I've been in the DevOps field for over 3 years now, but I'm feeling undervalued. After a job gap, I joined a startup where I focused on containerizing open-source apps, deploying with Docker and Kubernetes, and supporting AI training services. Unfortunately, that position didn't last long, and now I'm juggling QA, some development, and infrastructure work.
Right now, I'm on-site and earning around $42,000 per month, but I'm over 1000 km away from my hometown. The combination of job instability and low pay is really starting to wear me down. I keep seeing others with similar experience land solid DevOps roles, including remote ones in the US, and I feel like I must be missing something.
What I'd love to know is:
- Where should I focus my improvements — skills, personal branding, or proof of work?
- What strategies helped you advance in DevOps?
- Are there any platforms or methods that worked well for securing remote positions?
I'm looking for straightforward, practical advice, not sympathy.
6 Answers
Networking is key! It's often about who you know more than just what you know. Think about how you can assist others in your network rather than just seeking help. Trust me, a strong recommendation will mean more than any certification when it comes to securing jobs.
What helped me was years of general operations experience that really informed my DevOps skills. Staying curious and always learning new things helped me a ton! DevOps found me, I didn't specifically target it.
If you think it’s fine to use ChatGPT for basic writing, you might want to invest in some courses or even consider talking to a therapist. Building your personal brand can take time, and networking should feel natural, not forced. Soft skills are increasingly important too. Plus, being away from home is tough, but you'll feel more stable once you settle into your new environment.
Honestly, the biggest salary boosts I've experienced came from switching jobs. So keep growing your skills and keep an eye on the market for new opportunities while you're at it.
$42k a month sounds surprising! If you're based in India, that translates to roughly $467 USD per month, which seems quite low for your experience.
You’ve got solid experience—consider changing jobs for a better paycheck. In your current role, dive deeper into challenging tasks to master your field. This hands-on growth can lead to better roles and salaries in the future!
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