Top 11 Senior Mechanical Engineer Certifications

Certifications are a valuable tool for any senior mechanical engineer seeking employment. They demonstrate the engineer's knowledge and skills in the field, as well as their commitment to professional development. Certifications can give employers confidence that the engineer is qualified and up-to-date on the latest industry standards and technologies. Furthermore, certifications often open up more opportunities for career advancement, since they show that an engineer has gone above and beyond what is expected of them. Finally, certifications serve as a way to distinguish oneself from other job applicants, giving potential employers a better idea of who they're hiring.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Senior Mechanical Engineers and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Senior Mechanical Engineer Certifications?

Senior mechanical engineer certification is a professional certification that is designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of mechanical engineers who have achieved a high level of proficiency in their field. This certification requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding of advanced engineering principles, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and other related topics. It also requires them to have a minimum of five years of professional engineering experience.

Having a senior mechanical engineer certification can help professionals demonstrate their expertise and commitment to their profession. It can also provide them with greater opportunities for career advancement, since many employers prefer or require this type of certification from applicants for higher-level positions. Additionally, it can serve as recognition for achieving a certain level of excellence in the field, which can lead to increased respect among colleagues and peers. Finally, some organizations may offer special discounts or other benefits to those who hold this certification.

Pro Tip: When considering pursuing a senior mechanical engineer certification, make sure to research the requirements of the specific certification you are interested in obtaining. Different certifications may require different levels of experience, education, and performance on an examination. Additionally, be sure to stay up-to-date on any changes or new developments in the profession that could impact your eligibility for a particular certification.

Related: What does a Senior Mechanical Engineer do?

Top 11 Senior Mechanical Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Engineer (PE)

Certified Professional Engineer (PE) is a professional certification for engineers in the United States and Canada. It is an indication of a high level of competence in engineering knowledge, skills, and abilities. To become certified, an individual must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and then pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. The PE exam is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

It typically takes four to six years to become certified as a PE. This includes completing an accredited engineering program at a college or university, gaining at least four years of experience working under the supervision of a licensed PE, and passing both the FE and PE exams.

To get certified as a PE, you must first meet all eligibility requirements set by your state’s licensing board. These requirements vary from state to state but generally include having an accredited engineering degree, four years or more of experience working under the supervision of a licensed engineer, passing both the FE and PE exams, and meeting any other requirements such as continuing education credits. After meeting these requirements, you can apply to take the FE exam through NCEES. Once you have passed this exam, you can then apply for the PE exam.

The cost to become certified as a PE varies depending on which state you are in. Generally speaking, it will cost around $1,000-$2,000 dollars in fees associated with taking both exams and applying for licensure in your state.

2. Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)

Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). It is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of manufacturing engineering. The certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in areas such as product design, process planning, quality control, production systems, and lean manufacturing.

It typically takes 3-5 years to become eligible for the CMfgE certification. Eligibility requirements include having a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in manufacturing engineering or related fields and passing an examination administered by ASME. Applicants must also have a bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or related fields from an accredited institution. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their commitment to continuing education through professional development activities.

The cost for the CMfgE certification varies depending on the applicant’s country of residence. In the United States, it costs $225 USD to apply for the exam and an additional $150 USD if you are approved to take it. Once you pass the exam, there is a one-time fee of $50 USD for certification maintenance every three years.

In order to apply for the CMfgE certification exam, applicants must first create an account on ASME’s website and submit their application online along with supporting documents such as transcripts and proof of work experience. After submitting your application, you will receive notification from ASME regarding your eligibility status within two weeks. If approved, you will be given instructions on how to register for the exam and payment details will be provided at that time.

3. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification that demonstrates a person's knowledge and proficiency in quality engineering. It is awarded by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting quality and excellence in all aspects of business, industry, and education.

To become certified as a CQE, an individual must pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as quality management systems, statistical process control, design of experiments, sampling plans, reliability engineering, process improvement methods, and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible to take the CQE exam, an individual must have at least eight years of work experience in quality engineering or related fields. Alternatively, individuals may substitute four years of experience with a bachelor’s degree in engineering or science from an accredited institution.

The cost of taking the CQE exam varies depending on the region where it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or obtaining study materials.

4. Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

A Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional designation given by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CRE credential is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a comprehensive knowledge of reliability engineering principles and practices. The CRE certification program is designed to assess the competency of reliability engineers in the areas of design, testing, analysis, and management.

In order to become certified as a CRE, applicants must pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 4 hours to complete. It covers topics such as reliability fundamentals, system design and maintenance, failure analysis, reliability modeling and prediction, quality assurance, and safety engineering.

The cost of taking the CRE exam varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or not. For non-members it costs $320 USD while for members it costs $280 USD. Additionally, there is an application fee of $50 USD that must be paid when applying for the exam.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your CRE certification which is valid for three years from the date that you passed the exam. You can renew your certification every three years by submitting proof of continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

5. Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. This certification is highly sought after by employers as it demonstrates expertise in process improvement, problem-solving, and data analysis.

To become certified as a CSSBB, individuals must first pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and covers topics such as Lean Six Sigma principles, tools and techniques, project management, and statistical methods. Candidates must also demonstrate their ability to apply the knowledge they have acquired through real-world projects or case studies.

The cost of taking the CSSBB exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD. The exam can be taken at any ASQ-approved testing center around the world.

It typically takes between two and three months to prepare for the CSSBB exam. During this time, candidates should focus on studying relevant material such as books, online courses, and practice exams. Additionally, candidates may want to consider attending a review course or workshop to further enhance their understanding of Lean Six Sigma principles and tools.

6. Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP)

Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) is a certification program offered by the Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP). This certification is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a level of excellence in their maintenance and reliability career.

The CMRP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as preventive maintenance, root cause analysis, asset management, safety, quality assurance, and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and is administered at designated testing centers throughout the world.

To be eligible for the CMRP exam, applicants must have five years of experience in maintenance or reliability engineering or management. Applicants must also submit proof of their education credentials.

The cost of the CMRP exam is $450 USD for members of SMRP and $550 USD for non-members. The fee includes access to an online study guide, practice exams, and other resources to help prepare for the exam.

Once the exam has been successfully completed, applicants will receive their official CMRP certificate from SMRP. This certificate serves as recognition that an individual has achieved a high level of expertise in maintenance and reliability engineering or management.

7. Certified Automotive Engineering Technician (CAET)

Certified Automotive Engineering Technician (CAET) is a professional certification program offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). It is designed to recognize and promote the highest levels of technical competence in automotive engineering, design, and manufacturing. The CAET certification requires a combination of education, experience, and passing an ASE exam.

The program consists of two exams: one on automotive engineering principles and the other on automotive systems. To become certified as a CAET, you must pass both exams with a score of at least 70%. The exams are administered twice a year at ASE-approved testing centers throughout the United States.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for CAET certification. During this time, applicants should focus on completing their education and gaining experience in the field. Applicants must also submit proof of their work experience to ASE prior to taking the exams.

The cost for taking both CAET exams is $100 per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees. This fee covers all materials needed to take the exam as well as any retesting fees if necessary. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining your educational credentials or work experience documentation required for application approval.

8. Senior Member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME SM-ME)

The Senior Member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME SM-ME) is a professional recognition program that recognizes the accomplishments and contributions of mechanical engineers who have achieved professional distinction in their field. It is the highest level of membership available within ASME, and is reserved for those who have demonstrated significant and sustained contributions to the profession.

In order to become a Senior Member of ASME, an individual must meet certain criteria, including:

• A minimum of 10 years’ experience in the field;
• Professional achievement at a high level;
• Active participation in ASME activities; and
• Demonstration of leadership qualities.

Once these criteria are met, an individual can apply for Senior Member status through ASME’s online application process. The application fee is $100 USD. Once approved by ASME, an individual will receive their official Senior Member certificate and designation. This process typically takes 4-6 weeks from start to finish.

9. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a professional designation given to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of energy management. The certification is administered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE).

To become a CEM, an individual must have at least five years of experience in energy management or related fields, such as engineering, architecture, or construction. They must also pass an exam administered by the AEE that covers topics such as energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, electrical systems, and building codes.

The process of becoming a CEM typically takes several months to complete. Individuals must first submit an application to the AEE and provide documentation of their qualifications. Once approved, they can then register for the exam and pay the associated fees. After passing the exam, they will receive their official certification from the AEE.

The cost of becoming a CEM varies depending on factors such as geographic location and type of membership with the AEE. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $400 to $1,000 USD to become certified.

10. Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)

Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) is a professional certification program designed to certify individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect welds in accordance with applicable codes, standards, and specifications. This certification is recognized by many employers as an indication of competency in welding inspection.

It takes approximately 6 months to complete the CWI program. The program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as metallurgy, welding processes, codes and standards, inspection techniques, and safety. The practical exam requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to properly inspect welds in accordance with applicable codes and standards.

To become certified as a CWI, applicants must first submit an application to the American Welding Society (AWS). Applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least five years of experience in welding or related fields, passing both the written and practical exams, and completing any required continuing education courses.

The cost of becoming a Certified Welding Inspector varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. This includes the cost of registration fees for both the written and practical exams as well as any additional course materials or continuing education courses that may be required.

11. Senior Design Engineer Certification Program (SDECP).

The Senior Design Engineer Certification Program (SDECP) is a comprehensive certification program designed to recognize and reward experienced design engineers for their knowledge, skills, and experience in the field of engineering. The program is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

The SDECP consists of two parts: an online exam and a portfolio review. The online exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of engineering principles, practices, and standards. The portfolio review evaluates the candidate’s work experience in engineering design.

The entire process typically takes six to nine months to complete. To get started, candidates must register with NCEES and submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts, resume, and letters of recommendation. Once approved, candidates can take the online exam at any time within three months after registration. After passing the exam, candidates must submit their portfolios for review by a panel of experts who will evaluate their work experience in engineering design. If successful, candidates will receive their certification from NCEES.

The cost of the SDECP varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD. This includes registration fees for both the online exam and portfolio review as well as any additional materials needed such as study guides or practice exams.

Do You Really Need a Senior Mechanical Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their career goals. If a senior mechanical engineer is looking to advance their career, then a certificate may be beneficial. It can demonstrate mastery of a particular area of expertise and give them an edge when competing for positions or promotions. Additionally, it may provide access to more advanced courses or specialized job opportunities that require certification.

On the other hand, if a senior mechanical engineer is already comfortable in their position and not looking to move up, then obtaining a certificate may not be necessary. Certificates can take time and money to obtain and may not be worth the investment if they are not needed for career advancement or increased job security. In this case, it would be wise to weigh the costs versus the benefits before making any decisions.

Ultimately, whether or not it is worth getting a senior mechanical engineer certificate will depend on each individual’s unique situation and long-term goals.

Related: Senior Mechanical Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Senior Mechanical Engineer Certifications

1. What types of certifications are available for Senior Mechanical Engineers?

Answer: Professional certifications for Senior Mechanical Engineers include Certified Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE), Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), and Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE).

2. How do I become a certified Senior Mechanical Engineer?

Answer: To become a certified Senior Mechanical Engineer, you must meet the requirements set by the certification organization, such as having a certain amount of experience and passing an exam.

3. Is there any financial assistance available to help me with my certification costs?

Answer: Some employers may offer tuition reimbursement or other educational benefits to help cover the cost of certification. Additionally, some professional organizations provide grants and scholarships to assist with certification costs.

4. How long is a Senior Mechanical Engineering Certification valid for?

Answer: The validity period for each certification varies depending on the organization that issued it, but typically ranges from two to five years before recertification is required.

5. Are there any online courses I can take to prepare for my certification exams?

Answer: Yes, many professional organizations offer online courses and study materials to help prepare for certification exams. Additionally, there are several third-party websites that offer practice tests and other resources to help you prepare for your exams.