I'm a fresher hoping to move into DevOps, cloud, or SRE. I've been studying Linux, AWS, Docker, Kubernetes, Terraform, Jenkins, Git, Ansible, and Python, but most entry-level-looking openings still ask for one to three years of experience. For opportunities expected in late 2026, should I apply directly for DevOps trainee roles, or would it be smarter to begin in cloud support, Linux administration, systems administration, NOC, or technical support and transition later? Which skills and practical experience should I prioritize, and is a stack such as AWS, Linux, Docker, Kubernetes, Terraform, and CI/CD enough to land a first role?
4 Answers
A nontraditional transition can work, but it usually requires some evidence of real-world experience. One person described moving from networking and systems work into DevOps after taking a course and contributing to projects for several months before being hired full time. That path is not financially practical for everyone, so a paid support, Linux, networking, or junior infrastructure position may be safer. Keep developing DevOps projects alongside the job and look for opportunities to automate tasks in your current role.
Your listed tools are useful, but knowing a long list of products is not enough by itself. Focus on fundamentals first: Linux administration, networking, Git, scripting, cloud IAM and networking, containers, CI/CD, observability, and basic security. Build a few complete projects that include infrastructure as code, deployment pipelines, logging, monitoring, rollback steps, and documentation. A support or systems role can be a strong starting point if it gives you access to real troubleshooting and automation rather than only repetitive ticket work.
The market is competitive, and some entry-level infrastructure work is also being affected by automation and increased interest in AI-related roles. That does not make DevOps impossible, but it does mean candidates need more than certificates and a list of tools. Apply broadly to junior infrastructure, cloud operations, platform support, and systems roles, while tailoring your résumé around measurable projects and troubleshooting ability.
DevOps is usually not treated as a true entry-level role because it requires a broad mix of development, infrastructure, networking, security, troubleshooting, and operational experience. A practical route is to start in systems administration, cloud support, networking, or software development, build real production habits, and then move into DevOps. Keep applying to trainee and junior roles, but don’t rely only on tool familiarity—show that you can deploy, monitor, troubleshoot, automate, and explain the systems you build.
That makes sense, but how is someone supposed to get the one to three years of experience employers request? Would starting in support or administration be the usual way to build it?
I have BCA and MCA degrees and spent a year in a BPO before deciding to move into a technical career. I’ve been preparing for almost a year and applying without getting many responses. I’m considering either taking a support role or paying for a course or internship with practical work. In this situation, would you prioritize getting a support job first while continuing to build DevOps projects?