Top 11 Supply Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for supply technicians in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and experience that employers look for. They also show potential employers that the technician has taken the time to learn specific skills and is dedicated to their profession. Certifications can provide an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs and can help increase salary potential. Additionally, certifications are increasingly becoming a requirement for certain positions in the supply technician field. Having a certification can be the deciding factor between two qualified applicants, so having them is essential to standing out from the competition.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain the benefits of some of the top certifications for Supply Technicians, and how they can contribute to a successful career in the field.

What are Supply Technician Certifications?

Supply technician certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of supply chain management. This certification is designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the areas of inventory control, purchasing, warehousing, distribution, and other supply-related activities. With this certification, individuals can gain recognition and respect from employers in the industry and advance their career opportunities.

The certification requires applicants to pass an exam which covers topics such as strategic sourcing, inventory management, logistics operations, supplier relationships, and quality control. Upon successful completion of the exam, individuals will receive a certificate that proves their competency as a supply technician.

This credential demonstrates to employers that the individual has been trained in best practices for managing the supply chain process. It also shows that they have a deep understanding of how different elements of the process work together to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness. With this certification, individuals can not only secure better job opportunities but also improve their performance on current assignments.

Pro Tip: When considering a supply technician certification, make sure that the program you choose provides hands-on training in addition to classroom instruction. This will ensure that you are well-prepared for the job and have the necessary skills to succeed.

Related: What does a Supply Technician do?

Top 11 Supply Technician Certifications

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

1. Certified Supply Technician (CST)

Certified Supply Technician (CST) is a certification program offered by the American Logistics Association (ALA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of professional competence in the field of logistics and supply chain management. The certification is intended to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of inventory control, purchasing, warehousing, transportation, and customer service.

To become certified as a CST, applicants must first complete an ALA-approved training course. This course typically takes between 8-10 weeks to complete depending on the provider. After completing the training course, applicants must pass a written exam administered by ALA. The exam covers topics such as inventory control systems, purchasing principles and procedures, warehousing operations and safety practices, transportation regulations and principles, customer service techniques and principles, and other related topics.

The cost for becoming certified as a CST varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 for the training course plus any applicable fees for taking the exam.

2. Certified Logistics Technician (CLT)

Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The CLT program provides an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in logistics, supply chain management, transportation, inventory control, and related areas.

It takes approximately six months to complete the CLT program. To become a Certified Logistics Technician, individuals must first pass the CLT exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as logistics principles, warehousing operations, inventory control, transportation systems and processes, customer service and communication skills. After passing the exam, applicants must submit a professional portfolio demonstrating their knowledge in the field of logistics.

The cost of the CLT program varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 for the application fee and exam fee combined. Additional fees may be required for textbooks or other materials needed to complete the program.

3. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage production and inventory activities within an organization. CPIM certification focuses on five key areas of production and inventory management: demand management, master scheduling, material requirements planning, capacity requirements planning, and supplier relationships.

To obtain CPIM certification, applicants must complete a series of exams that cover the five areas of study mentioned above. The exams are divided into two parts: Part 1 consists of four modules that must be completed within three years, while Part 2 consists of two modules that must be completed within one year. Applicants must also have at least three years of professional experience in production or inventory management prior to taking the exams.

The cost for CPIM certification varies depending on the number of exams taken and whether or not you choose to take additional courses or workshops offered by APICS. The total cost can range from $1,000 - $2,500 USD.

4. Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)

Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of a comprehensive body of knowledge in logistics, transportation and distribution. The CLTD credential is the most widely recognized and respected certification for professionals in the field.

To get the CLTD credential, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, inventory management, freight forwarding, customs regulations, warehousing, and more. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on your location. In the United States, it costs $495 to register for the exam. Additionally, there are study materials available from AST&L that can help you prepare for the exam. These materials cost between $100 and $200 depending on what type of material you purchase.

It typically takes about two months to complete all requirements for earning the CLTD credential once you have passed the exam. You will need to submit an application with proof of your experience in logistics, transportation or distribution before receiving your official certification from AST&L.

5. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of professional competence and expertise in the field of supply management.

The CPSM program consists of three levels: Foundation, Professional, and Executive. Each level requires passing an exam and completing continuing education requirements.

To obtain the Foundation level certification, you must pass the ISM Foundation Exam. This exam covers topics such as supply chain fundamentals, procurement processes, supplier relationship management, and global sourcing. The exam takes about two hours to complete and costs $350 for ISM members or $450 for non-members.

The Professional level certification requires passing the ISM Professional Exam. This exam covers topics such as contract law, negotiation strategies, project management, and risk management. The exam takes about four hours to complete and costs $600 for ISM members or $700 for non-members.

The Executive level certification requires passing the ISM Executive Exam. This exam covers topics such as strategic sourcing, organizational leadership, financial analysis, and performance measurement. The exam takes about six hours to complete and costs $750 for ISM members or $850 for non-members.

In addition to passing the exams at each level of certification, you must also complete continuing education requirements in order to maintain your CPSM designation. These requirements vary depending on which level of certification you have achieved but generally include attending conferences or seminars related to supply management every two years or completing online courses every year.

6. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional designation offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). The CPM certification recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of purchasing and supply chain management.

It takes approximately 18 months to complete the requirements for the CPM certification. To be eligible, you must have at least five years of experience in purchasing and supply chain management, including two years of management-level experience. You must also pass an exam administered by ISM that covers topics such as strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, supplier relationship management, and risk management.

The cost to become certified varies depending on your membership status with ISM. For non-members, it costs $495 for the exam application fee and $595 for the exam fee. For members, it costs $395 for the exam application fee and $495 for the exam fee.

Once you have completed all of these steps, you will receive your CPM certificate from ISM. This certificate is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

7. American Society for Quality - Quality Technician Certification (ASQ-QT)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Quality Technician Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate a mastery of quality principles and practices. It is designed for those working in a quality-related field, such as quality assurance, quality control, or production. The ASQ-QT certification is valid for three years, after which it must be renewed.

To become certified as an ASQ-QT, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management systems, statistical process control, inspection techniques, and problem solving. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. Applicants must also have at least two years of work experience in a related field or have completed an approved training program.

The cost for the ASQ-QT certification exam varies depending on the country in which you are taking the exam. In the United States, the cost is $295 USD for members of ASQ and $395 USD for non-members.

In order to maintain your certification, you must earn 30 continuing education units (CEUs) every three years by attending approved courses or activities related to quality assurance or management systems.

8. International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Professional Certification Program (IPSCMPCP)

The International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Professional Certification Program (IPSCMPCP) is an internationally recognized certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of purchasing and supply chain management. The program is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of supply chain management.

The IPSCMPCP consists of four levels: Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM), Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Professional Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CPT&D), and Certified Master Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CMLTD). Each level requires completion of a specific number of courses and exams.

It typically takes between two to three years to complete all four levels of the IPSCMPCP. To get certified, you must first apply for each level separately. You will need to submit proof that you have completed all required coursework as well as pass an exam for each level. Once you have completed all requirements for each level, you will be issued a certificate from ISM.

The cost for the IPSCMPCP varies depending on which courses are taken and how many levels are completed. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,500-$3,000 USD per level.

9. National Institute of Governmental Purchasing - Certified Professional Public Buyer (NIGP-CPPB)

The National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP) Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the highest level of proficiency and expertise in public procurement. It is the premier certification for public purchasing professionals in the United States.

To become certified, applicants must have at least five years of full-time experience in public procurement or an equivalent combination of education and experience. They must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of public procurement, including contract management, ethics, and legal issues. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to apply for the CPPB certification, applicants must first register with NIGP and pay a non-refundable fee of $250. After registering, they will be provided with study materials that outline the topics covered on the exam. Once they have studied these materials, they can then schedule their exam through NIGP's online system.

The cost for taking the CPPB exam is $450 plus applicable taxes and fees. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their official CPPB certificate from NIGP. This certificate is valid for five years after which time it must be renewed by retaking the examination or by completing continuing education courses offered by NIGP.

10. International Purchasing and Supply Education and Research Association - Certified Professional in Supply Management (IPSERA-CPSM)

The International Purchasing and Supply Education and Research Association (IPSERA) Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the core competencies of supply management. The certification is based on the IPSERA Body of Knowledge, which covers a wide range of topics related to purchasing and supply management.

To obtain the CPSM certification, applicants must pass three exams: Fundamentals of Supply Management, Strategic Sourcing and Supplier Relationship Management, and Business Acumen for Supply Management Professionals. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost for taking all three exams is $1,100 USD ($400 USD per exam). Applicants can register for the exams online or by mail. Once registered, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access their IPSERA account where they can view their exam results.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for all three exams and obtain the CPSM certification. However, this time frame may vary depending on individual preparation levels.

11. National Contract Management Association - Contracting Officer Representative Certification Program (NCMA-CORCP).

The National Contract Management Association (NCMA) Contracting Officer Representative Certification Program (NCMA-CORCP) is a professional certification program that provides contract management professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively represent their organizations in government contracts. The program is designed to equip contract officers with the tools they need to ensure compliance with government regulations, ethical standards, and best practices.

The NCMA-CORCP consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of federal contracting, including topics such as acquisition planning, source selection, contract administration, dispute resolution, and more. The exam tests the student’s knowledge of these topics and is designed to assess their ability to apply this knowledge in a practical setting.

To obtain the NCMA-CORCP certification, students must complete both the online course and pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher. The online course takes approximately 10 hours to complete and can be taken at any time from anywhere with an internet connection. The exam requires 2 hours for completion and is administered by Pearson VUE at designated testing centers throughout the United States.

The cost for taking the NCMA-CORCP certification program is $695 for members of NCMA or $795 for non-members. This fee includes access to the online course materials as well as one attempt at taking the exam. Additional attempts are available for an additional fee of $150 per attempt.

Do You Really Need a Supply Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their career goals. For some, a Supply Technician Certificate can be an invaluable asset in helping them get ahead in their field. This type of certification is often sought after by employers as it demonstrates that the applicant has a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management and inventory control.

For those pursuing a career in supply chain management, having a Supply Technician Certificate is essential to success. The certificate shows potential employers that the applicant has studied the subject matter and has taken the necessary classes to gain knowledge of how to properly manage a supply chain. It also indicates that the applicant understands the importance of inventory control and can effectively manage resources, both in terms of cost and time.

On the other hand, for those who are already working in the field or have experience in managing a supply chain, obtaining a Supply Technician Certificate may not be necessary. In these cases, it may be more beneficial for them to focus on gaining additional experience or making connections within their industry rather than taking additional courses or exams. However, if they wish to move up in their current role or pursue higher positions within their organization, having such certification can help open up new opportunities for them.

Ultimately, whether someone needs a Supply Technician Certificate will depend on their individual goals and current level of experience with supply chain management. Those who feel they do need such certification should ensure they are taking courses from accredited institutions so they can demonstrate that they truly understand all aspects of supply chain management when applying for jobs or promotions.

Related: Supply Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Supply Technician Certifications

1. What is a Supply Technician Certification?

Answer: A Supply Technician Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of supply chain management and logistics. The certification identifies individuals who have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively manage the flow of materials, products, and services through an organization's supply chain.

2. How do I become certified as a Supply Technician?

Answer: To become certified as a Supply Technician, you must typically first complete a program or course in supply chain management or logistics from an accredited college or university. After completing your education, you must then successfully pass the Certified Supply Technician (CST) examination administered by the American Society of Transportation & Logistics (AST&L).

3. What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Supply Technician?

Answer: By becoming a Certified Supply Technician (CST), you will gain recognition from employers for your knowledge and expertise in supply chain management and logistics. This can open up doors to higher-level positions within organizations with greater responsibility, pay, and job security. Additionally, CST certification holders are viewed as more valuable employees by employers because they have demonstrated their commitment to professional development in their field.

4. What topics are covered on the CST exam?

Answer: The CST exam covers topics such as inventory control systems; procurement processes; transportation systems; warehousing operations; distribution methods; quality assurance procedures; risk management strategies; production planning techniques; customer service principles; information technology systems; safety regulations; budgeting principles; strategic planning methods; sustainability initiatives; international trade regulations; legal requirements related to supply chains; and ethical considerations in business operations.

5. How often should I renew my CST certification?

Answer: You must renew your CST certification every three years by submitting proof of continuing education credits for activities related to supply chain management or logistics during that time period. Additionally, you must also submit evidence of current employment in the field or other appropriate experience that has been obtained since passing the original exam.