20 Essential Construction Certifications to Advance Your Career in 2024
The construction industry is constantly evolving. Staying ahead requires more than just practical experience; it demands a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. This is true for both those in the office and those out in the field. Getting industry-recognized, professional construction certifications is one powerful way to bolster your skills, credibility, and career prospects.
This blog post will explore 20 construction industry certificates that can advance your career and open doors to new opportunities.
Fundamental Certifications for Construction Professionals
1. OSHA Safety Certifications
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training is crucial for those entering the construction sector. OSHA certifications equip professionals with knowledge for ensuring workplace safety.
Price: $50 to $500+
Duration: Courses range based on certification level; 8-40 hour courses are offered.
Potential Jobs: Opens doors to roles like site supervisors, project managers, and safety officers, enhancing job prospects in the construction industry.
2. LEED Professional Credentials
LEED Professional Credentials are for those interested in green building practices and sustainable design. Many buildings can be LEED-certified which comes with governmental and environmental benefits. Before taking a LEED application it's best to understand the investment required, the duration of training, and the array of job possibilities that await those with LEED certification.
Price: It varies depending on the level, but many basic courses are free.
Duration: Very short for most courses, only requiring 1-2 hours of content with an exam.
Potential Jobs: LEED-certified professionals find opportunities in green building projects, environmental consulting, and sustainable design firms. Roles include sustainable architects, construction managers, and energy consultants.
Find out more about the different LEED certification levels.
3. Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST)
The CHST certification from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) is tailored for activities preventing construction illnesses and injuries.
Price: The exam fee ranges from $450 to $550.
Duration: Three years of construction experience, with at least 35% of primary job duties involving safety, health, and environmental practice.
Potential Jobs: BCSP also provides the Safety Trained Supervisor Construction (STSC) certification for leaders, managers, supervisors, and employees where safety is not the primary responsibility.
Advanced Technical Certifications
4. Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
Becoming a Certified Construction Manager is a strategic choice for those aiming for leadership roles. Dive into the CCM certification's details, including its benefits, the investment required, and the diverse job opportunities it unlocks.
Price: The exam fee ranges from $630 to $730.
Duration: Varies depending on the course delivery.
Potential Jobs: Some include Construction Manager, Project Manager, Site Manager, Construction Superintendent, Estimator, Quality Control Manager, and more.
5. Project Management Professional (PMP)
Project management is a core competency in construction and obtaining the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a strategic move to enhance these skills. Explore the impact of PMP certification on construction project management, the associated costs, duration, and the potential jobs available.
Price: $998
Duration: 35 hours
Potential Jobs: Some include Project Manager, Program Manager, Portfolio Manager, Project Coordinator, Construction Project Manager.
6. Safety Trained Supervisor Construction (STSC)
For supervisors in the construction industry, the Safety Trained Supervisor Construction (STSC) offered by the Board of Certified Safety Protocols (BCSP) is a notable certification. This program trains candidates to monitor job sites for safety hazards, ensure compliance with regulations, document safety processes, and facilitate communication with management about team safety.
Price: $499.
Duration: 20+ hours.
Potential Jobs: Supervisory roles in the construction sector, leading to opportunities such as safety supervisor, site manager, or safety compliance officer.
7. Certified Safety Manager
A Certified Safety Manager is a professional with expertise in safety regulations and practices, responsible for implementing and overseeing comprehensive safety programs within organizations to prevent accidents injuries, and ensure a secure work environment.
Price: $395.
Duration: 40 hours in six months.
Potential Jobs: Some include Safety Manager, Health and Safety Officer, Environmental Health and Safety Specialist, Risk Manager, Occupational Health and Safety Specialist
Specialized Certifications for Niche Areas
8. National Electrical Code (NEC) Certification
Electricians seeking to excel in their field should consider the National Electrical Code (NEC) Certification. Delve into the importance of this certification and its advantages to professionals in the electrical sector.
Price: $313.00
Duration: 10+ hours
Potential Jobs: Some include Electrician, Electrical Inspector, Electrical Engineer, Electrical Contractor, Maintenance Electrician, Electrical Designer, and Project Manager in Electrical Construction.
9. Certified Plumbing Designer (CPD)
The Certified Plumbing Designer (CPD) certification is a hallmark of expertise in the plumbing sector.
Price: $450 to $675
Duration: 3.5 hours for the exam
Potential Jobs: Some include Plumbing Engineer, Plumbing Design Specialist, Building Systems Designer, and Construction Project Manager with a focus on plumbing systems.
10. Certified Concrete Professional
A Certified Concrete Professional has specialized knowledge and expertise in concrete construction, ensuring quality, durability, and adherence to industry standards in concrete-related projects, ranging from design and installation to inspection and maintenance.
Price: Varies depending on the type of certification
Duration: Varies depending on the type of certification
Potential Jobs: Some include Concrete Construction Manager, Concrete Inspector, Concrete Project Manager, Quality Control Technician, Concrete Estimator, Structural Engineer.
Equipment-Related Construction Certifications
11. Crane Operator Certification
The Crane Operator Certification signifies that an individual has undergone specialized training to operate cranes safely and efficiently. There are various types of crane certifications, each tailored to specific crane types, such as mobile, tower, or overhead cranes. These certifications ensure operators are proficient in operating diverse equipment and prioritize safety and compliance with industry standards.
Price: Varies depending on the type of certification
Duration: Varies depending on the type of certification
Potential Jobs: Some include Mobile Crane Operator, Tower Crane Operator, Overhead Crane Operator, Heavy Equipment Operator, Construction Equipment Operator, Rigging Specialist, and Crane Inspector.
Learn more about how to become a crane operator.
12. Autodesk Certified Professional
An Autodesk Certified Professional has validated their expertise in utilizing Autodesk software. This includes demonstrated proficiency in design and drafting tools crucial for architecture, engineering, and construction projects. This certification confirms advanced skills in using Autodesk software applications for efficient and accurate project design and management.
Price: $200 per course
Duration: Each course is 120 mins for the exam
Potential Jobs: Some include CAD Technician, BIM Specialist, Architectural Designer, Mechanical Engineer, Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Interior Designer.
13. OSHA Aerial and Scissor Lifts Exam
Designed for lift operators on construction sites, the OSHA Aerial and Scissor Lifts Exam provides essential awareness about various lifts, safety standards, inspections, and precautions to mitigate common hazards.
Price: $49.95
Duration: 180 days to finalize the training.
Potential Jobs: Tailored for lift operators, completing the OSHA Aerial and Scissor Lifts Exam enhances knowledge and skills, contributing to safer construction practices and reducing the risk of accidents related to lifts, falls, or electrocution.
Business and Management Oriented Certifications
14. Associate Constructor (AC) and Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
The Associate Constructor (AC) and Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) certifications are key for construction managers looking to enhance their business and management skills.
Price: $200 to $250
Duration: 4 hours for the exam
Potential Jobs: Some include construction manager, project manager, estimator, cost engineer, construction supervisor, quality control manager, and contract administrator.
15. Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional
A Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional is an individual with specialized knowledge in financial management specific to the construction industry. This includes having a demonstrated expertise in budgeting, financial analysis, and strategic financial decision-making to support successful construction projects and business operations.
Price: $850
Duration: 4.5 hours for the exam
Potential Jobs: Some include Construction Financial Analyst, Budget Manager, Construction Project Accountant, Financial Controller for Construction Firms, Cost Analyst, and Construction Finance Manager.
16. Credit Business Associate (CBA)
For construction professionals involved in financial management, the Credit Business Associate (CBA) certification from the National Association of Credit Management (NACM) is a valuable option.
Price: $410 to $820.
Duration: 30+ hours per course
Potential Jobs: Roles related to financial management within the construction industry, such as credit analyst, financial planner, or financial manager. This certification equips individuals with essential skills for handling the financial aspects of construction projects.
17. Certified Cost Professional (CCP)
A Certified Cost Professional (CCP) is an individual with specialized expertise in cost engineering. Their focus is on developing the skills to estimate, manage, and control project costs effectively, ensuring efficient financial management throughout the lifecycle of construction projects.
Price: $250 to $625.
Duration: Exam-based certification
Potential Jobs: Some include Cost Engineer, Project Cost Estimator, Construction Project Manager, Financial Analyst in Construction, Quantity Surveyor, and roles involved in strategic cost management and analysis within the construction industry.
Sustainability-Related Construction Certifications
18. Sustainability Excellence Associate(SEA) and Professional(SEP)
Those who take the Sustainability Excellence Associate (SEA) and Professional (SEP) certifications are equipped to integrate sustainable practices into construction and development projects.
Price: $225 to $525
Duration: 10 chapters plus a final exam
Potential Jobs: They may work as Sustainability Consultants, Green Building Managers, Environmental Planners, or Project Managers, ensuring adherence to eco-friendly standards and promoting environmentally responsible solutions in the construction industry.
19. Construction Professional in Built Environment Projects (PMI-CP)
The Construction Professional in Built Environment Projects (PMI-CP), offered by the Project Management Institute, tailors its certification for construction professionals, encompassing micro-credentials in project communication, technology, innovation, and materials management.
Price: The examination fee is $500, and e-learning courses cost nearly $5000.
Duration: The certification process involves completing four e-learning courses.
Potential Jobs: PMI-CP certification can lead to roles in project management, emphasizing communication, technology, innovation, and materials management in the built environment. Renewal is required every three years to maintain certification status.
20. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)
A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a qualified professional proficient in energy management and efficiency, responsible for implementing strategies to optimize energy usage, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability within various industries, including construction and building management.
Price: $250 to $625.
Duration: 13 hours and an exam
Potential Jobs: Some include Energy Manager, Sustainability Consultant, Energy Engineer, Environmental Analyst, Facilities Manager specializing in energy efficiency, Renewable Energy Project Manager
Emerging Certifications in the Construction Industry
As the construction industry evolves, new certifications emerge to address emerging needs. Stay ahead of the curve by exploring the latest certifications in sustainability, smart technology, and other cutting-edge areas.
Conclusion
The construction industry, with all its change and innovation, demands a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. These certifications will enhance your building and construction qualifications and set you apart in a competitive job market.
As we move into 2024, investing in relevant certifications, both personally and professionally, is a necessity for those looking to succeed in the construction industry, whether in the office or the field.
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