When it comes to pursuing a career in IT service management, ServiceNow certifications are a powerful tool. These certifications not only validate your expertise in the platform but also position you for higher-paying roles in various industries. However, with several certifications to choose from, it’s important to ask: Which ServiceNow certification pays the most?

The answer depends on the type of certification, your experience, and the demand for specific roles in your region or industry. In this article, we’ll explore the top ServiceNow certifications that offer the highest earning potential and help you make an informed decision about your career path.

Overview of ServiceNow Certifications

Key ServiceNow Certifications

ServiceNow offers several certifications that cater to different roles within the platform. Here’s a brief overview of the most popular certifications:

• ServiceNow Certified System Administrator (CSA): Ideal for those who manage the ServiceNow platform, ensuring that it runs smoothly and efficiently.
• ServiceNow Certified Application Developer (CAD): Designed for those who develop custom applications within the ServiceNow ecosystem, CAD certification focuses on application design, development, and implementation.
• ServiceNow Certified Implementation Specialist (CIS): Aimed at professionals who specialize in implementing ServiceNow solutions for organizations, this certification focuses on best practices and deployment strategies.

Each certification serves a unique purpose, depending on the specific skills and expertise required for the role. Understanding which certification aligns with your career goals will help you choose the right path.

Why Salaries Vary

The Role of Experience and Expertise

Salaries for ServiceNow professionals can vary significantly depending on factors such as experience, job role, and geographic location. Generally, more experienced professionals with specialized certifications can command higher salaries.

For example, ServiceNow Certified Implementation Specialists (CIS) are in high demand because they bring the technical know-how to implement complex systems, while Certified Application Developers (CAD) are needed to customize and extend the platform for unique business needs. The more expertise you have in these areas, the higher your earning potential.

Market Demand for Specific Certifications

The demand for certain ServiceNow roles is a key driver of salary differences. As businesses increasingly adopt ServiceNow to automate their processes, roles that focus on implementation and customization, such as CIS and CAD, are highly sought after, thus driving salaries up.

In contrast, certifications that cover more fundamental skills, such as the ServiceNow Certified System Administrator (CSA), may not have the same earning potential. However, CSA remains an essential certification, especially for those just entering the ServiceNow ecosystem.

Top ServiceNow Certifications by Salary

ServiceNow Certified Implementation Specialist (CIS)

Skills and Expertise Gained

The CIS certification focuses on the deployment and configuration of ServiceNow solutions. Those with this certification are expected to have a strong understanding of ServiceNow’s modules, such as Incident Management, Change Management, and Problem Management. Implementation specialists are responsible for ensuring that ServiceNow is set up properly to meet the specific needs of the business.

Industries Where CIS is Highly Valued

The CIS certification is highly valued in industries such as finance, healthcare, IT, and government. These sectors often have complex processes that require customized workflows, which makes the implementation specialist role crucial.

Average Salary and Career Prospects

On average, CIS-certified professionals can expect to earn between $95,000 and $140,000 annually, depending on factors such as experience, location, and industry. Due to the growing demand for ServiceNow implementations, professionals with this certification are in high demand and can expect strong career prospects.

ServiceNow Certified Application Developer (CAD)

Role and Importance of Developers in the ServiceNow Ecosystem

Developers are essential to any organization’s success with ServiceNow. They design and build custom applications that extend the platform’s capabilities. A Certified Application Developer (CAD) is expected to have deep knowledge of ServiceNow’s scripting languages, UI components, and application development best practices.

How CAD Certification Boosts Salary Potential

With businesses increasingly customizing ServiceNow to meet specific needs, CAD-certified developers are well-positioned to earn a high salary. Their ability to design tailored solutions gives them an edge in the job market.

Average Salary for CAD-Certified Professionals

CAD-certified professionals typically earn $90,000 to $130,000 per year. However, those working in industries that require highly customized solutions may command even higher salaries.

ServiceNow Certified System Administrator (CSA)

Core Skills and Job Roles

The CSA certification is ideal for those responsible for configuring and maintaining ServiceNow instances. It covers foundational knowledge of the platform, including user administration, security configurations, and data management.

Why CSA Remains a Valuable Certification

Although CSA may not lead to the highest salaries compared to other certifications, it is an essential qualification for those starting their careers in ServiceNow. It remains one of the most widely recognized and sought-after certifications in the ServiceNow ecosystem.

Expected Salary Range for CSA-Certified Professionals

On average, CSA-certified professionals earn between $70,000 and $100,000 per year. While the salary may not be as high as other certifications, CSA is a great entry point for individuals looking to build their careers in the ServiceNow ecosystem.

How to Choose the Best Certification for You

Aligning Certifications with Career Goals

Your career aspirations should play a significant role in determining which certification is best for you. If you’re looking to work in development or customization, CAD might be the best option. On the other hand, if you’re more interested in overseeing implementations, CIS might be the better fit.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Certification

• Your current job role: Are you already in a ServiceNow-related position? If yes, consider certifications that will enhance your skills.
• Industry demand: Some industries value certain certifications more than others.
• Salary expectations: Think about how much you want to earn and how your certification can help you achieve those financial goals.

Tips to Maximize Your Certification Value

Gaining Hands-on Experience

Certifications alone won’t guarantee a high-paying job. Gaining hands-on experience with ServiceNow, through internships or on-the-job projects, will make your certification more valuable and improve your chances of landing higher-paying roles.

Networking and Professional Development

Joining ServiceNow user groups, attending conferences, and networking with other professionals in the industry can help open doors to new opportunities and boost your earning potential.

Conclusion

ServiceNow certifications are a valuable investment in your career, with the potential to significantly increase your earning power. While the ServiceNow Certified Implementation Specialist (CIS) certification typically offers the highest salary potential, each certification offers distinct advantages depending on your career goals. Whether you’re looking to become a developer, administrator, or implementation expert, there’s a ServiceNow certification that can help you achieve your professional objectives.

FAQs

1. Which ServiceNow certification is best for beginners?
   The ServiceNow Certified System Administrator (CSA) is an ideal starting point for beginners. It provides foundational knowledge of the platform, making it a great entry point.
2. How long does it take to get certified?
   The time required varies depending on the certification level, but typically, it takes between 3 to 6 months of study and preparation.
3. Are ServiceNow certifications worth it?
   Yes, ServiceNow certifications are highly valued in the IT industry and can lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries.
4. What is the cost of ServiceNow certifications?
   Certification fees range from $150 to $300, depending on the level and type of certification.
5. How do I maintain my ServiceNow certification?
   ServiceNow certifications require periodic renewals or updates to stay current, ensuring your skills remain aligned with the latest platform changes.

• Country: United States