Why You Should Become a Certified Vibration Analyst
Alan Friedman, Zenco Vibrations
Posted 07/18/2023
If you work in the maintenance or reliability field, becoming a certified vibration analyst can be a valuable investment in your career. Not only does it demonstrate your expertise and proficiency in analyzing machinery vibration, but it can also open up new career opportunities and increase your earning potential. This article will explore the benefits of becoming a certified vibration analyst and why it’s worth considering.
What is a Certified Vibration Analyst?
Before we dive into the benefits of becoming a certified vibration analyst, let’s define what it means to hold this certification. ISO 18436-2 describes four categories of vibration analysts and their primary responsibilities:
Category I: (6+ months experience) Collecting vibration data and checking basic alarms. Also useful for people who need to be aware of the technology.
Category II: (12+ months experience) Responsible for analyzing the data collected by the Cat I person and writing reports.
Category III: (36+ months experience) Responsible for setting up and managing the program. Also proficient in structural analysis, special vibration tests and understanding other CM technologies.
To become certified, an individual must have a certain amount of hands-on experience, take a course and pass an examination that tests their knowledge of vibration analysis theory, instrumentation, and data analysis. Students may take the courses and exams prior to gaining hands-on experience, it will be recognized that they have passed the exam. When they have the work experience, they will receive their certification.
Now that we understand what it means to be a certified vibration analyst, let’s explore the benefits of earning this certification.
Increased Career Opportunities
One of the most significant benefits of becoming a certified vibration analyst is the increased career opportunities it can provide. Many industries rely on machinery to keep operations running smoothly, and with the increasing focus on condition-based maintenance, there is a growing need for qualified vibration analysts. Holding a certification can set you apart from other candidates when applying for new positions and can make you a more attractive candidate for promotions within your current organization.
Higher Earning Potential
Along with increased career opportunities, becoming a certified vibration analyst can also lead to higher earning potential. According to PayScale, the average salary for a vibration analyst is around $70,000 per year, with some professionals earning over $100,000 per year. This can vary depending on your location, industry, and level of experience, but in general, holding a certification can help you command a higher salary.
According to a recent LinkedIn poll, more than 78% of people who got the next level of vibration analysis certification expected to receive a raise of 5% or more; 58% said 10% or more. This is a clear indication that getting certified can have a significant impact on your career and financial growth.
Improved Skills and Knowledge
Earning a certification in vibration analysis requires a certain amount of study and preparation, which can help you improve your skills and knowledge in the field. By studying vibration analysis theory, instrumentation, and data analysis techniques, you can gain a deeper understanding of how machinery works and how to diagnose potential issues. This knowledge can also help you improve your ability to communicate with other professionals in the field and make more informed decisions about maintenance and repairs.
Greater Credibility and Recognition
Holding a certification in vibration analysis can also provide greater credibility and recognition within the industry. Employers and colleagues are more likely to trust your expertise and rely on your recommendations if you have earned a certification. Additionally, being recognized as a certified vibration analyst can help you build your professional network and open doors to new opportunities.
Continued Learning and Professional Development
Finally, becoming a certified vibration analyst can provide ongoing learning and professional development opportunities. Certification programs are a form of continuing education, which can help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in the field. Additionally, networking opportunities and access to industry events can help you stay connected with other professionals and expand your knowledge and skills.
For Employers
It is important for employers to certify their employees. At the very least, an employer will know that the analyst has enough knowledge to have passed the certification exam. Here are some additional reasons:
Compliance with Industry Standards
Certified vibration analysts are trained to work in accordance with industry standards and best practices. This means they know the latest technologies, techniques, and methodologies in vibration analysis. By hiring certified analysts, employers can be confident that their vibration analysis program is compliant with industry standards. In some companies, certification is required before one can undertake certain tasks.
Employee Development
Certification in vibration analysis is a mark of excellence and can be an excellent way for employees to develop their skills and advance in their careers. By hiring certified analysts, employers can demonstrate their commitment to employee development and encourage their staff to pursue certification and training opportunities in other areas of maintenance and reliability.
Conclusion
Becoming a certified vibration analyst can provide numerous benefits for those working in maintenance and reliability fields. From increased career opportunities and higher earning potential to improved skills and knowledge and greater credibility and recognition, earning this certification can be a valuable investment in your career. If you are considering becoming a certified vibration analyst, we can help! Check out our course list below.
Want to Learn More?
Alan Friedman dba Zenco offers machinery vibration analysis courses and certification in accordance with ISO 18436-2. You can see the live course schedule here: www.ZencoVibrations.com/events You can connect with him on LinkedIN sign up for his mailing list. In addition to public classroom training and public virtual courses, Alan is also available for private courses virtually or on-site in additional to informal training and mentoring. Category I and II vibration are also available in Spanish.
Alan Friedman
Alan, aka the Vibe Guru, has over 30 years of vibration analysis experience, He has trained 1000’s of students around the world up to Category IV. One of the things that makes Alan a great teacher is his ability to teach people where they are at. Whether you are a math challenged millwright, an engineer or a PhD, Alan will challenge you without overwhelming you. If you are interested in condition monitoring you can also check out his book: Audit It. Improve It! Getting the Most from your Vibration Monitoring Program or hire him for an on-site program audit.
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