Cloud Engineer: Salary, Skills & How to Become One
Cloud engineers design, build, and maintain the infrastructure that runs applications on AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. It's one of the most in-demand and fully-remote-friendly roles in tech.
Key skills
Certifications that help
How to become a Cloud Engineer
- Build a Linux + networking foundation
- Learn one cloud deeply (AWS is the most-hired)
- Get a cloud certification to pass resume filters
- Build 2-3 hands-on projects (a deployed app, IaC repo)
- Apply to remote cloud and DevOps roles
Career path
Many people reach this role from IT Support Specialist or System Administrator, and grow into Cloud Architect or DevOps Engineer.
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Cloud Engineer FAQ
How much does a remote cloud engineer make?
In the US and Canada, remote cloud engineers typically earn $105,000-$160,000 base, with senior and architect roles going higher.
How do I become a cloud engineer with no experience?
Most people start in IT support or sysadmin work, learn one cloud platform (AWS is the most in demand), earn an associate-level certification, and build a few hands-on projects before applying.
Which cloud certification is best to start?
The AWS Solutions Architect Associate opens the most doors. Azure Administrator (AZ-104) is best if you're targeting Microsoft-heavy employers.
Are cloud engineer jobs remote?
Yes - cloud work is among the most remote-friendly roles in tech, with many fully remote positions across the US and Canada.