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Engineering

How to become a cloud engineer: Skills & career guide

If you’re a big-picture thinker and constant learner who loves to code, a career as a cloud engineer could be in your future. Cloud engineers tackle tough problems that require both detail-oriented and holistic mindsets. The field is growing rapidly and shows no signs of slowing.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, an IT professional, or contemplating a career change, this article will walk you through what it takes to become a cloud engineer.

According to Indeed, cloud engineers earn an average salary of $120,512 per year. However, at big tech companies like Google and Meta, salaries soar even higher, with Meta offering an average of $252K.

High pay reflects the high demand for these roles. Organizations of all kinds rely on the cloud for various purposes, from data backup and software development to running large web applications. If you’ve played Fortnite with friends or marathoned cooking shows on Netflix, you’ve experienced the power of the cloud.

In this guide, we walk you through the essential concepts of cloud engineering, the skills needed to launch your career, and the best ways to learn them. If you’re eager to start right away, CodeSignal Learn offers free courses in a variety of technical topics, including cloud engineering. For a broader look at becoming a software engineer, check out this guide.

Buckle up as we head for the clouds.

Jump to a section:

What does a cloud engineer do?

At its most basic, the cloud infrastructure refers to the servers accessed over the internet and the data that lives on those servers. Cloud engineering lets companies and organizations move business applications and processes back and forth across private, public, and hybrid cloud systems. 

The ones in charge of the show and making sure everything runs smoothly? You guessed it—the cloud engineers. They maintain the cloud infrastructure and systems, and manage many of the operations underneath. 

  • They plan, develop, and design cloud-based software and applications, often working with vendors like AWS or Google Cloud Computing Services.
  • They oversee data migration to cloud-based applications.
  • They monitor systems, solve problems, and debug throughout development.
  • They collaborate with other teams, especially cybersecurity and IT, to assess and protect the cloud architecture.
  • They’re responsible for system maintenance and stay up to date on developments.

Today’s forecast: cloudy with a chance of more jobs

Cloud engineering jobs aren’t just found at tech giants like Nvidia or Google. We’re in a cloud revolution—industries like healthcare, finance, and retail are constantly on the hunt for more engineering experts. High demand makes it a versatile and lucrative career choice.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 23 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Cloud engineer role requirements & responsibilities

From technical skills to communicating with the rest of your organization, cloud engineers have a range of duties on their plate. Some of these include:

  • Manage cloud environments. The core part of your job. You’ll oversee the configuration, deployment, and maintenance of cloud infrastructure. This starts with discovery—what are your org’s specific needs? What provider will you use? From optimizing resources to managing costs, you’re a key player in keeping the ship running smoothly.
  • Stop working in silos. Cloud engineers work closely with system administrators, cybersecurity teams, and business stakeholders. You’ll want to align development strategies with team objectives and wider goals. This comes into play especially when a business needs to scale.
  • Automate cloud deployments. “How can we streamline this process?” is on everyone’s mind. When it comes to the cloud, you’ll be asked to provide answers. Cloud engineers write code to increase cloud efficiency, accelerate application delivery, and reduce human error. Thinking holistically, with a deep knowledge of engineering solutions, will be your biggest asset here.
  • Handle scalability and reliability of applications. If you’re at a small gaming company that suddenly attracts millions of users, you’ve got scaling problems that need to be solved fast. Cloud engineers design frameworks that support horizontal and vertical scaling, and balance the load to prevent crashes. 
  • Data security and compliance. Confidentiality and protecting user data are fundamental to any organization. Cloud experts need to have their eye on the ball when it comes to security. This includes understanding encryption, access controls, and network security. 

What are the typical qualifications you need to become a cloud engineer?

A college degree is the most common qualification needed to get your foot in the door. But online learning platforms are hacking new ways forward to unlock access for more future engineers. 

Let’s cover the primary ways to land your first cloud engineering job.

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. A B.S. or B.A. is the traditional way to entry-level cloud engineering positions. Choose a computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, or IT program and learn coding, database management, and cloud computing. But that typically means four years of full-time study.
  • Certifications (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud). The big players offer their own certification programs that are industry-recognized for teaching fundamental skills critical to the job. These courses will build your confidence without breaking the bank. 
  • Hands-on experience. No one can deny the importance of hard-fought skills you learned on the job. If you’ve been in charge of cloud infrastructure, say at a startup or small organization, you’ve been around the block. Highlight this to employers.
  • Have an understanding of DevOps practices. If you’ve been part of a development team, you’ve seen the process of deploying products or updates amidst the chaos. This experience could be your stepping stone into the world of cloud engineering.

Can you become a cloud engineer without a degree?

Yes! It’s definitely possible. 

Don’t have a bachelor’s degree on your resume? Don’t panic. No career path is the same. Many cloud engineers have transitioned or found jobs through bootcamps, online courses, by being self-taught, and obtaining certifications. And who can deny the value of previous practical experience? 

If you’re looking to gain proficiency, CodeSignal Learn offers a series of courses in cloud engineering that are actually fun to do. Bite-sized lessons and hands-on practices, plus an AI tutor named Cosmo who helps you when you get stuck, keeps you motivated from one class to the next. Once you skill up, you’ll feel more ready to start contacting recruiters and applying for jobs.

What kind of companies employ cloud engineers?

Cloud engineers are in high demand across various sectors. Tech startups, multinational corporations, and cloud service providers are your best bet when job hunting. These companies need professionals to manage and optimize their cloud infrastructure.

What skills do you need to become a cloud engineer?

  • Technical foundations. Like roots supporting a tree, you need a solid foundation for a strong career in cloud engineering. Skip a few steps and the whole thing could fall apart. Your base should include proficiency in programming languages, operating systems, and networking concepts.
  • Programming languages. Cloud engineers should be proficient in Python, Java, Ruby on Rails, JavaScript, and SQL. These are the most common languages for cloud development and automation tasks.

Learning tip: CodeSignal Learn offers an extensive library of courses to help you master these languages, even if you’re a beginner.

  • Linux operating systems. Love Linux? Then you’re off to a good start. Cloud engineers only look stronger with a solid understanding of Linux operating systems, since many environments are built on them. Key concepts include command line proficiency, system administration, network configuration, and security enhancements.
  • Understanding of networking concepts. A core part of your job is making sure data flows smoothly and securely—and that your chosen cloud service works reliably and without any hiccups. You’ll need to have a strong grasp on concepts like TCP/IP, VPN, cloud networking, firewalls, and network protocols. 

Knowledge of key cloud computing platforms and features

When it comes to providers, cloud engineers usually have their favorites. Below is a list of the big players in the space. It’s worth knowing and mastering at least one of them. Scroll down further to learn how to get certified.

  • Amazon Web Services (AWS)
  • Microsoft Azure
  • Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
  • Oracle Cloud
  • IBM Cloud

Along with understanding the nuances of a provider, you’ll also want a general understanding of virtual machines (VM). 

Know the fundamentals of cloud deployment technologies like Docker and Kubernetes

Beyond languages, you’ll also want to know two specific tools relevant to cloud engineering: Docker and Kubernetes. Docker is a platform that allows you to package applications into lightweight, portable containers that run across various environments. Kubernetes automates the deployment, scaling, and management of these containers. The platform simplifies handling complex microservices architectures. 

Role-specific skills

Even when they’re Individual Contributors (ICs), cloud engineers are more than just coders. They need a broad range of skillsets to thrive.

  • Management and leadership skills. Anyone can lead from any position. Being a great cloud engineer means taking the initiative, seeing beyond your own scope of responsibilities, and committing to continuous improvement and collaborative success. 
  • Compliance management. Compliance is an ongoing process that includes regular assessments, audits, and updates to make sure the services you’re running follow regulations, which change frequently. Know the nuances of your specific industry—because different standards apply depending on your customers and workflow.
  • Risk assessment. If you hear about security breaches happening on the internet, you’re on the frontlines to see if your organization was impacted. Cloud engineers need to be vigilant and alert with any potential risks to the business. 

Communication skills

Although your happy place might mean staring at lines of code and debugging from your desk while blasting EDM, cloud engineers need to be able to communicate with others. That might mean over Slack, over email, or in person. Here’s what to know.

  • Know how to collaborate with a team. Engineers generally work in teams, and cloud engineers follow suit. You’ll likely work with other software devs, project and product managers, security specialists, cloud architects, and leaders on the business side. You may report to the CTO, or meet with them frequently. Become a team player, know everyone’s roles, and go further together.
  • Learn the basics of technical documentation. As a cloud engineer, rock-solid technical documentation translates complex cloud jargon into plain English for everyone else. Writing the roadmap keeps knowledge accessible, makes onboarding smoother and troubleshooting easier. Tech writing has its own style and format, and there are courses to help you learn them. 
  • Develop your presentation skills. Every so often, you may be called up to share work or updates to the entire company. Don’t expect to deliver a 20-minute TED talk on cloud infrastructure. Picture a short segment where you’ll share developments, improvements, or news related to the cloud. Know your content, practice it, and ditch the tech jargon for simple language.  
  • Stakeholder management.  Since your area of expertise crosses paths with multiple departments, you’ll likely interface with many leaders across the organization. Come ready to handle different perspectives and concerns as you propose ideas related to cloud management. Say you want to switch providers from AWS to GCP. You’ll need to provide a strong rationale, structure, and secure buy-in from your team.

Routes for becoming a cloud engineer in 2024 and beyond

We’ve covered the responsibilities and skills part of the job. Now let’s learn how to get there. Ready to steer your own career into the cloud? Here’s how to do it quickly and effectively.  We’ll explore three routes to get there—and none of them require four years of college. Yay to that. 

Gain proficiency in one or more cloud computing platforms

Trying to master every single platform is a Herculean task. A smarter way? Get well-versed in one platform. You might even discover there’s some overlap from one provider to the other, making it easier to expand your depth of knowledge as you progress.

Here a few ways to accomplish this:

  • Platform certifications. Such as those offered by AWS, Google or Azure, which validate you as an expert in the field.
  • Cloud workshops. Hands-on training or webinars which keep your skills current.
  • Real-world applications. Practical experience, or learning on the job.
  • Advanced configurations. Learn how to set up and manage Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs), configure auto-scaling and load balancers, and build other customizations to optimize network architecture.

Earning cloud computing certifications & credentials

Completing a cloud engineering course from a specific provider is like getting your driver’s license, but only for one specific car. But the good news—you’ll graduate as a professional who’s able to hit the road with a tank full of JavaScript.

Heads up: Some certifications are only valid for a fixed amount of time, like 2 or 3 years. When that expires, you’ll need to repeat the course to keep your certification current.

Navigating into specialized roles within cloud engineering

Let’s drill down further and look at what it takes to find your way into the cloud, one provider at a time.

How to Become an AWS Cloud Engineer

Transforming yourself into an AWS cloud engineering expert means diving headfirst into the AWS ecosystem and swimming in its ocean of management tools and certifications. Here’s how you can get started:

  • Understand the AWS Ecosystem. Get familiar with key AWS services: EC2, S3, RDS, and Lambda. Know how the AWS components interact with each other to build cloud solutions. Pay attention to big developments or releases.

Learning tip: CodeSignal offers a free engineering learning path tailored specifically to AWS and learning Python. By the end, you’ll be proficient in automating and building cloud solutions using AWS services.

  • Know the AWS Management Tools. Play around with tools like AWS Management Console, your dashboard for all things AWS. 
  • Obtain AWS Certifications. Start with the AWS Certified Solutions Architect—Associate certification to build a solid foundation. As you advance, you can add more certifications to your toolbelt, like the AWS Certified DevOps Engineer.
  • Get hands-on experience: Work on real-world projects using AWS services and see the systems in action.  

How to Become a Google Cloud Engineer

The other big cloud kahuna is Google. Here’s how to become an expert with them.

  • Learn Google Cloud Platform services: Get familiar with core GCP services like Compute Engine, App Engine, Kubernetes Engine, and BigQuery. These services form the backbone to GCP solutions.
  • Focus on Data Management: Sharpen your skills with tools like Cloud Storage, Bigtable, and Dataproc. 
  • Explore AI and Machine Learning tools: Google Cloud offers AI and machine learning tools like TensorFlow, AI Platform, and AutoML. Become an AI whiz (with the help of CodeSignal Learn’s courses in TensorFlow and other AI tools) and get an edge over other job applicants.
  • Earn your GCP Certifications: Get started with the Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification, then tack on more advanced ones like Professional Cloud Architect and Professional Data Engineer.
  • Get social with the Google Cloud community: Join the online community through forums, meetups, and conferences. 

How to Become an Azure Cloud Engineer

To become an Azure cloud engineer, shift your focus on Azure infrastructure, hybrid cloud environments, and Microsoft certifications. Behold the roadmap:

  • Learn the Azure infrastructure: Start scrolling and get familiar with their core services like Azure Virtual Machines, Azure Blob Storage, Azure SQL Database, and Azure Functions.
  • Understand the Azure hybrid cloud feature: The Azure Hybrid benefit allows you to use your on-premises Windows Server licenses to pay for Azure Virtual Machines. It can save up to 40 percent on your Azure VM costs. If a prospective company hosts with Azure, get up to speed right from the source.
  • Leverage Azure DevOps: Level up your skills in Azure DevOps and deploy like a boss.
  • Earn your Microsoft certs: Start with the Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals cert to build up a base. Then advance your way with further credentials.
  • Focus on enterprise: Want to join a large company? Learn how to integrate Azure services with enterprise systems like Active Directory and Office 365. 
  • Get social: Join and participate in Azure communities, forums, and events to stay on top of the latest Azure happenings and best practices. 

Accelerate your career in cloud engineering with CodeSignal Learn

Cloud engineering jobs are in demand in today’s digital world. It’s a high-paying career with lots of room for advancement as you gain experience and deepen your bench of knowledge. The role is brain-intensive, never boring, and develops a skill set that goes far beyond coding. 

Taking that first step may feel daunting—that’s where CodeSignal comes in. 

  • Courses to the moon. We have a full suite of courses that will turn you into a cloud engineering expert. From learning data structures to Python programming, the platform builds the foundation you need to become more skilled and sought-after in today’s fast-moving market. 
  • Study at your own pace. Learn on your terms with bite-sized, practice-based modules that simulate on-the-job experience. 
  • Get help from a space corgi. Our built-in AI tutor, Cosmo, sits by your side as you figure out challenges and hit your learning goals. If you’re stuck, he’ll give you personalized feedback on your code.

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