So, you want to become a Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)?
Get ready—your IT career is on the verge of a significant upgrade! Imagine being the person who can fix, manage, and automate powerful Linux systems that big companies use worldwide.
If you’ve been wondering how to become a Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), we’re here to guide you through every step.
Becoming an RHCE isn’t just about passing a test—it’s about becoming a pro in the tech world.
If you want to make more money, land a job with a top company, or level up your skills, RHCE certification can get you there. Passing the certification exam is crucial to becoming an RHCE, as it validates your skills in system administration and prepares you for various environments.
Ready to begin? This guide is everything you’ll need.
What Is a Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)?
Before knowing how to become a Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), let’s find out first what a Red Hat Certified Engineer is.
A Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) is a highly skilled professional who has mastered Red Hat Linux administration and automation. These experts configure and manage Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) systems. The configuration and management ensure top performance, strong security, and the ability to scale up as needed.
RHCEs are integral to IT teams as they handle tasks like:
- Installing and configuring Linux systems
- Automating system tasks using Ansible
- Managing network services and security
- Troubleshooting and maintaining systems
Experience as a Red Hat System Administrator is essential for working with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHCSA).
Getting RHCE certified shows you’re an expert in these areas and demonstrates your commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest industry standards and technologies.
Why Get RHCE Certified?
RHCE certification: a game-changer for your career. Here’s why:
High Demand for RHCEs
Red Hat Certified Engineers (RHCEs) are in high demand across industries, especially in organizations that rely on enterprise-level Linux systems.
As more companies adopt Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) to support cloud infrastructure, automation, and cybersecurity, the need for certified professionals to manage, configure, and troubleshoot these systems has skyrocketed.
Employers actively seek RHCEs to ensure stability, performance, and security in their IT environments, whether in finance, healthcare, government, or tech.
This certification isn’t just preferred—it’s becoming essential for critical system roles.
Career Growth Opportunities
An RHCE certification is more than just a badge—it’s a career accelerator.
Certified professionals are often promoted faster and trusted with more responsibilities.
RHCEs typically advance to roles such as:
- Cloud Engineer
- Network Engineer
- DevOps Engineer
- IT Infrastructure Manager
- Linux System Administrator
This certification validates:
- Technical skills
- Leadership potential
- Problem-solving abilities
- It makes you a top choice for internal promotions and external job offers alike.
Higher Earning Potential
One of the biggest advantages of earning your RHCE is the significant salary increase.
Multiple industry salary surveys show that RHCE-certified professionals consistently earn more than their non-certified peers.
Companies are willing to pay a premium for experts who can:
- Automate tasks using Ansible
- Handle mission-critical Linux systems
- Support enterprise IT environments with minimal downtime.
With an RHCE, you’re not just more employable—you’re more valuable.
Global Recognition and Mobility
Red Hat is a globally respected leader in open-source solutions, and many companies recognize the RHCE certification across continents.
Whether you aim to work for a U.S. tech giant, a European financial institution, or a Southeast Asian startup, the RHCE is a passport to worldwide job opportunities.
It proves you have the practical, hands-on skills employers trust and look for when building reliable, scalable, and secure IT infrastructures.
To maintain the RHCE certification, one can either pass exams for the Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA) or retake the RHCE exam after three years.
Who Should Become a Red Hat Certified Engineer?
Now, you might be wondering—is this RHCE thing really for me? The truth is, RHCE isn’t just for IT pros with 10 years of experience. If you’re passionate about Linux, love solving problems, and want to automate tasks to make systems run better and faster, this path might be perfect for you.
Here’s who would benefit the most:
- Aspiring System Administrators: If you’re just starting in IT and want a clear goal, RHCE is a powerful credential for which to aim.
- IT Professionals Ready to Level Up: Have you got a few years of experience? RHCE helps you specialize and earn more.
- Career Changers: Thinking about switching to tech? RHCE is a great way to gain high-value skills employers are actively looking for.
- Automation Enthusiasts: If you love writing scripts to get things done faster, RHCE will give you the tools to shine.
What You’ll Learn in the RHCE Curriculum
The RHCE curriculum covers a wide range of essential Linux skills. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
- Linux System Administration: From installing RHEL to managing user accounts, file systems, and software packages, you’ll learn all the basics to handle a Linux environment effectively.
- Networking Services: Learn how to configure and manage networking services like DNS, HTTP, and FTP to keep systems connected and running smoothly.
- Security: Discover how to set up firewalls, manage SELinux, and implement security policies to protect your systems from vulnerabilities.
- Automation with Ansible: The exam focuses heavily on automation. You’ll learn to automate repetitive tasks and streamline workflow using tools like Ansible.
- Troubleshooting: Master the art of identifying and solving common system issues, ensuring minimal downtime.
You’ll be ready for system administration challenges after completing this curriculum.
You’ll be able to handle any task with confidence.
Exam Objectives and Format
Understanding the exam objectives and format is crucial for your success.
The exam will test your ability to perform essential system administration tasks on Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems.
Here’s what you need to know:
Hands-on Performance Exam: You must complete real-world system administration tasks in a live environment.
Focus on Automation: A significant part of the exam involves using Ansible to automate tasks like installing packages, managing users, and configuring services.
Time Limit: The exam lasts 3.5 hours, so time management is essential.
No Internet Access: You’ll need to rely on your knowledge and the built-in system documentation—no Googling allowed.
Pass/Fail Score: You’ll receive a score report shortly after the exam. A passing score proves you can manage Linux systems like a pro.
Study Materials and Resources
RHCE preparation requires formal training, self-study, and practical experience.
Here’s how to prepare:
1. Enroll in Formal Training
Take a structured course that walks you through the RHCE topics. Choose one that includes:
- Step-by-step lessons on Linux and Ansible
- Labs and practice exercises
- Real-time feedback from instructors
- A guided program saves you time and ensures you don’t miss any key topics.
2. Practice, Practice, Practice
Set up a test environment using a virtual machine or cloud-based RHEL instance. Try to:
- Install and configure services
- Automate tasks using Ansible
- Break things on purpose—then fix them.
- The more hands-on experience you get, the better prepared you’ll be.
3. Use the Right Study Materials
Helpful resources include:
- The Red Hat official exam objectives
- Lab guides and RHCE study books
- Online forums and communities where RHCE candidates share tips
- Stick with updated and trusted sources.
4. Take Practice Exams
Practice tests help you:
- Get used to the exam format
- Learn how to manage your time.
- Identify areas you still need to improve.
- Some programs include built-in practice exams, an excellent way to boost confidence.
Yellow Tail Tech’s Ansible Automation Track: A Path to RHCE Success
At Yellow Tail Tech, we understand that preparing for the test can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve launched our Ansible Automation Track —a focused, 5-week training program designed to help students prepare for the exam.
Expect to gain new skills and knowledge—this program has it all.
We tailored this course for students who want to dive deep into Ansible and automate their way through the RHCE curriculum. By the end of the 5-week program, you’ll be ready to tackle the Red Hat Engineer exam confidently.
How to Prepare for the Red Hat Engineer Exam Without Feeling Overwhelmed
Let’s be honest: Taking a big tech exam can feel scary. But don’t worry; you’re not alone.
Plenty of students feel nervous before diving into the RHCE path. The key is to have a plan.
Here’s how to prepare without burning out:
- Start with the Basics: Make sure you’re solid on Linux fundamentals. If you haven’t taken the RHCSA yet, begin there. It’s the foundation for everything in RHCE.
- Learn by Doing: RHCE is a hands-on exam. That means reading won’t be enough—you must do the tasks—practice setting up servers, writing Ansible playbooks, and troubleshooting issues in a lab environment.
- Follow a Structured Program: Self-studying can work, but it’s easy to get lost. That’s why structured training programs like Yellow Tail Tech’s Ansible Automation Track are helpful. We break it all down for you—step by step.
- Focus on Ansible: Automation is a massive part of the current RHCE examination. The more comfortable you are with Ansible, the more confident you’ll be on exam day.
- Ask Questions: Don’t suffer in silence. Join study groups, connect with mentors, and ask your instructors for help if you’re stuck.
What Happens After You Get Certified?
That RHCE certification? It’ll open up a world of fantastic job options. Expect this.
RHCEs can work as:
- System administrators
- Automation specialists
- Network engineers
- And more
Many companies are looking for certified professionals to manage their Linux-based systems.
With RHCE certification, you can expect faster career growth. Leadership positions, like IT management and senior system architect jobs, frequently go to certified professionals.
Employers value RHCEs because of their advanced technical skills. You’ll be a hot commodity! This increased value usually translates into a higher salary.
It’s more than just a piece of paper; it’s a smart move for your career. New career paths, once impossible, are now within reach. You’ll have a competitive advantage in the job market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RHCE exam?
Red Hat technologies are the focus of this exam, a hands-on test of your Linux skills. You’ll be evaluated on system administration, networking, security, and automation.
How long does it take to become RHCE certified?
The time it takes to become RHCE certified depends on your current skills. If you’re starting from scratch, it may take several months of study and practice to feel ready for the exam.
Is the RHCE certification worth the investment?
Absolutely! RHCE certification: This credential unlocks many job opportunities in the IT field. You’ll also see a jump in your salary and quicker career growth.
What are the requirements for RHCE certification?
Before pursuing the RHCE certification, we recommend having some Linux system administration experience and completing the Red Hat System Administration I & II courses or equivalent experience.
Do I need to have a Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) certification first?
Yes, the RHCSA is a prerequisite for the RHCE certification. You need to be RHCSA certified before taking the exam since the RHCE builds on the foundational skills learned in RHCSA.
Is the RHCE examination difficult?
It can be challenging, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Linux or automation tools like Ansible. But you can do it with the proper training—like Yellow Tail Tech’s Ansible Automation Track—and enough hands-on practice.
Your Path to Becoming an RHCE Starts Here
Becoming a Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) is a great way to advance your IT career and increase your earning potential. With Yellow Tail Tech’s Ansible Automation Track, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to pass the Red hat Engineer exam confidently and take your career to the next level.
How to become a Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) starts with us. Book a 10-minute intro call today! Achieve your RHCE goal—we’ll be right there with you.
