I recently started a 4-month DevOps internship at a Fortune 500 telecom company, but I'm finding that my work isn't aligning with my expectations of the role. So far, I've been focused on editing JSON file templates and writing PromQL for Grafana dashboards related to our department's Vault Server. I'm in my last year of university, and I had previously done a software engineering internship, which makes this shift to DevOps particularly interesting for me. I was under the impression that DevOps work would involve more hands-on tasks like Docker and Kubernetes, setting up CI/CD pipelines, and using tools like Ansible and Terraform. Instead, it seems like my role will primarily involve monitoring and possibly security tasks in the future. Is this typical for internships in DevOps, or should I be advocating for more infrastructure and deployment responsibilities?
5 Answers
You're right to think that DevOps covers a lot of ground, which often includes monitoring and the security side of things. While it might not seem as glamorous as setting up Kubernetes or CI/CD pipelines, those monitoring tasks are vital. They all tie back into the bigger picture in infrastructure management.
Many large companies have a structured approach to internships where they gradually increase responsibilities. It's normal for interns to start with less critical tasks. Observe, document, and learn everything around you. The expertise will come as you grow in your role.
What you're experiencing is typical. Interns usually don't get to handle deployments right away due to the risks involved. Monitoring and support activities are essential for a comprehensive understanding of the DevOps landscape, so it's great experience without the stress of major responsibility.
I see! I just wish I could dive into the more exciting parts sooner.
It's actually pretty common for interns to start with more foundational tasks like monitoring and dashboarding. Many companies focus on teaching interns the ropes in a controlled manner, especially in large organizations where there's a lot of siloing. Use this opportunity to get comfortable with the tools and the environment.
That makes sense. I guess I just assumed I'd jump straight into deploying and config management.
Absolutely! Those tasks will come, just keep showing your eagerness to learn.
DevOps is a big umbrella term, and what you're doing is indeed a core component of it. It's not just about the fancy tools; what you're contributing now in monitoring will be essential later on. Keep doing well in your role, and learn as much as you can. The actual deployment tasks might follow as you progress.
Thanks for reassuring me! I guess I need to refocus my expectations.
For sure! Just be patient and take this as a learning experience.
No worries! The exciting tasks will be in your future, just keep your enthusiasm!