Certification and Training Program
for the Pump Industry!
Knowledge transfer is essential to the long-term success of any industry. To support meaningful and consistent knowledge sharing within the pump industry, the Hydraulic Institute (HI) has developed three certifications: Pump System Certification – Level 1 (PSC Level 1), Pump System Certification – Level 2 (PSC Level 2), and the Pump System Assessment Professional (PSAP).
Thoughtfully designed by experts serving on HI’s Certification Committees, each certification builds upon the core competencies of the preceding level. Each certification level includes 16 standard knowledge domains but the knowledge topics within each domain have logical progression from understand and apply (Level 1), to interpret and analyze (Level 2), to evaluate and solve (PSAP). Together, these certifications address critical knowledge topics so the workforce is prepared for the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Pump & System Training Designed with Alignment in Mind
Pump Systems Matter (PSM) has created an aligned training catalog. As outlined in the Pump System Training and Certification Alignment Pyramid below, each training product is assigned to a Learning Level that corresponds with the certification level. This creates a cohesive and structured learning pathway.

Individuals are encouraged to begin at the base of the pyramid (Introductory training) to gain fundamental knowledge of the pump industry and proceed up through the certification levels as needed.
Why Pursue Pump System Certification?
PSC sets the standard for pump and system knowledge and validates an individuals' competencies through a proctored exam. Covering everything from pump types and performance to system design and operation, PSC provides a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals that power reliable and efficient pumping systems. Even seasoned professionals gain value from refreshing core concepts, while those newer to the industry benefit from a clear, structured learning path.
For Organizations: Embedding PSC in your workforce development plan provides:
- Simplified onboarding that leverages industry standard knowledge progression.
- Third-party verification of competencies.
- The ability to attract and retain talent by providing a clear development plan including industry certifications.
For Individuals: Acquiring PSC serves as:
- A powerful differentiator by validating your competencies, which demonstrates you have a deep understanding of pumps and the systems they operate in and are committed to excellence in the pump and fluid handling industry.
- Heightened credibility provides enhanced job prospects and increased earning potential, making certified individuals highly sought after by employers.
To learn more about the benefits of certifications, go to pumps.org.
Achieving Your Certification
The process for earning (and maintaining) your Pump System Certification has been broken down into 8 steps. Start with reviewing the program requirements and determine which certification is the best fit for your professional goals!

View the 8 Steps to Earn (and Maintain) Your Certification
Audience & Eligibility Requirements
To learn more about the certification process, go to pumps.org. Questions can be directed to our Certification Manager.
PSC Level 1
Audience: Engineers (entry-level or new to the industry), sales/application personnel, operation/maintenance technicians.
To be eligible for certification, applicants must satisfy ONE of the following:
- At least six (6) months of relevant work experience, or
- Currently enrolled in or completed an associate or bachelor’s degree program, preferably in an engineering or technical field, or
- Completed an associate or bachelor's degree program, preferably in an engineering or technical field.
PSC Level 2
Audience: Engineers and technical sales with a desire to advance knowledge.
To be eligible for certification, applicants must satisfy ONE of the following:
- At least three (3) years of relevant work experience, or
- Completed an associate degree program in a STEM field and at least two (2) years of relevant work experience, or
- Completed PSC Level 1 and at least one and a half (1.5) years of relevant work experience, or
- Completed a bachelor's or graduate degree program in a STEM field and at least one (1) year of relevant experience.
PSAP
Audience: Engineers, after-marker and field services personnel, technical sales with a desire to advance knowledge.
To be eligible for certification, applicants must satisfy ONE of the following:
- At least seven (7) years of relevant work experience, or
- Completed a bachelor or graduate degree program in a STEM field and at least give (5) years of relevant work experience.
See the HI 41.8 Program Guideline for Pump System Certification for more in-depth information for PSC Levels 1 and 2. The PSAP Certification follows the requirements outlined in HI 40.8 Program Guideline for Pump System Assessment Professional Certification.
Start the Journey Today.
Find the Training that is Right for You.
PSM has created training to help you understand the core competencies of each certification. There are distinct learning paths based on the delivery method (either virtual live course or self-paced on-demand content).
PSC Level 1 certified individuals are able to interpret pump system requirements to make informed pump type and hydraulic selections based on their understanding of performance curves, system curve interactions, varying operating points, efficiency, power consumption and the effect on reliability.
Explore PSC Level 1 Training Test Your Knowlege View Training Outline
PSC Level 2 certified individuals are able to solve common issues related to equipment suitability for the application, installation, and system operation based on their understanding of best practices, pump and system design and pump system calculations.
Pump System Assessment Professionals (PSAP) are able to optimize systems based on their ability to lead assessments that evaluate the design, test the system, evaluate results and recommend findings that lower the total cost of ownership through energy savings, and improved operations, maintenance and reliability.
Questions?
Questions on Certification?
Questions on the certification eligibility requirements, exam proctoring, and certification renewals can be directed to our Certification Manager by clicking here.
Questions on Training?
Questions about training selection, organizational adoption via licensing models, or training alignment can be directed to our Learning and Development Teamr by clicking here.
Questions on Products?
Questions related to the products (accessing training, downloading certificate of completion, etc.) can be direct to our Customer Support Center.
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