What Is a ServiceNow Developer? (+ How to Become One)

Key takeaways

A ServiceNow developer specializes in using the ServiceNow platform to automate business processes.

• The median total pay for ServiceNow developers in the US is $122,000 per year [1].

• ServiceNow development requires knowledge of both front-end and back-end technologies.

• You can lay the groundwork for a career in ServiceNow development by mastering key concepts in cloud computing and information technology (IT).

Explore the work duties and earning potential of a ServiceNow developer. To build essential technical skills to succeed in this role, consider enrolling in IBM’s Cloud Application Development Foundations Specialization. You’ll have the opportunity to learn how to build and deploy applications using Cloud Native methodologies and tools.

What is ServiceNow?

ServiceNow is a cloud-based software as a service (SaaS). Its primary purpose is to streamline workflow through automating business processes. You may excel in a ServiceNow developer role if you're interested in automation, software development, and business.

What is a ServiceNow developer?

A ServiceNow developer is a software developer who specializes in working with the ServiceNow platform. They design, code, and troubleshoot applications. In addition to working on custom applications, ServiceNow developers may manage the platform and infrastructure. They handle tasks like architectural changes, integrations, and new module implementation. 

Essential skills for a ServiceNow developer

As a type of software developer, ServiceNow developers will benefit from the following technical skills:

• Ability to program in JavaScript 

• Knowledge of markup languages like hypertext markup language (HTML) and extensible markup language (XML) 

• Familiarity with style sheet languages like cascading style sheets (CSS)

• Web development tools and techniques like .NET and AJAX 

• Cloud computing expertise

Technical knowledge is not the only requirement for this career path. Non-technical skills for an aspiring ServiceNow developer to learn include:

• Problem-solving 

• Project management

• Collaboration

• Communication

Day in the life of a ServiceNow developer

Companies view process automation as an opportunity to accomplish specific goals, like increasing productivity or reducing operational costs. These business requirements do not always translate into actionable requests for the ServiceNow platform. Instead, a ServiceNow developer must work with stakeholders to turn business goals into technical solutions. They must have both technical and interpersonal project management expertise.

ServiceNow developer evolution: Virtual assistant

Companies must provide employees with immediate IT support to resolve technical issues quickly. ServiceNow developers addressed this concern by creating an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered chatbot: the virtual assistant. In addition to processing natural language requests, it can automate resolution processes for common IT issues like forgotten passwords.

What does a ServiceNow developer do?

Aside from communicating with shareholders to develop technical projects, a ServiceNow developer may also be responsible for: 

• Formulating and implementing quality assurance (QA) methods: A ServiceNow developer may need to plan and execute unit, integration, regression, and user acceptance testing (UAT).

• Identifying system inefficiencies: ServiceNow developers must be able to analyze, troubleshoot, resolve, and report issues.

• Setting IT practice standards: A ServiceNow developer is responsible for determining IT best practices and improving existing methods.

• Designing and developing configurations: ServiceNow is a customizable, integrative platform. Developers ensure the functionality of these features.

How much does a ServiceNow developer make?

The median total annual salary for a ServiceNow developer is $122,000 [1]. This figure includes base salary and additional pay, which may represent profit-sharing, commissions, bonuses, or other compensation. It's important to remember that salary ranges for software developers can vary based on experience.

A ServiceNow developer has expertise in computer information and technology. Jobs in this field are growing faster than average for all occupations [2]. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates 317,700 annual job openings for computer and information technology roles between 2024 and 2034 [2]. If you're interested in working with business process management and cloud computing, you have several opportunities to consider. Related roles include technical consultants, software architects, and cloud-computing engineers. 

Read more: 6 Cloud Computing Roles (+ Tips to Get Started)

How to become a ServiceNow developer

Do I need a degree?

Some employers require ServiceNow developers to have computer science or information technology degrees. If you're brand new to the field, consider pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science or a Master of Information Technology. If obtaining a degree is not right for you, don't worry. Employers may accept professional certificates and work experience in place of a degree.

1. Gain the necessary programming expertise.

ServiceNow development requires knowledge of front-end and back-end technologies. Developers with this skill set are known as full-stack developers. Industry leaders like IBM offer Professional Certificates for full-stack development.

2. Learn how to manage software projects. 

Project management and presentation skills are essential for this role. While general project management experience can be beneficial, software development projects often require specialized expertise. Learn more about stakeholder management and project planning with Google's Project Management Professional Certificate.

3. Specialize in information technology and cloud computing.

ServiceNow is a cloud-based software that optimizes IT service management. Learning about the fundamentals of cloud computing and information technology is an excellent way to prepare for a role in ServiceNow development. Consider earning a Specialization credential in Information Technology and Cloud Fundamentals.

Explore our free resources for software developers

Join Career Chaton LinkedIn to keep track of the latest trends in the software development field. Discover more about the technologies needed for a developer role with our other free digital resources: 

• Watch on YouTube: Web Development Skills: Ultimate Guide for Beginners

• Learn terminology: CSS Cheat Sheet and Quick Reference

• Hear from a pro: Bots & Blueprints: 6 Questions with a Software Architect and AI Developer

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