Riding the tech wave? Consider cloud engineering, a career that combines cutting-edge tech, competitive salaries and dynamic work.
The demand for cloud engineers is sky high, driven by the boom of the cloud computing market across industries such as tech, finance and healthcare. This growing need for cloud engineer skills is pushing up salaries and the attractiveness of job benefits, making it a prime time to consider a career in the field.
what does a cloud engineer do?
Cloud engineers are involved in all aspects of creating cloud-based applications, spanning design, development and debugging. They operate on various platforms and services, including Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure. Excelling as a cloud engineer requires not only a deep understanding of cloud infrastructure but also top-notch coding skills.
Other cloud engineer responsibilities include:
- implementing updates, ensuring security and compliance, and optimizing performance for end users
- collaborating with other IT professionals, such as system architects and database administrators, to integrate cloud solutions into existing infrastructures
- developing disaster recovery plans and implementing automatic failover strategies, ensuring data integrity in case of any catastrophic events
what is the salary for a cloud engineer?
Per Randstad data, typical cloud engineer salaries in the United States range from around $125,000 to around $155,000, depending on location and experience.
what skills do cloud engineers need?
Technical proficiencies include:
cloud platform expertise
You’ll need a deep-seated understanding of at least one major cloud platform such as AWS, GCP or Microsoft Azure.
programming prowess
Coding helps automate routine tasks, manage cloud infrastructure and create customized solutions that fit specific needs within cloud environments. So, knowing your way around one or more programming languages like SQL, Java, Python, Ruby, Golang, PHP and .NET is essential.
networking skills
Understanding networking in a cloud environment is crucial for designing secure and efficient cloud systems.
You should also look to sharpen the following soft skills:
problem-solving
Exceptional problem-solving abilities are key to troubleshooting and debugging cloud services.
communication
You’ll need to collaborate with coworkers and clients, explain technical concepts and articulate solutions.
multitasking and meeting deadlines
Being a cloud engineer often feels like spinning multiple plates at the same time. So, being good at multitasking and always turning in your work on time is critical.
what qualifications & certifications do cloud engineers need?
You'll need at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering or a related discipline to kickstart your career as a cloud engineer. And while you don't have to get a master's degree, if you choose to level up with an advanced degree in cloud computing management or computer science, it could boost your career.
There are also several cloud engineer certifications for the major cloud platforms. These include:
AWS certified solutions architect
Demonstrates know-how of AWS services as well as AWS deployment and management services.
microsoft certified: azure fundamentals
A solid beginner’s certification covering cloud concepts, Azure architecture and services, and Azure management and governance.
google associate cloud engineer
This entry-level GCP certification demonstrates basic knowledge of working with Google Cloud.
boost your cloud engineer job prospects today
If you’re thinking of brushing up on your cloud engineering skills, our partner Udemy offers a huge range of courses. You can also get some hands-on experience with an internship program, such as Randstad’s REVup program. Or why not launch your own cloud computing project to give your portfolio that extra polish? And don’t forget to sign up for Randstad’s job alerts so your dream cloud engineer job doesn’t sneak past you.