Six Sigma belts, explained
Six Sigma is the gold standard for process improvement and efficiency in business and manufacturing, but its colored belt tier system can be confusing. Modeled after the martial arts belt system, each Six Sigma certification level is assigned a belt color and represents a specific level of expertise and responsibility.
Below, learn what each belt color means and the typical roles and contributions of each.
Six Sigma white belt
The white belt is the entry-level certification and serves as an introduction to Six Sigma concepts and methodologies. White belts may assist in projects and problem-solving initiatives, but they are not typically considered members of the core Six Sigma team.
White belt certification demonstrates a foundational understanding of Six Sigma principles and may lead to junior quality assurance and product manager roles. There are no prerequisites for white belt certification, and many organizations offer the assessment exam free of charge.
Six Sigma yellow belt
The yellow belt certification signifies the holder has a basic knowledge of Six Sigma processes and knows how to apply the core methodologies. As members of the Six Sigma team, yellow belts typically assist green and black belts with tasks like mapping and reviewing process improvements.
Though still in the beginning stages of Six Sigma, yellow belt certification can lead to entry-level operations management and analyst roles. Anyone can attempt the yellow belt certification assessment exam, but they should understand the Six Sigma define, measure, and control (DMC) phases.
Six Sigma green belt
The green belt is a mid-level certification that establishes the professional as capable of applying more advanced Six Sigma tools and methods for process improvement. Green belts actively participate in larger black belt-led projects by providing data collection and analysis. They may even lead smaller quality improvement projects.
Green belt certification can support and lead to roles in financial, quality, and project management. To pass the assessment exam, professionals must have a solid grasp of the Six Sigma define, measure, analyze, improve, and control (DMAIC) phases. They may also need professional experience.
Note: The Council for Six Sigma Certification (CSSC) offers two green belt levels. The second level requires completing level one and submitting a project that displays real use cases of DMAIC methodologies.
Six Sigma black belt
The black belt is an expert-level certification that demonstrates mastery of Six Sigma systems and tools. Black belts use the DMAIC process to plan and lead projects, implement solutions, and develop sustainable process improvements. They also lead and mentor green and yellow belts.
Black belt certification can lead to various senior and management roles, including operations strategist, quality improvement manager, and manufacturing manager. The requirements for black belt certification vary by the credentialing organization, but professional experience and real-world applications of the DMAIC model may be required.
The CSSC offers three progressive black belt levels and each builds on and requires completion of the previous level.
Six Sigma master black belt
The master black belt is a leadership-level certification that showcases a professional's ability to manage an organization's Six Sigma staff and programs. Master black belts are often the Six Sigma internal trainers and coaches within an organization, developing strategic directions and consulting on company-wide projects.
Professionals with master black belt certification can take on engineering manager, industrial production manager, and management consultant roles in organizations. They are usually the leaders that black and green belts report to. Requirements can vary, but a master black belt typically requires black belt certification and several years of experience.
Six Sigma champion
The Six Sigma champion is a management-level role that situates a professional as someone who promotes the importance and value of Six Sigma projects to an organization and stakeholders. These champions communicate the qualities of Six Sigma and help with its deployment, such as gathering resources and a team.
Six Sigma champions may hold many titles, such as department head, operations manager, and continuous improvement director. While some organizations offer champion certifications, these titles are typically unofficial and earned through leadership experience and a mastery of Six Sigma principles.
Six Sigma executive
Six Sigma executives take on the responsibility of embedding Six Sigma into an organization's strategic vision. These professionals develop the direction and strategy of the program, ensuring it aligns with the organization's overall goals and culture.
Unlike Six Sigma belts, the Six Sigma executive is not a credential but a role taken on by an internal leader who is responsible for the success of the organization, such as the president of operations or chief operating officer.