How to Become a DevOps Engineer (Efficiency in Every Byte)
If you’ve ever imagined designing systems that streamline software development and operations, or pondered over what it takes to become a DevOps Engineer, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the PRECISE steps you need to take to kickstart your career as a DevOps Engineer. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you require.
- The educational background that can propel you towards your goal.
- How to secure a position as a DevOps Engineer.
So, whether you’re a novice in the realm of coding or a tech-savvy professional looking to elevate your skillset, keep reading.
We’re about to decode the roadmap to becoming a successful DevOps Engineer.
Let’s dive in!
Steps to Become a DevOps Engineer
Step 1: Understand the Basics of Software Development and IT Operations
Before embarking on your journey to becoming a DevOps Engineer, it’s important to have a solid understanding of both software development and IT operations.
This includes familiarizing yourself with the basics of programming languages, database management, system design and networking, among others.
Software development knowledge is crucial because DevOps Engineers often work closely with developers to automate and streamline operations and processes.
Understanding how software is built, tested, and deployed will allow you to develop effective systems and tools that enhance productivity and reduce operational issues.
On the other hand, knowledge of IT operations will help you understand how to maintain and manage IT infrastructure, deal with system failures, and ensure that all IT services run smoothly.
As a DevOps Engineer, you will be expected to bridge the gap between development and operations, so having a foundational knowledge of both fields is essential.
To gain the necessary knowledge, consider pursuing a degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field.
Alternatively, you can learn through online courses, boot camps, or self-study.
Remember, the aim is to understand the fundamental principles of software development and IT operations, as it will form the bedrock of your DevOps career.
Step 2: Gain Practical Experience with Linux and System Administration
As aspiring DevOps Engineers, it is crucial to gain practical experience with Linux as it is one of the most commonly used operating systems in this field.
A solid understanding of Linux is beneficial because many DevOps tools, like Jenkins and Docker, are Linux-based.
You should be comfortable with Linux commands, scripting, and Linux-based environments.
In addition to Linux, you should also gain practical experience with system administration.
As a DevOps Engineer, your role will involve managing and optimizing complex systems.
This task often requires a solid knowledge of system administration.
You can gain experience in system administration by working in roles such as a System Administrator or Network Administrator.
This real-world experience will not only help you understand the practical application of DevOps principles and tools but also improve your problem-solving skills which are crucial in this field.
Further, it will make you more attractive to potential employers and can lead to more advanced job opportunities.
You might consider getting Linux certification and System Administration certification to validate your skills in these areas.
Step 3: Learn Scripting and Automation Techniques
As a DevOps Engineer, proficiency in scripting and automation techniques is critical.
These skills help in configuring systems and automating repetitive tasks, thus enhancing the software development process’s efficiency and effectiveness.
You can start by learning and gaining expertise in popular scripting languages such as Python, Ruby, Perl, and Shell.
Each of these languages has its own unique strengths and it’s up to you to choose which one suits your needs best.
For instance, Python is renowned for its simplicity and readability, making it a good first scripting language to learn.
Automation, on the other hand, is the heart of the DevOps principle.
Familiarize yourself with configuration management tools like Ansible, Chef, or Puppet, and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) tools like Jenkins, Travis CI, or GitLab.
These tools can help you automate the building, testing, and deployment of applications, saving time and minimizing errors.
Hands-on experience is the best way to learn scripting and automation.
Try automating a simple task, then gradually move on to more complex projects as you progress.
Work on real-world projects, contribute to open-source projects, or practice on virtual labs to understand how these tools are used in the industry.
Remember, the goal is not just to understand scripting and automation techniques but to master them.
This mastery will not only make you more proficient as a DevOps Engineer but will also make you more employable in the IT industry.
Step 4: Become Proficient in DevOps Tools and Technologies
To become a competent DevOps engineer, it is vital to become proficient in various DevOps tools and technologies.
DevOps involves a series of practices that combine software development and IT operations, so it’s crucial to have a strong understanding of the tools that make this integration possible.
Several essential DevOps tools and technologies that you should master include Jenkins for continuous integration, Docker for creating isolated environments, Kubernetes for container orchestration, Ansible for configuration management, and many more.
You should also be proficient in cloud platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure, as most DevOps workflows are cloud-based.
These tools and technologies enable automation of complex tasks, streamline processes, and improve efficiency in the development and operations lifecycle.
You can learn these tools by attending specific courses, reading up on online tutorials, or participating in relevant communities and forums.
Also, being familiar with programming languages like Python, Java, or Ruby can be beneficial.
This knowledge allows you to write scripts and automate tasks, which is an integral part of a DevOps Engineer’s role.
Lastly, remember that the field of DevOps is continuously evolving, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies.
You can do this by attending workshops, webinars, and conferences related to DevOps.
Step 5: Study Version Control Systems such as Git
As a DevOps engineer, understanding how to manage versions of software is critical.
The most popular version control system is Git.
Git is a distributed version control system, which means each developer’s working copy of the code is a repository that can access the full history of all changes.
By studying Git, you can learn how to manage the codebase effectively, track changes made to the code, and collaborate with other team members.
It also helps you in reverting back to the old version in case of any errors in the new code.
There are many online resources available to learn Git, including interactive tutorials, video lectures, and step-by-step guides.
You can also practice using Git through small personal projects or open source contributions.
Understanding Git and other version control systems is a critical part of being a successful DevOps engineer, as it will allow you to maintain a smooth and efficient development workflow.
Beyond Git, it’s also helpful to familiarize yourself with other version control systems like Mercurial or Subversion.
Each of these systems has its own advantages and use cases, and the more tools you’re comfortable with, the more versatile you’ll be as a DevOps engineer.
Step 6: Master Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)
As you move further into your DevOps Engineer career, one of the most critical skills to master is Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD).
CI/CD is a method to frequently deliver apps to customers by introducing automation into the stages of app development.
The main concepts attributed to CI/CD are continuous integration, continuous delivery, and continuous deployment.
Continuous Integration is the practice of automating the integration of code changes from multiple contributors into a single software project.
This process involves automatic testing to detect problems early.
Continuous Deployment is closely related, focusing on releasing updates and improvements to the software quickly and sustainably.
To master CI/CD, you should familiarize yourself with tools like Jenkins, CircleCI, and Travis CI.
These tools help in automating the process of code deployment, making it more efficient and less prone to human error.
A deep understanding of these tools will enable you to maximize their potential and optimize the deployment process.
In addition, gaining practical experience is key.
Consider finding projects that require you to implement a CI/CD pipeline, or contribute to an existing project to get hands-on experience.
This practice will also expose you to real-world challenges that will enhance your problem-solving abilities in the context of CI/CD.
This expertise is highly valued in the DevOps world and will significantly boost your employability and growth prospects in the role of a DevOps Engineer.
Step 7: Acquire Cloud Services Knowledge and Experience
In the modern DevOps landscape, understanding and having experience with cloud services is crucial.
Cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and Microsoft Azure are increasingly popular, and many organizations rely heavily on these services for their infrastructure.
Acquiring cloud services knowledge can be achieved through various online courses and certifications offered by the cloud service providers themselves or through third-party education platforms.
The AWS Certified DevOps Engineer, Google Cloud Certified – Professional DevOps Engineer, and Microsoft Certified: Azure DevOps Engineer Expert certifications are great examples of valuable credentials that can enhance your employability.
Moreover, gaining hands-on experience is just as important.
This could be achieved by utilizing free tiers of these cloud services for personal projects or contributing to company projects that involve cloud services at your current job.
Having practical knowledge of deploying, managing, and scaling applications on the cloud will not only strengthen your understanding of the cloud but also equip you with the experience necessary to troubleshoot real-world problems.
Remember, the aim here is not only to understand how to use these services but also to understand the best practices around deploying and managing infrastructure, securing applications, and automating deployments, which are all critical aspects of a DevOps Engineer’s role.
Step 8: Understand Containerization and Orchestration with Docker and Kubernetes
As you dive deeper into your role as a DevOps engineer, you need to familiarize yourself with containerization and orchestration concepts, which are crucial in this field.
Containerization is the process of packaging an application along with its required environment, libraries, and dependencies that can be executed anywhere, thereby enhancing the ease of deployment and scaling.
Docker is a leading software in this field that you should learn.
On the other hand, orchestration deals with the management of multiple containers across multiple machines, ensuring that they collaborate to provide the required services while managing resources efficiently.
Kubernetes is the most popular orchestration tool that you need to master.
In-depth knowledge of Docker will equip you with skills for creating Dockerfiles, building, and managing Docker images and containers.
You will also learn about Docker registries and Docker Compose which are essential in handling multi-container applications.
With Kubernetes, you will learn how to orchestrate and automate container operations like deployment, scaling, networking, and rolling updates.
Remember, the objective is not just to learn these tools theoretically but to understand their practical implementation.
Therefore, consider creating your own projects or contributing to open source projects to get hands-on experience.
Moreover, cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and GCP offer managed services for Docker and Kubernetes, learning how to use these can add more value to your profile.
Remember, staying updated with the latest features and best practices for these tools is crucial as they are constantly evolving.
Also, knowledge of other containerization and orchestration tools like Docker Swarm, Mesos or OpenShift can also be beneficial in diversifying your skills.
Step 9: Build Security Practices into the Software Deployment Process
As a DevOps Engineer, one of your crucial responsibilities would be to incorporate security practices into the software deployment process.
This process is often referred to as DevSecOps which underscores the importance of security in the DevOps process.
One significant way to do this is through automation, which can ensure consistent application of security policies and reduces the risk of human error.
Tools like Jenkins, Chef, Puppet, Ansible, and Terraform are commonly used for automating security tasks.
You may also need to carry out security testing at different stages of the software development lifecycle to identify and rectify vulnerabilities.
The testing methodologies could include Static Application Security Testing (SAST), Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST), or Interactive Application Security Testing (IAST).
Moreover, you should be familiar with regulatory compliance requirements relevant to your industry and ensure that the software deployment process is in line with these standards.
This could involve managing user access controls, data encryption, and secure networking configurations.
Lastly, it is important to foster a culture of security within your organization.
This would involve educating team members about secure coding practices, potential security threats, and the importance of maintaining security during all stages of software development and deployment.
Remember that security is not a one-time activity but an ongoing process that should be integrated into each phase of the DevOps lifecycle.
It requires continuous monitoring and improvement to keep up with evolving threats and vulnerabilities.
Step 10: Embrace a ‘Fail Fast, Learn Quickly’ Mindset
DevOps is a culture that promotes failing fast and learning quickly to improve development and operational activities.
This approach is crucial in the DevOps world as it allows for quick innovation, experimentation, and continuous improvement.
As a DevOps Engineer, you need to embrace a mindset that is not afraid of failure but rather sees it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
This mindset can help you identify problems early on and iterate on your solutions faster.
You’ll need to continuously test and monitor your applications and infrastructure, and when you identify a problem, you should address it as quickly as possible.
This includes learning from your failures by analyzing what went wrong and making changes to avoid similar issues in the future.
You’ll need to experiment with different tools, techniques, and strategies to find what works best for your team and your projects.
This involves taking calculated risks, and while not all of these risks will pay off, each one is a learning opportunity.
This fail-fast, learn quickly culture is part and parcel of a successful DevOps environment.
Finally, the ability to learn quickly and adapt is crucial in the ever-evolving DevOps field.
New tools and technologies are constantly being introduced, so you’ll need to stay updated and be willing to learn new things.
By embracing a fail fast, learn quickly mindset, you can ensure that you stay ahead of the curve and continue to deliver value in your role as a DevOps Engineer.
Step 11: Engage with the DevOps Community and Open Source Projects
As a DevOps engineer, your learning doesn’t stop at the completion of your education or certifications.
The field is constantly evolving with new technologies, tools, and best practices.
Therefore, a crucial step in your career is engaging with the DevOps community and contributing to open source projects.
There are numerous online communities, forums, and platforms like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and the DevOps subreddit where you can interact with other DevOps professionals, learn from their experiences, ask questions, and share your knowledge.
Attending DevOps conferences, webinars, and meetups can also be a great way to network and stay updated with the latest trends in the industry.
Additionally, contributing to open source projects can provide you with hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of tools and technologies used in DevOps.
It not only helps in honing your technical skills, but also gives you the opportunity to work collaboratively with diverse teams, which is a key aspect of a DevOps role.
Having a strong presence in the community and contributions to open source projects can also enhance your portfolio, making you more attractive to potential employers.
Step 12: Gain Certifications in DevOps-Related Technologies (optional)
Certifications can provide you with an edge in the competitive job market.
There are a number of certifications available that are relevant to DevOps, ranging from specific tools to methodologies and practices.
For instance, you might consider getting certified in AWS DevOps, Docker Certified Associate, or Jenkins Certified Engineer.
Certifications in Kubernetes and OpenShift can also be beneficial.
Moreover, other certifications such as Certified Agile Process Owner, Certified Agile Service Manager, and ITIL are also valuable for a DevOps Engineer.
These demonstrate your understanding of IT service management and Agile methodologies, which are both key in DevOps practices.
While gaining these certifications can require an investment in time and money, they can also make you more attractive to potential employers and can open doors to higher-level positions.
However, it’s important to note that while these certifications can enhance your skills and knowledge, they’re not a substitute for real-world experience.
As such, they’re best pursued alongside on-the-job learning and exposure to DevOps practices.
Remember that the DevOps field is constantly evolving, and staying current with the latest tools and practices is a continuous journey.
Certifications can provide a structured way to do this, but they should be supplemented with constant learning and practice on the job.
Step 13: Prepare for Technical Interviews by Practicing DevOps Scenarios
Once you have gained the required qualifications and hands-on experience, it’s time to prepare for technical interviews.
Technical interviews for DevOps Engineer roles often involve practical scenarios and problem-solving questions that test your knowledge and application of DevOps tools and practices.
Use online resources, such as GitHub repositories or online forums, to find practice scenarios that mimic real-world situations.
You may be asked to troubleshoot deployment issues, create continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines, or design infrastructure automation scripts.
Additionally, it can be beneficial to understand how to work in a cloud environment, as many organizations utilize cloud platforms in their DevOps strategy.
Practice deploying and managing applications in cloud environments like AWS, GCP, or Azure.
Make sure to also review theoretical aspects of DevOps, such as the principles of agile development, the concept of infrastructure as code (IaC), and the importance of communication and collaboration in a DevOps culture.
Remember, the goal of the interview is not just to test your technical skills, but also to assess your problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and cultural fit within a DevOps environment.
So, practice presenting your solutions clearly and concisely, and be prepared to discuss how your work aligns with the broader business objectives.
By practicing DevOps scenarios, you’ll not only be better prepared for your technical interview, but you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of how DevOps practices can be used to drive business growth and efficiency.
Step 14: Apply for DevOps Engineer Positions and Network with Industry Professionals
After you have gained the necessary knowledge, skills, and certifications, you can start applying for DevOps Engineer positions.
You can find job postings on company websites, job search websites, and industry-specific forums or social media groups.
Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your technical skills, relevant work experiences, and DevOps certifications.
Furthermore, networking is an essential step in the job search process.
You can attend industry events, join professional organizations, and participate in online forums to connect with other professionals in the field.
This can provide you with valuable insights about job opportunities and industry trends.
Moreover, networking can lead to relationships with individuals who can provide job references or who might inform you of unadvertised job openings in their companies.
Remember, while applying for jobs, don’t get disheartened by rejections.
Finding a job can take time and the key is to stay persistent and continue improving your skills.
In the meanwhile, consider contributing to open-source projects or creating your own DevOps projects to showcase your skills and knowledge to potential employers.
This not only enhances your portfolio but also gives you practical experience, demonstrating your passion and commitment to the field.
Step 15: Stay Current with New Technologies and Industry Best Practices
In the rapidly changing tech industry, staying current with new technologies and industry best practices is critical for a DevOps engineer.
This includes keeping an eye on the latest tools, software, automation techniques, cloud platforms, and programming languages relevant to the DevOps field.
Participating in regular training sessions and webinars, joining relevant professional organizations, attending industry conferences, and subscribing to industry publications can help you stay updated.
Some companies even sponsor their employees to attend these events and training sessions, which can provide you with an edge in your career.
Also, consider online platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning, which offer courses on the latest trends and tools in the DevOps domain.
The open-source community is another rich source of knowledge where you can learn about new technologies and practices from experienced peers.
Remember that DevOps is not just about technology; it’s also about effective collaboration and communication.
As such, always be aware of the latest methodologies and best practices for team collaboration and project management.
Keeping up to date not only helps you perform your role more effectively but also prepares you for the future, opening doors for advancement and specialization within the field.
DevOps Engineer Roles and Responsibilities
DevOps Engineers are responsible for bridging the gap between development and operations, ensuring the swift and efficient delivery of software products.
They use their technical expertise, coding knowledge, and understanding of the entire software development process to enable continuous integration and continuous deployment.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Software Development and System Operations
- Develop and maintain CI/CD pipelines for rapid software releases.
- Maintain and improve existing codebases for peak performance.
- Manage IT infrastructure according to the needs of software deployment.
Collaboration
- Work closely with developers, testers, and system administrators to ensure smooth operations.
- Facilitate collaboration between developers and operations, fostering a culture of shared responsibility.
Testing and Quality Assurance
- Implement automated testing and configuration management tools.
- Ensure all software releases meet quality assurance standards.
- Monitor code releases and software performance after deployment.
Problem Solving
- Analyze technical issues and provide solutions.
- Troubleshoot and resolve system outages and anomalies.
- Optimize resource allocation to ensure maximum efficiency.
Infrastructure Management
- Automate, deploy and monitor servers, applications and databases.
- Develop and maintain infrastructure as code (IaC).
- Ensure system security, scalability and stability.
Documentation
- Create and maintain system and process documentation.
- Document technical issues, procedures and infrastructure details.
Performance Optimization
- Monitor system performance and identify bottlenecks.
- Implement strategies to improve system performance and reliability.
Security
- Ensure compliance with security operations standards and practices.
- Implement security measures to protect systems from threats.
Continuous Learning
- Stay updated with latest industry trends and advancements.
- Continuously improve skills and knowledge in DevOps practices and tools.
Technical Research
- Evaluate and implement new tools and technologies to improve the DevOps pipeline.
Communication
- Communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders.
- Present complex information and updates to non-technical stakeholders.
What Does a DevOps Engineer Do?
DevOps Engineers primarily work in the tech industry, either for tech-focused companies or in the IT departments of companies across various industries.
They may also work as independent consultants or part of a consulting firm.
DevOps Engineers are responsible for developing and maintaining infrastructure, often in the cloud, ensuring that the company’s systems can handle growth and can scale.
They work closely with software engineers, QA engineers, and other IT staff to oversee code releases and deployments.
Their job is to bridge the gap between development, operations and QA by facilitating communication and collaboration between these departments.
This in turn improves and maintains system productivity, makes recommendations for improvements, and oversees the security of systems.
DevOps Engineers are also responsible for automating processes within software applications.
They strive to create a fast and reliable workflow, from software development to infrastructure management, so building, testing, and releasing software can be faster and more dependable.
Additionally, they manage the tools used by developers for a continuous development/continuous integration (CD/CI) environment.
They also help automate and streamline the company’s operations and processes, setting up and deploying updates and fixes.
Troubleshooting and resolving issues in the development, testing, and production environments are also part of a DevOps Engineer’s job description.
They often have to design procedures for system troubleshooting and maintenance.
Essential DevOps Engineer Skills
- Understanding of DevOps Principles: DevOps engineers need to understand the core principles of DevOps, such as continuous integration, continuous deployment, automation, and the relationship between development and operations.
- Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC): Familiarity with the complete SDLC, from designing to developing and testing to deploying and maintaining software, is crucial.
- Scripting Languages: Proficiency in scripting languages such as Python, Ruby, or Bash is essential to automate tasks, write deployment scripts, and troubleshoot.
- Cloud Platforms: Knowledge of cloud platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure is vital as most DevOps applications are cloud-based. Certification in these platforms is highly desirable.
- Infrastructure as Code (IaC): DevOps engineers should know how to manage infrastructure as code using tools like Ansible, Chef, Puppet, or Terraform. This allows for efficient, reliable, and repeatable infrastructure deployment.
- CI/CD Tools: Proficiency in continuous integration and continuous deployment tools like Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD, or CircleCI is required for automating software releases.
- Container Technologies: Understanding container technologies such as Docker and orchestration tools like Kubernetes is essential for managing and deploying applications.
- Configuration Management: Knowledge of configuration management tools like Puppet, Chef, or Ansible is critical for maintaining and configuring servers.
- Monitoring and Logging: Skills in monitoring and logging tools like Nagios, ELK Stack, or Prometheus are important to ensure the smooth operation of applications and to quickly troubleshoot when issues arise.
- Security: DevOps engineers must understand security best practices and should be able to incorporate security measures into the software delivery process, a practice known as DevSecOps.
- Problem-solving: Like all engineers, DevOps engineers should possess strong problem-solving skills to identify and address issues swiftly and effectively.
- Collaboration: Given that DevOps promotes close collaboration between previously siloed teams of developers and operations, teamwork skills are vital for a DevOps engineer.
- Agile Methodologies: Familiarity with Agile methodologies is essential as DevOps is closely tied to Agile principles.
- Networking: Knowledge of networking protocols, DNS, firewalls, load balancers, etc., is beneficial in managing and troubleshooting network-related issues.
- System Administration: A solid background in system administration – either Linux or Windows – is crucial to manage and monitor servers effectively.
DevOps Engineer Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Junior DevOps Engineer
Starting off as a Junior DevOps Engineer, you will be exposed to a variety of operations and development tasks.
Your responsibilities may include setting up servers, writing automation scripts, and coordinating with development teams.
Here’s how to be successful at this stage:
- Learn Continuously: Stay updated with the latest DevOps tools and practices like CI/CD, containerization, and Infrastructure as Code.
- Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to seek advice or ask questions from your senior colleagues. They can provide you with invaluable insights.
- Active Contribution: Take charge of your tasks and strive to deliver them effectively and efficiently.
The Ascent: DevOps Engineer
With experience and proficiency in various DevOps tools and practices, you’ll grow into the role of a DevOps Engineer.
You will be responsible for the continuous integration, testing, and deployment of software.
Here’s how to excel at this stage:
- Problem Solving: Cultivate robust problem-solving skills to efficiently troubleshoot issues that arise in the development and deployment processes.
- Teamwork: Foster strong relationships with your team members and other stakeholders. Effective communication is key to DevOps success.
- Automation: Develop a keen understanding of automation tools and strive to automate repetitive tasks wherever possible.
Reaching New Heights: Senior DevOps Engineer
As a Senior DevOps Engineer, your role will involve more strategic decision-making, advanced problem-solving, and you may lead DevOps transformation initiatives.
Here’s how you can make the most of this stage:
- Mentorship: Offer guidance and support to junior engineers to help them grow.
- Strategic Thinking: Consider the broader impact of DevOps practices on the overall business goals.
- Leadership: Lead by example and contribute significantly to the success of your team and projects.
Beyond the Horizon: Lead DevOps Engineer or DevOps Architect
With a wealth of experience and a thorough understanding of DevOps practices, you might take on a role as a Lead DevOps Engineer or DevOps Architect.
These roles involve overseeing the entire DevOps landscape and making strategic decisions.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Technical Leadership: Drive the adoption and implementation of advanced DevOps practices within your team and organization.
- Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to guide your team effectively.
- Innovation: Keep up with the latest technology trends and innovate to improve the efficiency and reliability of your DevOps processes.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of DevOps or CTO
Reaching the apex, you may find yourself in roles like Director of DevOps or CTO.
Here, you’ll be responsible for driving the overall DevOps strategy of the organization, making key decisions that affect the whole company, and leading large teams.
DevOps Engineer Salary
Entry-Level DevOps Engineer
- Median Salary: $65,000 – $90,000 per year
- Entry-level DevOps engineers generally have 0-2 years of experience and hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field. They are responsible for assisting in managing systems, improving automation processes, and troubleshooting software issues.
Mid-Level DevOps Engineer
- Median Salary: $90,000 – $120,000 per year
- With 2-5 years of experience, mid-level DevOps engineers play a key role in designing, implementing, and maintaining the infrastructure and tools to support software releases. They often have a good understanding of cloud platforms and coding.
Senior DevOps Engineer
- Median Salary: $120,000 – $160,000 per year
- Senior DevOps engineers possess 5+ years of experience. They not only manage and optimize IT infrastructure but also strategize to improve system design and functionality. They may lead project teams and mentor junior DevOps engineers.
Lead DevOps Engineer / DevOps Manager
- Median Salary: $140,000 – $200,000+ per year
- These roles demand significant experience and often involve technical leadership, managing infrastructure, and making key decisions regarding software tools and strategies. They are also responsible for coordinating between different teams to ensure the smooth functioning of DevOps processes.
Principal DevOps Engineer / DevOps Director
- Median Salary: $160,000 – $250,000+ per year
- At this level, professionals have extensive experience in DevOps and deep technical expertise. They are responsible for setting technical strategies, making key architectural decisions, and leading the overall DevOps vision for a company.
DevOps Engineer Work Environment
DevOps Engineers typically work in a variety of industries, ranging from technology companies, financial services, healthcare, and even retail.
They usually work in an office setting, but with the current trend in remote work, many DevOps Engineers also have the option to work from home or any location with a stable internet connection.
DevOps Engineers often work in teams, collaborating with software developers, system operators, and other IT staff to manage code releases.
They need to be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment as they are responsible for the development and deployment of software systems.
They typically work a standard 40-hour work week, though this may vary during times of system deployments or when dealing with system outages.
Due to the nature of the role, they may need to be on-call outside of regular working hours to resolve any issues that may arise.
As their roles are crucial in the IT infrastructure of a company, a DevOps Engineer may also have the opportunity to travel to different company sites to oversee system implementation or deal with complex issues.
Over time, DevOps Engineers with substantial experience and expertise may choose to work as freelance consultants, aiding multiple companies in their software development and operation processes.
FAQs About Becoming a DevOps Engineer
What is needed to become a DevOps engineer?
To become a DevOps engineer, you need a strong understanding of software development and system operations.
This can be attained through a combination of formal education, such as a bachelor’s degree in computer science, systems engineering, or a related field, and practical experience.
Key skills include proficiency in using DevOps tools like Jenkins, Docker, and Kubernetes, knowledge of both software development and infrastructure, scripting skills, and an understanding of agile methodologies.
Additionally, DevOps engineers need to have good problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and be able to work well in a team.
How long does it take to become a DevOps engineer?
The time it takes to become a DevOps engineer can vary greatly depending on your prior experience and education.
Typically, DevOps is a mid-level to senior-level role, and those interested in this role often come from a background in system administration, software development, or another IT role.
However, with a traditional bachelor’s degree in a related field, and some years of experience, you could become a DevOps engineer in about 5-7 years.
Becoming familiar with DevOps tools and gaining relevant certifications can also accelerate your path into this role.
Can I become a DevOps engineer without a degree?
While having a degree in a related field can be beneficial, it is not a strict requirement for becoming a DevOps engineer.
Many successful DevOps engineers have entered the field through self-study, online courses, or practical experience in other IT roles.
Gaining proficiency in scripting languages, understanding infrastructure and network operations, and getting hands-on experience with DevOps tools and methodologies can all help you become a DevOps engineer.
Building a strong portfolio and gaining industry-recognized certifications can also increase your job prospects.
Is DevOps engineering a stressful job?
DevOps engineering can be a challenging job, as it often involves coordinating between different teams, troubleshooting complex technical issues, and working under tight deadlines.
However, the stress level can vary depending on the company culture, your personal stress management strategies, and the support you have from your team and management.
Many DevOps engineers find the job rewarding and enjoy the continuous learning and problem-solving aspects of the role.
What are the prospects for DevOps engineers in the next decade?
The prospects for DevOps engineers look very promising in the next decade.
The demand for DevOps professionals is expected to rise as more companies adopt DevOps practices to enhance their software development and deployment processes.
Emerging areas like cloud computing, machine learning, and cybersecurity will also offer exciting opportunities for DevOps engineers.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Setting your sights on becoming a DevOps engineer is a substantial undertaking, but its rewards are undeniably fulfilling.
Equipped with the appropriate skills, education, and persistence, you’re well on the path to making a substantial influence in the digital landscape.
Remember, the journey may be complex, but the possibilities are boundless. Your pioneering solutions could spark the next big innovation that revolutionizes how we live, work, and communicate.
So, take that initial stride. Immerse yourself in continuous learning. Connect with industry professionals. And most importantly, keep mastering new technologies.
Because the digital realm is eagerly anticipating what you can develop.
And if you’re seeking tailored advice on kickstarting or progressing your career in DevOps engineering, do explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide personalized suggestions and resources to help you effectively maneuver your career journey.
DevOps Engineer Resume Headlines
Uncommon Callings: The Weirdest Jobs on Earth
The Hidden World of High-Stress Jobs: What You Don’t See on TV!
Career Lifesavers: Recession-Proof Jobs in Troubled Times
Low Wage Alert: Discover the Jobs Where Paychecks Are Heartbreakingly Small
The Thrill of the Challenge: Why Dangerous Jobs Appeal to Many