What Are the 4 Six Sigma Belts? Everything You Need to Know

There are four Six Sigma certification levels, commonly referred to as “Six Sigma Belts.” Each level is represented by a distinct belt color, symbolizing the practitioner’s expertise and role:

• Six Sigma Yellow Belt: The most common introductory level (Level 1)
• Six Sigma Green Belt: Level 2
• Six Sigma Black Belt: Level 3
• Six Sigma Master Black Belt: Level 4

Six Sigma accreditation isn’t governed by a single global authority. In fact, programs offered by reputable institutions and universities—though not formally accredited—are often equally respected, and in some cases, even more valued for their practical relevance and industry alignment.

The best-known accreditation bodies for Six Sigma certification are:

• ASQ (American Society for Quality)
• IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification)
• CSSC (Council for Six Sigma Certification)

Is a Six Sigma white belt good?

Lean Six Sigma White Belt (or LSS White Belt) is not accredited by all accreditation bodies (ASQ and IASSC) except the CSSC. Some certification providers offer awareness-level courses known as White Belt training. These are more like completion certificates than accredited Lean Six Sigma certifications. Hence, this certification lacks widespread recognition.

What is the highest Six Sigma belt?

Except for the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC), which recognizes the Black Belt as its highest Six Sigma belt, the Master Black Belt is commonly considered the top level.

Is there an orange belt in Six Sigma?

Few organizations offer an Orange Six Sigma Belt between Yellow and Green, but it lacks widespread acceptance.

Six Sigma belts vary by accrediting body (ASQ, IASSC, CSSC). While they are generally similar, CSSC stands out by offering intermediate levels — Green Belt II and Black Belt II & III.

If you’re unsure whether Lean Six Sigma or Six Sigma is right for you, read our post: Lean Six Sigma vs Six Sigma: Which is Better?

What are the roles in Six Sigma team?

The roles of Six Sigma professionals depend on their contribution to a Six Sigma project. The most common project framework is DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, and Control), which includes five stages.

Here are the Six Sigma Belts and key non-Six Sigma roles that often join a DMAIC project:

What are the Six Sigma belts’ roles?

🟡What is the role of yellow belts?

As team members, they have basic training in Six Sigma and understand quality. They contribute their expertise and support during DMAIC phases as needed.

🟢What is the role of green belts?

They work part-time on DMAIC projects. They use Six Sigma tools in their daily tasks and lead smaller projects with support from Black Belts.

⚫️What is the role of black belts?

They lead DMAIC projects full-time. They use advanced tools, train Green Belts, and ensure project success.

🔴What is the role of master black belts?

These full-time experts manage DMAIC efforts. They train Black Belts and provide advanced guidance.

What are other key Six Sigma roles?

What is the role of Executive Leaders in Six Sigma project?

They show commitment from the top. They set a vision and goals, assign resources, and support DMAIC projects.

What is the role of Six Sigma Champions in Six Sigma project? (Project Sponsors)

• They identify and prioritize project opportunities
• They approve projects and provide resources
• They remove barriers to DMAIC execution

What is the role of Financial Representatives in Six Sigma project?

These individuals are outside the project team. They review costs, identify savings, and share the financial gains from DMAIC improvements.

What are the 5 stages of Six Sigma? (DMAIC)

Six Sigma projects focus on improving processes. They start with a clear problem and seek a solution through the following five steps (DMAIC):

1. Define: Define key customer requirements
2. Measure: Map processes, collect data, and measure current performance
3. Analyze: Establish hypotheses for improvement
4. Improve: Validate the hypotheses and implement process improvements
5. Control: Standardize the process and monitor it to maintain improvements over time

What is the salary of a Six Sigma professional?

• Six Sigma Yellow Belt salary: Average salary is $65,000
• Six Sigma Green Belt salary: Average salary is $85,000
• Six Sigma Black Belt salary: Salary range is $95,000 – $110,000
• Six Sigma Master Black Belt salary: Salary range is $100,000 – $135,000

Source: https://www.sixsigmacouncil.org/six-sigma-certifications

Final thoughts

Six Sigma typically includes four recognized roles in DMAIC improvement projects:

• Yellow Belt
• Green Belt
• Black Belt
• Master Black Belt

These certifications can significantly impact your income and career growth!

Want to get Six Sigma certified? Read our 5-step guide to learn how to earn your Six Sigma certification.