Introduction.

Typically when one considers starting a career in the cloud, they often wonder what it looks like and where they should start? Lets go over some essentials before getting to the nitty gritty!

Are there cloud jobs?

Cloud computing is an ever-growing industry and despite the layoffs that happened in the year 2020, more companies are now hiring again but more responsibly, so you need to get serious about qualifying for roles in the cloud.

In general, regardless of a person’s background, this article will give an overview of the different career paths available, To begin, the best piece of advice is to start where you are, with what you have, some people have backgrounds in the restaurant industry, banking, medicine, etc these present unique experiences and lessons which can all be used to enhance your application.

Roles in the cloud.

Anyway, let’s get down to business, if you’re new to the cloud industry, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the lingo, jargon, job types, skills required, etc. I would like to shed some light on the different roles a beginner could seek.

In general, you can seek junior or internship jobs in the following roles:

1. Cloud Developer,

2. Cloud Administrator,

3. Cloud Architect,

4. Cloud Engineer,

5. Cloud Security Professional,

6. Cloud Sales Executive,

7. Cloud Support Engineer,

8. Cloud Consultant.

9. Site Reliability Engineer (SRE),

10. Data Engineer,

11. Data Analyst,

12. Digital Skills Officer,

13. DevOps Engineer,

14. Product Manager,

15. Quality Assurance.

Cloud Developer.

Becoming a Cloud Developer requires a combination of programming skills, database management proficiency, and the ability to work with cross-functional teams. This role plays a pivotal part in creating and maintaining efficient cloud solutions that meet the needs of end-users while ensuring the scalability and security of the underlying infrastructure.

Key skills required:

1. Programming languages: Having an understanding of the popular cloud programming languages such as Python, JavaScript or Go is essential.

2. Database management: It is essential to display a firm understanding of at least one database querying language such as SQL and a database technology such as MySQL

Main responsibilities:

1. Application development:

Create and maintain applications using a variety of programming languages. Integration of data sources is a key aspect, and addressing incompatibility or security concerns is essential.

1. Virtual machine configuration:

Design and configure virtual machines to meet business requirements. This includes setting up networking resources such as load balancers for scalability. Collaboration with DevOps professionals is common for troubleshooting during deployment phases.

1. Cloud Infrastructure Management:

Work with team members across departments to manage cloud infrastructure resources. This includes overseeing networking, storage, and computing services, and ensuring seamless integration with the overall architecture.

1. Testing:

Thoroughly test new applications before they are made available to customers or end users. Identifying and addressing any issues at an early stage is critical to delivering high-quality solutions.

1. Documentation:

Maintain detailed documentation outlining the architecture and components used in different projects. This documentation is essential to adapt to changes in the business infrastructure and to ensure a well-documented history of implemented solutions.

Cloud Administrator.

A Cloud Administrator plays a hands-on role in managing critical cloud resources, including networks, storage, and virtual machines. This guide provides a brief overview of the responsibilities and skills required for this entry-level position.

Key skills required:

1. Systems Administration:

Cloud administrators must have excellent systems administration skills to ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of cloud-based systems.

1. Network Management:

Network management skills are essential for overseeing connectivity and ensuring seamless communication between cloud resources.

1. Problem Solving:

Ability to deal effectively with day-to-day issues. Cloud administrators are responsible for maintaining the uptime of the systems under their care, which requires strong problem-solving skills.

1. Virtualization technologies:

Knowledge of virtualization technologies such as hypervisors and VLANs is essential. This knowledge will help optimize resource utilization and improve overall system performance.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Deployment and Configuration:

Work with IT to provision, configure, deploy, and monitor compute, storage, and networking services in the cloud. This includes hands-on management of virtual machines and associated resources.

1. Uptime maintenance:

Ensure the continuous uptime of systems by proactively addressing and resolving issues that may impact performance. Regular monitoring and troubleshooting are key aspects of this responsibility.

1. Multi-Platform Management:

Work with multiple operating systems, even those that are not native to their infrastructure or platform. Cloud administrators may be tasked with managing a variety of devices, requiring adaptability across multiple platforms.

1. Collaboration:

Collaborate with cross-functional teams within the IT department. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to the successful deployment, maintenance, and optimization of cloud resources.

Conclusion:

Becoming a cloud administrator involves hands-on management of critical cloud resources and requires a diverse skill set encompassing systems administration, network management, and proficiency in virtualization technologies. The ability to troubleshoot, ensure uptime, and work across multiple platforms makes this role integral to the smooth running of cloud computing environments.

Cloud Architect.

A Cloud Architect is responsible for the high-level design of software systems within a cloud computing environment. Below is a brief overview of the role, highlighting the skills and responsibilities required for entry-level understanding.

Key skills required:

1. Deep technological expertise:

Cloud Architects need to have in-depth knowledge of the various technologies used in cloud computing. This knowledge enables them to make informed and strategic decisions when designing and implementing software systems.

1. Considered Decision-Making:

The role demands a knack for thoughtful decision-making. Cloud architects are tasked with making high-level design choices, and their decisions have a significant impact on the overall functionality and efficiency of cloud-based software systems.

1. Career Progression:

Architects often transition into this role after gaining experience in other positions, such as software engineering. This career path provides them with the practical knowledge and insight necessary to excel in the role of an architect.

Main Responsibilities:

1. High-Level System Design:

Cloud Architects are responsible for creating high-level designs for software systems within the cloud. This involves considering various factors such as scalability, security, and performance optimization.

1. Technology Evaluation:

Evaluate and select appropriate technologies for cloud-based solutions. Architects must stay abreast of the latest developments to ensure that the technologies selected are aligned with the organization's goals and industry best practices.

1. Collaborate with stakeholders:

Work closely with stakeholders, including developers, engineers, and business leaders, to understand requirements and incorporate them into the architectural design. Effective communication is critical to translating business needs into robust cloud solutions.

1. Continuous learning:

Given the dynamic nature of technology, cloud architects must engage in continuous learning. Staying abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends is critical to making informed decisions in the ever-evolving cloud landscape.

Conclusion:

Becoming a cloud architect requires a combination of deep technical expertise, strategic decision-making, and effective stakeholder collaboration. The role is often a natural progression for individuals who have built a foundation in roles such as software engineering, providing them with the insight and experience needed to design and implement sophisticated cloud-based software systems.

Cloud Engineer.

A Cloud Engineer is a pivotal role responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining cloud computing solutions for clients or organizations. This guide provides an insightful overview, focusing on the multifaceted skills and responsibilities associated with this dynamic position.

Key Skills Required:

1. Communication Skills:

Ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical team members to understand and address business needs directly.

1. Versatility in Networking, Storage, and Virtualization:

Proficiency in networking, storage systems, and virtualization is essential for creating comprehensive cloud solutions that meet diverse client requirements.

1. Programming and Automation:

Strong programming skills, particularly in languages like Python, Ruby, etc., to develop APIs and use programmability interfaces for task automation, issue troubleshooting, and enhancing network device performance.

1. Infrastructure as Code:

Hands-on experience with writing "infrastructure as code," a key aspect of a Cloud Engineer's role. This involves managing and maintaining cloud accounts, building shared cloud components, and guiding other software engineers and businesses on cloud best practices.

Main Responsibilities:

1. Designing Virtual Networks/Infrastructure:

Use tools like Cisco Cloud Center or OpenStack to design virtual networks and infrastructure resources tailored to client needs. Familiarity with various networking devices, such as Juniper Contrail Networking, for Software-Defined Networks, is crucial.

1. Deployment and Configuration:

Collaborate with vendors to deploy and configure hardware appliances based on business needs, particularly in organizations opting for private cloud infrastructure.

1. Automation Script Development:

Develop automation scripts using tools like Puppet or Chef to manage tasks related to provisioning, configuration change management, and more, for both physical and virtual network devices and compute resources.

1. Disaster Recovery Planning:

Design robust disaster recovery plans by understanding the performance requirements of clients' business needs. Cloud Engineers leverage strong problem-solving skills during deployment phases and collaborate with diverse IT departments across the organization.

Within an organization, a cloud engineer may take on the following sub-roles:

1. Software Engineer.

2. DevOps Engineer.

3. Security Engineer.

4. QA Engineer.

5. Full-Stack Engineer.

6. Data Engineer.

Conclusion:

Being a Cloud Engineer involves a blend of technical proficiency, collaboration, and the ability to create and maintain robust cloud solutions. The role extends beyond coding applications, emphasizing "infrastructure as code" and contributing significantly to the efficiency and innovation of cloud computing environments.

Cloud security professional

A Cloud Security Professional plays a crucial role in managing and ensuring the security of cloud environments. This guide provides a concise overview of the responsibilities and skills required for individuals considering a career in cloud security.

Key Skills Required:

1. Security Management:

Proficiency in managing cloud security, including the ability to monitor, detect, and respond effectively in the event of a security threat or attack.

1. Compliance Knowledge:

Understanding industry best practices related to cloud computing security and compliance requirements. This knowledge is essential for aligning clients' security measures with the standards and regulations applicable to their specific industry.

1. Incident Response:

Quick and effective incident response skills to mitigate and address security incidents promptly.

Main Responsibilities:

1. Monitoring and Detection:

Constantly monitor cloud environments for potential security threats and unauthorized activities. Utilize tools and technologies to detect anomalies and indicators of compromise.

1. Incident Response Planning:

Develop and implement robust incident response plans to efficiently address and mitigate security incidents when they occur. This involves coordinating with relevant stakeholders and teams to ensure a swift and effective response.

1. Client Security Requirements:

Manage clients' security requirements by understanding their specific needs and tailoring security measures to align with industry best practices. This includes ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

1. Industry Best Practices:

Stay updated on industry best practices related to cloud security. This involves continuous learning and adaptation to emerging threats and advancements in security technologies.

1. Rewards and Career Path:

A career as a Cloud Security Professional can be highly rewarding. The role provides opportunities for professional growth and development as organizations increasingly prioritize robust security measures in their cloud environments.

Conclusion:

Choosing a career as a Cloud Security Professional involves mastering the art of securing cloud environments, responding to incidents, and ensuring clients' security requirements align with industry best practices. The role is dynamic, challenging, and carries significant importance in today's digital landscape, making it a rewarding career choice for those passionate about cybersecurity and cloud technology.

Other popular roles include:

• Cloud sales executive,

• Cloud Support Engineer,

• Cloud consultant.

• DevOps engineer,

• Data Engineer,

• Data Analyst,

• Digital Skills Officer,

• Product Manager,

• Site Reliability Engineer (SRE),

• Quality Assurance.

Challenges:

• Cloud is changing all the time and requires one to be quite vigilant, master current tools, and know something about the latest tools.

• The scope is wide. Learn the major tools and have an understanding of how to use the minor ones.

Parting remarks!

Focus on the fundamentals and dive deeper once you have them figured out. Demonstrate your skills and show your skills, also show what problem you’re solving and how successful your solution was.

Certifications are important but so too is real-world experience.

If you have a role in mind, seek out info on the role, reach out to experts in the field, ask for resources, and possibly get an introduction if you prove your worth.

Figure out how you learn best and use it to upskill. Do you prefer to watch videos, read books, do labs, etc.?

There is commonality in most job roles, if you feel stuck, figure out the tools and expertise needed in most roles or where roles overlap and get good at it, from there you may have further insights that will help you pivot to one.

Learn, take advice from industry experts, and Take action!

Go broad then go deep later.

References:

Websites:

1. Open up the cloud

2. Digital Cloud training website

   Video:

3. Cloud Career Journeys - How to Get Started in Cloud (2024)