The IT field continues to evolve to provide more efficient solutions, which led to the creation of the DevOps Engineer position. DevOps Engineers specialize in developing and operating IT components.
DevOps Engineers have a unique role that involves a wide range of tasks. They may design or monitor an organization’s core IT infrastructure, develop new software, and lead IT projects.
As with most IT jobs, becoming a DevOps Engineer also requires a degree. Before embarking on this career path, learn more about the duties and responsibilities of a DevOps Engineer.
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DevOps Engineers
DevOps Engineers deliver agile IT solutions by combining development and deployment. They help develop IT projects and remain involved during deployment, allowing organizations to make swift changes.
What they do
Design and Improve IT Architecture
DevOps Engineers are often tasked with designing and improving core IT infrastructure. As part of this responsibility, DevOps Engineers may develop and deploy computer networks or develop new software.
Most DevOps Engineers work in-house for large organizations that require tailored software and IT solutions. The DevOps Engineer helps ensure that the IT architecture can meet the needs of the organization. They also try to continually improve the architecture to support future IT functions.
Test and Benchmark the Performance of IT Functions
DevOps Engineers frequently test and benchmark the performance of various IT components and functions. They may monitor network performance or software performance.
Most of the day-to-day work completed by a DevOps Engineer involves testing. They analyze technology to develop and design improvements. They also report any issues that they find. For example, a DevOps Engineer may detect performance issues with a computer network, requiring collaboration with the Network Administrators and Engineers.
DevOps Engineers also test the applications that they develop. Before deploying a new application, the DevOps Engineers need to ensure that it performs as expected and will not negatively impact the performance of other IT systems.
Develop Automation Processes
DevOps Engineers rely heavily on automation tools and scripts to eliminate the need to perform repetitive tasks. Automation is used for the deployment of software and testing IT functions.
The automation tools are mostly used to simplify the work completed by the DevOps Engineer. However, they may also develop automation solutions for their employer or a client.
Lead the Development of IT Projects
A DevOps Engineer may lead IT projects or act as the Project Manager. They develop, code, build, install, configure, and maintain all types of IT solutions for employers or clients. The projects may range from the development of new software to the design of an entire IT infrastructure.
Even when a DevOps Engineer is not assigned as the project lead, collaboration remains a major part of this job. DevOps Engineers collaborate with Software Developers to develop applications. They also partner with Systems Administrators and Network Administrators when developing or improving computer networks.
Maintain and Troubleshoot Applications
Unlike Software Developers, DevOps Engineers continue to be involved after the deployment of new applications. They often need to maintain and troubleshoot the applications that they help develop.
DevOps Engineers may perform routine maintenance and updates to keep everything running smoothly and resolve any issues that arise.
Code and Script New or Existing Applications
DevOps Engineers typically need coding and scripting skills, as they are often required to create or improve applications. They also tend to code their own automation tools for testing and analyzing applications and IT components.
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What is it like working as one
Pros
You Get to See Your Projects in Action
DevOps Engineers typically continue to work with the applications that they develop, which can be more rewarding compared to developing an application and moving on to another project.
You Get to Help Companies Improve Processes
Part of a DevOps Engineer’s job involves improving existing functions and systems to create more efficient business practices. You get to witness the productivity boost that your work creates.
Your Work Is Rarely Repetitive
DevOps Engineers use automation tools to eliminate repetitive tasks and work on a wide range of projects, which helps keep the job from becoming boring.
You Get to Work with a Wide Range of People
Every project involves collaboration and may even include people outside of the IT department, exposing them to a more diverse range of opinions and backgrounds.
Cons
You May Receive Blame for Poor Results
When a project does not produce satisfactory results, the DevOps Engineer may take more of the blame, which is typically unfair.
Not All Organizations Hire DevOps Engineers
DevOps Engineer is a relatively new job title that combines the responsibilities of several other roles, including software development and operations. Due to the unique responsibilities of this job, it is not as in-demand as other IT positions.
Where they work
DevOps Engineers typically work for large companies in the information technology industry, including data management companies, cloud computing firms, and data centers. They also work in the telecommunications field, helping internet providers develop more efficient IT systems. DevOps Engineers may work in the healthcare industry, assisting with the development of better patient record management applications. The insurance industry also employs DevOps Engineers to optimize underwriting software.
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Should you become one
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DevOps Engineers are often process-oriented individuals, as they need to focus on following specific procedures. DevOps Engineers also need strong verbal and written communication skills, as almost every project involves collaboration and reporting to others. Successful DevOps Engineers tend to be good problem-solvers, due to the importance of troubleshooting and quickly identifying problems. Attention to detail is also helpful, as DevOps Engineers are involved in a wide range of projects.
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