Hardware-related roles

The previous step focused on careers associated with software in the context of cloud computing. It was highlighted that a significant portion of positions in this field pertains to software development, primarily because external companies utilise cloud infrastructure for software creation. Nevertheless, it is crucial not to underestimate the importance of hardware in this context. The cloud abstracts the hardware and presents it as an accessible service over the internet, which can lead to overlooking the extensive effort required to maintain these systems.

Cloud vendors

Within the data centres of cloud vendors, engineers, and technicians work on-site to inspect, repair, configure, and enhance the physical infrastructure. If your inclination lies more towards hardware rather than software, these types of roles may align with your interests. It’s worth noting that the key employers for such positions are the prominent cloud vendors we’ve discussed thus far, namely Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure. In addition to these major players, several other notable cloud vendors also seek hardware engineers:

• Oracle Cloud
• IBM Cloud
• Alibaba Cloud
• DigitalOcean

What do hardware-related jobs entail?

The specifics of hardware-related roles can vary from one company to another, but generally, you can expect to shoulder one or more of the following responsibilities:

• Operating in shifts due to the 24/7 nature of these systems, as companies may require maintenance at any time.
• Installing and deploying new racks and network equipment.
• Monitoring systems to detect failures and implementing solutions.
• Engaging in cabling, labelling, certification, and server position patching.
• Upgrading operating systems and other software on specific hardware.
• Managing tasks through ticketing systems.
• Some major vendors even engage in hardware design, including chips, which might necessitate a background in mechanical or electrical engineering or even a PhD in a related field.

What skills are required?

To excel in hardware-related roles, it is essential to possess the following skills:

• A general understanding of cloud technologies.
• Proficiency in operating systems, particularly Windows and Linux.
• Competence in hardware repair.
• A sound grasp of computer networking concepts.
• A knowledge of scripting languages (bash, Python, etc).

What is the demand for such roles?

Hardware-related positions offer numerous job opportunities. It is highly recommended that you conduct brief research on the following platforms to explore relevant job openings that align with your future aspirations.

Optional: research

• Look on job sites like LinkedIn Jobs, Google Jobs, and Glassdoor for hardware-related roles.
• While browsing job listings, pay close attention to the required and preferred skills and, if available, salary ranges. 
• Consider whether the job descriptions align with your interests and excitement. Are the compensation packages attractive? 
• If you find a role intriguing, compile a list of common skills sought in these positions and prioritise them based on your perceived areas of improvement.

Congratulations! You now possess a list of skills to develop as you pursue hardware-related career opportunities. In the next step you will explore support-related roles.