Six Sigma is a business improvement methodology utilized by firms around the globe to increase quality by eliminating defects and reducing service failures and production waste. Manufacturing companies were among the first to integrate Six Sigma into their operations, followed quickly by service providers. It’s clear that businesses of all types and sizes have benefited from Six Sigma tools and techniques, as evidenced by its integration into finance, healthcare, information technology, human resources, automobile manufacturing, and many more industries.
When incorporated into a business’s operations, Six Sigma boosts performance by systematically improving processes—both existing and new—so they work more effectively. Through Six Sigma, companies are better positioned to achieve their goals of satisfying more customers and improving profits.
Over the past few decades, as more industries have embraced Six Sigma, more management professionals have pursued the specialized training that enables them to understand and implement these proven methodologies.
What is a Six Sigma Green Belt?
A Six Sigma Green Belt has successfully completed the required training to reach the first level of Six Sigma certification. Six Sigma Green Belt candidates are typically business professionals involved in process improvement, data analysis or , with little or no experience in Six Sigma methodologies.
After completing Six Sigma Green Belt training, they participate in – and sometimes lead – business improvement initiatives. Six Sigma Green Belts usually take on the responsibilities and tasks of process improvement projects under the supervision of a Six Sigma Black Belt, who has completed a higher (Black Belt) level of training.
You may also enjoy: A Day in the Life of a Six Sigma Green Belt
On-the-Job Training vs. Certification
Learning the methodologies, tools and techniques of Six Sigma through on-the-job training can be highly valuable. However, to become a certified Six Sigma Green Belt, you must complete official Six Sigma training.
Earning Six Sigma certification can really pay off, especially when seeking a new position. Employers recognize and respect the amount of training required to become Six Sigma Green Belt certified. By passing the certification exam, you will have demonstrated expert-level knowledge of the approach, tools and methodologies of Six Sigma, and your ability to implement them to prevent defects and improve customer satisfaction. On-the-job training is helpful, but formal training that culminates with Six Sigma Green Belt certification proves that you can achieve measurable results to improve a business’s bottom line.
Training and Certification Requirements
Six Sigma Green Belt training is geared toward mid-to-upper level management professionals who are responsible for controlling costs, improving outputs and contributing to the bottom line. Training focuses on the fundamental DMAIC paradigm, which stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control. Participants learn basic Six Sigma principles; among them are defining project scope, collecting, measuring and analyzing data, determining solutions, and using control charts.
Training programs may be full-time or part-time, and typically range from two to 12 weeks. Many are available online. Those who successfully complete a Six Sigma Green Belt training program may take the certification exam.
Potential Salary
Since they are found in a wide variety of occupations and industries, salaries for Six Sigma Green Belts will vary broadly. According to the 2016 QP Salary Survey, the median annual salaries for various Six Sigma Green Belts in the United States were:
Supplier Engineer $87,708
Reliability Engineer $107,204
Manufacturing Process Engineer $85,003
Process Manager $100,017
Software Quality Engineer $106,654
Vice President/Executive $164,387
The salary survey also reported the national gross salary range (10% – 90%) for certified Six Sigma Green Belts as $93,558.
You are encouraged to conduct independent research to determine actual earning potential, as Six Sigma salaries may vary, depending on the position, company, and location, as well as your education level, certification status and work experience.
Is Six Sigma Green Belt Training For You?
If you have experience in project, program, supply chain or other areas of business management, and are interested in the concepts of continuous improvement and waste reduction, you could be a great candidate for Six Sigma training and Green Belt certification. Discover how the respected Six Sigma certification credential can enhance your career possibilities.
