Essential Cloud Engineer Skills That You Must Possess

As businesses continue to migrate their operations to the cloud, the demand for skilled Cloud Engineers has never been higher. Cloud Engineers play a pivotal role in designing, building, and maintaining cloud infrastructure to ensure that companies can harness the full potential of cloud technologies. Whether you're already in the field or looking to become a Cloud Engineer, it's crucial to understand the key Cloud Engineer Skills needed to excel in this role.  

According to devITJobs, the average salary for a Cloud Engineer in the UK is GBP 62000 per annum. With such handsome compensation packages, learning these key skills might be worth your time if you want to get into the domain. In this blog, we'll explore the essential Cloud Engineer Skills you must possess to thrive in this dynamic and high-demand profession. Keep Reading! 

Table of Contents 

1) Why Learn Cloud Computing? 

2) How to Become a Cloud Engineer? 

3) Skills needed to be a Cloud Engineer 

     a) Cloud Platform Proficiency 

     b) Understanding Linux OS 

     c) Programming Skills 

     d) Networking and Internet Protocols (IP) 

     e) DevOps and Containerisation 

     f) Cloud Storage 

     g) Virtualisation 

     h) Security and Recovery 

     i) Web Services and API 

4) Conclusion

Why learn Cloud Computing? 

Cloud Computing is a vital skill due to several compelling reasons. Cloud platforms offer scalability, cost-efficiency, and accessibility, making it an ideal choice for businesses. Cloud providers prioritise security and compliance, often surpassing traditional on-premises systems. Additionally, cloud platforms foster innovation and offer a competitive edge. Learning Cloud Computing opens up numerous career opportunities, given the high demand for skilled professionals. It also contributes to sustainability goals by reducing energy consumption. Furthermore, Cloud Computing streamlines Information Technology (IT) Infrastructure Management, allowing organisations to focus on their core functions. In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, these advantages, from individual career growth to business efficiency, underscore the importance of learning Cloud Computing. As the demand for cloud expertise continues to surge, investing time in acquiring these skills is a wise choice for professionals and organisations alike.
 

How to Become a Cloud Engineer?  

Numerous learning resources are available for Cloud Computing, spanning from accredited certifications offered by online learning platforms to official documentation provided by leading cloud service providers like Google. The internet is brimming with an extensive array of resources, making it challenging to select the most suitable course for becoming a proficient Cloud Engineer. 

For instance, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has collaborated with learning platforms to equip students and professionals with cloud skills through numerous AWS-accredited courses accessible on these platforms. Subsequently, individuals can pursue AWS professional certifications, which hold significant value in the job market. Google Cloud Platform (GCP) has established a partnership with many such platforms, offering a multitude of courses designed to assist individuals in successfully obtaining GCP certification. Microsoft also offers its cloud courses through such programs, occasionally providing scholarships for students. These courses are directly instructed by experts employed at these organisations, granting learners valuable insights into the internal workings of cloud technologies within these companies. Therefore, receiving instruction directly from these industry experts can be highly advantageous. 

Skills needed to be a Cloud Engineer 

Here are the key skills you need to acquire as a Cloud Engineer to advance your career to the heights you desire:  

1) Cloud Platform Proficiency 

To begin your journey into Cloud Computing, a foundational understanding of how various Cloud Service providers operate is indispensable. These providers deliver comprehensive services comprising computation, storage, databases, machine learning, migration, and much more, rendering them essential for anyone venturing into Cloud Engineering. 

It is imperative to select at least one from the array of available options. AWS and Azure stand out as the top contenders, engaged in fierce competition in the Cloud market. AWS, boasting a rich history of holding the market's pinnacle, is renowned for its specialisation. On the other hand, Azure, a Microsoft product, offers seamless integration with a wide spectrum of Microsoft products. GCP and OpenStack have established themselves in the domains of big data and software development, respectively. The choice of providers hinges on the specific requirements of your business, which may involve opting for one or more. Each of these service providers extends a free usage tier, offering ample resources to kickstart your cloud journey and gain valuable hands-on experience. 

2) Understanding Linux OS 

Linux is an innate element of Cloud Computing technology. Its characteristics, such as modularity, efficiency, reliability, and open-source nature, make it highly conducive for supporting critical workloads. Cloud Engineers are strongly inclined toward employing Linux due to its capacity to enhance their projects and simplify software development. The advantages accrued from this development process are pivotal components in navigating the digital landscape seamlessly. Linux plays a key role in transforming single-machine operating systems into robust, globally connected networks. Proficiency in Linux stands as a fundamental skill for Cloud Engineers, given its modular capabilities that empower developers to furnish efficient technology in cloud storage. 

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3) Programming Skills 

Programming Skills are a crucial component of becoming a proficient Cloud Engineer. They play a fundamental role in enhancing one's cloud knowledge and simplifying operations. Proficiency in specific programming languages is essential for Cloud Engineers to succeed. These languages include: 

a) ASP.NET: This language facilitates the creation of dynamic web pages and advanced solutions that operate seamlessly across various web browsers. 

b) SQL: SQL is employed for storing, manipulating, and processing extensive datasets efficiently. 

c) Python: Python is instrumental in the development of serverless applications, particularly within AWS, where it is widely utilised. 

d) Golang: Golang is valuable for managing concurrency and parallelism, mainly when working with GCP (Google Cloud Platform). 

e) PHP: PHP is employed to automate tasks on websites or to develop websites with multiple functions. 

A strong command of these languages is integral for mastering Cloud Computing effectively. It empowers Cloud Engineers to navigate and excel in the cloud domain with confidence. 

4) Networking and Internet Protocols (IP) 

Cloud Computing and Networking are inherently intertwined, given the sharing of centralised computing resources over the cloud to cater to clients. This synergy has led to a growing trend of shifting more Network Management functions to the cloud, reducing the need for customers to manage their Network Infrastructure. 

The availability of improved Internet access and reliable Wide Area Network (WAN) bandwidth has facilitated the migration of Networking Management functions to the cloud. Consequently, there has been a rising demand for cloud networking solutions. Customers seek more accessible methods to establish and access networks through cloud-based services. 

In roles within the cloud domain, a firm grasp of Internet Functionality and Networking is paramount. This is because cloud roles centre around provisioning centralised computing resources via the cloud. Engineers must actively engage in Network Management tasks, such as enhancing the responsiveness of networks by automating adjustment procedures. 

Hence, a comprehensive understanding of Virtual Networks and Networking fundamentals is critical for professionals in cloud-centric roles. Cloud Engineers often shoulder the responsibility of designing strategies to ensure that networks remain responsive to user demands, employing automated adjustment procedures. Consequently, proficiency in Networking basics and Virtual Networks plays a pivotal role in mastering Cloud Engineering. 

5) DevOps and Containerisation 

Mastery of DevOps and Containerisation is pivotal for Cloud Computing Skills. These components are crucial for effective server management and are intricately tied to the software components, their environments, and dependencies. They entail configuring these elements into isolated units known as containers, allowing seamless deployment of applications in cloud-based environments. For any aspiring Cloud Engineer, proficiency in DevOps and Containerisation is non-negotiable. 

DevOps, a fusion of development and operations, is a prominent framework in the realm of Cloud Computing. Notably, AWS DevOps has gained significant traction, particularly among those with an interest in AWS. 

Containerisation, on the other hand, involves abstracting applications from each other in the cloud environment. This abstraction simplifies the deployment of applications in cloud settings. Therefore, acquiring skills in technologies such as Docker or Kubernetes is highly beneficial for those aspiring to excel as Cloud Engineers, as it significantly enhances their capabilities. 

6) Cloud Storage 

Cloud Storage is the practice of storing data online, allowing a company's data to be stored and accessed from a network of distributed and connected resources. It offers several advantages, including increased accessibility, reliability, rapid deployment, robust protection, data backup, disaster recovery, and cost optimisation. 

Organisations can choose from different types of cloud storage solutions to suit their specific needs:
 

a) Personal Cloud Storage: Tailored for individual or personal use. 

b) Public Cloud Storage: Hosted and maintained by a third-party provider, accessible over the Internet. 

c) Private Cloud Storage: Dedicated to a single organisation, providing more control and security. 

d) Hybrid Cloud Storage: Combines public and private cloud storage options. 

Since data plays a central role in Cloud Computing, it's essential to understand where and how to store it. This understanding is crucial because the strategies and techniques used to achieve the benefits of cloud storage can vary based on the type and volume of data an organisation intends to store and utilise. Therefore, learning how cloud storage systems work is a valuable skill for Cloud Engineers. 

Additionally, various popular storage services are offered by cloud service providers. For instance, AWS provides services like Simple Storage Service (S3) and Glacier, while Azure offers blobs and queues, data lakes, and more. Familiarity with these services is essential for Cloud Engineers to effectively manage and leverage cloud storage capabilities. 

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7) Virtualisation 

Cloud Computing relies on the principle of virtualisation, where applications are decoupled from individual hardware and run on virtual machines. This approach reduces hardware dependencies and enhances fault tolerance, making it a highly sought-after skill for Cloud Engineers. Virtualisation is a fundamental aspect of Cloud Computing, as it involves creating virtual environments for storage and data processing. Cloud Engineers need to possess the skills to comprehend virtualisation concepts and ensure the secure management of data within cloud storage. 

Virtualisation software enables users to optimise their hardware assets by running multiple virtual machines on the same physical hardware, simulating different components of their IT systems. This practice is essential in providing scalable and fault-tolerant resources to organisations. 

Proficiency in virtualisation and services such as virtual machines, EC2, and Lambda is a significant step toward excelling in Cloud Computing and serverless computing. Developing expertise in these areas is an essential skill for Cloud Engineers looking to navigate the cloud landscape effectively. Platforms like Azure offer certification programs that can further enhance your knowledge in this domain. 

8) Security and Recovery 

Cloud security is a complex domain that necessitates a fusion of advanced Cybersecurity and Cloud Skills. It revolves around safeguarding data, applications, and infrastructure within Cloud Computing, aiming to prevent data breaches and ensuring robust disaster recovery processes. 

The stakes are high in cloud security, as downtime or data breaches can lead to substantial losses and service unavailability for clients, directly impacting their businesses. While cloud security principles share similarities with on-premise security, the shift towards cloud-based infrastructures underscores its importance. Cloud Engineers must excel in disaster recovery, including the ability to retrieve lost data. Implementing effective security measures for data recovery is crucial, guarding against future data leaks and maintaining the utmost security of stored data. 

9) Web Services and API 

In cloud architecture, APIs and Web Services play a central role and provide developers with the means to seamlessly integrate web applications via the Internet. Key open standards like XML, SOAP, WSDL, and UDDI are employed for data tagging, transfer, service description, and listing. APIs are essential to facilitate the necessary integrations. 

Cloud infrastructure heavily relies on APIs and web services for the seamless connection of internet-based applications. Gaining a comprehensive grasp of these foundational components is invaluable on your journey in the cloud. Having experience in website development and related knowledge is a solid foundation for crafting robust cloud architectures. Exploring programs like the Google Cloud Certification Program, offering instructor-led training and real-world project exposure, can be a valuable step in this direction. 

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Conclusion 

Cloud Engineering is a dynamic and evolving field, demanding a diverse skill set. To excel as a Cloud Engineer, one must continuously update their knowledge, adapt to new technologies, and nurture these skills over time. Mastering these essential Cloud Engineer Skills ensures you can thrive in the ever-expanding world of Cloud Computing. 

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