I'm currently a DevOps Consultant at AWS and while the pay is great, I've been feeling like a lot of my work isn't true DevOps. I haven't worked with Linux or Kubernetes, and most of my projects involve building infrastructure with Terraform, creating event-driven architectures on AWS, and a good amount of backend work in Python. I've always been more passionate about coding than troubleshooting, and I'm considering if a switch to a Software Development Engineer (SDE) role might be a good move—either within my current company or elsewhere. I'm grappling with several questions:
1. Would this change be a career step sideways or backward in terms of growth and pay, especially in a company like FAANG?
2. Long-term, do SDE roles offer better growth and flexibility compared to DevOps/SRE positions?
3. How common is it to switch from DevOps to SDE within the same company?
4. In terms of technical depth and product impact, how do the roles compare?
5. Has anyone made a similar switch? What was your experience like?
I'd really appreciate insights from anyone who's gone through this transition or has advice on evaluating it properly and possibly making the move. Thanks!
3 Answers
At the end of the day, it really comes down to what you enjoy doing. If you love coding and feel stuck in a DevOps role, a move to SDE might be the right path for you. Just remember that both roles have their merits and challenges. It might feel like a lateral move, but your skills in infrastructure and automation can set you apart in SDE positions.
As someone who's been in a similar situation, I can say SDE roles often have more growth potential. There's a higher number of SDE roles, which usually means better advancement opportunities. I'm also aiming for an internal transfer to SDE, and I believe it's worth the effort. If you do decide to shift, it'll help your career in the long run, even if you return to DevOps later.
One thing I've learned is that choosing between DevOps and SDE can depend on how you like to work. Think of it like this: DevOps is like using a telescope, seeing the whole system from premises to cloud. Meanwhile, SDEs are more like using a microscope, focusing on the minute details of coding and performance. If you enjoy coding more and feel it's your calling, it sounds like you've already made your decision to switch.
Totally agree! Finding enjoyment in your work is key. Chasing titles and trends without passion can lead to burnout. Focus on what excites you!