Is A Six Sigma Certificate Useful For A Chemical Engineer?

The Engineer's Perspective
The Engineer's Perspective

Table of Contents

six sigma certification for chemical engineers Six Sigma Certificate

Six Sigma-certified chemical engineers are proficient in process capability tools that are focused on improving process quality. In this topic, you will learn more insights into how beneficial a Six Sigma certificate is to chemical engineers. 

Key Takeaways

  • Six Sigma is a process management approach that formulates a system through which one can improve processes in any aspect of an organization or business. 
  • Six Sigma is all about a systemic scientific process that works by eliminating defects and non-value-adding processes of the business.
  • Chemical engineers with Six Sigma certification are very beneficial as it helps them improve, optimize, and solve problems in existing industrial processes.
Marco Hersmis

Marco Hersmis

Continuous Improvement Lead, Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, Project Completion Coach at Cargill

Yellow Belt and Green belts really add value to the engineering toolbox. Each and every Green Belt that I worked with obtained new challenges, promotions, [or] new roles inside or outside the current company within one year after certification

Ritika Jain

Ritika Jain

Process Development Engineer at Tesla, Six Sigma Black belt

If you are looking into process engineering/manufacturing-related jobs then six sigma would give a head start

What Does Six Sigma Mean?

Six Sigma is a statistical and data-driven process that uses a set of quality-control methods and tools for business process improvement and quality management. It emphasizes finding process defects, determining the causes, and improving current processes to increase the reliability and repeatability of process results. The improved process efficiency, in turn, also improves the quality of products for the customers — significantly boosting business profit, customer satisfaction, and employee confidence. 

This management ideology is part of the total quality management philosophy on continuous improvement. Since organizations cannot reach perfection, they should always measure their performance and take continuous actions to advance it.

Why Do Chemical Engineers Get A Six Sigma Certificate?

Six Sigma tools equip chemical engineers to lead initiatives for improving process efficiency and the quality of products and services to the customers. This is achieved by focusing on reducing total defects and decreasing work in progress which translates to increased capacity, output, and quality.

It is beneficial for chemical engineers to pursue a Six Sigma certification since it can help them improve, optimize, and solve problems in existing industrial processes. These are the advantages of chemical engineers with a Six Sigma certificate:

  • More fit for jobs that demands expertise in business understanding and analytical abilities
  • Makes a chemical engineer stand out from the competition in the market thus better occupation chances
  • Open more doors for managerial roles
  • Better compensation

How Do Chemical Engineers Apply Six Sigma?

With Six Sigma methodologies in place, a chemical engineer who oversees large-scale and complex processes can use these tools to make them more efficient. Sample areas that a chemical engineer could make good use of these tools are the following:

  • Process Engineers. Product defects and offsets are mainly caused by process variations. A chemical engineer applies principles in chemical engineering to improve processes and make them more efficient. 
  • Design Engineers. Chemical engineers who work in product or plant development look for issues in product specifications or non-value-adding process flow that needs to be eliminated or streamlined for better efficiency.

How To Be A Six Sigma Practitioner

There are no prerequisites for the Six Sigma program. Six Sigma certifications can be earned if you meet the following requirements: 

  1. Complete the learning sessions
  2. Pass the practical and written examinations
  3. Complete an actual Six Sigma project.

There are several ways to earn a Six Sigma Certification by accredited training providers. Unlike in ISO, there is no central certifying body in Six Sigma. Usually, master black belts can certify individuals as long as the applicant meets the minimum requirements.

What Are The Six Sigma Levels?

Six Sigma certification has levels where each belt represents an improved understanding and experience in this principle. Each belt is earned through course-based training and on-the-job experience. Accreditation bodies such as the American Society for Quality provide these certifications, which are:

Six Sigma Level Chart six sigma certification for chemical engineers

Final Thoughts

Being a chemical engineer with a Six Sigma certification does not only reduce defects in processes but also helps organizations determine threats and recognize new opportunities for their growth in order to thrive within competitive environments. Not only does Six Sigma benefit the organization, but also the career development of a chemical engineer.

FAQs

Does Six Sigma help you get a job?

Yes, because the skills you have already mastered and the hands-on training in project management, cost reduction, revenue improvement, leadership, and quality control can help you stand out to employers.

Which belt is best in Six Sigma?

Six Sigma Master Black belt is the highest level of Six Sigma achievement. At this level, you already have a thorough understanding of shaping strategy, developing key metrics, acting as a consultant, and coaching black and green belts.

How much does the Six Sigma training cost?

Six Sigma training cost around $300 to $1,050.

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