Six Sigma is a process improvement methodology that uses statistics to eliminate defects in a product or service. There are various levels of expertise in the practice of Six Sigma: Yellow Belt, Green Belt, Black Belt and Master Black Belt. The Green Belt operates under the supervision of a Black Belt.

Training

A Green Belt learns about the history of Six Sigma and the mathematics behind it. During the class, the trainee is taken step-by-step through the gathering and calculation of the statistics. The class usually lasts approximately three days. At the completion of the course, the trainee's knowledge is tested. If the trainee's test scores are acceptable, the trainee is awarded the Green Belt certification.

Statistics

The Green Belt trainee learns how to create cause/effect diagrams, check sheets, identify trends and create process control charts to understand the acceptable operational boundaries of a process.

Application

The Green Belt operates under the supervision of a Black Belt. This is to ensure that the Green Belt properly applies the Six Sigma methodology to real-world projects.

Salary

A Six Sigma Green Belt makes approximately $55,000 to $90,000 per year.

Advancement

If the Green Belt would like additional expertise, the next step is to become a Black Belt. A Black Belt supervises multiple projects and creates substantial company savings through the Six Sigma methodology.

Other Belts

The Yellow Belt is simply a champion of the Six Sigma methodology. A Master Black Belt supervises other Black Belts, has a track record of saving companies money using Six Sigma and may teach Six Sigma in a classroom setting.

Source:

ASQ.org: Six Sigma Overview

ISixSigma.com: Green Belt

PayScale.com: Six Sigma Green Belt Salary by Years Experience

More Information:

American Society for Quality (ASQ.org)

ISixSigma.com: What is Six Sigma?