10 Tech Certs That Will Get You Hired

While we brought you a previous slideshow based on a survey by Dice Learning on the certifications IT pros said helped them futher their careers and command higher salaries, that list doesn’t necessarily mirror demand. This top 10 list reflects the number of times certifications were mentioned in jobs openings posted at Dice.com as of April 1.

Dice notes that while the certifications Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) ranked among the top 10 in demand, they didn’t make the top 10 for boosting pay.

And though Security+, Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) and Network+  were cited as certifications that boosted pay, they were just outside the top 10 in current demand, ranking Nos. 11-13.

IT Certifications in Demand

Click through to see the 10 certs most in demand.

Project Management Professional (PMP) remains popular on both lists. These professionals demonstrate the knowledge and skills to shepherd projects to a successful conclusion, on time, on budget and within the resources allocated. The number of listings mentioning this certification rose from 1,028 on Nov. 2 to 1,500 by April 1.

These pros have shown they can design, implement and administer technology infrastructures using Microsoft 2000 Windows Server and other Windows server platforms. Listings rose from 884 to 1,016 between the beginning of November to April.

This certification, recognized globally as a standard for expertise, requires five years of experience in information security. It was mentioned in 723 listings in November, growing to 936 by April 1.

Those with this certification have demonstrated their ability to install, configure, run and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. Listings grew from 723 in November to 735 in April.

On April 1, 652 job listings mentioned this certification, which requires professionals to demonstrate expertise in IT operational best practices.

Those with this certification have demonstrated their ability to install, configure, run and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. Listings grew from 486 in November to 552 by April.

This CompTIA certification demonstrates basic IT skills in areas such as installation, preventative maintenance, networking, security and troubleshooting and is part of the track for certifications from companies such as Microsoft, Hewlett-Packard, Cisco and Novell. It was mentioned in 514 Dice job posts on April 1.

Demand for this highest level of certification by Cisco grew from 379 posts in November to 386 in April.

Developers, trainers, system architects and other tech professionals use this certification to spotlight their expertise with a range of Microsoft technologies. Postings grew from 281 in November to 339 in April.

IT pros must demonstrate they have the necessary skills for information systems audit, control and security to attain this certification from theInformation Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). It was mentioned in 185 listings in November and 298 by April.