Cloud computing has grown into one of IT’s most highly-paid, highly-demanded areas of modern technology. With its ability to streamline business activity, save significant financial costs, and allow for efficient telecommuting – the tech’s become a saving grace for plenty of companies, with many willing to pay generously for those with the right skills to deploy it.
Below, we break down some of the most in-demand cloud computing jobs today, the average salaries for each, and how to get your foot in the door of this growing field.
What is cloud computing?
Cloud computing refers to the delivery of computer resources (such as data storage, applications, cyber security, networking and analytics) over the internet. It allows businesses to shift much of their operations online, and in many cases allows them to save on the costs of physical, on-site equipment and infrastructure.
With most cloud computing providers offering a pay-as-you-go price model, adopters of the cloud can also take advantage of its scalability – allowing them to pay for only the resources they need at a given time.
Additionally, cloud computing allows for flexible, remote work; with users able to access cloud-based data anywhere, at any time, and on multiple connected devices.
With such critical financial and productivity benefits, the skills to develop and maintain cloud technology have
grown in high demand over the last few years, with plenty offering attractive salary rates.
What are some of the most in-demand cloud computing jobs?
Cloud software engineer
If you’re interested in the design, development, and maintenance of cloud computing platforms, then perhaps of the role of a cloud engineer may suit your passions best. These professionals perform a variety of tasks (often segmented into specialised roles of their own) – including helping with operational administration, new system developments, security maintenance, and even the building of new software. They also typically help companies successfully migrate their existing infrastructures to the cloud.
A thorough knowledge of cloud computing fundamentals, including cloud-based networking, security, architecture, and the basic principles of Linux and PI/SQL are critical to perform in this role. Familiarity with leading cloud providers (i.e. AWS, Azure, and GCP) is also essential.
According to Indeed, the average cloud engineer earns a whopping
$131K AUD in Australia.
Cloud security analyst
Cloud security analysts focus more on securing critical information stored on the cloud. They are responsible for designing a business’ cloud security architecture; helping conduct regular risk assessments, monitor for suspicious activity, and ensure all systems and applications are up-to-date.
They apply a
“zero-trust” philosophy in their approach – a strategy that requires authentication from all users, from all resources, at any time. These professionals also ensure that all security controls are compliant with industry regulations.
Aside from a comprehensive knowledge of cloud computing basics, cloud security analysts must also possess a deep understanding of cyber security, its related concepts, and common tools or practices of the domain. Having sharp analytical or problem-solving skills are also a must.
According to
Talent.com, the average cyber security analyst in Australia earns an average of
$107K AUD per year.
Cloud automation engineer
Automation is the way of the future, and cloud providers are doing well to follow suit. Cloud automation engineers are thus hired to develop and maintain the necessary tools, scripts, and programs that automate repetitive tasks in cloud-based environments. This ensures business operations on such platforms run as streamlined and efficient as possible, helping further save on financial costs and downtime.
Cloud automation engineers may also regularly monitor system performance, identifying any areas for service improvement, as necessary. They may also apply other performance enhancement solutions such as virtualisation and storage management.
According to Glassdoor, the average cloud automation engineer in Australia earns about
$123K AUD per year.
Cloud database administrator
Cloud database administrators are tasked with architecting and overseeing the database structures of a cloud environment – elements responsible for the communication of data related to sales, marketing, inventory, customer information, and financial transactions. As such, they play a vital role in keeping a business’ cloud-based operations as efficient as possible.
Regular tasks may include general database maintenance, installing appropriate upgrades, troubleshooting for errors, and configuring these structures to best address any security or compliance concerns.
Based on
statistics by Salary Expert, cloud administrators in Australia earn an average of
$128K AUD per year.
Cloud developer
Cloud developers may perform similar tasks to that of cloud engineers, though concentrate more on the development stage of cloud computing environments.
They focus on coding, debugging, and designing cloud solutions based on client or customer needs; working closely with these end users to build a platform that best meets their business requirements. Such solutions could include software, applications, or web systems. Those in this role must possess a strong skillset in database management, programming, and cyber security.
They must also have a comprehensive knowledge of Linux, networking, and of course – the basics of cloud infrastructure.
According to Glassdoor statistics, the average cloud developer in Australia earns about $96K AUD per year.
Are cloud computing salaries competitive?
Due to high skills demand paired with a growing national skills gap – salaries in the cloud computing field are highly competitive.
Both the average salary for all cloud computing jobs ($138K AUD, according to Payscale) and each of the above mentioned salaries are significantly higher than the all-jobs (full-time) salary average of Australia – which is $68,250 AUD, according to Talent.com.
Pursuing these in-demand skills in cloud computing may thus result in a significant
salary boost, along with plenty of opportunity to specialise. As the industry experiences expansive growth, building one’s skills in the field has also never been more accessible, with plenty of flexible training pathways available.
This includes the option of
online learning through a nationally-recognised course or program, offered by plenty of training providers today – including Upskilled. Individuals can browse through our extensive catalogue of certificate, diploma, and even degree-level programs across various areas of tech, including highly-demanded skillsets in cloud computing.
Aspiring to a cloud computing career?
Stay ahead of the curve with Upskilled’s many courses in cloud computing – from the essentials to a full-fledged bachelor in cloud technology.
Each of these programs are delivered online and offer recognised certifications, helping you verify your skills at a time, place, and pace that suits you best.
Get started in one of the most fulfilling career paths of tech today, and enquire with us on a course.