Top 7 cloud computing careers of 2021 and how to get started

While companies may vary in their job descriptions for particular cloud computing roles and their specific requirements, the information here applies broadly throughout the U.S.

You can find the salaries below, along with other cloud computing careers, here.

1. Cloud administrator

These experts manage a company’s cloud presence and infrastructure. They develop, enforce and update policies for how employees and users access cloud services, establish security protocols and policies, monitor and ensure uptime, and assess the need for technology updates.

Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, management information systems (MIS) or related field; plus three to five years’ experience in systems or IT administration.

Average salary: $70,501

2. Cloud architect

Think of cloud architecture as the framework within which all other cloud technologies operate. It’s the frame of the “house,” and all the cloud-specific subspecialties are like flooring, plumbing, drywall and finishing. The cloud architect is something of a general contractor, the one who designs and implements a company’s cloud computing strategies. They ensure that everything stays on track, on budget and that the company’s transition to cloud operations goes smoothly.

Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree or higher in computer science, information systems or a related field. Some companies require or give preference to those holding a master’s degree or MBA.

Average salary: $145,820

3. Cloud automation engineer

As the world becomes increasingly automated, cloud automation engineers are necessary to build, implement and maintain this automation technology as it migrates to the cloud. This automation frees up human workers from repetitive tasks.

Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology, with specialization in artificial intelligence and/or machine learning.

Average salary: $141,000

4. Cloud consultant

A cloud consultant has broad knowledge of cloud technologies and provides guidance to companies looking for cloud-based tools. Typically, this expert will assess a company’s needs and suggest software and devices to best meet that company’s technical and budgetary needs. The consultant may also help transition to the cloud Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology. Because this position often requires managerial skills, an MBA may lead to additional clients.

Average salary: $109,553

5. Cloud engineer

Cloud engineers are responsible for the managerial aspects of a company’s cloud strategies. Engineers often work alongside architects to ensure a company’s cloud strategies are implemented, but they also do the administrative work of negotiating with clients and vendors to keep everyone on task and within budget.

Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree or higher in computer science, information systems or a related field; plus, experience with programming languages such as Java and Python.

Average salary: $123,663

6. Cloud security analyst

Cloud security analysts have the responsibility of ensuring the integrity and security of a company’s cloud presence. They do this Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, systems analysis, computer science or information technology with a specialization in security analysis.

Average salary: $119,198

7. Cloud software engineer

Cloud software engineers work with programmers and related computer scientists to develop software that operates in the cloud. These individuals are usually also responsible for upgrading, repairing and maintaining the software they develop and databases they power.

Education requirements: Bachelor’s degree or higher in software engineering, computer science, information systems or a related field; plus experience with programming languages such as Java and Python.

Average salary: $112,897