Top 11 Reliability Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for reliability engineers in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional growth, knowledge, and skill. Certification demonstrates that the engineer has a solid base of knowledge and skills necessary to perform their job at the highest level. It also shows potential employers that the engineer is dedicated to staying up-to-date on advancements in technology and best practices in the field. The certifications provide employers with evidence of an engineer's dedication to their profession and ability to maintain professional standards. In addition, certifications can help an engineer stand out from other applicants, as they demonstrate a higher level of expertise than those without them.

This article reviews the top certifications for Reliability Engineers and explains how they can help to advance a reliability engineer's career.

What are Reliability Engineer Certifications?

Reliability engineer certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have met the necessary qualifications to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field of reliability engineering. Reliability engineers are responsible for developing, implementing, and managing strategies that ensure products and services perform as expected over time. The certification is issued by professional organizations such as the Society of Reliability Engineers (SRE), American Society for Quality (ASQ), and Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE).

Reliability engineer certification can help demonstrate an individual’s credentials and expertise in reliability engineering. It can be used to show employers that a candidate has the necessary skills and experience to effectively manage reliability processes in their organization. Certification can also open up new job opportunities, as many employers prefer to hire certified professionals due to their superior knowledge and understanding of reliability engineering principles. Additionally, it can provide recognition from peers, as certified professionals are seen as more experienced and knowledgeable than those without certification. Finally, obtaining a certification may lead to increased salary or other benefits for individuals in the field of reliability engineering.

Pro Tip: When considering a Reliability Engineer certification, research the organization offering the credential and ensure they have an established track record of producing successful graduates. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the program is accredited by a reputable third-party organization in order to ensure you are receiving a quality education.

Related: What does a Reliability Engineer do?

Top 11 Reliability Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Reliability Engineers today.

1. Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

A Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional who has been certified by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in reliability engineering. The CRE certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of expertise in reliability engineering, which includes the application of principles, techniques, and procedures to design systems that meet customer requirements for safety, performance, and cost.

The CRE certification process consists of three steps: passing an exam; completing a project; and meeting experience requirements. The exam covers topics such as reliability fundamentals, system design, failure analysis and prevention, testing methods, and quality assurance. To pass the exam, applicants must score at least 70%.

The project requirement involves demonstrating an understanding of the principles of reliability engineering through the completion of an approved project. This can include developing a new product or improving an existing one. The experience requirement involves having at least five years of relevant work experience in reliability engineering or related fields.

The cost for taking the CRE exam is $450 USD for ASQ members and $550 USD for non-members. It typically takes 6-12 months to complete all three steps required for certification.

2. Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP)

Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) is a professional certification program developed by the Society for Maintenance & Reliability Professionals (SMRP) to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge, experience, and commitment to the maintenance and reliability profession. The CMRP credential is designed to help employers identify those individuals who have achieved a level of excellence in their field.

The CMRP exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as maintenance management, reliability engineering, asset management, safety, quality assurance/control, and other related disciplines. To be eligible for the exam, an applicant must have at least five years of experience in maintenance or reliability engineering or management.

The CMRP exam takes approximately four hours to complete. It can be taken at any Prometric Test Center located throughout the world. The cost of the exam is $495 USD for SMRP members and $595 USD for non-members.

3. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification granted by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to demonstrate an individual's knowledge and experience in quality engineering, management, and assurance.

The CQE certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as quality control, reliability engineering, process improvement, design of experiments, and statistical analysis. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes about four hours to complete.

In order to become certified as a CQE, you must have at least four years of work experience in quality engineering or related fields. You must also pass the CQE exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost for taking the CQE exam is $399 for ASQ members and $499 for non-members. The fee includes study materials and access to online practice exams.

4. Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification program offered by various organizations to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in Six Sigma principles and practices. The certification is awarded to those who have demonstrated the ability to lead Six Sigma projects, analyze data and make decisions based on statistical analysis.

The Six Sigma Black Belt Certification program typically takes three to four months to complete, depending on the organization offering the certification. To become certified, individuals must successfully complete an intensive training program that covers topics such as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) methodology, Lean Manufacturing techniques, project management and statistical process control. Individuals must also pass a written exam that tests their knowledge of Six Sigma concepts and tools.

The cost of the Six Sigma Black Belt Certification varies depending on the organization offering it. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000-$4,000 for the full course including materials and exams. In addition to the cost of training materials and exams, there may be additional fees for travel expenses or other related costs associated with attending classes or workshops.

In order to maintain their certification status, individuals must participate in continuing education activities such as attending conferences or workshops related to Six Sigma principles and practices. They must also demonstrate their proficiency with Six Sigma tools by completing projects or participating in other activities that demonstrate their mastery of these principles.

5. Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB)

Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the Six Sigma process improvement methodologies. It is designed to help individuals improve their skills in problem solving, decision making, process improvement, and project management. The CSSGB certification is offered through the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CSSGB certification requires a minimum of three years of work experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma methodology. To obtain the certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as process analysis and design, data collection and analysis, project management, and quality improvement tools.

It typically takes around six months to complete all the requirements for the CSSGB certification. This includes studying for the exam as well as any required training or workshops.

The cost of obtaining a Certified Six Sigma Green Belt varies depending on which organization you are taking it from. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 to $2,000 USD depending on the provider.

6. Certified Professional in Reliability Engineering (CPRE)

Certified Professional in Reliability Engineering (CPRE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of reliability engineering. The CPRE certification focuses on the application of principles, methods, and tools used to design and maintain reliable products, systems, and services.

The CPRE certification requires applicants to pass an examination that covers topics such as reliability analysis, design for reliability, system safety, maintenance planning and scheduling, and quality assurance. Candidates must also demonstrate their knowledge of industry standards related to reliability engineering.

It usually takes about 6-12 months of preparation time before taking the exam. To get certified, you must first register with ASQ and submit an application form along with any required documents. Once your application has been approved, you will be given access to study materials and practice exams. You must then pass the exam within two years of applying for the certification in order to receive your CPRE credential.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on which level you are applying for (e.g., Foundation or Advanced). Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD for each level of certification.

7. Asset Management Professional (AMP)

Asset Management Professional (AMP) is a professional designation for individuals who are responsible for the management of assets within an organization. It is awarded by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP), which is an international professional association that promotes risk management and professional development in the financial services industry.

The AMP certification requires applicants to have a minimum of three years of experience in asset management, with at least two years in a senior-level position. Candidates must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as portfolio construction, asset allocation, risk management, and investment strategies. The exam consists of multiple choice and essay questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To obtain the AMP certification, candidates must register with GARP, pay an application fee, and submit all required documentation. The cost of the application fee varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or through a company. After submitting your application, you will receive notification from GARP regarding your eligibility for the exam. Once you have been approved to take the exam, you will be required to pay an additional fee for taking it.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will be awarded the Asset Management Professional designation from GARP. This designation is valid for three years from the date of issue and can be renewed every three years by completing continuing education requirements set forth by GARP.

8. Certified Professional Logistician (CPL)

Certified Professional Logistician (CPL) is a professional certification offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of competence in logistics management. The CPL certification is based on an examination that covers topics such as logistics operations, supply chain management, inventory control, transportation and distribution, and customer service.

The CPL exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that must be completed within two hours. The topics covered in the exam include: logistics operations, supply chain management, inventory control, transportation and distribution, customer service, and related areas. To be eligible for the CPL certification, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in logistics or related fields.

To get the CPL certification, applicants must first register with AST&L and pay an application fee. After registering with AST&L, applicants can take the CPL exam either online or at an approved testing center. Once the exam has been completed successfully, applicants will receive their CPL certificate from AST&L.

The cost for taking the CPL exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it typically costs between $200-$400 USD.

9. International Council of Systems Engineers Certification

The International Council of Systems Engineers (INCOSE) Certification is a professional certification program for systems engineers. It is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of systems engineers who have demonstrated expertise in the field. The INCOSE Certified Systems Engineer (CSE) credential is earned through a rigorous examination process and demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their profession and their ability to successfully apply systems engineering principles and practices.

The CSE Certification requires that applicants demonstrate their knowledge of systems engineering principles, processes, tools, and techniques by passing a comprehensive written exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as requirements analysis, design, verification & validation, system integration & testing, project management & risk management. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and must be taken at an approved INCOSE testing center.

The cost of the CSE Certification varies depending on the country in which you are taking the test. In the United States, it costs $450 for members or $650 for non-members. In other countries, fees may vary slightly depending on local taxes or currency exchange rates.

In order to become certified as a CSE, applicants must meet certain prerequisites such as having a minimum of three years of experience in systems engineering or related fields; completing an approved training course; or having a degree from an accredited university in engineering or related field with at least one year of experience in systems engineering or related fields. Once these prerequisites have been met, applicants can register for the exam online through INCOSE’s website.

10. Predictive Maintenance Technologies Certificate Program

The Predictive Maintenance Technologies Certificate Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively implement predictive maintenance technologies in their organizations. The program covers topics such as vibration analysis, infrared thermography, oil analysis, ultrasonic testing, and more. It takes approximately six months to complete the program and consists of eight courses.

To get the certificate, students must complete all eight courses and pass an exam at the end of each course. The cost of the program varies depending on which institution is offering it, but typically ranges from $1,500 - $2,000 USD.

11. ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence

ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of quality management and organizational excellence principles. The CMQ/OE certification is based on the body of knowledge developed by ASQ and covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, leadership, and team building.

The CMQ/OE certification requires passing an exam that consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The exam can be taken in person at a testing center or online through ASQ’s secure website. To take the exam, applicants must first submit an application and fee to ASQ. The fee for the exam is $395 for members of ASQ and $495 for non-members.

In order to prepare for the exam, applicants should review the CMQ/OE Body of Knowledge published by ASQ. This document outlines all topics covered on the exam and provides resources for further study. Additionally, there are several books available that provide an overview of quality management principles as well as practice exams to help prepare for the actual test.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will receive their CMQ/OE certification from ASQ. This credential is valid for three years from the date it was issued and must be renewed every three years in order to maintain its validity.

Do You Really Need a Reliability Engineer Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need a reliability engineer certificate to practice in the field. However, having a certificate in this field can be beneficial for certain individuals and may even open up doors of opportunity.

Reliability engineering requires knowledge in various areas such as statistics, probability, data analysis, and system design. A certification program can provide an individual with the necessary training to effectively analyze problems and develop solutions for them. Additionally, these courses can also help individuals gain a better understanding of the tools and techniques used by reliability engineers. This knowledge can be invaluable when it comes to improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime in any type of system or process.

Having a certificate in reliability engineering can also help demonstrate your commitment to the profession. Employers are often looking for candidates who have demonstrated that they are passionate about their work and have taken additional steps to become more knowledgeable in their area of expertise. Having a certification can show employers that you are serious about your career and that you have taken initiative to expand your skillset beyond what is expected from the average employee.

In summary, there is no requirement for obtaining a reliability engineer certificate; however, having one may be beneficial depending on your individual situation. It could lead to better job opportunities, demonstrate commitment to the profession, and increase your understanding of the tools used by reliability engineers.

Related: Reliability Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Reliability Engineer Certifications

1. What types of certifications are available for Reliability Engineers?

Answer: There are several certifications available for Reliability Engineers, including Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE), Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB), Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP), and Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT).

2. How do I become a certified Reliability Engineer?

Answer: To become a certified Reliability Engineer, you must complete the necessary coursework, pass the certification exam, and meet any other requirements as set out by the certifying body.

3. What is the cost associated with obtaining a Reliability Engineering certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a Reliability Engineering certification will vary depending on the specific certification program and institution offering it. Generally speaking, however, costs can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

4. Is there an expiration date for my certification?

Answer: Most certifications have an expiration date that must be renewed every few years in order to remain valid. It is important to check with your certifying body to determine when your certification will expire and what steps need to be taken to renew it.

5. Are there any prerequisites or experience requirements for obtaining a Reliability Engineering Certification?

Answer: Generally speaking, most certifying bodies require applicants to have at least two years of relevant work experience prior to taking their exam. Additionally, some programs may also require applicants to pass certain prerequisite courses before being eligible for their exams.