security engineering, secure configuration management, incident response planning, access control models, and cryptography. After passing the exam, applicants must complete a hands-on assessment project in which they demonstrate their ability to assess an organization’s security controls using NIST 800-53 guidelines.

The cost of obtaining this certification varies depending on the test center administering the exam and any additional training materials or services required. Generally speaking, applicants should expect to pay between $500-$1,000 USD for all associated costs including registration fees, study materials, and any other related expenses.

In addition to demonstrating competency in assessing organizational security controls according to NIST guidelines, successful completion of this certification program may also provide individuals with increased job opportunities in their field as well as improved salary potential due to their enhanced qualifications.

8. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Nuclear Quality Assurance Program Auditor Certification

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Nuclear Quality Assurance Program Auditor Certification is a certification program that provides assurance to the nuclear industry that its auditors have been properly trained and certified in the principles of nuclear quality assurance. This certification is required for individuals who wish to audit and/or inspect nuclear facilities in the United States.

The certification process typically takes between three and six months to complete, depending on the individual’s background and experience. To obtain this certification, individuals must first complete an online assessment which covers topics such as safety, operations, engineering, management, and regulation. Once completed, applicants must then attend a two-day workshop which covers topics such as auditing techniques and procedures, risk management, and regulatory requirements. After completing the workshop, applicants must pass a written exam in order to be certified.

The cost of obtaining ASME Nuclear Quality Assurance Program Auditor Certification depends on several factors including the applicant’s experience level and location. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000-$2,000 USD depending on these factors.

9. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a level of mastery in the application of Six Sigma tools and techniques. It is designed to increase the efficiency, effectiveness, and productivity of organizations by improving processes and reducing costs.

The certification process typically takes around three months to complete, depending on the individual's experience and background. The first step is to attend an accredited training program or course that covers the fundamentals of Six Sigma. This can include classroom instruction, online courses, or self-study materials. After completing the training, candidates must pass an exam to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of Six Sigma principles and practices.

To become certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, individuals must meet certain requirements such as having at least three years of work experience in a related field or having completed an approved Six Sigma program. In addition, they must possess strong problem-solving skills, be able to use statistical analysis software packages such as Minitab or JMP Pro, and have good communication skills.

The cost for certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$2,000 USD for the training program plus any additional fees for the exam itself.

10. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s proficiency in project management. It is administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). PMP Certification validates an individual’s expertise in planning, executing, and managing projects. It is also a great way to demonstrate one’s commitment to their career as a project manager.

It typically takes between three and six months to get PMP certified. The process includes studying for the exam, completing the application process, and taking the exam.

To become PMP certified, an individual must meet certain requirements such as having at least three years of project management experience with 4500 hours leading and directing projects, or having a four-year degree and at least three years of project management experience with 3500 hours leading and directing projects. Additionally, individuals must complete 35 contact hours of formal education in project management topics prior to taking the exam.

The cost of becoming PMP certified varies depending on whether you are already a member of PMI or not. For non-members, it costs $555 for the exam fee; for members it costs $405 for the exam fee. Additionally, there may be other associated fees such as training courses or study materials that need to be taken into account when budgeting for certification.

Do You Really Need a Quality Control Auditor Certificate?

The answer to this question depends largely on the type of job or profession you are looking to pursue. Quality control auditors are responsible for ensuring that products, services, and processes meet certain standards. In many industries, having a quality control auditor certificate may be necessary in order to obtain a position as a quality control auditor.

In some cases, employers may require that applicants have a Quality Control Auditor Certificate prior to being hired for the position. This is especially true in industries where quality is of paramount importance, such as manufacturing and healthcare. Having a certificate can demonstrate your knowledge and experience in this field and can set you apart from other applicants who do not have one.

Having a Quality Control Auditor Certificate also shows potential employers that you are committed to staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices. It demonstrates your dedication to the profession and your willingness to go above and beyond what is expected of you. Furthermore, it gives employers confidence that you will be able to handle any situation they may throw at you while maintaining high levels of quality assurance.

Overall, whether or not you need a Quality Control Auditor Certificate really depends on the job or profession you are applying for. For some positions, having this certification may be required in order for you to be considered for the role; however, for others it may not be necessary but could still help set you apart from other candidates by showing your commitment to quality assurance.

Related: Quality Control Auditor Resume Examples

FAQs About Quality Control Auditor Certifications

1. What is a Quality Control Auditor Certification?

Answer: A Quality Control Auditor Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional has the knowledge and skills to audit quality control systems in organizations. The certification covers topics such as auditing principles, process improvement techniques, data analysis, and management systems.

2. How do I become certified as a Quality Control Auditor?

Answer: To become certified as a Quality Control Auditor, you must complete an accredited training program and pass an exam administered by an approved certifying body. Additionally, some certifying bodies may require additional experience or continuing education credits to maintain certification.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a Quality Control Auditor?

Answer: Becoming a Quality Control Auditor can help you gain experience in auditing processes, develop problem-solving skills, and demonstrate your commitment to quality assurance within your organization or industry. It can also help you advance your career and increase job opportunities due to its recognition as an industry-standard credential.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a Quality Control Auditor?

Answer: Depending on the certifying body you choose, it typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to complete the training program and obtain certification from an approved certifying body.

5 .What are the requirements for maintaining my Quality Control Auditor Certification?

Answer: Requirements for maintaining your certification vary depending on the certifying body you choose, but may include completing continuing education credits or attending conferences related to quality assurance topics.