In DevOps/SRE, certifications are most useful when:
- you want to signal fundamentals (cloud/IaC/Kubernetes) before you have “big” projects,
- you’re switching tracks (backend → platform),
- you need a simple, searchable credential for ATS screening.
They don’t replace projects. If you can do only one thing: build a small but complete project (IaC + CI/CD + observability) and describe it well in your CV.
TL;DR
- The most “visible” certifications are usually the ones explicitly mentioned by name/code in listings.
- Pick certifications that match what you actually do (Kubernetes, cloud fundamentals, IaC).
- Avoid collecting badges without projects: interview questions will expose it fast.
Certifications mentioned in DevOps listings (from active jobs)
The list below is built from explicit mentions (e.g., “AZ-104”, “CKA”) in DevOps/SRE job listings on this platform.
Certifications mentioned in DevOps / SRE roles
Based on job listings posted in the last 365 days.
Counts are based on explicit certification mentions in listings from the last 365 days.
How to use this list (fast)
- Pick 1–2 certifications that show up consistently for your target role.
- Make sure they match what you want to do in the next 6–12 months (cloud vs platform vs security).
- Pair the certification with a small, demonstrable project (repo + README + a simple diagram).
Why: interviews still look for “applied” signals (trade-offs, incident thinking, real decisions).
How to choose (by role)
DevOps / SRE / Platform
Aim for certifications that map to:
- Kubernetes (deployment, networking, security basics)
- cloud (compute, networking, IAM, cost basics)
- IaC (Terraform + modules/state)
Switching from backend
Most useful are the ones that force you into fundamentals:
- networking + IAM + observability
- IaC + pipeline basics
What projects validate a certification best
It doesn’t need to be big. It needs to be clear and end-to-end.
Examples:
- Kubernetes: a small containerized service + deployment, config, probes, rollout strategy, and a short runbook (“how I debug an incident”).
- IaC: a Terraform module for a simple setup (network + compute) + state management + conventions (naming, tagging).
- Cloud: a minimal setup that demonstrates IAM, networking, logs/metrics, plus cost awareness (what you run and how you shut it down).
Common mistakes (and fixes)
- Too many certs, no projects: limit to 1–2 and build a project that connects to them.
- Missing codes: when a code exists (e.g., AZ-104), include it on your CV (ATS search).
- “I have cert X” but can’t explain IAM/networking/rollouts: prep a short list of core questions and crisp answers.
How it helps (ATS + interviews)
On your CV:
- keep the “Certifications” section short and include the code (e.g., “AZ-104”) when available,
- don’t list certs you can’t defend with concrete examples.
In interviews:
- prepare 2–3 real situations where you applied the concepts (even in a small project).
FAQ
Is it worth it if the listing doesn’t ask for it explicitly?
Yes, if:
- you lack experience in that area and need a structured learning path,
- you can attach a relevant project (repo, diagram, clear write-up).
If a listing mentions “AWS/Azure/Kubernetes”, does it imply a certification?
No. Many listings mention technologies without requiring certifications. That’s why this panel counts only explicit certification mentions.
How the panel is built (short)
- Scans title + description from DevOps/SRE listings on this platform.
- Counts explicit certification mentions (codes/names), not generic tech keywords.
- Shows how many listings mention each certification within a recent window.
Next steps
- Browse DevOps/SRE jobs: /jobs/role/devops-engineer
- DevOps CV guide
