Cloud Engineer vs. Cloud Architect: What Are the Differences?

The cloud engineering and cloud architecture professions are both in high demand due to the increasing popularity of cloud computing. Though these roles share some similarities, there are several key differences between them. In this article, we discuss the differences between a cloud engineer and a cloud architect, and we provide additional information on each profession.

What is a Cloud Engineer?

Cloud Engineers are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the systems that power cloud-based applications. They work closely with developers to ensure that the applications they create can be effectively deployed in the cloud. Cloud Engineers also work with system administrators to ensure that the cloud infrastructure is properly configured and secured. In addition, Cloud Engineers often create and maintain documentation for the cloud systems they manage. This documentation can include diagrams of the architecture, descriptions of the components, and instructions for how to deploy and update the application.

What is a Cloud Architect?

A Cloud Architect is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining an organization’s cloud computing infrastructure. They work with cloud engineers and other IT professionals to plan and implement the transition from on-premises data centers to the cloud. Cloud Architects also develop and oversee the implementation of policies and procedures related to the use of cloud services. They work with vendors to select and deploy cloud-based solutions that meet the needs of the organization. Cloud Architects also monitor the performance of the cloud infrastructure and make recommendations for improvements.

Cloud Engineer vs. Cloud Architect

Here are the main differences between a cloud engineer and a cloud architect.

Job Duties

The duties of a cloud engineer and a cloud architect differ in their focus. A cloud engineer focuses on the technical aspects of cloud computing, such as how to build and maintain a cloud infrastructure and how to automate processes. They also work with other engineers to develop new systems and improve existing ones.

A cloud architect evaluates an organization’s needs for cloud services and develops a plan for implementing them. They consider factors like security and compliance requirements and help other employees learn how to use cloud applications. Additionally, they may troubleshoot issues with cloud systems when they arise.

Job Requirements

Cloud engineers and cloud architects typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or another related field. They might also pursue a master’s degree, which can help them stand out to employers. Cloud engineers and cloud architects often have experience working with different types of software, such as cloud computing platforms, virtualization software and networking tools. Additionally, they should be familiar with different programming languages, such as Java, Python and Ruby. Some employers might also require cloud engineers and cloud architects to have certifications, such as the Certified Cloud Professional (CCP) certification from the Institute of Cloud Computing.

Work Environment

Cloud engineers work in a variety of environments, depending on the company they work for. They may spend most of their time working from home or in an office setting. Some cloud engineers also travel to different locations to meet with clients and collaborate with other team members.

Cloud architects typically work in an office environment where they can collaborate with other employees and share ideas. Architects often work full-time hours during regular business hours.

Skills

Both cloud engineers and cloud architects work with cloud computing systems. Cloud engineers typically are responsible for implementing and maintaining these systems, while cloud architects design them. As a result, cloud architects often need more experience and technical skills than cloud engineers.

Both roles require an understanding of cloud computing concepts and how they can be used to solve business problems. Cloud engineers and cloud architects also both need to have strong problem-solving skills to identify issues with existing systems and develop solutions. They also need to be able to work with other team members, such as developers and system administrators, to implement their designs or troubleshoot problems.

Cloud architects typically need more advanced technical skills than cloud engineers. For example, they may need to be able to use coding languages, such as Java and Python, to create prototypes of their designs. They also may need to have experience with multiple cloud computing platforms, such as Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, to be able to design systems that will work with a company’s existing infrastructure.

Salary

Cloud engineers can earn an average salary of $116,372 per year, while cloud architects can earn an average salary of $136,496 per year. Both of these average salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.