How to become a Cloud Engineer
A Cloud Engineer is not an entry-level job. Most positions require three to five years of experience, but you can get into a position from several different directions. The steps to becoming a cloud engineer involve:
- Earn a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a related field.
- Earn IT certifications. These will open doors to different areas of technology and help you meet requirements for some job applications. Some of the most important certifications to have include CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network +, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional.
- Gain experience working with Java, Windows applications, and Linux admin.
- Find an entry-level job as a systems administrator or a network engineer to gain on-the-job experience. These positions often lead to specialist positions, and then you can work your way to a cloud position.
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Typical qualifications for a Cloud Engineer
Skills employers are looking for
About IaaS
Skill in or experience with IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) solutions, delivery, or implementation. IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) delivers outsourced computer infrastructure to assist an enterprise with cloud computing needs.
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About Computer science
Skill or experience in computers and computer concepts such as software, hardware, networking, and the Internet.
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About SaaS
Experience with or knowledge of SaaS (Software as a Service). SaaS is a model whereby software is licensed on a subscription basis and centrally hosted. It is typically accessed by a web browser.
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About Virtualization
Skill or experience creating a virtual version of computer hardware programs, applications, computer network resources, or storage devices.
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About Cloud computing
Experience with cloud computing platforms, administration, and tools. The cloud is a term used to describe instances in which shared computers or servers are used to store or process data, while also making that data accessible through the Internet.
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Cloud Engineer jobs in United States
Career progression for Cloud Engineer
Education levels for Cloud Engineers
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree | 3.0% |
| Master's degree | 2.0% |
| Associate's degree | 1.0% |
| High school diploma or GED | 0.0% |
Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $81,400 |
| 4 - 8 | $93,200 |
| 8 - 12 | $111,700 |
| 12 - 16 | $113,900 |
| 16 - 20 | $115,200 |
Common questions about career advices for a Cloud Engineer
What are the important soft skills to have as a cloud engineer?
As a cloud engineer, it's important to have experience with at least one or more of the major public cloud providers, but you also need excellent verbal and written communication skills in order to help clients and customers, and organizational skills to handle the day-to-day management of clients needs.
What are the different skill areas of cloud engineers?
Most cloud engineers fall into three different categories. Cloud architectures plan the infrastructure, cloud developers perform all the coding, and cloud support engineers work for the cloud service providers.
