Top 11 Stationary Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for stationary engineers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. Certified stationary engineers are more likely to be considered for positions due to their credentials, and these certifications also provide recognition within the field. In addition, certifications can help stationary engineers advance their careers by providing additional training and networking opportunities. Certifications show prospective employers that an engineer is knowledgeable in their field and has taken the initiative to increase their skillset.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Stationary Engineers and explains how they can contribute to a stationary engineer's career, providing valuable information for anyone interested in advancing their career.

What are Stationary Engineer Certifications?

Stationary engineer certification is a professional credential that demonstrates the holder has met the qualifications and standards to safely operate, maintain, and repair stationary equipment in industrial and commercial facilities. Stationary engineers are typically responsible for operating and maintaining large-scale systems such as boilers, chillers, air conditioning systems, and complex mechanical and electrical infrastructure.

Stationary engineer certification is an important qualification for those who work in industrial or commercial facilities as it provides evidence of their ability to operate complex machinery safely and effectively. Certification also demonstrates that they are knowledgeable of industry standards and can troubleshoot technical issues quickly. By having certified stationary engineers on staff, companies can reduce safety risks, improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and save money by avoiding costly repairs. Additionally, certification may be required by some employers or jurisdictions in order to work in certain industries or locations.

Pro Tip: When pursuing stationary engineer certification, make sure to research the requirements for your state or region as they may vary. Additionally, be sure to verify that any certifications you obtain are accepted by employers in your area.

Related: What does a Stationary Engineer do?

Top 11 Stationary Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Stationary Engineer (CSE)

A Certified Stationary Engineer (CSE) is a professional who has completed the necessary training and certification to operate and maintain stationary power plants and other industrial machinery. This includes boilers, chillers, pumps, compressors, and more. A CSE is responsible for ensuring that all equipment is in proper working order and that all safety protocols are followed.

To become a Certified Stationary Engineer, individuals must complete an approved program at an accredited college or university. Depending on the program chosen, this can take anywhere from two to four years to complete. Once the program is finished, applicants must pass an exam administered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).

The cost of becoming a Certified Stationary Engineer varies depending on the school attended and the length of the program chosen. In general, tuition costs range from $10,000-$30,000 per year. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with books, supplies, and exam fees.

Once certified as a CSE, individuals must renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education courses or passing another NICET exam.

2. Certified Building Operator (CBO)

Certified Building Operator (CBO) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). The CBO program is designed to provide building operators with the skills and knowledge necessary to operate, maintain, and optimize energy efficiency in commercial buildings.

The CBO program consists of four courses that are taken online or in-person. The courses cover topics such as energy management systems, building automation systems, indoor air quality, and lighting systems. Upon completion of the four courses, participants must pass an exam to become certified.

The entire program typically takes about six months to complete. Each course can be completed at your own pace, but it is recommended that participants complete all four courses within one year in order to remain current with industry trends and technology advancements.

To get started on the CBO program, you must first register with AEE. Registration fees vary depending on whether you are an AEE member or non-member. Once registered, you will have access to all four courses and their associated materials.

The cost for the entire CBO program varies depending on whether you are an AEE member or non-member and whether you take the courses online or in person. Generally speaking, however, the total cost for the CBO program ranges from $1,500 - $2,000 USD for members and $2,000 - $3,000 USD for non-members.

3. Certified Power Plant Operator (CPPO)

Certified Power Plant Operator (CPPO) is a certification program offered by the American Society of Power Engineers (ASOPE). The CPPO certification is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of power plant operators. It is intended for those who are responsible for the operation, maintenance, and management of power plants.

The CPPO certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in the operation and maintenance of power plants. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as safety, operations, maintenance, and management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of power plant operations.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CPPO certification process. During this time, applicants must complete an online application form and submit their work experience information along with any required documents. Once all documents have been received, applicants will be notified when they can take the exam.

The cost for obtaining the CPPO certification varies depending on several factors such as location and type of course taken. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 USD for the entire process including materials and testing fees.

4. Certified HVAC Technician (CHT)

A Certified HVAC Technician (CHT) is a professional who has been trained and certified to work with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. The certification is awarded by the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES), an international organization that provides education and training in the field of HVAC technology.

In order to become a CHT, an individual must first complete a formal training program in HVAC technology. This program typically takes between two and four years to complete depending on the type of program chosen. After completing the required coursework, applicants must then pass an examination administered by RSES in order to receive their certification.

The cost of becoming a CHT varies depending on the type of program chosen and other factors such as study materials and exam fees. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$3,000 or more to become certified.

Once certified, individuals are able to work as technicians in residential or commercial settings performing maintenance, repairs, installations, and other services related to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

5. Certified Boiler Operator (CBO)

Certified Boiler Operator (CBO) is a certification program designed to provide boiler operators with the knowledge and skills needed to safely and efficiently operate boilers. The certification is administered by the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI).

To become certified, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having a minimum of two years of experience as a boiler operator or related field, completing a comprehensive written exam, and passing an oral examination. Additionally, some states may require additional education or training in order to obtain certification.

The written examination consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety practices, operation and maintenance procedures, troubleshooting techniques, and regulations. The oral examination involves answering questions about operational issues and demonstrating proficiency in operating a boiler.

The cost of obtaining the CBO certification varies depending on the state in which you are applying for certification. Generally speaking, it costs between $100-$200 for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with the exam or additional training requirements. The entire process typically takes several weeks from start to finish.

6. Certified Refrigeration Technician (CRT)

A Certified Refrigeration Technician (CRT) is a professional who has been trained and certified to install, maintain, diagnose, and repair refrigeration systems. The certification is offered by the Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI).

In order to become a CRT, an individual must complete a minimum of 8 hours of approved training. This training can be completed online or in-person at an accredited institution. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam administered by AHRI. The exam covers topics such as safety, installation and maintenance procedures, electrical systems, and troubleshooting.

The cost of becoming a CRT varies depending on the institution offering the training. Most programs cost between $500-$1000 USD.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants will receive their CRT certification from AHRI. This certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

7. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a professional designation awarded by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of competence in energy management and have demonstrated their expertise through education, experience, and examination.

To become a CEM, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have at least four years of full-time energy management experience or equivalent part-time experience.
• Possess an accredited bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or technology related to energy management.
• Pass the CEM exam administered by AEE.
• Maintain continuing education requirements.
• Agree to abide by the AEE Code of Ethics.

The CEM exam is offered twice each year at various locations around the world and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost for taking the exam is $450 for AEE members and $550 for non-members. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants are awarded their CEM certification which must be renewed every three years with continued education credits and payment of a renewal fee ($150 for AEE members and $200 for non-members).

8. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) is a certification program that provides recognition of the knowledge and skills of engineering technicians. The program is administered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies, Inc., an independent, non-profit organization.

NICET certifications are designed to demonstrate a technician’s ability to perform specific tasks related to their field. The certifications are available in four main areas: Fire Protection, Highway Construction, Industrial/Manufacturing Technology and Water Resources. Each area has its own set of requirements and tests that must be passed in order to become certified.

In order to become certified through NICET, applicants must first complete an application process and meet certain qualifications such as having a minimum amount of work experience or educational credits in the field they are seeking certification for. Once approved, applicants must then pass a series of exams which test their knowledge and skills related to the area they are seeking certification for.

The length of time it takes to get certified varies depending on the area of specialization and the number of exams taken. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months up to two years or more to complete all requirements necessary for certification.

The cost of getting certified through NICET is based on the number of exams taken and can range from $200-$400 per exam plus any applicable fees associated with taking the exams such as registration fees or travel costs. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining study materials or taking courses related to your area of specialization.

9. Professional Engineering License

A Professional Engineering License (also known as a PE license) is a type of professional certification that allows an engineer to practice engineering independently in the United States. It is issued by state boards and requires passing two exams: the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam and a state-specific ethics exam. The PE exam covers topics such as mathematics, engineering sciences, engineering design, and professional practice.

It typically takes four years of experience in the engineering field after graduating from an accredited engineering program to qualify for the PE exam. Additionally, applicants must have a valid degree from an ABET-accredited college or university with at least 30 semester hours in engineering courses.

To obtain a Professional Engineering License, applicants must submit an application to their state board along with proof of education, work experience, and any additional requirements set forth by their state board. Once approved, applicants will then take the PE exam at an approved testing center. After passing both exams, applicants will be issued their PE license.

The cost of obtaining a Professional Engineering License varies by state but generally ranges from $100-$500 for application fees and $400-$600 for each exam.

10. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Certification

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and experience of individuals in the HVAC&R industry. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to their profession and to provide employers with a reliable measure of competence.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements and pass an exam. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion covering topics such as building systems, psychometrics, energy conservation, indoor air quality, system design, maintenance and troubleshooting; and a practical portion where applicants must demonstrate their ability to use tools used in the field.

In order to be eligible for ASHRAE certification, applicants must have at least four years of full-time experience in the HVAC&R industry or equivalent education/training. Applicants must also have completed at least 20 hours of continuing education within the past three years related to HVAC&R topics.

The cost for ASHRAE certification varies depending on the type of certification sought. For example, the cost for Certified HVAC Designer (CHD) is $400 USD while the cost for Certified Building Energy Analyst (BEA) is $600 USD.

Once all requirements are met, applicants can register online for their desired certification program through ASHRAE’s website. After registration is complete, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access their exam materials and schedule their exam date. It typically takes up to six weeks from registration to receiving results from ASHRAE after taking the exam.

11. International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Certification

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Certification is a professional credential that recognizes the expertise of facility management professionals. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field, as well as their commitment to professional development.

The IFMA Certification process takes approximately six months to complete. To obtain certification, individuals must first pass the IFMA Certified Facility Manager (CFM) exam, which consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as finance, operations and maintenance, human resources, sustainability, and technology. After passing the exam, applicants must then submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in facility management. This portfolio should include evidence of education, training and experience in the field.

The cost for taking the CFM exam is $595 for members of IFMA and $795 for non-members. The cost for an additional portfolio review is $400 for members and $500 for non-members.

Overall, obtaining the IFMA Certification requires a significant investment of both time and money; however, it can be a great way to demonstrate your expertise in facility management and set yourself apart from other professionals in the field.

Do You Really Need a Stationary Engineer Certificate?

Yes, if you want to become a stationary engineer, then you need to have a stationary engineer certificate. A stationary engineer certificate is a formal qualification issued by the National Institute for the Uniform Licensing of Power Engineers (NIULPE). This certification is designed to ensure that operators of stationary engines and related systems are qualified and knowledgeable about their equipment and safety practices.

The requirement for this certification varies from state to state but generally requires a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience. You must also pass an exam administered by NIULPE in order to obtain your certificate. The examination covers topics such as thermal energy, electrical power generation, fluid mechanics, air conditioning systems, boilers, refrigeration systems and other related topics.

Having a stationary engineer certificate is essential for anyone who wants to work in this field. It demonstrates your knowledge and skills in the operation and maintenance of power plants, heating and cooling systems, industrial machinery and other related equipment. It also shows employers that you are committed to safety regulations and are capable of working with complex machinery.

Overall, having a stationary engineer certificate is important if you want to pursue a career as a stationary engineer. It not only demonstrates your knowledge in the field but also shows potential employers that you understand safety regulations and can work effectively with complex machinery.

Related: Stationary Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Stationary Engineer Certifications

Q1. What is a Stationary Engineer Certification?

A1. A Stationary Engineer Certification is a credential that verifies an individual’s knowledge and skills related to the operation and maintenance of stationary equipment, such as boilers, pumps, and air conditioning systems.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Stationary Engineer?

A2. To become certified as a Stationary Engineer, you must complete an approved training program and pass the applicable certification exam offered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).

Q3. Are there different levels of certification?

A3. Yes, there are four levels of certification: Level I (basic), Level II (intermediate), Level III (advanced) and Level IV (specialist). The higher the level of certification, the more advanced knowledge and skills are required to achieve it.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified?

A4. It typically takes between 1-2 years to complete the necessary training and exams depending on your prior experience and knowledge base in engineering technologies.

Q5. What are some common job titles for those with a Stationary Engineer Certification?

A5. Common job titles include Boiler Operator, Power Plant Operator, Refrigeration Technician, HVAC Technician, Building Maintenance Technician, Facilities Maintenance Technician and more.