Hey everyone! I'm in a bit of a situation and hoping for your advice. I currently work as a Cloud Engineer, focusing on IaaS, PaaS, and IaC, and I've spent about a year in the cloud sector with around 5-6 years of overall IT experience. I've earned several certifications (AZ-900, AZ-104, AZ-305, AZ-400), and I'm at a mid-level position now. My ultimate goal is to pivot into DevOps, particularly since I've started learning about Docker and Kubernetes in my spare time and even created small projects to practice.
However, when I apply for DevOps jobs, I face two major issues: either I don't get called for interviews, or I receive offers for junior positions with salaries that are about half of what I'm currently making. This is a big deal for me, especially since my company doesn't use Docker or Kubernetes at all, preventing me from gaining practical experience with these tools. The job market feels especially tough, particularly in my country where salaries are already lower than average in Europe. I'm looking for any guidance on how I can make this career move without suffering such a drastic pay decrease. I'd really appreciate any advice you could share!
4 Answers
Don’t necessarily tie yourself to tools like Docker and Kubernetes as the only paths to transition into DevOps. Instead, focus on understanding the full software development lifecycle and how DevOps practices enhance software delivery. This can set you apart!
How about running a home lab with Kubernetes? It can be a great way to get hands-on experience. Deploy small applications and use GitOps to manage your processes. It’ll boost your confidence and your portfolio!
That sounds like a fantastic idea! I’ve been looking for grow my practical experience like this.
You really should consider working on personal projects that involve Docker or Kubernetes to bolster your practical experience. It’s super important for interviews, and having a project to talk about can make a big difference!
You're already close to DevOps since you have the cloud engineering experience. Just frame your background as devops experience on your resume. A lot of what you know about cloud infrastructure applies to DevOps roles. Try to focus on what you've accomplished for your clients instead of getting hung up on tools. Sometimes, it’s about perspective in interviews!
That’s valid! I usually mention my results during interviews and emphasize my adaptability to learn new tools. It seems like the lack of specific Docker and Kubernetes experience leads to those lower offers. I’m eager to find strategies that can position me better.
Great point! I'm definitely exploring more about CI/CD processes and the overall workflow.