⭐ Bright Outlook

DevOps Engineer

O*NET 15-1299.08 · SOC 15-1299

Projected Growth
+22%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$117k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Education Level
Zone 4
Considerable preparation needed (bachelor's degree)

What You'd Actually Do

  • Build and maintain CI/CD pipelines for automated testing and deployment
  • Manage containerized applications using Docker and Kubernetes
  • Monitor system reliability, set up alerting, and respond to production incidents
  • Automate infrastructure provisioning with tools like Terraform and Ansible
  • Collaborate with development teams to improve deployment speed and system stability

Education & How to Get In

🎯
Job Zone 4
Considerable preparation needed (bachelor's degree)

A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for DevOps Engineer roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a DevOps Engineer? These platforms offer courses you can start today — many with free trials or financial aid.

Coursera
University-backed courses and certificates
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Udemy
Affordable self-paced courses from $12.99
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Skillshare
Creative and professional skill classes
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LinkedIn Learning
Professional development with certificates
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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Analytical — research labs, offices, or remote

Work Style

Independent — focused deep work with periodic team check-ins

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a DevOps Engineer involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningBuild and maintain CI/CD pipelines for automated testing and deployment
MiddayManage containerized applications using Docker and Kubernetes
AfternoonMonitor system reliability, set up alerting, and respond to production incidents

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Investigative (Thinkers)5.5
Conventional (Organizers)5.5
Realistic (Doers)5.0
Enterprising (Persuaders)3.0
Social (Helpers)2.5
Artistic (Creators)1.5

Who Thrives as DevOps Engineer?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ISTJThe InspectorISTPThe CraftspersonINTJThe StrategistESTJThe Executive

Not sure which you are? Take the free 5-minute quiz →

See Open DevOps Engineer Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

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Is DevOps Engineer right for you?

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