Honestly I don't think any certification is ever necessary in our field. I , however, have SCJP and now finishing my SCJD.
I have about 4 years experience and live in NYC(lots of jobs here). I have not had any problem with job search and declined several good job offers before.
THe reasons I am pursuing the certification are
1. to learn better programming practices
2. get some sence of achievement
3. maybe increase my leverage with my boss
4. get some official recognition for my achievment
5. And oh yeah. Get a nice logo on my resume.
I don't think anyone should count on any certification to get a job. Nothing substitutes either brains or experience/
