Quality Control Manager Certifications

Explore the top Quality Control Manager certifications that are important to a successful career.

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Getting Certified as a Quality Control Manager

In the meticulous world of quality control, certifications are not just accolades; they are a testament to a manager's commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of industry standards. For Quality Control Managers, the journey to certification is an investment in their professional development, equipping them with the latest tools and methodologies to ensure products meet the highest quality benchmarks.

This guide offers a comprehensive look at the certifications that can elevate a Quality Control Manager's expertise and credibility. It serves as a roadmap for those seeking to enhance their skill set, stay ahead of industry trends, and make a tangible impact on their organization's quality assurance processes. Whether you're beginning your career or are a seasoned professional, the right certification can be a pivotal milestone in your quest for quality leadership.

Top Quality Control Manager Certifications

Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Certification
Exemplar Global
Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA)
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Certified Pharmaceutical GMP Professional (CPGP)
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Certified Biomedical Auditor (CBA)
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Certified Food Safety and Quality Auditor (CFSQA)
International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA)
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification
IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification)
Six Sigma Black Belt Certification
American Society for Quality (ASQ)

Best Quality Control Manager Certifications

Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

Certification Provider
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Best For
Quality Managers, Organizational Excellence Leaders, Senior Process Engineers, Quality Assurance Directors, Continuous Improvement Managers, Operations Managers with quality focus
Description
The Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a prestigious certification that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated expertise in managing and leading organizational quality improvement initiatives. It covers a broad range of topics, including strategic management, quality systems, product and process design, and measurement. This certification is ideal for managers and leaders seeking to enhance their skills in quality assurance and continuous improvement practices. Candidates must pass a comprehensive exam and meet work experience requirements to obtain the CMQ/OE designation.
Includes Certification
Yes
Time to Complete
Price
$548
Prerequisites
  • A minimum of 10 years of work experience in one or more areas of the Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence Body of Knowledge.
  • Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree or higher need only 5 years of work experience.
  • Candidates with a Diploma (associates degree) need 6 years of work experience.
  • Work experience must be in a full-time, paid role and at least one year must be in a decision-making position.
  • Passing the CMQ/OE examination, which consists of multiple-choice questions that measure comprehension of the Body of Knowledge.
  • Recertification is required every three years either by examination or by documenting professional development units.

    • Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)

    Certification Provider
    American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Best For
    Quality Auditor, Quality Assurance Manager, Quality Engineer, Compliance Auditor, Lead Auditor, Process Improvement Specialist
    Description
    The Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) is a professional credential offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) that validates an individual's knowledge in the principles and practices of auditing, and the ability to analyze all elements of a quality system. CQA holders demonstrate their competence in understanding standards, evaluating systems for deficiencies and improvements, and effectively communicating audit findings. This certification is ideal for professionals seeking to ensure compliance and enhance quality assurance processes within an organization.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $498
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of eight years of work experience in the field of quality auditing, with at least three years in a decision-making position. This experience must be in a full-time, paid role.
  • Education can be used to substitute for some of the required work experience: a diploma from a technical or trade school - one year will be waived, Associate degree - two years waived, Bachelor’s degree - four years waived, Master’s or Doctorate - five years waived.
  • Proof of professionalism through endorsements, which require signatures from a peer and your current supervisor or someone holding a certification from ASQ.
  • Agreement to abide by the ASQ Code of Ethics.
  • Completion of the CQA Body of Knowledge which includes topics such as auditing fundamentals, audit process, auditor competencies, audit program management, and quality tools and techniques.
  • Passing the CQA examination, which is a five-hour test consisting of 165 multiple-choice questions.

    • Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

    Certification Provider
    American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Best For
    Quality Engineer, Senior Process Engineer, Quality Manager, Reliability Engineer, Product Development Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer
    Description
    The Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a prestigious credential offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) that validates an individual's comprehensive understanding of quality engineering principles and practices. This certification focuses on areas such as product and process design, quality control, testing, and improvement. It requires a deep knowledge of statistics, reliability, and lifecycle management. CQEs are equipped to identify and solve quality-related issues, leading to increased efficiency and performance within an organization. To earn this certification, candidates must pass a rigorous exam and meet relevant experience requirements.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $498
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of eight years of on-the-job experience in one or more of the areas of the Certified Quality Engineer Body of Knowledge.
  • A minimum of three years of this experience must be in a decision-making position. "Decision-making" is defined as the authority to define, execute, or control projects/processes and to be responsible for the outcome.
  • This may or may not include management or supervisory positions.
  • If you are now or were previously certified by ASQ as a Quality Auditor, Reliability Engineer, Software Quality Engineer, or Quality Manager, experience used to qualify for certification in these fields applies to certification as a Quality Engineer.
  • A degree from a college, university, or technical school with accreditation accepted by ASQ will reduce the eight-year experience requirement as follows (only one of these waivers may be claimed):
    • Diploma from a technical or trade school—one year will be waived.
    • Associate degree—two years waived.
    • Bachelor’s degree—four years waived.
    • Master’s or doctorate—five years waived.
  • Passing the CQE examination, which is a one-part, 175-question exam, and is offered in English.

    • ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Certification

    Certification Provider
    Exemplar Global
    Best For
    Quality Assurance Managers, Lead Auditors, Quality Systems Engineers, Compliance Managers, Quality Management Consultants, Operations Managers
    Description
    The ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Certification by Exemplar Global equips professionals with the expertise to conduct and lead a Quality Management System (QMS) audit. This certification focuses on the principles and practices of performing and managing first, second, and third-party audits in accordance with ISO 19011, including ISO/IEC 17021-1. Certified individuals will gain the skills to assess an organization's ability to manage and improve quality processes, ensuring compliance with ISO 9001 standards.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    40 hours
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A fundamental understanding of the ISO 9001:2015 standard and its application in the context of audit system management.
  • Completion of a lead auditor training course recognized by Exemplar Global or an equivalent organization.
  • Knowledge of audit principles, procedures, and techniques, often obtained through completing relevant training or previous audit experience.
  • Understanding of management systems and the principles of quality management systems.
  • Experience in a quality management role or related field is recommended, though not always mandatory.
  • For some certifications, a certain number of audit hours or audit roles may be required as practical experience.

    • Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA)

    Certification Provider
    American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Best For
    Quality Assurance Associate, Process Improvement Coordinator, Quality Control Analyst, Entry-level Quality Engineer, Continuous Improvement Specialist, Junior Project Manager
    Description
    The Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA) by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a foundational certification that validates an individual's understanding of quality principles and practices. Focusing on continuous improvement, problem-solving, and basic quality management systems, this certification is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their role in quality improvement initiatives. CQIA holders demonstrate a commitment to quality and the ability to contribute to process and performance enhancements in any industry.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    18-24 months
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Education and Experience: Two years of work experience or an associate degree or two years of equivalent higher education.
  • Understanding of Basic Quality Principles: Knowledge of fundamental quality concepts, including continuous improvement, customer focus, and basic quality tools.
  • Membership: While not a requirement, ASQ members may receive discounts on exam fees and have access to additional resources.
  • Exam Preparation: Familiarity with the Body of Knowledge (BoK) for the CQIA exam, which ASQ provides in the form of a detailed outline.
  • Exam: Passing the CQIA exam, which consists of multiple-choice questions and covers the topics outlined in the BoK.
  • Code of Ethics: Agreement to adhere to the ASQ Code of Ethics for professional conduct.

    • Certified Pharmaceutical GMP Professional (CPGP)

    Certification Provider
    American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Best For
    Quality Assurance Manager, Quality Control Supervisor, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Manager, Regulatory Affairs Specialist, GMP Compliance Officer, Production Supervisor with GMP experience
    Description
    The Certified Pharmaceutical GMP Professional (CPGP) by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a credential that validates an individual's expertise in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) within the pharmaceutical industry. It focuses on ensuring that professionals are knowledgeable about the latest regulations and can effectively manage and improve manufacturing processes. The certification requires a thorough understanding of quality control, compliance, and operational excellence to ensure the safety and efficacy of pharmaceutical products.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of five years of on-the-job experience in one or more of the areas of the Certified Pharmaceutical GMP Professional Body of Knowledge.
  • A minimum of three years of this experience must be in a decision-making position, which may include roles such as a supervisor or manager.
  • Higher education from a recognized institution can be used to substitute for up to two years of the required five years of experience. For example, an associate degree can substitute for two years of experience, and a diploma from a technical or trade school can substitute for one year of experience.
  • Candidates must understand regulatory requirements and quality systems as they pertain to pharmaceuticals, including FDA regulations, ICH guidelines, and other global regulatory frameworks.
  • Knowledge of pharmaceutical GMPs and the ability to apply them in practice is essential.
  • Passing the CPGP examination, which covers topics such as regulations and guidance, quality management systems, product development, and manufacturing operations.

    • Certified Biomedical Auditor (CBA)

    Certification Provider
    American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Best For
    Quality Assurance Auditor - Biomedical, Biomedical Compliance Specialist, Medical Device Quality Auditor, Quality Systems Manager - Biomedical, Regulatory Affairs Specialist - Biomedical, Biomedical Quality Consultant
    Description
    The Certified Biomedical Auditor (CBA) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) designed for individuals who perform quality audits in the biomedical field. This certification validates the auditor's knowledge of biomedical quality auditing principles and practices, including regulatory requirements, risk management, and the ability to effectively assess compliance and process performance. CBAs are equipped to ensure that biomedical products and services meet all industry standards and customer expectations. Obtaining this certification requires passing a rigorous exam and demonstrates a commitment to excellence in the field of biomedical quality assurance.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of five years of on-the-job experience in one or more of the areas of the Certified Biomedical Auditor Body of Knowledge.
  • A minimum of an associate degree from a college or university that is accredited by a recognized accrediting body or a global equivalent, which will reduce the on-the-job experience requirement by one year.
  • Candidates must have worked in a full-time, paid role within the biomedical field.
  • At least one year of experience must be in a decision-making position, which is defined as the authority to define, execute, or control projects/processes and to be responsible for the outcome.
  • Completion of an application to document education and experience, which is subject to approval by ASQ.
  • Passing the CBA examination, which requires a solid understanding of the CBA Body of Knowledge.

    • Certified Food Safety and Quality Auditor (CFSQA)

    Certification Provider
    International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA)
    Best For
    Food Safety Manager, Quality Assurance Manager, Food Production Auditor, Food Safety Compliance Officer, Quality Control Supervisor, HACCP Coordinator
    Description
    The Certified Food Safety and Quality Auditor (CFSQA) certification, provided by the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA), is a prestigious qualification aimed at professionals who conduct food safety and quality audits. This certification equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess compliance with food safety standards, manage risks, and ensure continuous improvement in the food production and processing industries. Candidates will learn to perform thorough audits, report findings, and help organizations maintain the integrity of their food safety management systems.
    Includes Certification
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A thorough understanding of food safety principles and practices.
  • Knowledge of and experience with food safety management systems, such as HACCP, ISO 22000, or similar standards.
  • Completion of an IRCA-approved training course specific to food safety and quality auditing.
  • A minimum amount of work experience in the food industry, often several years, including roles with responsibility for managing food safety.
  • Experience in conducting, managing, or participating in food safety audits.
  • Understanding of applicable food safety legislation, regulations, and guidelines.

    • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

    Certification Provider
    IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification)
    Best For
    Process Improvement Specialist, Quality Assurance Analyst, Operations Manager, Project Manager, Manufacturing Engineer, Business Analyst
    Description
    The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification from IASSC is a globally recognized credential that signifies proficiency in the foundational elements of the Lean Six Sigma Methodology. This certification focuses on developing skills in data-driven improvement projects and emphasizes the Lean principles of waste reduction and process efficiency. Candidates will learn to implement, perform, interpret, and apply Lean Six Sigma at a high level of proficiency, which involves problem-solving, project management, and value creation to improve business processes.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    60 hours
    Price
    $295
    Prerequisites
  • No formal education or experience prerequisites; however, familiarity with basic Lean Six Sigma concepts is recommended
  • Understanding of the DMAIC framework (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) as it relates to Lean Six Sigma
  • Completion of IASSC-approved Lean Six Sigma Green Belt training is recommended but not required
  • Pass the IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Exam
  • Agreement to adhere to the IASSC Code of Ethics
  • There are no project completion requirements for the IASSC Green Belt certification

    • Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

    Certification Provider
    American Society for Quality (ASQ)
    Best For
    Quality Manager, Process Improvement Manager, Operations Manager, Lean Six Sigma Consultant, Senior Project Manager, Manufacturing Engineer
    Description
    The Six Sigma Black Belt Certification from the American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a prestigious credential that signifies expertise in Six Sigma philosophy and principles, including supporting systems and tools. A Black Belt demonstrates team leadership, understands team dynamics, and assigns team member roles and responsibilities. Black Belts have a thorough understanding of all aspects of the DMAIC model in accordance with Six Sigma principles, have basic knowledge of lean enterprise concepts, and can identify non-value-added elements and activities. This certification requires a deep understanding of both the technical and managerial aspects of Six Sigma and is aimed at professionals seeking to lead projects and drive quality improvements within their organizations.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    130-180 hours
    Price
    $538 (members) / $788 (non-members)
    Prerequisites
  • Completion of two Six Sigma projects with signed affidavits, or one completed project with a signed affidavit and three years of work experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma Black Belt Body of Knowledge.
  • A minimum of three years of full-time, paid work experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma Black Belt Body of Knowledge.
  • Work experience must be in a full-time, paid role. Paid intern, co-op, or any other coursework cannot be applied towards the work experience requirement.
  • Educational waivers are not offered for the Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
  • Understanding of Six Sigma tools and methods, including the DMAIC model and lean enterprise concepts.
  • Passing the ASQ Six Sigma Black Belt certification exam.

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    Benefits of Having a Quality Control Manager Certification

    Professional Validation and Expertise: A Quality Control Manager certification is a mark of excellence and a clear indication of your specialized knowledge in maintaining product quality standards. It validates your proficiency in quality management principles and methodologies, setting you apart as an expert in the eyes of employers, colleagues, and clients.

    Comprehensive Skill Enhancement: Certifications are designed to cover all critical aspects of quality control, from statistical process control to regulatory compliance and risk management. They help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring you are well-equipped to tackle the multifaceted challenges of quality assurance in your industry.

    Career Progression and Marketability: In the competitive field of quality control, a certification can be a significant differentiator in your career trajectory. It can enhance your resume, making you a more attractive candidate for promotions or new job opportunities, and can also be a powerful tool during salary negotiations, reflecting your commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.

    Access to a Professional Network: Quality Control Manager certifications often come with membership to professional bodies and access to exclusive networks. These connections can be instrumental for career growth, providing opportunities to collaborate with peers, share best practices, and stay informed about industry developments and job openings.

    Confidence in Leadership and Decision-Making: The process of obtaining a certification can significantly boost your confidence in your quality control capabilities. It reassures both you and your employer of your ability to lead quality initiatives and make informed decisions that will positively impact the company's products and services, ultimately contributing to customer satisfaction and business success.

    How to Choose the Best Quality Control Manager Certification

    Choosing the right certification as a Quality Control Manager is a strategic step that can significantly enhance your expertise and marketability in the field of quality assurance. In an industry that values precision, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement, the certifications you hold can set you apart and demonstrate your commitment to excellence. The following tips are designed to guide you through the selection process, ensuring that the certification you choose not only reflects your professional identity but also adds substantial value to your career progression.
    • Industry-Specific Knowledge: Identify certifications that offer specialized knowledge pertinent to your industry. Whether you're in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food safety, or another sector, look for a certification that addresses the unique quality standards and regulatory requirements of your field. This specificity can make you a more effective Quality Control Manager and a valuable asset to your employer.
    • Compliance and Regulatory Insight: Given the critical role of compliance in quality control, opt for certifications that enhance your understanding of current regulations and prepare you for upcoming changes. Certifications that cover ISO standards, FDA regulations, or other industry-specific regulatory frameworks will ensure that you are equipped to maintain compliance and manage risk effectively.
    • Professional Body Endorsement: Seek out certifications endorsed by reputable professional bodies such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ), which are widely recognized and respected in the industry. These certifications often come with additional benefits, such as access to exclusive resources, industry updates, and professional networks that can be invaluable for your career growth.
    • Methodology and Tools Proficiency: Consider certifications that focus on the methodologies and tools essential for quality control, such as Six Sigma, Lean, or Total Quality Management (TQM). These certifications should offer practical training in the use of quality management software, statistical analysis, and problem-solving techniques that can directly improve your performance on the job.
    • Continuing Education and Advancement: Evaluate certifications that provide a pathway for continuing education and career advancement. Look for programs that offer different levels of certification, which can help you progress from a foundational understanding to expert-level mastery over time. This approach demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning and can lead to higher-level positions within your organization or industry.

    Preparing for Your Quality Control Manager Certification

    Earning a certification as a Quality Control Manager is a strategic step towards enhancing your expertise and credibility in the field of quality assurance. It's an investment in your professional development that can lead to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and a deeper understanding of industry standards and best practices. However, the journey to certification is rigorous and requires a thoughtful approach to ensure success. Here's how to prepare effectively for your Quality Control Manager certification, so you can approach the exam with confidence and integrate the knowledge into your career.

    Set Clear Objectives: Begin by identifying what you want to gain from the certification. Are you looking to deepen your knowledge in a particular area, such as statistical process control or ISO standards? Or are you aiming to validate your expertise and enhance your leadership skills within the quality control domain? Understanding your goals will help you select the right certification and tailor your study plan to focus on the areas that will benefit you the most.

    Develop a Comprehensive Study Plan: Once you've chosen a certification, obtain the syllabus and create a detailed study plan. Break down the content into topics and subtopics, and schedule regular study sessions. Be realistic about how much time you can commit each day or week, and make sure to balance your study plan with work and personal commitments. Incorporate a mix of reading materials, practice questions, and interactive learning such as webinars or online courses to cater to different learning styles.

    Utilize Quality Control Resources: Take advantage of the wealth of resources available to Quality Control Managers. This includes textbooks, industry publications, online databases, and quality control software tools. Familiarize yourself with the latest trends and technological advancements in quality management by reading articles and attending industry conferences. These resources will not only aid in your exam preparation but also keep you informed about the evolving landscape of quality control.

    Join Professional Networks: Networking with other professionals in the field can provide invaluable support and insight. Join quality control associations, LinkedIn groups, or forums where you can discuss study strategies, share resources, and learn from the experiences of those who have already achieved certification. Engaging with a community of peers can also help you stay motivated and accountable throughout your preparation journey.

    Practice Real-World Application: Theory is important, but the ability to apply quality control principles in practical situations is what will truly set you apart. Seek out opportunities to implement what you're learning in your current role or through simulated projects. This hands-on experience will reinforce your understanding and give you concrete examples to draw upon during the exam and in your future work as a certified Quality Control Manager.

    Certification FAQs for Quality Control Managers

    Is getting a Quality Control Manager certification worth it?

    Obtaining a Quality Control Manager certification can be a valuable investment in your career. For those new to the field, it offers structured learning, introduces key concepts, and helps establish a professional identity. For seasoned professionals, it's an opportunity to stay current with industry standards, expand expertise, and signal dedication to quality excellence.

    Certifications can also bolster your resume, showcasing a formal endorsement of your skills to potential employers. In the meticulous world of quality control, where precision and regulatory compliance are paramount, a certification can serve as a testament to your capability and commitment to upholding high standards.

    Do you need a certification to get a job as a Quality Control Manager?

    Certifications are not strictly required to become a Quality Control Manager, but they can significantly enhance your profile. They demonstrate a formal understanding of quality standards, methodologies, and regulatory requirements, which can be particularly beneficial if your background is in a different field or if you lack extensive experience in quality control.

    Employers often look for a blend of experience, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of industry-specific quality systems. A certification, such as ASQ's Certified Quality Manager or ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor, can validate your expertise and commitment to the field, potentially giving you an edge in the competitive job market.

    Can Quality Control Manager certifications help pivoters make the transition into Operations from another career path?

    Yes, Quality Control Manager certifications can be instrumental for those transitioning from different careers. These certifications typically encompass key industry standards, quality management systems, and process improvement techniques, equipping career changers with essential knowledge. They validate your expertise to employers and show dedication to mastering quality control principles. Additionally, the structured learning and professional networks gained through certification programs can significantly facilitate a smoother transition into the quality control field.
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