Cloud engineering entails the application of engineering principles to cloud computing. It seeks to create a systematic approach that bothers on commercialisation, standardisation and the governance of cloud computing applications. It is the process of designing systems necessary to leverage cloud resources’ power and economics to solve business problems.
A cloud engineer is an information technology professional responsible for building and maintaining cloud infrastructure. Cloud engineers can take on roles like cloud architecture (designing cloud solutions for organizations), development (coding for the cloud) and administration (working with cloud networks).
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It is worth noting that cloud technology has become very popular in recent years. There is a high probability that you have to use cloud-based technology in your everyday activities. Watching your favourite television show, listening to the latest songs, streaming using online platforms, and backing up your phone pictures to the cloud are all made possible due to the use of cloud technology. Moreover, companies also store and back up data easily, and update their software for the benefit of their customers, all thanks to cloud technology. A cloud engineer works behind the scene to keep the system running.
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Job Description of a cloud engineer
The job description a cloud engineer will be required to carry out is dependent on the company he/she is working for. However, a cloud engineer’s day-to-day task may look like this:
- Overseeing and monitoring the organization’s cloud management and data storage services.
- Helping the organization migrate their computer systems to the cloud.
- Designing and creating applications and databases that function on the cloud.
- Configuring cloud infrastructure components like networking and security services.
Top countries to study Cloud engineering abroad
Below is a list of the top 5 countries to study cloud engineering abroad:
1. United States of America
Average annual salary: $141,832
Job prospect: In the past month there were 37,445 job openings for cloud engineers on LinkedIn in the U.S. This further goes to show the demand for professionals in this field.
The United States States houses some of the best universities in the world according to the QS world ranking. Additionally, the U.S. is the hub of IT companies, this brings the advantage of interning in companies for students to boost their careers. Being part of the top countries embracing science and technology, taking a course in cloud computing and engineering is going to be beneficial as you will have access to in-depth practicals and theories. Furthermore, you will work on projects related to your field and have the opportunity to participate in competitions. There is no doubt that the United States is one of the top countries you should consider if you want to start your career in cloud engineering because of the vast opportunities it offers to students.
Top universities for cloud engineering in the U.S.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
- University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
2. Canada
Average annual salary: CA$97,751
Job prospect: In the past month there were 1,598 job openings for cloud engineers on LinkedIn in Canada.
Canada is a country that embraces science and technology and it is also home to some of the top universities that offer STEM courses including cloud engineering. In addition to the fact that Canada offers quality education, students who study cloud engineering are offered job placements in their final semester and this allows them to experience what it is like working in the real world. It also boosts their CV. In addition to this, cloud engineers can equally work in various areas like telecommunication, commerce, banking, cloud service providers and more. Canada is an English-speaking country making it easy for people who understand and speak the English language to fit in.
Top universities for cloud engineering in Canada.
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia
- University of Waterloo
- McGill University
- Université de Montréal
3. United Kingdom
Average annual salary: £55,466
Job prospect: In the past month there were 5,978 job openings for cloud engineers on LinkedIn in the U.K.
One of the advantages of studying cloud engineering in the U.K. is access to high-quality facilities to aid learning. Earning a cloud engineering degree here will equip you with the necessary skills, allow you access to research and research materials, provide employability at the end of your studies, allow you to conduct practicals, and more. England has continued to be a top spot for scientists and STEM majors generally. Some of the top STEM universities in the world are located in England. Where there is a university, there will be research and research leads to more findings and opportunities that will be beneficial to everyone.
Top universities for cloud engineering in the U.K
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- Imperial College London
- The University of Edinburgh
- UCL
4. Switzerland
Average annual salary: CHF106,488
Job prospect: In the past month there were 1,145 job openings for cloud engineers on LinkedIn in Switzerland.
Swiss universities are part of the best universities in the European continent. When compared to other Western countries, Swiss universities are generally affordable and the services are world-class. This means that quality education is guaranteed here. Additionally, Switzerland has one of the most robust economies, the standard of living is high and the salary rate is equally high for those living here. Additionally, the unemployment rate is low.
Top universities for cloud engineering in Switzerland
- ETH Zurich
- EPFL
- University of Zurich
- Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA)
- University of Geneva
5. Australia
Average annual salary: A$122,000
Job prospect: In the past month there were 37,409 job openings for cloud engineers on LinkedIn in Australia.
Studying cloud engineering in Australia gives you access to study materials that will benefit you. Additionally, Australia also houses some of the top-ranked universities in the world according to QS world ranking and this means that you have access to quality education. Moreover, since many establishments are now embracing cloud technology, getting a job after your studies should not be a hassle.
Top universities for cloud engineering in Australia
- The University of Melbourne
- Australian National University (ANU)
- The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)
- The University of Sydney
- Monash University
Eligibility requirements to be a Cloud engineer
Wondering how to start a career in cloud engineering? Below are the eligibility requirements you’ll need to meet before landing a job:
1. A bachelor’s degree
Earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology will give you a headstart on this career path. Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree in software engineering is also useful. Depending on the programme you choose to study, ensure you pay attention to software and systems infrastructure, computing and other areas to help prepare you for this career. You can equally take courses in the following areas to help broaden your knowledge base:
- Cloud computing and architecture
- Data management
- Systems administration
- Security testing
- IT fundamentals and applications
- Network and security
- Web development
- Scripting and automation
2. Gain Experience
It is not enough to know theoretical aspects, you also need to get on the field experience. So, apply for internship positions, and pursue opportunities that’ll require you to work to apply all that you have gained within the four walls of the classroom as this will help you progress in your career.
3. Certifications
Getting a certification in a cloud-based discipline will also give you an edge in the labour market as a cloud engineer. Many cloud computing platforms offer certifications, you can as well research and find the best option that works for you and fits into your career goal. Examples include:
- Azure Administrator Associate
- Certified Solutions Architect
- Associate Cloud Engineer
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
4. Network
The importance of networking cannot be overemphasized. When you network and put yourself out there, you can get a job through your professional connections. During your college and internship years, ensure you build a solid relationship with other professionals in your field as it can in handy later.
5. Consider a master’s degree
Earning a master’s degree in cloud engineering can better increase your chances in the labour market. You can consider a specialized field that supports your current expertise to put you ahead. A master’s degree in cloud computing or software engineering can be considered.
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Seeking to start a career in the STEM field? Enrolling in the top universities in the world can increase your chances with employers. Unfortunately, it can be quite expensive to study abroad due to the current economic crisis. But this shouldn’t limit you as there are other options you can explore to enhance your career.
MPower Finance and Prodigy Finance are some of the best student loan providers for international students. They also do not require any cosigner or collateral before application. You can reach out to us, as we’ll love to guide you through this journey.
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