DevOps Engineering as a Career Path

DevOps Engineers come from a variety of backgrounds in the IT field, but many are software developers who have an interest in software deployment and network operations. Others are system administrators who have an interest in coding and move into the software development discipline to try to improve the process. Because DevOps is a collaborative philosophy, a DevOps Engineer needs to have a wide breadth of knowledge and experience.

Most DevOps Engineers should know at least one scripting language, like Linux, Python, Ruby, or Pearl. It’s also essential for a DevOps Engineer to develop soft skills like relationship building, communication, and negotiation. Many DevOps Engineers will have to cultivate positive relationships between developers and their customers or stakeholders.

Job Outlook

The DevOps philosophy is relatively new, and according to the industry publication The Enterprisers Project, many leaders in the IT field haven’t settled on the DevOps Engineer title as the final one for this position. That means people pursuing DevOps Engineer positions should pay more attention to the qualifications and requirements of a job posting, and less to the title itself.

DevOps Engineers should also focus on cultivating a full breadth of skills. Many companies are looking for people with broad expertise to cap off their specialization in a particular IT discipline. DevOps, by definition, is meant to unite departments with different specialties. Companies are primarily looking for DevOps Engineers with knowledge of IT operations, IT security, and application delivery.

Many organizations are critically concerned about security. That means they are especially looking for DevOps Engineer candidates who build security into the development workflow from the start. This approach is often called DevSecOps or SecDevOps.

Make a real business impact

One of the main drivers for DevOps Engineers is the opportunity to truly deliver tangible business outcomes within the role.

“DevOps breaks down barriers between organizational functions which have historically sat in silos, including product, engineering, security, quality assurance, and operations. This allows you to apply an attuned business focus when delivering applications and services at high velocity.”

“There are not many positions available where you can have such an impact on a business. By having such a critical, all-encompassing role, you are able to articulate exactly how your actions have improved and streamlined software quality and delivery.”

 

Flexibility and enhanced benefits

The rewards for DevOps Engineers in terms of flexibility and remuneration are among the most lucrative in IT.

“In the UK, on average the salary for DevOps Engineers is roughly 20% higher than salaries across the IT sector. Depending on the location, type of organization, and whether you opt for a consultancy or end-user role, the salary for a DevOps Engineer can range from £55k right up to £130k.”

“Furthermore, there has been an upturn over the past few years in the number of overseas companies, particularly the USA, employing DevOps Engineers based in the UK that can conduct applications development and operational support outside business hours, due to being on a different time zone. As a result, professionals can enjoy the flexibility of remote working whilst receiving an inflated US salary.

 

Future proof your career

Californian software engineering services company Calsoft reported that in 2017, 78% of CIOs and CTOs considered implementing DevOps into their organization (a 4% increase in 2016). With a further increase anticipated this year as multiple tech businesses realize the benefits of DevOps Engineers that can work across functions, now is the time to forge a sustainable career in the field.

Mat explains, “DevOps signifies a culture shift within technology, unifying development skills with interpersonal skills, critical thinking, and a desire to initiate positive change. Possessing both technical and soft skills allows you to collaborate with multiple teams and have an overarching view of the business. The integrative, cross-functional culture behind DevOps will shape the technology landscape going forward, so pursuing a DevOps Engineer role will equip you with a varied skill set that will boost your career.”

“As DevOps continues to revolutionize modern business technology, more specialist senior-level positions are expected to be formed in the next five years, with wide-scale adoption of DevOps anticipated across the industry. This means there is ample opportunity for internal progression as businesses invest in a DevOps

Are you interested in working as a DevOps Engineer?

Our team is expanding and we are also looking for a DevOps Engineer to join our team, if you are a visionary, and are interested in the open position, apply by clicking here.