Advanced Snowflake Certifications: Choosing Between Data Engineer, Architect, or Administrator Tracks
Pushkar Verma

Snowflake has become one of the most in-demand cloud data platforms in the world. As more companies move to the cloud, Snowflake skills are highly valued — and Snowflake certifications can give your career a serious boost.
If you’ve already passed the SnowPro Core Certification, you might be wondering: “What’s next?” That’s where Snowflake’s advanced certifications come in.
There are three main advanced certification tracks:
• SnowPro Advanced: Data Engineer
• SnowPro Advanced: Architect
• SnowPro Advanced: Administrator
Each of these is designed for a different type of Snowflake user. In this blog, we’ll help you understand what each one is about, who it’s best for, and how to decide which path is right for you.
1. SnowPro Advanced: Data Engineer
This certification is for you if you enjoy working with data pipelines, ETL/ELT processes, and performance optimization.
What you’ll learn:
• How to design and manage Snowflake data pipelines
• Best practices for loading and transforming data
• How to use features like Streams, Tasks, and Snowpipe
• Query tuning and performance strategies
Best for:
• Data engineers
• ETL developers
• Anyone who builds or maintains large data workflows
Why choose it:
If you love getting your hands dirty with data flows and automating data processes, this is your path. It’s also one of the most sought-after skills by employers using Snowflake.
Get started with training here: Snowflake Data Engineer Training
2. SnowPro Advanced: Architect
This one’s for the big-picture thinkers — the ones designing how data moves across systems.
What you’ll learn:
• How to design secure, scalable, and cost-effective Snowflake solutions
• Best practices for multi-cloud and hybrid deployments
• Designing data sharing, governance, and storage strategies
• Architecture for high availability and disaster recovery
Best for:
• Solution architects
• Technical leads
• Experienced data professionals involved in planning Snowflake implementations
Why choose it:
This is ideal if you’re responsible for planning and overseeing the big structure of data systems. The Architect track helps you prove that you can design robust systems, not just run them.
Explore training options: Snowflake Architect Training
3. SnowPro Advanced: Administrator
If you’re the one keeping things running smoothly, the Admin track is for you.
What you’ll learn:
• Managing Snowflake accounts, users, roles, and security
• Resource monitoring and optimization
• Configuring integrations and data governance settings
• Managing storage, compute, and cost controls
Best for:
• Snowflake administrators
• Cloud engineers
• DevOps professionals
Why choose it:
Snowflake Admins are the silent heroes behind smooth operations. This cert shows you know how to keep systems secure, efficient, and under control — even when they scale.
Start your admin journey: Administering Snowflake Training
How to Choose the Right Track for You
Still not sure which one to pick? Here’s a simple breakdown:
| You enjoy… | Go for… |
| Building data flows and tuning queries | Data Engineer |
| Designing systems from the ground up | Architect |
| Managing users, security, and operations | Administrator |
Also ask yourself:
• What do I do most in my job?
• Where do I want to grow in my career?
• Which skills do employers in my field look for?
You can’t go wrong with any of the advanced certifications — they’re all respected and in demand. But choosing the one that fits your skills and goals will give you the biggest return.
Ready to Level Up?
Each certification comes with new challenges and opportunities — but you don’t have to do it alone. Cloud Wizard offers expert-led training, hands-on practice, and guidance from real Snowflake professionals.
✅ Learn at your pace
✅ Get exam-ready with practice questions
✅ Boost your confidence and skills
Start your Snowflake certification journey today: Visit Cloud Wizard
Final Thought
Snowflake is growing fast, and so can your career. Whether you’re a builder, a planner, or a protector of data systems — there’s a certification path waiting for you.
Don’t wait. Pick your path, start learning, and get certified