Cloud Engineer vs. System Administrator: What Are the Differences?

A cloud engineer and a system administrator are both responsible for managing and maintaining computer systems. However, there are several key differences between these two positions. Cloud engineers typically work with cloud-based systems, while system administrators work with on-premises systems. Cloud engineers also have a more in-depth knowledge of cloud-based technologies, such as virtualization and networking. In this article, we compare and contrast the job duties, skills and salaries of cloud engineers and system administrators.

What is a Cloud Engineer?

Cloud Engineers are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the systems that power a company’s cloud computing infrastructure. They work with a company’s IT department to ensure that the company’s cloud-based systems are secure, reliable, and efficient. Cloud Engineers also work with developers to ensure that the applications that are built for the cloud are able to take advantage of the cloud’s scalability and flexibility. In addition, Cloud Engineers often work with Operations teams to help them troubleshoot and resolve issues with the company’s cloud-based systems.

What is a System Administrator?

System Administrators are responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and upkeep of computer systems. They install and configure software, troubleshoot hardware and software problems, and monitor systems to ensure they are running smoothly. They also create and maintain user accounts, set up permissions and access levels, and train users on how to use the system. System Administrators typically work in an office environment, but they may also be required to work remotely.

Cloud Engineer vs. System Administrator

Here are the main differences between a cloud engineer and a system administrator.

Job Duties

Both system administrators and cloud engineers have varied job duties, depending on their employer and the type of IT services they provide. System administrators typically perform tasks like installing and configuring operating systems, software and hardware. They also troubleshoot issues for users and manage user accounts.

Cloud engineers often design, build and maintain cloud computing infrastructures. They use tools like Chef and Ansible to automate cloud deployments and develop applications that integrate with a cloud platform. They may also monitor cloud performance and conduct user surveys to improve an IT service.

Job Requirements

Cloud engineers and system administrators typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. They might also pursue certifications to show employers that they have the skills needed to perform their job duties. For example, system administrators can earn Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification, which proves that they know how to use Microsoft products like Windows Server and Exchange Server. Cloud engineers might pursue Amazon Web Services (AWS) certification, which demonstrates their ability to build and manage applications on the AWS platform.

Work Environment

System administrators typically work in an office setting, but they may also travel to customer locations. They often spend their days working on a computer and troubleshooting issues with hardware or software.

Cloud engineers usually work in an office environment, but they may also travel to customer locations. They spend most of their time working on computers and using technology to solve problems for customers.

Skills

Both cloud engineers and system administrators use technical skills to perform their jobs. Cloud engineers need to have a strong understanding of cloud computing concepts and how to apply them to real-world scenarios. They also need to be able to use various tools and technologies to manage cloud environments. System administrators, on the other hand, need to have a deep understanding of operating systems and how to configure them to meet the needs of users. They also need to be proficient in using various tools and technologies to manage and troubleshoot systems.

Both cloud engineers and system administrators need to have strong problem-solving skills. Cloud engineers need to be able to identify and solve problems that arise in cloud environments. System administrators need to be able to identify and solve problems that arise in operating systems.

Both cloud engineers and system administrators need to have good communication skills. Cloud engineers need to be able to communicate effectively with colleagues and customers. System administrators need to be able to communicate effectively with colleagues and customers.

Salary

Cloud engineers can earn an average salary of $116,372 per year, while system administrators can earn an average salary of $82,947 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.