Top 11 Storage Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a storage engineer in the job market as they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers are looking for when hiring new employees. Employers want to know that their candidates have the necessary skills and experience to be successful in their roles. Certifications from reputable organizations such as CompTIA, SNIA, EMC, and HPE provide validation of these skills and allow employers to make more informed decisions about who they hire. Additionally, certifications can help a storage engineer stand out amongst other applicants, thus increasing their chances of getting hired.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Storage Engineers and explain how they can help advance a storage engineer's career.

What are Storage Engineer Certifications?

Storage engineer certification is a type of professional certification offered by certain organizations that certifies an individual’s knowledge and experience in the storage engineering field. This type of certification helps to demonstrate an individual’s proficiency in designing, deploying, managing, and troubleshooting storage systems. It also provides employers with a way to identify qualified candidates who have the technical skills necessary to handle complex storage engineering tasks. Having this type of certification can help individuals stand out from the competition when applying for jobs by demonstrating their expertise in the field. Furthermore, it gives them access to additional resources such as industry-specific conferences, seminars, and workshops that they may not have access to otherwise. Additionally, having this certification can open up new career opportunities and increase their salary potential due to their increased level of technical knowledge and experience.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a storage engineer certification, make sure that you have the necessary experience and knowledge to succeed in the field. Additionally, research the different certifications available to determine which ones best meet your career goals.

Related: What does a Storage Engineer do?

Top 11 Storage Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Storage Engineers today.

1. CompTIA Storage+

CompTIA Storage+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates the skills and knowledge of storage professionals. It is designed to measure the ability to design, implement, manage, and troubleshoot enterprise storage solutions. The certification covers topics such as storage technologies, virtualization, security, disaster recovery, and more.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the CompTIA Storage+ exam. To get certified, you must pass the CompTIA Storage+ exam (SGO-001). The exam consists of 90 questions and has a time limit of 90 minutes.

To get CompTIA Storage+, you must first purchase a voucher from an authorized reseller or directly from CompTIA. The cost of the voucher varies depending on where it is purchased but generally ranges from $220-$250 USD. After purchasing a voucher, you can register for the exam at any Pearson VUE test center or online via their website.

Once you have passed the exam and received your certification, you will need to renew it every three years by taking continuing education courses or passing a new version of the exam if one is available.

2. EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Expert

EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Expert is a certification that demonstrates expertise in data science and analytics. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of professionals who have mastered the fundamentals of data science and analytics, including data mining, machine learning, predictive modeling, and big data analysis.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Expert certification exam. This includes studying for the exam, taking practice tests, and completing any prerequisites required by EMC.

In order to get certified as an EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Expert, you must first pass the two-hour exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of data science principles and techniques. You will also be tested on your ability to apply those principles to real-world scenarios.

The cost of the EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Expert certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 USD to take the exam at a testing center or online proctoring service.

3. SNIA Certified Storage Engineer (SCSE)

The SNIA Certified Storage Engineer (SCSE) is a professional certification offered by the Storage Networking Industry Association (SNIA). It is designed to validate a storage engineer's knowledge and expertise in the areas of storage networking, data management, and storage technologies.

To become an SCSE, you must first pass the SNIA Storage Networking Foundations Exam (SNSF). This exam covers topics such as data protection, storage architectures, SAN/NAS fundamentals, and more. Once you have passed this exam, you can then apply for the SCSE certification.

In order to get your SCSE certification, you will need to complete two additional exams: the SNIA Advanced Storage Networking Exam (SAN) and the SNIA Storage Management Exam (SM). These exams cover topics such as SAN design and implementation, storage virtualization, storage security management, and more. You must also submit a project portfolio that demonstrates your experience with storage technologies.

The entire process of getting your SCSE certification can take up to six months or more depending on how quickly you can complete all of the requirements.

The cost of becoming an SCSE varies depending on where you take the exams. The SNSF exam costs $250 USD while each additional exam costs $400 USD. In addition to this fee, there may be additional fees for books or study materials related to the exams.

4. NetApp Certified Data Management Administrator (NCDA)

NetApp Certified Data Management Administrator (NCDA) is a certification program offered by NetApp, Inc., a leading provider of data storage solutions. The NCDA certification is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of data management, storage administration, and system configuration. It is targeted at IT professionals who are responsible for the installation, configuration, and maintenance of NetApp products.

The NCDA certification requires that candidates pass two exams: the NS0-155 exam (Data ONTAP 8.1/8.2 Administration) and the NS0-157 exam (Data ONTAP 7-Mode Administration). Both exams must be passed within 18 months of each other in order to receive the certification.

In order to take the exams, you must first register with Pearson VUE, which is an online testing center for professional certifications. Once you have registered with Pearson VUE, you can then purchase vouchers for each exam from NetApp's website or from a third-party vendor such as Prometric or VMEdu. Each voucher costs $125 USD and is valid for one year after purchase date.

Once you have purchased your vouchers, you can schedule your exams through Pearson VUE's website or by calling their customer service number. You will need to provide your voucher numbers when scheduling your exams so make sure to keep them handy! After successfully passing both exams within 18 months of each other, you will receive your NCDA certification via email.

The cost of obtaining the NCDA certification depends on how many attempts it takes you to pass both exams and how long it takes overall; however, most people report spending around $500 USD in total on vouchers and exam fees when obtaining their NCDA certification.

5. HPE Master ASE - Storage Solutions Architect V2

HPE Master ASE - Storage Solutions Architect V2 is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in designing, deploying, and managing HPE storage solutions. It is an advanced level of certification that requires extensive experience and expertise in the field.

To get the HPE Master ASE - Storage Solutions Architect V2 certification, you must first pass two exams: HPE0-V14 (Designing HPE Nimble Solutions) and HPE0-V15 (Implementing HPE Nimble Solutions). The exams are available through Pearson VUE testing centers.

The cost of taking the two exams is $400 each. You must also pay an additional fee for the certification itself, which varies depending on your region.

It typically takes several months to prepare for the exams and obtain the certification. You should plan to spend a significant amount of time studying for the exams and practicing with hands-on labs.

6. Dell EMC Certified Professional – Systems Administrator – Storage Solutions

Dell EMC Certified Professional – Systems Administrator – Storage Solutions is a certification program that validates the skills and knowledge of systems administrators in deploying, configuring, managing and troubleshooting Dell EMC storage solutions. This certification is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in deploying, configuring, managing and troubleshooting Dell EMC storage solutions.

How long does it take to get it?

The time required to obtain this certification depends on the individual's experience level. It typically takes between three to six months for someone with no prior experience or training to complete the necessary coursework and pass the exams.

How to get it?

To become a Dell EMC Certified Professional – Systems Administrator – Storage Solutions, candidates must first complete an approved training course offered by Dell EMC. After completing the course, they must then pass two exams: one focused on storage fundamentals and another focused on specific Dell EMC storage technologies.

How much does it cost?

The cost of obtaining this certification varies depending on the training provider chosen by the candidate. Generally speaking, the cost of taking an approved training course ranges from $1,500 to $2,500 USD. Additionally, there is a fee associated with taking each exam ($200 USD per exam).

7. IBM Certified Specialist – Storage Solutions Architect V2

IBM Certified Specialist – Storage Solutions Architect V2 is a certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, deploying, and managing storage solutions using IBM products. This certification is designed for those who have experience in designing, deploying, and managing storage solutions using IBM products. The exam covers topics such as storage architecture, storage system management, SAN design and implementation, performance optimization, data protection and recovery strategies and more.

It takes approximately 4-6 weeks to prepare for the exam. To get the certification you will need to pass the IBM Certified Specialist – Storage Solutions Architect V2 exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions that cover topics related to storage solutions architecture.

The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

8. Cisco Certified Network Professional Data Center (CCNP Data Center)

Cisco Certified Network Professional Data Center (CCNP Data Center) is a certification program designed to validate an individual's skills and knowledge in the areas of planning, deploying, configuring, and troubleshooting complex data center networks. It is intended for network engineers who work in data centers or large enterprise environments that use Cisco technologies.

To get CCNP Data Center certification, you must first have a valid Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Data Center certification. You will then need to pass two exams: the DCUCI (Designing Cisco Unified Computing Infrastructure) exam and the DCII (Implementing Cisco Data Center Infrastructure) exam. Both exams are 90 minutes long and cost $300 each.

The total time it takes to get CCNP Data Center certification depends on how much time you can dedicate to studying for the exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from three months to one year to prepare for both exams if you are studying full-time.

In addition to the cost of the two exams ($600), there may be additional costs associated with getting CCNP Data Center certified such as books, study materials, practice tests, etc. The total cost will depend on what resources you choose to use during your preparation process.

9. Brocade Certified Network Storage Engineer (BCNSE)

Brocade Certified Network Storage Engineer (BCNSE) is a professional certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of storage professionals. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates expertise in designing, deploying, and managing Brocade storage solutions.

The BCNSE certification requires successful completion of two exams: the Brocade Certified Fabric Professional (BCFP) exam and the Brocade Certified Network Storage Administrator (BCNSA) exam. The BCFP exam covers topics such as Fibre Channel fabric design, zoning concepts, SAN security, SAN troubleshooting, and more. The BCNSA exam covers topics such as storage networking fundamentals, RAID levels and technologies, data replication techniques, and more.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for both exams. To get started on the path towards earning your BCNSE certification you must first register with Pearson VUE for both exams. The cost of each exam is $200 USD per attempt.

10. Oracle Database 12c: Advanced Administration

Oracle Database 12c: Advanced Administration is a course designed to provide experienced Oracle Database Administrators with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage an Oracle Database 12c environment. The course covers topics such as database architecture, installation, configuration, patching, performance tuning, backup and recovery, security, data replication and more.

The course typically takes five days to complete and is available in both classroom and online formats. To get the course you can either register for an in-person class offered by Oracle University or purchase an online version of the course from Oracle University.

The cost of the course varies depending on the format you choose and where you purchase it from. Prices range from around $2,500 USD for a 5-day classroom session to around $1,000 USD for an online version of the course.

11. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Platform (MCSE: Data Platform)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Platform (MCSE: Data Platform) is a certification program offered by Microsoft that validates an individual’s ability to design, build, and maintain enterprise-level data solutions. This certification is designed for IT professionals who are responsible for designing, implementing, and managing data solutions with Microsoft SQL Server technologies.

In order to obtain the MCSE: Data Platform certification, an individual must pass three exams: 70-461 (Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014), 70-462 (Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 Databases), and 70-463 (Implementing a Data Warehouse with Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014). The exams can be taken individually or as a bundle.

The cost of the exams vary depending on the country in which they are taken. The cost of each exam ranges from $150-$200 USD.

The time it takes to get the MCSE: Data Platform certification varies depending on how much experience you have working with Microsoft SQL Server technologies and how quickly you can study and prepare for the exams. Generally speaking, it will take at least several months to complete all three exams.

Do You Really Need a Storage Engineer Certificate?

In today’s world, having a Storage Engineer Certificate can be a great way to boost your resume and stand out from the competition. But do you really need it?

The answer depends on where you are in your career. If you already have some experience in the storage engineering field and want to move up the ladder, then having a certificate can be the perfect way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise. It will show employers that you understand the complexities of this area and are prepared to take on more advanced tasks.

However, if you’re just starting out in storage engineering, then it may not be necessary for you to get a certificate right away. Instead, focus on gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions. These experiences will give you an understanding of how storage systems work and prepare you for more advanced roles in the future. Once you have some experience under your belt, then getting a certification may be beneficial as it will help differentiate yourself from other candidates who don't have any formal training or education in this area.

Ultimately, whether or not a Storage Engineer Certificate is necessary comes down to where you are at in your career and what type of job opportunities you want to pursue. If it makes sense for your situation, then investing time and money into obtaining one can certainly pay off in the long run.

Related: Storage Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Storage Engineer Certifications

1. What is a Storage Engineer Certification?

Answer: A Storage Engineer Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and skills in designing, configuring, managing and troubleshooting storage systems.

2. What types of certifications are available for Storage Engineers?

Answer: Common certifications include CompTIA Storage+ Powered by SNIA, Cisco Certified Network Professional Data Center (CCNP Data Center), NetApp Certified Data Administrator (NCDA), EMC Proven Professional Program (EMCPA) and HPE Master ASE - Storage Solutions Architect V2.

3. How long does it take to become certified in Storage Engineering?

Answer: The amount of time required to become certified depends on the specific certification program you choose and your prior experience or education level. Generally, most certification programs require at least 6 months of preparation before taking the exam.

4. Is there an industry-standard certification for Storage Engineers?

Answer: No, there is not an industry-standard certification for Storage Engineers. Different organizations offer different certifications that focus on various aspects of storage engineering, such as data protection and disaster recovery, storage networking, SANs/NASs/DASs, etc. It’s important to research each organization’s requirements before deciding which one best suits your needs.

5. What are the benefits of becoming certified in Storage Engineering?

Answer: Benefits of becoming certified in storage engineering include gaining recognition from employers and peers, increasing credibility with customers and partners, staying up-to-date on the latest technology trends, enhancing job prospects and opening up new career opportunities.