Are You on the Right AWS Solutions Architect Career Path?

How to take a Job as a Solutions Architect?

AWS Certified Solutions Architect is one of the most in-demand functions in the IT industry today. Possessing a salary of up to $150,000 a year in a field that remains to increase exponentially, it’s easy to see why so many people are giving themselves to the exhaustive study of AWS technologies. But, what does the way to a Solutions Architect position look like? In addition to a Bachelor’s Degree (Computer Science generally favored) and getting your AWS certification, there are various skills and areas of experience employers look for when considering AWS Solutions Architect candidates.

Work Experience

Software Development:

Working as an AWS Solutions Architect requires the necessary skills any developer should already have. You will need to have a strong working knowledge of BASH scripting and should be able to code (at least a bit) in Python, JavaScript, Java, or C++, mainly if you expect to work in the world of Serverless architectures, where fluency in one of these four languages is a must.

Data Security:

Experience with data security requirements joined with the PCI DSS, ISO, HIPPA, and SOC compliance laws are desirable to potential employers.

Networking:

Networking experience, especially with hybrid cloud solutions is a skill demanded by almost all employers in the world of cloud. Working as a system or network administrator can support you level-up this skill. Get as much experience with networking as possible before applying for AWS Certified Solutions Architect positions.

AWS Experience:

Three years hands-on experience with Amazon Web Services (working either individually or for a company) is about what you will need to get a job as an AWS Certified Solutions Architect. Experience in a lower-level position, like Cloud Strategist, Cloud Security Specialist, Software Engineer, or Cloud Systems Engineer will assist prepare you for an AWS Solutions Architect position and show prospective employers that you have learned the technologies from the “ground-up.”

Deployment Tools Experience

The Architect’s Toolbox:

You will want experience with the tools used to build, ship, and deploy code into your AWS environment. Employers usually look for experience with at least one of the following: Docker, Ansible, Chef, Jenkins, Puppet, and Capistrano. If you require a place to start, brush up on your Docker Fundamentals.

Infrastructure as Code:

Cloud Computing is all about overcoming your infrastructure to code, and the most critical thing you can do going into an AWS Solutions Architect role is to be a CloudFormation authority. Live it. Breathe it. Love it.

Extra tools:

Jira is an advanced project management tool/scrum board usually used by software companies to manage complex projects. Jira is almost very configurable, and having a sound grip of its internal workings is both engaging to prospective employers and something that will set you apart from other candidates.

Other Experience

Staying up-to-date on Industry Trends:

Recognition not only the history of cloud but also where it is gone is a great way to show employers that you are dedicated to the constant learning required to an ongoing career as an AWS Solutions Architect.

By advancing your knowledge in the exciting and quickly growing field of cloud computing, challenging and high-paying jobs such as an AWS Certified Solutions Architect will become more promptly available to you. Remember, experience counts: working at lower-level positions for at least three years will give you the expertise needed to catapult you into the career you’re shooting for.