Top 10 Quality Control Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a quality control coordinator in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and professionalism that employers look for when hiring. Certified quality control coordinators have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in areas such as quality assurance, process improvement, product development, and regulatory compliance. Certification shows potential employers that the candidate is dedicated to their career and has taken the time to develop the necessary skills to be successful. Employers value certifications as it can help them identify qualified candidates quickly and ensure they are hiring the best person for the job.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Quality Control Coordinators and explain how they can help advance a quality control coordinator's career.

What are Quality Control Coordinator Certifications?

Quality control coordinator certification is a type of professional certification that provides formal recognition of an individual's competence in the field of quality control. Quality control coordinators are responsible for ensuring that products and services meet or exceed customer expectations. This involves analyzing data, inspecting products, and monitoring processes to identify areas of improvement. Certification helps to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in quality control and can provide employers with assurance that the individual is adequately qualified for the job.

Certification also helps to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to the profession and can help them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. In addition, it can open up opportunities for career advancement as well as providing access to resources such as conferences, workshops, and networking events. Finally, certification can help individuals stay up-to-date on industry standards and best practices in quality control which can be beneficial both professionally and personally.

Pro Tip: Quality Control Coordinator Certification is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field of quality control. When researching certification programs, make sure to look for one that offers comprehensive training on the latest industry standards, as well as hands-on experience with quality control tools and techniques. Additionally, make sure to confirm that the certification program you choose is accredited by a recognized organization.

Related: What does a Quality Control Coordinator do?

Top 10 Quality Control Coordinator Certifications

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

1. Certified Quality Control Coordinator (CQCC)

Certified Quality Control Coordinator (CQCC) is a certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills to ensure quality control in their respective fields. The certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to help professionals understand and apply quality control principles in their work environment.

The CQCC certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management systems, statistical process control, auditing, and problem solving. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and can be taken online or at a local testing center. The exam typically takes 2-3 hours to complete.

To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of two years of experience in quality control or related fields. Applicants must also have completed at least 10 hours of formal training in quality control within the last three years prior to taking the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CQCC certification varies depending on which membership option you choose. ASQ offers three membership options: Professional, Plus, and Premium. The Professional membership costs $99 per year; Plus costs $149 per year; and Premium costs $199 per year. Each membership option includes access to the CQCC exam as well as other benefits such as discounts on ASQ conferences, webinars, and publications.

2. Certified Quality Assurance Professional (CQAP)

Certified Quality Assurance Professional (CQAP) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a level of expertise in quality assurance and demonstrate an understanding of the principles and practices of quality assurance. The CQAP certification is meant to provide employers with assurance that those certified have the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage quality assurance programs.

The CQAP certification requires candidates to pass an examination which covers topics such as quality systems, process improvement, auditing, problem solving, customer satisfaction, and statistical analysis. Candidates must also have at least three years of professional experience in quality assurance or related fields.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the CQAP exam. Candidates should plan on studying approximately 20 hours per week during this time period. Preparation materials can be found online or purchased from ASQ.

The cost of the CQAP exam varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or non-member. For members, the cost is $295 USD; for non-members it is $395 USD.

3. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of quality engineering. The CQE designation is one of the most sought-after certifications in the quality engineering field.

The CQE exam covers topics such as quality control, quality assurance, statistical process control, design of experiments, reliability engineering, and more. It consists of multiple choice questions and requires a minimum score of 700 out of 1000 points to pass.

In order to become certified as a CQE, an individual must first complete an application form with ASQ. Once approved, they must then take and pass the CQE exam. The exam can be taken at any ASQ testing center or online through Pearson VUE. The cost for the exam is $399 USD for members and $499 USD for non-members.

The exam typically takes around four hours to complete but can take up to six hours depending on how quickly you are able to answer each question. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate within 4-6 weeks via mail or email from ASQ.

4. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals understand and apply the principles of Six Sigma. It is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to use Six Sigma tools and techniques in order to improve processes and increase efficiency.

The certification typically takes between 8-10 weeks to complete, depending on the program provider. The program consists of both classroom instruction and hands-on experience with real-world projects. During the course, participants will learn about the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology as well as how to use data analysis tools such as SPC (Statistical Process Control) and FMEA (Failure Mode Effects Analysis). Participants also learn how to develop project plans and manage teams effectively.

To obtain a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, individuals must pass an exam administered by a certified third-party organization such as ASQ or IASSC. The cost of the exam varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $200-$500 USD. Additionally, some organizations may require that applicants have prior work experience in a related field or have completed other courses such as Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt before taking the exam.

Overall, obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in quality management or process improvement by demonstrating their knowledge of Six Sigma principles and tools.

5. ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification

ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification is a certification that provides assurance to organizations and customers that an auditor has the necessary knowledge and experience to audit quality management systems. The certification is awarded by accredited certification bodies and requires successful completion of a training course, followed by an examination.

The duration of the training course usually varies from 3 to 5 days, depending on the provider. During this time, participants learn about the requirements of ISO 9001:2015, the principles and practices of auditing, and how to plan, conduct, report and follow up on audits.

To get certified as an ISO 9001 Lead Auditor, you must first complete a recognized training program. There are several providers offering courses in this field; some offer online courses while others require attendance at a physical location. You will then need to pass an exam which tests your knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 standards and auditing principles.

The cost of getting certified as an ISO 9001 Lead Auditor varies depending on the provider; however, most courses range from $1,500 - $3,000 USD per person.

6. ASQ Certified Quality Manager (ASQ-CQM)

The ASQ Certified Quality Manager (ASQ-CQM) is a certification program that recognizes professionals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to manage quality systems in organizations. The certification is designed to ensure that quality managers have the skills and knowledge needed to effectively lead their organization’s quality management efforts.

The ASQ-CQM certification requires passing an exam that covers six areas of knowledge: Quality Management, Quality Planning, Quality Assurance, Quality Control, Measurement & Analysis, and Improvement. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and must be completed within two hours. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass.

In order to become certified as an ASQ-CQM, candidates must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution or equivalent work experience in the field of quality management. They must also have at least five years of professional experience in quality management or related fields.

It typically takes between four and six weeks for candidates to prepare for the ASQ-CQM exam. During this time, they should review the material covered on the exam and take practice tests to ensure they understand all of the concepts being tested.

The cost for taking the ASQ-CQM exam is $519 USD for members of ASQ and $719 USD for non-members. After passing the exam, there is an annual fee of $50 USD for members and $75 USD for non-members in order to maintain certification status.

7. ISO/IEC 17025 Internal Auditor Training

ISO/IEC 17025 Internal Auditor Training is a certification program designed to help organizations develop and maintain an effective quality management system (QMS). The training provides the knowledge and skills needed to effectively audit the QMS according to the ISO/IEC 17025 standard.

The course typically takes two days to complete and covers topics such as:

• Understanding the ISO/IEC 17025 standard
• Preparing for an internal audit
• Conducting an internal audit
• Writing audit reports
• Corrective action plans.

In order to get certified, individuals must attend a course offered by a training provider that has been accredited by the International Accreditation Forum (IAF). The cost of the course will vary depending on the provider, but can range from $500-$2000.

8. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to teach individuals the skills and knowledge necessary to become a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. This certification is sought after by organizations looking for employees who can help them improve their processes, reduce waste, and increase customer satisfaction.

The Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification typically takes six to eight weeks to complete and requires an in-depth understanding of the Lean Six Sigma methodology. The program consists of online classes, self-paced study materials, and hands-on practice with real-world projects. Upon completion of the program, individuals will be able to demonstrate their understanding of the concepts and apply them in their own workplace.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, individuals must pass both an online exam and a practical project assessment. The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,000 USD.

9. Certified Quality Inspector (CQI)

Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) is a certification program designed to provide quality professionals with the skills and knowledge required to effectively inspect products, materials, and processes. The CQI certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CQI certification requires that candidates have at least three years of quality-related experience and pass an exam. Candidates must also demonstrate their knowledge of quality standards, principles, techniques, and tools. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as inspection methods, sampling plans, statistical process control, calibration techniques, and problem solving.

The CQI certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by completing continuing education requirements or retaking the exam. Candidates who successfully complete the exam will receive an ASQ Certified Quality Inspector certificate.

The cost for the CQI certification program varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or not. For non-members, the cost is $399 USD; for members it is $299 USD.

10. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Calibration Technician (CCT)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Calibration Technician (CCT) is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform calibration and repair of measuring and test equipment. This certification is designed to help technicians demonstrate their knowledge, proficiency, and commitment to quality in the field of calibration.

To become an ASQ CCT, individuals must complete an application form and pass a written examination. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as metrology principles, instrumentation, calibration techniques, measurement uncertainty, traceability, documentation, safety practices, and quality assurance. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost for the exam is $350 USD for members of ASQ or $400 USD for non-members. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $50 USD. Those who successfully pass the exam will receive an official certificate from ASQ designating them as a Certified Calibration Technician (CCT).

Do You Really Need a Quality Control Coordinator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on what type of career you are interested in pursuing. Quality control coordinators are responsible for maintaining standards within a business or organization, and the job requires a certain level of expertise and knowledge. A quality control coordinator certificate can demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in this position.

Having a quality control coordinator certificate can also provide an edge over other applicants who do not have one. This is especially true for those who wish to pursue higher-level positions or for those seeking employment in highly competitive industries. The certificate can also serve as evidence that you are serious about your career goals and have taken the time to learn the necessary skills to excel in this field.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a quality control coordinator certificate will depend on your individual goals and needs. If you want to pursue a career in quality control, having a certificate will likely be beneficial as it demonstrates your commitment and knowledge of the field. However, if you are looking for entry-level positions or simply wish to gain more experience, then having a certificate may not be necessary.

Related: Quality Control Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Quality Control Coordinator Certifications

Q1. What is a Quality Control Coordinator Certification?

A1. A Quality Control Coordinator Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and understanding of the principles of quality control and assurance, as well as the ability to effectively apply them in their work environment.

Q2. What are the benefits of becoming a Quality Control Coordinator Certified?

A2. Becoming certified as a Quality Control Coordinator can help you demonstrate your skills and knowledge in this field, provide credibility to employers, increase job opportunities, and potentially lead to higher salaries.

Q3. How do I become a Quality Control Coordinator Certified?

A3. To become certified as a Quality Control Coordinator, one must pass an exam administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions on topics such as quality management systems, control plans, inspection techniques, and statistical analysis methods.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified?

A4. The amount of time required to become certified depends on several factors such as the individual's study habits and preparation level for the certification exam. Generally speaking, it may take up to 6 months or more to prepare for the exam and become certified.

Q5. Is there any ongoing education or recertification required after becoming certified?

A5: Yes - ASQ requires that all certificants maintain their certification status through continuing education activities every three years in order to remain current with changes in quality methodologies or technologies related to their field of expertise