Technology grows and changes at a rapid pace. For those who wish to work in this field, education is one of the most important resources. A cloud engineer works in cloud computing. Cloud computing is a type of computer where all components are enabled through the internet, including applications, data storage, networks, development tools, and security. By contrast, other forms of computing contain all of these components in a local computer or an on-premise server. For those interested in this field, consider the path to becoming a cloud engineer.
A cloud engineer is a person who works in cloud computing. Those in this field work to enable, repair, and maintain cloud computing systems. They may work in areas such as development and innovation. These typically highly skilled engineers manage the use of the cloud. This could include managing resource allocation and managing the use of features offered by some of the most commonly used cloud services today. That includes Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (ASW), and Google Cloud.
A cloud engineer may work on a variety of tasks for their clients or employers. They may work to create or optimize the use of a cloud-based application. They have responsibilities such as creating and integrating cloud-based applications, troubleshooting problems within and with cloud computing platforms and working together with other engineers for innovation or development needs.
A cloud engineer often corresponds with company representatives and others on a routine basis, helping to handle problems that arise or providing solutions for a project or functional needs. They may also handle the upgrading of cloud-based systems. They may provide necessary cloud support services to others using applications within the cloud. A component of their job may also include keeping their skills up to date and introducing new technology to the company or their clients.
To become a cloud engineer, individuals need to gain core skills for using, managing, and problem solving in the cloud. There are several paths to earning this, including completing a bachelor’s or master’s. Other times, students may be able to earn the necessary skills through a range of bootcamps and vocational programs. Some people spend time in other computer engineering educational programs or positions and then take courses and finish certifications to move into the area of cloud engineering.
One of the options is for a student to enter into a bachelor’s or master’s program, depending on their specific skills. The education requirements for engineers in this field are not always clear, as earning master’s or certification may not be necessary, but could create more interest in your application over others.
Some students may wish to pursue other educational options. They may be able to finish a bootcamp or finish a graduate certificate. This option may allow students to gain specific cloud computing skills, especially if they have a foundation in another area of computer science.
When considering the education necessary to work as a cloud engineer, it is also important to consider the certifications necessary in the field. Certifications are a way to show you have specific skills in a very specific area of technology, software design, or other aspects. Some colleges and universities offer a cloud computing certificate program that offers access to curriculum from AWS, including curriculum focused on AWS Cloud Solutions Architect certification exam.
Other certifications that may be beneficial and necessary to those working as a cloud engineer include:
Many times, a person in cloud engineering needs to have a master’s in the field. This is typically in the science field but may also be in a related area like computing engineering. If in a related area, students may wish to finish a graduate certificate in cloud engineering specifically. It is possible to finish a PhD in this area as well. Some employers, like the federal government, may hire those who have a higher education level.
Sometimes more important than a bachelor’s or master’s, those who wish to work in the field as a cloud engineer typically need to have core skills to do the work. The work a person in cloud engineering does may differ from one job to the next. Skills such as cloud management, troubleshooting, database management, network integration, and information security are typically necessary for anyone in this field.
Here is a closer look at some of the most important skills for those working as a cloud engineer, typically.
In addition to this, cloud engineers need to have soft IT skills. This may include skills in time management, problem solving, communication, and other areas. These professionals may also need math skills and be a logical thinker. Some may need to have strong abilities to be detail oriented and have analytical skills.
According to Payscale, the average base salary for a cloud engineer is $91,409 per year. Many individuals receive bonuses each year, which on average range from $1,000 up to $15,000. Many companies also provide profit sharing opportunities. The value here may range from $4,000 to $13,000. This makes the average total pay around $55,000 to $129,000.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the 2023 median pay for a computer and information research scientist was $145,080 per year. Cloud engineers may fall into this area. The BLS states that from 2023 to 2033, this field may grow at a rate of 26%, which is much faster than other areas.
Top Salary Metro Areas in the United States: Medical and Health Services Managers| Metro Area | Annual Mean Salary | Employment |
|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $146,190 | 2,110 |
| Vallejo-Fairfield, CA | $145,440 | 520 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | $125,500 | 5,150 |
| Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA | $124,130 | 2,300 |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA | $122,130 | 400 |
Bureau of Labor Statistics
