Cloud computing has become an invaluable skill in today’s digital landscape. It has revolutionized file storage, security, communication, and resource management. As organizations worldwide shift their services and solutions to the cloud, the demand for certified cloud professionals has skyrocketed.
Almost any cloud certification can take your career to new heights. Acquiring a top cloud certification can open doors to better job opportunities, higher pay, and more esteemed employers.
Top Paying Cloud Certifications 2023
Role-based certifications have gained popularity in the IT industry in recent years. There’s a growing demand for cloud professionals, and while the remuneration is high, the role itself is challenging. Businesses seek professionals with domain expertise and the skill set to handle cloud applications at an organizational level.
IT certifications, in general, are designed to educate, train, and validate IT professionals with technical skills that meet industry standards. These certifications provide credibility for implementing real-time solutions in specific domains. As a cloud professional, obtaining a certification relevant to your career path enhances your knowledge and visibility in the job market. Employers have tangible proof of your skills and can easily match them to a specific role. Certifications also allow you to expand in your current role by enhancing practical and technical abilities.
Once you attain a certification aligned with your career path, you can expect accelerated growth, more opportunities, and higher compensation. Skills are essential, but a higher salary also makes a difference for IT professionals. One key advantage of certifications is that they keep you updated on trending technology, ensuring you stay ahead of your peers.
Demand for Cloud Computing Skills:
The demand for role-based cloud skills continues to grow. According to the State of Cloud report, 82% of employers stated that having a cloud certification on a resume increased the likelihood of applicants being hired. Additionally, a CBRE report in 2020 indicated that the demand for cloud skills increased at a 12% year-on-year rate, with a turnover rate of 42%—higher than the average growth rate of all other technical skill sets in the US. This data highlights the higher demand for cloud skills today than ever before.
Payment Opportunities with Cloud Roles:
The pay scale for cloud jobs can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, experience, and more. At IT firms like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, cloud professionals can earn as much as $180,000 per annum. According to Indeed.com, cloud engineers in the US receive a base salary of approximately $117,000. CBRE reports indicate that the average cloud computing professional earns about $153,000. Data from Global Knowledge suggests that an average cloud professional earns around $160,000 per annum. Despite these lucrative salaries, IT firms struggle to find qualified and certified candidates for existing cloud-based job roles.
Among cloud professionals, cloud architects earn the highest remuneration. ZipRecruiter released data showing that cloud architects can earn up to $210,000 per annum.
But which certifications will help you secure these high-paying positions? Let’s explore the top cloud certifications in 2023.
Highest Paying Cloud Certifications 2023
If you’re looking to obtain a highly paying cloud certification in 2023 but are unsure which one to choose, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, you will discover the highest paying and most valuable cloud certifications to develop your career in the Cloud Computing profession.
1. Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect
This certification, offered by GCP (Google Cloud Platform), is a professional-level credential that has consistently been one of the highest-paying cloud certifications. It equips cloud professionals with the skills to design, develop, and manage secure, robust, scalable, dynamic, and highly available solutions on the Google Cloud Platform. On average, professionals with this certification earn a salary of $140,000, making it one of the most lucrative credentials today.
2. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional
The AWS Solutions Architect certification is highly valued and considered one of the most challenging credentials available. It is a professional-level certification with a high level of difficulty in the exam. AWS, a subsidiary of Amazon, offers cloud products and solutions for enterprises. This certification provides validation and credibility for incorporating the technical skills necessary to meet business needs using AWS solutions. If you have obtained the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification, preparation for this credential becomes more manageable. The average salary for professionals with this certification is $135,000 per annum.
3. Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect – Expert
This advanced-level credential requires clearing the AZ-303 and AZ-304 exams. The Azure Solutions Architect certification empowers professionals to implement end-to-end cloud solutions on the Azure platform. On average, individuals with this certification earn around $135,000 per annum.
4. Salesforce Certified Technical Architect
Salesforce, a leading provider of SaaS (software-as-a-service) at an organizational level, offers the Technical Architect credential. This advanced certification helps professionals implement comprehensive cloud solutions on the Salesforce platform. With this credential, professionals can earn an average salary of $131,000 per annum.
5. Azure Fundamentals by Microsoft
The Azure Fundamentals certification provides ample opportunities for IT professionals entering the world of cloud solutions. This certification covers all fundamental concepts related to presently available cloud solutions. On average, professionals with this certification earn around $126,000 per annum.
6. AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional
This professional AWS certification hones the DevOps skills needed in an AWS environment. It is a unique credential that focuses on specific skills exclusively required by DevOps applications. The average salary for professionals with this certification is about $123,000 per annum.
7. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
This certification validates a candidate’s expertise and aligns with industry standards. The Certified Solutions Architect (Associate) is an AWS categorization for an associate-level certification based on the skills and expertise it offers. Professionals with this certification earn an average salary of $114,000 per annum.
8. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner – Foundational
The Cloud Practitioner credential is an entry-level certification designed to provide candidates with an overview of the AWS ecosystem. Among the most recognized cloud certifications, it boasts one of the highest adoption rates among cloud professionals. This certification can fetch you an average payout of $113,000 per annum.
9. AWS Certified Developer – Associate
This credential is ideal for developers with the skills to build and develop applications using AWS solutions. It is an associate-level certification that holds priority for developers working in the cloud domain. With the growing demand for AWS developers, professionals with this certification earn an average salary of $102,000 per annum.
10. Azure Administrator Associate
This Microsoft certification is one of the highest-paying cloud certifications available. The Azure Administrator Associate credential is recognized and valued across the international cloud domain, with an average salary of $101,000 per annum.
Earning any of these certifications will make you a valuable asset to your organization. Take your career to the next level and enroll in a certification program today.
Which Cloud Certification is Best for Beginners in 2023?
As organizations worldwide adopt cloud technologies, the demand for cloud professionals continues to grow. If you aspire to join the industry as a beginner, here are the best cloud certifications for you:
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Cloud Practitioner: This foundational-level certification familiarizes you with AWS Cloud concepts, services, core AWS services, and terminology. It is suitable for individuals with no prior cloud knowledge or those from non-technical backgrounds.
- Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals: If you want to pursue a career in Microsoft Azure, which holds a significant share in the cloud market, the Azure Fundamentals certification is ideal. It covers the basics of cloud computing, Azure solutions, and core Azure services. This certification also offers one of the highest salaries among cloud certifications.
- Google Associate Cloud Engineer: This certification validates skills in setting up a cloud solution environment, deploying applications, and monitoring operations, among other things. While no prerequisites are necessary, it is recommended to have at least six months of experience with Google Cloud.
In conclusion, cloud certifications hold immense value in today’s job market. They offer opportunities for career growth, higher compensation, and increased visibility. Choose the certification that aligns with your career goals, and embark on a rewarding journey in the world of cloud computing.
FAQs
Q: What are the highest paying cloud certifications for 2023?
A: The highest paying cloud certifications for 2023 include the Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect, AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional, Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect – Expert, Salesforce Certified Technical Architect, Azure Fundamentals by Microsoft, AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional, AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner – Foundational, AWS Certified Developer – Associate, and Azure Administrator Associate.
Q: Which cloud certification is best for beginners in 2023?
A: For beginners in 2023, the best cloud certifications include the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals, and Google Associate Cloud Engineer.
Conclusion
Cloud computing has become an essential skill in the modern digital landscape. As organizations shift services and solutions to the cloud, the demand for certified cloud professionals continues to rise. Acquiring a top cloud certification can unlock new opportunities, higher pay, and esteemed employers. Choose a certification aligned with your career path, and take your cloud computing career to new heights.