The Ultimate Guide to Cloud Engineer Salaries and Career Growth

Cloud computing is one of the most popular career choices in the IT industry. Research has shown that the cloud computing industry is expected to reach a market value of $1 trillion by 2028. 

As cloud computing solutions and technology continue to play an increasingly integral role in modern organizations, there is more demand for cloud engineers than ever before. Moreover, large cloud service providers like AWS, Google and Azure have grown in popularity, and the need for experts who can navigate this technology is increasing. 

How much does a cloud engineer make? What is the average cloud engineer salary today? Salaries for cloud engineers can vary depending on experience, job function, skill level, location and cloud computing qualifications. In this article, we will explore the factors that can impact cloud engineer salaries across different cloud platforms to help you find the best role. 

What Is Cloud Engineering?

Cloud technology is now inescapable. From sending an email to scrolling through your phone, almost all channels of technology are now supported by some form of cloud technology. 

Cloud engineering is the process of building, designing and maintaining cloud systems to ensure that technological systems and cloud-based enterprise applications are secure, reliable and scalable over time. A cloud engineer is an IT professional who helps build and maintain this infrastructure. Cloud engineering can also include more specific roles such as cloud architecture, development and administration. 

To be able to do this, cloud engineers typically need to use a wide variety of different technologies, platforms and software tools to continuously optimize cloud infrastructure. This usually involves visualization, storage, networking and cloud security tools. 

Average Cloud Engineer Salaries 

What is the average cloud computing engineer salary? Is cloud engineering a good career? 

The average cloud engineer salary in the United States is around $148,000 per year. However, the salary range usually ranges from anywhere between $90,000 to $120,000. Your salary as a cloud computing engineer may vary depending on your education, certifications, additional skills and number of years of experience. 

• AWS Cloud Engineer Salary 

The estimated salary for an AWS cloud engineer can range from $136,000 to $210,000 per year. This may vary depending on experience, location and specific skills. While entry-level positions usually start around $140,000, an AWS cloud engineer with experience and certifications may expect to earn over $170,000 annually. 

• Google Cloud Engineer Salary

The estimated pay range for a Google Cloud Engineer is approximately $120,000 to $295,000 per year. Experienced cloud engineers with certifications can expect to reach up to $180,000 per year or even higher. States and cities with a comparatively high cost of living may offer higher salaries. 

• Microsoft Azure Cloud Engineer Salary

The average pay range for an Azure Cloud engineer is between $110,000 to $245,000 per year. Entry-level roles may begin at around $110,000, while senior cloud engineers with certifications may reach an annual salary of $150,000 or higher. 

Factors Influencing Cloud Engineer Salaries

The salaries of cloud engineers depend on various factors. Let’s explore each of these in detail:

Experience

Experience is one of the biggest factors that can impact cloud engineer salaries. Entry-level cloud engineers usually earn significantly less than those with several years of experience and a proven track record of cloud understanding. 

As cloud engineers gain more expertise over time and work on more complex cloud tools and projects, their value to employers increases significantly (leasing to higher salaries). 

Location

Geographical location plays a key role in varied salaries for cloud engineers. Larger cities and states (tech hubs) with a higher cost of living tend to offer cloud engineers higher salaries. For example, cloud engineers in New York or Silicon Valley usually earn more than those in smaller towns or regions. 

Certifications

Cloud engineers with updated and relevant certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect can usually expect higher salaries. Industry-recognised certifications like these demonstrate expertise and a commitment to specific cloud tools. 

Skills and Expertise

Cloud engineers who are proficient in cloud platforms, specific programming languages and relevant technologies can have a significant impact on a cloud engineer’s salary. These include skills such as DevOps, containerization and serverless computing. 

Find Your Dream Cloud Engineer Role Today

Looking for the best way to increase your earning potential as a cloud engineer? Focus on expanding your expertise, gain practical experience and try to specialize in one specific cloud platform. 

And while you’re searching for your next dream job in cloud engineering, VeriiPro can help! By bringing you cutting-edge job opportunities, we can ensure that your next role aligns with your goals. Get hired today! 

Frequently Asked Questions –

What is the average salary of a cloud engineer?

The average salary of a cloud engineer in the United States is around $120,000 per year, but it can vary based on experience, location, and certifications.

How much does an AWS cloud engineer make?

An AWS cloud engineer in the U.S. earns an average of $127,735 per year, with entry-level positions starting around $114,194 and senior roles exceeding $134,128.

What is the salary range for a Google cloud engineer?

Google cloud engineers earn an average of $130,756 per year in the U.S., with hourly wages ranging from $53.61 to $71.63.

How much does a Microsoft Azure cloud engineer earn?

Microsoft Azure cloud engineers in the U.S. have salaries ranging from $132,365 to $160,742 per year, with an average of about $132,000.

What factors influence cloud engineer salaries?

Key factors include years of experience, specific cloud platform expertise, geographical location, and relevant certifications.

Is cloud engineering a good career choice?

Yes, cloud engineering is a highly in-demand and lucrative career with significant growth opportunities due to the increasing reliance on cloud computing technologies.

What qualifications are needed to become a cloud engineer?

A strong foundation in computer science or IT, proficiency in programming languages like Python or Java, and relevant cloud certifications are essential.

How can I increase my salary as a cloud engineer?

Gaining advanced certifications, specializing in high-demand cloud platforms, and accumulating years of experience can significantly boost your salary.

What are the highest-paying cloud engineering roles?

Roles such as Cloud Architects, Cloud DevOps Engineers, and AI Platform Senior Cloud Engineers are among the highest-paying positions in the field.

What are the benefits of being a cloud engineer?

Cloud engineers enjoy high salaries, job security, continuous learning opportunities, and the ability to work on cutting-edge technologies