Top 11 Utility Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for utility engineers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and experience in their field. Certified utility engineers have proven that they have the expertise to handle complex projects, work safely and effectively, and meet industry standards. They also demonstrate an understanding of the latest technology, safety regulations, and engineering principles. This can give employers confidence that they are hiring an experienced professional who is capable of completing tasks efficiently and accurately. Certification also shows potential employers that the engineer is committed to continuing education and staying up-to-date with industry standards.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Utility Engineers and explains how they can help utility engineers advance their careers.

What are Utility Engineer Certifications?

Utility engineer certification is a certification program offered by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) that recognizes the professional qualifications and competency of civil engineers working in the utility industry. This certification helps to ensure that utility engineers have the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to provide safe and reliable services to their customers. It also provides employers with an assurance that they have hired qualified and competent employees who can help them meet their objectives.

The certification process consists of a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as power systems design, operation, maintenance, safety, and economics. The exam focuses on topics related to electrical power systems including electricity distribution networks, generation and transmission systems, power plants, substations, protection systems, control systems, instrumentation and metering equipment, system operations and management principles. Passing this exam demonstrates a high level of expertise in these areas which is essential for providing quality service to customers.

By obtaining utility engineer certification from ASCE, individuals are able to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in the field. This credential can help them stand out when seeking employment or career advancement opportunities within the industry. It also establishes credibility among peers by demonstrating mastery of subject material related to utility engineering. Finally, it serves as a great way for individuals to stay current with advances in technology since ASCE requires recertification every three years.

Pro Tip: When considering utility engineer certification, make sure to research the requirements of the specific certification you are interested in obtaining. Depending on the type of certification you are looking for, there may be different educational and experience requirements that must be met in order to qualify. Additionally, it is important to understand any fees associated with obtaining a certification and what kind of upkeep is required to maintain it.

Related: What does a Utility Engineer do?

Top 11 Utility Engineer Certifications

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

1. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a professional designation given to individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of energy management. The CEM program is administered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the areas of energy efficiency, conservation, and management.

In order to become certified as a CEM, an individual must first complete an approved training program or coursework related to energy management. After completing this training, applicants must then pass the CEM exam which consists of both written and practical components. The exam covers topics such as energy efficiency technologies, building systems design, energy auditing, financial analysis, and project management.

The time it takes to become certified as a CEM varies depending on the individual's background and experience. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years for an individual to complete all the necessary requirements for certification.

In order to receive certification as a CEM, individuals must submit an application form along with their proof of completion of required training courses or programs. The application fee for becoming certified as a CEM is $450 USD.

2. Certified Utility Professional (CUP)

Certified Utility Professional (CUP) is a certification program offered by the American Public Power Association (APPA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of professional competency in the operation and management of electric utilities. The CUP certification is open to anyone in the utility industry, including employees, contractors, consultants, and other professionals.

The CUP program requires applicants to complete an online course that covers topics such as safety, customer service, energy efficiency, and financial management. The course typically takes 8-10 hours to complete and includes a multiple-choice exam at the end. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, applicants will be awarded their CUP certification.

To obtain the CUP certification, applicants must pay an application fee of $150 USD. This fee covers the cost of materials for the online course as well as administrative fees associated with processing applications. After obtaining their CUP certification, applicants are required to renew their certifications every three years by completing additional training courses or exams.

3. Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP)

Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP) is a certification program developed by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). The certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to safety in the utility industry. The CUSP program focuses on providing safety professionals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to identify, assess, and manage risks associated with electric utilities.

The CUSP certification process typically takes around three months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first pass an online exam that tests their knowledge of safety principles and practices within the utility industry. Once they have successfully passed the exam, applicants must then complete an in-person training course that covers topics such as hazard recognition, incident investigation techniques, risk assessment strategies, and more. Upon completion of the training course, applicants will receive their CUSP certification.

The cost of obtaining a CUSP certification varies depending on the organization offering it. Generally speaking, most organizations charge between $500-$1,000 for the entire process. This cost includes both the online exam and in-person training course fees.

In addition to passing the exam and completing the training course, applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements in order to be eligible for CUSP certification. These include having at least two years of experience working in a safety-related role within an electric utility or related field; having completed a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education related to safety topics; and having obtained at least one professional reference from a supervisor or other qualified individual attesting to their qualifications for this type of work.

4. Certified Utility Engineer (CUE)

Certified Utility Engineer (CUE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of engineers who specialize in the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of utility systems. The CUE program provides a comprehensive assessment of an engineer’s qualifications for professional practice in the utility industry.

The CUE program consists of two parts: a written examination and an oral examination. The written exam covers topics such as engineering principles, safety practices, operations management, system planning and design, environmental regulations, and more. The oral exam focuses on technical questions related to specific utility systems. Both exams must be passed in order to become certified.

In order to take the CUE exam, applicants must have at least four years of full-time experience working with utility systems or related fields. They must also have a bachelor’s degree in engineering from an accredited college or university. Applicants may also need to provide letters of recommendation from employers or supervisors verifying their experience in the field.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all requirements for the CUE certification. Once all requirements are met, applicants can submit their applications to ASCE for review and approval.

The cost for taking the CUE exam varies depending on where you are taking it and how many exams you are taking at once. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1,000 per exam plus any applicable fees associated with taking it in your area.

5. Certified Utility Management Professional (CUMP)

Certified Utility Management Professional (CUMP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). The CUMP program is designed to provide utility professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage energy and water resources.

The CUMP program consists of three levels: Certified Utility Manager (CUM), Certified Utility Professional (CUP), and Certified Utility Executive (CUE). Each level requires successful completion of an exam, and each exam has its own prerequisites.

For the CUM level, applicants must have a minimum of five years of experience in utility management or related fields. For the CUP level, applicants must have a minimum of seven years of experience in utility management or related fields. For the CUE level, applicants must have a minimum of ten years of experience in utility management or related fields.

The exams for each level take approximately four hours to complete, and are administered online. The cost for each exam varies depending on location, but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD per exam.

6. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certification in Power and Utilities

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certification in Power and Utilities is a certification program that provides recognition for individuals who demonstrate the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to work in power and utilities. The certification is designed to ensure that those working in the field have the necessary qualifications and experience to meet industry standards.

The ASME Certification in Power and Utilities requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as safety, operations, maintenance, engineering principles, regulations and codes. Applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge of the National Electric Code (NEC), International Electrical Code (IEC) and other applicable standards.

The exam typically takes around three hours to complete and can be taken at any ASME-approved testing center. It costs $200 USD for members of ASME or $300 USD for non-members.

In order to receive the certification, applicants must score a minimum of 70% on the exam. Once certified, individuals will be listed on the ASME website as a Certified Power and Utility Professional (CPUP). The certification is valid for five years from the date of issue.

To maintain their certification status, individuals must earn 20 continuing education units (CEUs) every two years by attending approved courses or completing self-study activities related to power and utility topics.

7. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Level IV Certification in Power and Utilities

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Level IV certification in Power and Utilities is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and skills in the field of power and utility engineering. This certification is intended to provide employers with assurance that the individual has achieved a level of competency sufficient to perform the job duties associated with their profession.

To earn NICET Level IV certification, applicants must have at least five years of verifiable work experience as an engineer or technician in the power/utility industry. Additionally, applicants must pass a written examination administered by NICET that covers topics such as electrical theory, safety practices, power system design, and operation & maintenance. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of NICET. For members, the cost is $325; for non-members it is $425. It typically takes two to three months to receive your results after taking the exam.

Once you have passed the exam, you will need to submit documentation verifying your work experience in order to receive your official certificate from NICET. This process can take up to six weeks after submitting all required documents.

Overall, obtaining NICET Level IV certification in Power and Utilities requires dedication and commitment but can be very rewarding for those who pursue it successfully.

8. International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Certificate of Electrical Inspector

The International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Certificate of Electrical Inspector is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and experience of electrical inspectors. It is designed to provide assurance to employers and the public that certified individuals have the necessary qualifications to perform electrical inspections in accordance with accepted standards.

The IAEI Certificate of Electrical Inspector requires applicants to have at least five years of experience as an electrical inspector, or equivalent, and pass a written exam. The exam covers topics such as safety codes, installation procedures, inspection techniques, and other related topics. The exam is offered twice a year in April and October at various locations throughout the United States.

In order to apply for the IAEI Certificate of Electrical Inspector, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of their experience as an electrical inspector, or equivalent. Applicants must also pay a fee for the exam which varies depending on location but generally ranges from $100-$200.

Once all requirements are met and the fee is paid, applicants will be sent an authorization letter allowing them to take the exam on the specified date and location. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will be issued their IAEI Certificate of Electrical Inspector which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

9. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Engineer

American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification designed to recognize quality engineers who demonstrate knowledge and experience in the principles and techniques of product and service quality evaluation and control. The CQE certification is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in quality engineering practices.

It typically takes about two years of full-time study or four years of part-time study to get the CQE certification. To prepare for the exam, individuals can take ASQ's self-study courses, attend seminars, or read books related to quality engineering.

To get certified, individuals must pass the CQE exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality systems, management responsibilities, inspection and testing methods, process improvement tools, and statistical analysis methods.

The cost of taking the CQE exam varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or nonmember. For members, the cost is $370; for nonmembers it is $470.

10. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification program administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to demonstrate knowledge and experience in project management, and it is one of the most sought-after credentials in the industry. The PMP certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated their ability to lead and direct projects successfully.

The PMP certification process consists of two parts: an application and an examination. To apply for the PMP certification, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having a minimum of three years of professional project management experience and 4500 hours leading projects, as well as 35 contact hours of formal project management education.

Once you have submitted your application and paid the fee, you will be given access to the online exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as project integration management, quality management, communications management, risk management, procurement management, cost management, stakeholder engagement, and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost of obtaining a PMP certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of PMI. If you are not a member, then the total cost is $555 USD; if you are a member then it costs $405 USD.

Overall, obtaining a PMP certification can take anywhere from several weeks to several months depending on how quickly you can complete all of the necessary steps.

11. Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification awarded to individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the Six Sigma methodology. The certification is designed to recognize individuals who possess the skills and knowledge necessary to lead and manage successful Six Sigma projects.

The certification process typically takes between four and six months, depending on the individual's prior experience with Six Sigma. To become certified, individuals must complete an approved training program that covers all aspects of the Six Sigma methodology, including project management, data analysis, process improvement techniques, and problem-solving strategies. Once completed, candidates must pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying body such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the type of training program selected. Generally speaking, online courses are more affordable than traditional classroom-based programs. Additionally, some organizations may offer discounts or subsidies if employees pursue their certification through their employer.

In addition to completing an approved training program and passing an exam, some certifying bodies may also require applicants to demonstrate their expertise in a real-world setting by submitting a portfolio of completed projects or providing evidence of successful implementation of Six Sigma processes within their organization.

Do You Really Need a Utility Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the intended purpose of a utility engineer certificate. In some cases, such as when working for a company that requires specific certifications, having a utility engineer certificate can be beneficial. For those seeking to pursue a career in this field, obtaining certification can also demonstrate commitment and knowledge of the profession.

In other cases, however, a utility engineer certificate may not be necessary. Those with relevant educational degrees and experience may find that they have no need for such certification. Moreover, in some cases, employers may not require it or may even prefer candidates without certification. Ultimately, the decision whether or not to pursue a utility engineer certificate should depend on individual circumstances and goals.

Related: Utility Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Utility Engineer Certifications

1. What is a Utility Engineer Certification?

Answer: A Utility Engineer Certification is a certification that demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in the design, operation, and maintenance of utility systems such as water, wastewater, gas, and electric. It is typically earned through passing an exam administered by a professional organization or trade association.

2. How do I become certified as a Utility Engineer?

Answer: To become certified as a Utility Engineer you will need to complete an approved program of study and pass the associated exam with a minimum score. This can include completing courses related to engineering, safety, environmental regulations, and operations management. You may also need to have several years of experience in the field before becoming eligible for certification.

3. What are the benefits of earning a Utility Engineer Certification?

Answer: Earning a Utility Engineer Certification can provide recognition of your expertise in the field and may lead to increased job opportunities or promotions. It can also provide access to more advanced training and education opportunities as well as networking opportunities with other professionals in the industry.

4. Are there any requirements to maintain my certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require you to participate in continuing education activities throughout your career in order to maintain your certification status. This could involve attending seminars or conferences related to utility engineering or taking additional courses related to the field.

5. How long does it take to earn a Utility Engineer Certification?

Answer: The time it takes to earn a Utility Engineer Certification will depend on the type of program you choose and how much time you have available for studying and taking exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months up to two years for most people depending on their individual circumstances.