Top 11 Quality Technician Certifications

Certifications for a quality technician demonstrate a level of expertise, knowledge and experience that is valued in the job market. Quality technicians who have certifications are more likely to be hired and promoted over those without certifications. Certifications provide assurance to employers that the quality technician is competent in their field and can handle the responsibilities of the position. Having these credentials shows employers that the individual has taken the initiative to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. Additionally, certifications can help distinguish a quality technician from other applicants when competing for highly sought after positions.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Quality Technicians and explain how they can help to further a quality technician's career.

What are Quality Technician Certifications?

Quality technician certification is a professional credential offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the principles, practices, and techniques of quality control and assurance. The certification can help professionals demonstrate their commitment to quality and their knowledge of quality management principles. It also provides an opportunity for them to demonstrate their expertise in areas such as process improvement, problem solving, data analysis, customer service, and team building. Quality technicians are often sought after by employers looking for employees with a proven track record in improving product or service quality. Quality technicians certified by ASQ may be able to command higher salaries than non-certified technicians due to their specialized skills. Additionally, those with this certification may find it easier to land jobs in the field since many employers prefer to hire certified professionals over non-certified applicants. Having a quality technician certification can also open up opportunities for advancement within the industry since employers often look favorably upon job applicants who possess such credentials.

Pro Tip: When seeking certification as a Quality Technician, make sure that the program you are considering is accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Society for Quality or the International Organization for Standardization. Accreditation ensures that the program meets industry standards and provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers.

Related: What does a Quality Technician do?

Top 11 Quality Technician Certifications

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

1. Certified Quality Technician (CQT)

Certified Quality Technician (CQT) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQT certification demonstrates knowledge and expertise in quality assurance, quality control, and related areas. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of proficiency in quality techniques, tools, and processes.

The CQT exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as statistical process control, sampling plans, calibration, auditing, inspection methods, problem solving techniques, and root cause analysis. Candidates must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of quality management.

The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and is administered online or at an authorized test center. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $250-$300 USD.

To become certified as a CQT, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least three years of work experience in quality assurance or related fields and passing the CQT exam with a score of 70% or higher. Candidates can also qualify for the certification by completing an ASQ approved training course or through other approved educational programs.

2. Certified Quality Inspector (CQI)

Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) is an internationally recognized certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of professional inspectors. The CQI certification is administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CQI certification requires a minimum of three years of quality-related experience in order to qualify for the exam. Candidates must also have a high school diploma or equivalent, or two years of college-level coursework in quality-related topics.

To obtain the CQI certification, candidates must pass an examination that covers topics related to quality control, inspection techniques, and statistical process control. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is offered four times per year at various locations around the world.

The cost of the CQI certification exam varies depending on the country in which it is taken. In most cases, the cost ranges from $400 - $600 USD.

3. Certified Calibration Technician (CCT)

Certified Calibration Technician (CCT) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). The CCT certification is designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to properly calibrate instrumentation and control systems in industrial settings.

The CCT certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in instrumentation, calibration, or related fields. Candidates must also pass an examination that covers topics such as electrical theory, digital electronics, process control systems, and calibration principles.

To obtain the CCT certification, candidates must complete an application form and submit it along with the required documentation. Once approved, the candidate will be asked to pay a fee of $250 USD for the exam. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 3 hours.

Once the exam is successfully completed, candidates will receive their CCT certificate from ISA. The certificate is valid for three years from the date of issue and can be renewed by taking a recertification exam every three years.

4. Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)

Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). This certification demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in auditing quality management systems. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their commitment to quality and increase their value to employers.

To become certified, individuals must pass the CQA exam, which consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as quality principles and concepts, auditing techniques, and quality system elements. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to take the CQA exam, individuals must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least three years of experience in a full-time quality-related position or five years of part-time experience in a quality-related field. Individuals must also have completed at least 60 hours of formal education related to auditing or have earned a degree in a related field.

The cost of taking the CQA exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 - $500 USD for ASQ members and $550 - $650 USD for nonmembers.

5. Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

A Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional who has been trained and certified to ensure that products, services, and processes are reliable and meet customer requirements. The CRE certification program is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CRE certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in reliability engineering, quality engineering, or related fields. Candidates must also pass an exam administered by ASQ in order to become certified. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as reliability analysis, design for reliability, and maintenance planning.

The cost of the CRE certification varies depending on the candidate's location and membership status with ASQ. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $400-$600 USD.

In order to maintain their certification, CREs must complete continuing education courses every three years. These courses can be completed online or through attending conferences or workshops hosted by ASQ or other organizations.

6. Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB)

Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the principles and practices of Six Sigma. It is designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead projects and teams using Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques.

The CSSGB certification requires a minimum of three years of work experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma methodology, including process improvement, project management, data analysis, problem solving, and team building. Candidates must also pass an exam administered by a third-party organization such as ASQ (American Society for Quality) or IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification).

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on your existing knowledge and experience with the Six Sigma methodology. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete the necessary training and prepare for the exam.

To get certified, you must first complete an approved training program. This can be done through online courses, self-study programs, or in-person classes offered by universities or professional organizations like ASQ or IASSC. Once you have completed your training program, you will need to register for and pass the CSSGB certification exam.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on which training program you choose. Online courses typically cost between $500-$1,000 while in-person classes can range from $2,000-$5,000. The cost of taking the exam is typically around $400-$600 depending on which organization administers it.

7. American Society for Quality – Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the management of quality and organizational excellence. The CMQ/OE designation is intended to provide a competitive edge to those seeking career advancement or higher-level positions within their organizations.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement strategies, customer satisfaction, leadership skills, and organizational change. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to take the exam, applicants must first apply for ASQ membership and pay the applicable fees. Once approved for membership, they can register for the CMQ/OE exam online. The current fee for taking the exam is $575 USD.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will receive their official ASQ CMQ/OE certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks. This certificate serves as proof that they have met all requirements of the program and are officially recognized as a Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence by ASQ.

8. International Register of Certificated Auditors – Lead Auditor in Quality Management Systems (IRCA-LAQMS)

The International Register of Certificated Auditors – Lead Auditor in Quality Management Systems (IRCA-LAQMS) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of competency in auditing quality management systems. The IRCA-LAQMS certification is designed to recognize and promote the professional development of lead auditors, enabling them to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in quality management system auditing.

To become certified as an IRCA-LAQMS Lead Auditor, applicants must complete a three-stage process:

1. Prerequisite Qualification: Applicants must possess a minimum of two years’ experience in quality assurance or related fields, such as engineering, manufacturing or service industries.

2. Training Course: Applicants must successfully complete an approved IRCA-LAQMS training course. The course typically takes five days, and covers topics such as the principles and practices of auditing, preparation for audits, conducting audits, reporting on audit results and follow up activities.

3. Examination: Following successful completion of the training course, applicants must pass an examination consisting of multiple choice questions and scenario-based questions.

The cost for the IRCA-LAQMS certification depends on the provider chosen; however, it typically ranges from $3000 to $5000 USD including tuition fees and examination fees.

9. American Society for Quality – Certified Quality Process Analyst (CQPA)

The American Society for Quality – Certified Quality Process Analyst (CQPA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in the field of quality process analysis. The CQPA certification is awarded by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), which is an international non-profit organization dedicated to advancing quality assurance and improvement.

In order to become certified as a CQPA, candidates must pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement techniques, and problem solving methods. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Candidates must also meet certain prerequisites including having at least three years of experience in quality processes or related fields.

The cost of the CQPA certification exam varies depending on where it is taken, but typically ranges from $350 to $400. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with preparing for the exam such as study materials or courses.

Once certified, CQPAs are expected to adhere to a code of ethics and maintain their certification through continuing education credits. The ASQ offers several opportunities for CQPAs to keep their knowledge up-to-date including online courses and webinars.

10. American Society for Quality – Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE)

American Society for Quality – Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the principles and practices of software quality engineering. The CSQE credential is offered by the American Society for Quality, an international organization that promotes quality management and improvement in all areas of business.

To become a Certified Software Quality Engineer, applicants must have at least five years of experience in software quality engineering and pass an exam administered by the ASQ. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as software quality assurance, software development life cycle, software testing, process improvement and project management. Candidates must also demonstrate knowledge of the ASQ's Code of Ethics.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CSQE exam. To get ready for the test, candidates should review relevant course material from accredited universities or technical schools, study textbooks on software quality engineering, attend seminars or workshops related to software quality engineering and practice with sample questions.

The cost of taking the CSQE exam varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or nonmember. For members, it costs $350; for nonmembers it costs $450. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at certain locations.

Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements for certification, you will receive your official CSQE certificate from ASQ. This certificate is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed.

11. American Society for Quality – Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification (LSSBB).

The American Society for Quality – Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification (LSSBB) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the Lean Six Sigma methodology. This certification is offered through ASQ and is based on the body of knowledge developed by the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC).

The LSSBB certification requires that applicants demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of Lean Six Sigma, including its tools, techniques, and methodologies. To earn this certification, candidates must pass an exam that covers topics such as process improvement, project management, data analysis, and problem solving. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the LSSBB certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in a Lean Six Sigma role or equivalent position. Additionally, applicants must have completed formal training in Lean Six Sigma from an accredited provider.

The cost for the LSSBB certification varies depending on the provider; however, it typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,500 USD. This cost includes registration fees as well as any additional materials needed for the exam such as textbooks or study guides.

Overall, obtaining a LSSBB certification is an excellent way to demonstrate expertise in Lean Six Sigma and can open up new opportunities in terms of career advancement or higher salaries.

Do You Really Need a Quality Technician Certificate?

The short answer is yes. A Quality Technician Certificate is an important credential for anyone who works in the quality assurance field. It demonstrates a high level of knowledge and expertise in the area, as well as a dedication to professional development. It also serves as proof that you are capable of meeting the standards set by industry organizations and regulatory bodies, which will help you stand out among other job applicants.

Having a Quality Technician Certificate also shows potential employers that you understand the importance of quality assurance and have taken the steps to learn more about it. This can be especially helpful if you are looking to move up in your career or switch industries. Having this certificate will give employers confidence that you have the skills necessary to do the job correctly and effectively.

In addition, having a Quality Technician Certificate may provide access to additional resources like training programs or special discounts on certification exams. This can be incredibly valuable when it comes to advancing your career or staying up-to-date on industry trends and changes.

Overall, having a Quality Technician Certificate is an important credential for anyone working in quality assurance fields such as manufacturing, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, engineering, food safety, and many others. It shows potential employers that you are knowledgeable about quality assurance principles and procedures, and have taken steps to further your education in the field. It also provides additional benefits such as access to resources or discounts on certification exams. For these reasons, obtaining a Quality Technician Certificate is highly recommended for anyone looking to work in this field.

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FAQs About Quality Technician Certifications

1. What is a Quality Technician Certification?

A Quality Technician certification is a credential that indicates an individual has the knowledge and skills to monitor, inspect, test and audit products or processes for quality assurance purposes. The certification is typically awarded by a professional organization or educational institution after completing an accredited program or passing an examination.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Quality Technician?

The amount of time it takes to get certified as a Quality Technician varies depending on the type of program chosen and the individual's experience level. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed in about 6-12 months.

3. What are the requirements for becoming a Certified Quality Technician?

In order to become certified as a Quality Technician, applicants must possess at least two years of work experience in quality inspection and auditing, have successfully completed an approved training program, and pass the Certified Quality Technician exam administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

4. How much does it cost to become certified as a Quality Technician?

The cost of becoming certified as a Quality Technician generally ranges from $500-$1000 depending on the type of program chosen and any additional fees associated with taking the ASQ exam.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?

Yes, in order to maintain your certification you must complete 30 recertification units (RUs) every three years. RUs are awarded based on attending conferences, participating in seminars, writing articles or books related to quality assurance topics and other activities approved by ASQ.