This paper explores the impact of vocabulary-based English competition certificates on the employment of vocational college students. The issue is comprehensively analyzed by combining literature reviews of relevant local and international studies, empirical research, interviews, and case analyses. The paper employs a method that integrates literature review and empirical research to summarize existing studies on the impact of vocabulary-based English competition certificates on vocational college students’ employment. These certificates play a significant role in enhancing the employment competitiveness of vocational college students. Through a questionnaire survey and in-depth interviews with a certain number of vocational college students, the study examines their motivations for participating in vocabulary-based English competitions, their employment status, and their perceptions of the impact of these certificates on employment. Empirical research finds that vocational college students with vocabulary-based English competition certificates are more likely to pass initial English proficiency screenings, thereby gaining more employment opportunities. Additionally, these certificates can demonstrate students’ vocabulary mastery, showcase their learning attitudes, and their willingness to improve themselves, providing a competitive advantage in securing desired job opportunities. Finally, through interviews and case analyses, the positive impact of vocabulary-based English competition certificates on the employment of vocational college students is further validated, and corresponding suggestions and strategies are proposed.