Top 10 Quality Control Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important factor in the job market for a quality control manager, as they provide employers with evidence of a candidate’s knowledge and skills in the field. Quality control managers need to have a thorough understanding of quality assurance principles and practices in order to ensure that products meet customer requirements. Certifications allow employers to evaluate candidates based on their competency and expertise, increasing the chances of hiring someone who is qualified and experienced enough to handle the job. Additionally, certifications can help quality control managers stand out from other applicants by demonstrating their commitment to professional development. Ultimately, certifications can help quality control managers demonstrate their value to potential employers, making them more attractive candidates for open positions.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Quality Control Managers and explains how they can contribute to a quality control manager's career advancement.

What are Quality Control Manager Certifications?

Quality control manager certification is an important credential for those in the quality management profession. It is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of quality control principles, practices and techniques. This certification provides assurance that the holder has the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage quality control operations within their organization. Quality control managers are responsible for ensuring that products meet company standards, regulatory requirements, customer expectations and industry best practices. Having this certification demonstrates expertise in the field and can be used as a benchmark for employers when assessing candidates for positions within their organizations.

The certification process involves completing a training program approved by the relevant certifying body, passing an examination and meeting any other requirements set by the certifying body. The training program covers topics such as quality systems management, product inspection methods, auditing processes and corrective action plans. It also includes topics on statistical process control (SPC) and Six Sigma principles. Upon successful completion of the training program and examinations, holders of this certification will possess a comprehensive understanding of quality management processes which they can apply to their work to improve product quality while reducing costs associated with defects or non-conformance issues.

Overall, having a quality control manager certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants when seeking job opportunities in the field of quality assurance. Employers view this certification as evidence that candidates have achieved excellence in their professional development and are knowledgeable about current trends in the industry. Furthermore, it helps professionals stay up-to-date on new techniques or regulations related to quality assurance which could benefit their organization’s bottom line by improving efficiency and reducing costs associated with defects or non-conformance issues.

Pro Tip: Quality Control Manager Certification is an important tool to help ensure that your organization has the best possible quality control processes in place. Make sure to research certification programs thoroughly, as they vary in their requirements and costs. Additionally, be sure to evaluate the training and experience of the program's instructors, as well as its accreditation status, before making a decision.

Related: What does a Quality Control Manager do?

Top 10 Quality Control Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Quality Manager (CQM)

Certified Quality Manager (CQM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to successfully manage quality systems in organizations. It is offered through the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CQM program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge of quality management principles, methods, and tools. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to apply these principles and methods in a variety of settings. The CQM program consists of two parts: an examination and a portfolio assessment.

The examination tests applicants’ knowledge of quality management principles and methods, as well as their ability to apply them in various contexts. The portfolio assessment evaluates applicants’ experience with quality management processes and their ability to apply those processes in different situations.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CQM program, depending on the individual's study habits and availability of resources. To get started, interested individuals should first register for the exam by visiting ASQ's website or calling ASQ directly. Once registered, applicants will need to purchase study materials from ASQ or other sources that provide preparation for the exam. After studying for the exam, applicants can take it at an approved testing center or online via proctoring services such as ProctorU or Examity.

After passing the exam, applicants must submit a portfolio detailing their experience with quality management processes and demonstrating how they have applied these processes in different settings. This portfolio should include documents such as job descriptions, project plans, process flow diagrams, reports on customer satisfaction surveys, etc., that demonstrate an applicant's understanding of quality management principles and methods and how they have been applied in practice.

The cost of taking the CQM exam varies based on whether you are an ASQ member or not; members receive discounted rates on exams fees compared to non-members. For non-members taking the exam online via proctoring services such as ProctorU or Examity, it costs $400 USD; for members taking the same exam online via proctoring services it costs $300 USD; for non-members taking the paper version of the exam at an approved testing center it costs $450 USD; for members taking the paper version of the exam at an approved testing center it costs $350 USD.

2. 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 demonstrate a high level of proficiency in quality engineering and management. The CQE certification is based on a body of knowledge that covers topics such as quality management, quality control, design of experiments, statistical process control, and reliability engineering.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the CQE exam. To get certified, you must pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge and understanding of the principles and techniques related to quality engineering and management.

In order to become a Certified Quality Engineer, you must first become a member of ASQ and meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least three years of full-time experience in a quality-related field or five years of part-time experience in the same field. You must also have completed at least seven courses related to quality engineering or management within the past five years.

The cost of becoming a Certified Quality Engineer varies depending on where you take the exam and how much preparation you need to do beforehand. Generally speaking, it will cost around $500-$1,000 USD to take the exam.

3. Six Sigma Black Belt (SSBB)

Six Sigma Black Belt (SSBB) is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to lead and manage Six Sigma projects. It is designed to help organizations improve their processes, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction.

The program consists of two parts: classroom instruction and project work. The classroom portion includes topics such as process improvement methodology, data analysis, and problem-solving techniques. Project work involves leading a team through the implementation of a Six Sigma project from start to finish.

It typically takes around four months to complete the SSBB program. In order to become certified, you must pass an exam that covers all of the topics taught in the coursework.

To get certified as a Six Sigma Black Belt, you must first complete a training program offered by an accredited institution or organization. Many universities offer courses in Six Sigma principles and practices, as well as online courses for those who cannot attend in-person classes. Additionally, some companies offer internal training programs for their employees.

The cost of becoming a Six Sigma Black Belt varies depending on the type of training program you choose and where it is offered. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000-$10,000 USD for an online course or $3,000-$20,000 USD for an in-person course or corporate training program.

4. ISO 9001 Lead Auditor

ISO 9001 Lead Auditor is a certification that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and expertise in auditing quality management systems (QMS) based on the ISO 9001 standard. It is an internationally recognized qualification that shows a commitment to excellence in quality management.

The ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification typically requires completion of a training course, which can range from three to five days depending on the provider. The course covers topics such as understanding the purpose of an audit, planning and conducting an audit, reporting results, and follow-up activities. The course also includes practical exercises to help participants gain experience in auditing QMS processes.

To become certified as an ISO 9001 Lead Auditor, individuals must pass both a written exam and a practical exam at the end of the course. The cost of the training varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 USD.

5. American Society for Quality Certified Quality Technician (ASQ CQT)

The American Society for Quality Certified Quality Technician (ASQ CQT) is a certification program that provides recognition to individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in quality assurance, control, and testing. The ASQ CQT certification is highly respected and sought after by employers in the manufacturing industry.

To become an ASQ CQT certified technician, you must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as quality assurance principles, inspection techniques, statistical process control methods, problem solving techniques, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to take the exam, you must first become a member of the American Society for Quality (ASQ). Membership fees vary depending on your profession and experience level. You can find out more information about membership fees at the ASQ website.

Once you are an ASQ member, you can register for the exam online or through mail-in registration forms. The cost of taking the exam is $295 USD for members and $345 USD for non-members. You will also need to pay an additional fee if you wish to take the exam at a testing center rather than online.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official ASQ CQT certification certificate within 8 weeks of completing the test. This certificate will serve as proof of your expertise in quality assurance and control techniques and will be valid for five years from the date of issue.

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

The American Society for Quality Certified Calibration Technician (ASQ CCT) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to properly calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot test, measurement, and diagnostic equipment. The ASQ CCT certification is designed to provide an objective assessment of a technician’s ability to perform calibration activities in accordance with established standards. It is intended for technicians who are responsible for performing calibration activities in laboratories or other industrial settings.

To become certified as an ASQ CCT, applicants must successfully complete a written exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as instrument selection, measurement uncertainty analysis, traceability of measurements, calibration procedures, and documentation requirements. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

Applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements in order to be eligible to take the exam. These requirements include having at least two years of experience in performing calibration activities and completing an approved training program related to calibration or metrology.

The cost of the exam varies depending on the country where it is taken but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. Applicants may also be required to pay additional fees if they need to retake the exam or if they need additional materials or services related to their application process.

Once applicants have passed the exam and met all other eligibility requirements, they will receive their ASQ CCT certification card within 6-8 weeks after submission of their application materials.

7. American Society for Quality Certified Software Quality Engineer (ASQ CSQE)

The American Society for Quality Certified Software Quality Engineer (ASQ CSQE) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in software quality engineering. The ASQ CSQE certification is the highest level of recognition available for software quality engineers and is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence in the field.

To become certified, an individual must pass the ASQ CSQE exam, which covers topics such as software quality assurance, software testing, project management, process improvement, and risk management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to take the ASQ CSQE exam, individuals must first apply for eligibility by submitting an application form with supporting documents. Once approved, individuals can register for the exam and pay the associated fee. The fee for taking the ASQ CSQE exam varies depending on where you are located but typically ranges from $200 to $400 USD.

Once an individual has passed the exam, they will receive their official ASQ CSQE certification card in the mail within 6-8 weeks. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking continuing education courses or retaking the exam every three years.

8. American Society for Quality Certified Reliability Engineer (ASQ CRE)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of reliability engineering principles and practices. This certification is intended for professionals in the fields of reliability engineering, quality assurance, and related disciplines.

In order to become an ASQ CRE, applicants must have at least five years of full-time experience in reliability engineering or a related field. A minimum of three years of that experience must be in reliability engineering or a related field. In addition, applicants must pass an examination administered by ASQ.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as design analysis, system reliability analysis, maintenance strategies, failure modes and effects analysis, warranty analysis, data collection and analysis methods, and quality improvement tools. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost to take the ASQ CRE exam is $349 USD for members of the American Society for Quality and $449 USD for non-members. Once you have passed the exam you will be awarded the title of Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE).

9. International Register of Certificated Auditors Lead Auditor Certification

The International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA) Lead Auditor Certification is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual's ability to lead and manage audits in accordance with the principles of the International Standard on Auditing (ISAE). It is awarded by the IRCA, an independent, international body that sets standards for auditing and provides certifications for qualified professionals.

The IRCA Lead Auditor Certification requires successful completion of both a written exam and practical experience. The written exam tests knowledge of audit principles, techniques, and procedures. The practical experience involves leading or participating in at least three actual audits over a period of time.

To get the IRCA Lead Auditor Certification, you must first register with the IRCA as a candidate. You then need to complete an approved training program and pass the written exam. After passing the written exam, you must demonstrate your practical experience by submitting evidence of your participation in at least three actual audits over a period of time. Once all requirements are met, you will receive your certificate from the IRCA.

The cost to obtain the IRCA Lead Auditor Certification varies depending on which training provider you choose and how long it takes you to complete all requirements. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all requirements for certification, depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying and gaining practical experience.

10. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and experience of project managers in various industries. The PMP credential is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence in project management.

To obtain the PMP certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least three years of professional project management experience and 4,500 hours leading and directing projects. In addition, applicants must pass a rigorous exam that covers all aspects of project management.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. A passing score on the exam is required for certification.

The cost for taking the PMP exam varies depending on whether you are an existing PMI member or not. For non-members, the cost is $555; for members, it costs $405. There may also be additional fees associated with obtaining your certificate after passing the exam.

Once you have passed the exam and received your certificate, it will remain valid for three years from the date of issue. To maintain your certification status during this period, you must earn 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years through activities such as attending conferences or taking courses related to project management.

Do You Really Need a Quality Control Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on what type of career you are seeking. If you are looking to become a quality control manager, then the answer is likely yes. A quality control manager certificate will provide proof of your knowledge and skills in the field, which can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs. It will also give potential employers confidence that you have the necessary qualifications to do the job right. Additionally, having a certificate may also open up opportunities for promotions within an organization or allow you to move into higher-level positions within the quality assurance industry.

However, if you are already working in an entry-level position within a company's quality assurance department and don't plan on moving up any time soon, it may not be worth investing in a certificate. In this case, it might be more beneficial to focus on gaining experience and building relationships with colleagues and supervisors instead of spending money on certification courses.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a quality control manager certificate depends entirely on your individual goals and career aspirations. If becoming certified will help further your career objectives, then it is definitely worth considering.

Related: Quality Control Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Quality Control Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Quality Control Manager Certification?

A1. A Quality Control Manager Certification is a professional certification which demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in quality control management. This type of certification focuses on the principles, methods, and techniques used to manage quality assurance activities within organizations.

Q2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Quality Control Manager Certification?

A2. Obtaining a Quality Control Manager Certification can help individuals gain credibility in the field, demonstrate their expertise to employers, and open up opportunities for career advancement. It can also provide individuals with a greater understanding of quality control principles and best practices for implementing them in their workplace.

Q3. What does the exam for a Quality Control Manager Certification cover?

A3. The exam for a Quality Control Manager Certification typically covers topics such as quality control processes, tools and techniques; statistical process control; root cause analysis; process improvement; and customer satisfaction measurement methods.

Q4. How long does it take to obtain a Quality Control Manager Certification?

A4: The time required to obtain a Quality Control Manager Certification varies depending on the certification program chosen and the individual’s prior experience in quality control management. Generally speaking, it takes between 6 months and 2 years to complete all requirements necessary for certification.

Q5: Where can I find study materials for my Quality Control Manager Certification exam?

A5: Most certification programs offer study materials that are specific to their particular program or exam format. Additionally, there are many online resources available that provide information about quality control management topics as well as practice exams that can help prepare individuals for the actual certification exam.