Is DevOps a good career

By Pavan Vadapalli

Updated on Apr 21, 2025 | 9 min read | 1.88K+ views

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In today’s tech-driven world, DevOps has become a vital practice, combining "development" and "operations" to streamline processes and boost collaboration. It is a methodology that bridges the gap between software development and IT operations, enabling faster and more efficient workflows. DevOps plays a key role in helping organizations deliver high-quality software solutions quickly, making it highly relevant in modern industries.

The demand for DevOps engineers is rapidly increasing, making it a sought-after career choice. According to Global Market Insights, the DevOps market size surpassed USD 8 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a 20% CAGR from 2023 to 2032. This surge is driven by the rising need to shorten software development cycles and accelerate delivery.

If you’re wondering, “Is DevOps a good career?” or “Is DevOps a good career path for freshers?”, this blog will guide you on why DevOps is a promising and lucrative field to pursue.

Is DevOps a Good Career?

DevOps is a popular career choice due to its relevance and growth potential in today’s tech-driven world. It combines development and operations, making professionals essential for optimizing software processes. 

With high demand, attractive salaries, and job security, DevOps is succeding. Industries like IT, finance, and healthcare rely on it to enhance efficiency. 

A RedGate survey found 74% of companies adopted DevOps post-pandemic, with gaps in automation (41%) and legacy systems (39%) pointing to future growth. 

The on-premise DevOps market is also projected to reach USD 45 billion by 2032, highlighting its role in data privacy and scalability.

Here are the advantages of becoming a DevOps Engineer:

  • Growing Demand: DevOps engineers are highly sought after across industries due to their ability to optimize software development and deployment.
  • High Earning Potential: DevOps roles are among the highest-paying jobs in tech, reflecting their importance in modern workflows.
  • Diverse Industry Opportunities: Professionals can work in IT, healthcare, finance, retail, and other sectors that rely on seamless software integration.
  • Job Security: The ongoing adoption of DevOps practices ensures long-term stability and career growth.
  • Skill Development: DevOps offers opportunities to learn in-demand skills like automation, cloud computing, and CI/CD pipelines.
  • Innovation and Collaboration: DevOps promotes a culture of teamwork and innovation, making it a fulfilling career path.

Also Read: Future Scope of DevOps

What are the roles & responsibilities of a DevOps Expert?

A DevOps expert plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between development and operations teams, ensuring smooth collaboration and efficient workflows. Their primary objective is to streamline the software development lifecycle, improve delivery speed, and enhance system reliability. 

This makes them essential in industries where seamless integration and continuous deployment are key to success.

Here are the Key Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Facilitating Collaboration: Act as a link between developers, IT teams, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth communication.
  • Building and Managing CI/CD Pipelines: Automate software testing, integration, and deployment to speed up releases.
  • Infrastructure Management: Set up and maintain scalable, reliable, and secure infrastructure.
  • Monitoring and Optimization: Track system performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements.
  • Automation: Automate repetitive tasks to save time and reduce errors.
  • Ensuring Security: Incorporate security practices into the development process to protect systems and data.
  • Incident Management: Quickly resolve system failures and ensure minimal downtime.

Also Read: What Do DevOps Engineers Do?

What are the skills required to become a DevOps Expert?

Becoming a successful DevOps expert requires a mix of technical and soft skills to manage complex workflows and ensure seamless collaboration between teams. These skills help in automating processes, improving efficiency, and maintaining system reliability, making them essential for anyone pursuing a career in this field.

Here are the essential skills required to become a DevOps expert:

  • Proficiency in Automation Tools: Knowledge of tools like Jenkins, Ansible, or Puppet to automate repetitive tasks.
  • Cloud Computing Expertise: Familiarity with platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud for scalable infrastructure management.
  • Scripting and Coding Skills: Experience in languages like PythonBash, or Ruby for creating scripts and managing configurations.
  • CI/CD Knowledge: Ability to design, implement, and maintain continuous integration and delivery pipelines.
  • System Administration: Strong understanding of Linux, Windows, and network management.
  • Monitoring and Performance Tracking: Proficiency in tools like Nagios, Prometheus, or Grafana to monitor system health.
  • Collaboration and Communication: Soft skills to foster teamwork and ensure effective communication between development and operations teams.

Ready to enhance your communication skills? Enroll in our communication courses online today and take the first step towards mastering effective communication in any professional setting!

 

What are the certifications required for a DevOps Expert?

Certifications are essential for validating your expertise as a DevOps professional and boosting your career prospects. They demonstrate your knowledge of tools, technologies, and practices while making you stand out in a competitive job market. 

Here are some of the Must-Have Certifications:

  • AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional: Validates advanced skills in deploying, managing, and automating applications on AWS.
  • Docker Certified Associate: Demonstrates expertise in containerization, a critical aspect of DevOps workflows.
  • Kubernetes Certified Application Developer (CKAD): Focuses on deploying, managing, and troubleshooting applications in Kubernetes clusters.
  • Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert: Covers tools like Azure DevOps and GitHub for automating and improving processes.
  • Google Professional Cloud DevOps Engineer: Prepares you to manage CI/CD pipelines and ensure system reliability on Google Cloud.
  • Red Hat Certified Specialist in Ansible Automation: Validates your ability to use Ansible for automation and configuration management.
  • Jenkins Certification: Showcases expertise in using Jenkins for continuous integration and delivery.

Ready to become a DevOps expert? Enroll in our DevOps courses today and earn your DevOps certificate to boost your career in this high-demand field!

 

How to become a DevOps Expert?

Becoming a DevOps expert requires a structured roadmap, beginning with education and progressing through technical skills, certifications, and hands-on experience. With the right guidance, you can develop the expertise needed to succeed in this growing field.

Step-by-Step Process to become a DevOps expert:

Step 1. Pursue Relevant Education:

  • Start with a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field to build a strong foundation in software development and IT operations.
  • Consider specialized courses in DevOps principles, cloud computing, automation, and system administration.

Step 2. Master Key Tools and Technologies:

  • Learn essential DevOps tools like Jenkins, Docker, Kubernetes, Ansible, and Terraform.
  • Gain hands-on experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

Step 3. Develop Coding and Scripting Skills:

  • Learn programming languages like Python, Bash, or Ruby for automation and configuration management.
  • Understand version control systems like Git to manage code changes efficiently.

Unlock your coding potential with our Python courses. Enroll today and start mastering Python to advance your career in tech!

 

Step 4. Earn Relevant Certifications:

  • Obtain industry-recognized certifications like AWS Certified DevOps Engineer, Docker Certified Associate, and Kubernetes Certified Application Developer (CKAD).
  • Certifications validate your skills and make you more competitive in the job market.

Step 5. Gain Practical Experience:

  • Work on real-world DevOps projects to apply your knowledge in environments that require problem-solving and optimization.
  • Internships or junior DevOps roles can offer invaluable hands-on experience.

Step 6. Keep Learning and Evolving:

  • Stay updated with the latest DevOps trends, tools, and best practices.
  • Engage with the DevOps community, attend workshops, and participate in online forums.

How much can Devops Engineer Earn?

DevOps engineers are highly sought after, with competitive salaries that reflect the demand for their expertise. Their skills in automation, cloud computing, and system management make them invaluable assets to organizations. 

Salaries for DevOps engineers can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and industry. 

Below is an overview of the average annual salaries for DevOps engineers in top cities across India.

City

Average Annual Salary (INR)

Chennai INR 7.5L
Kolkata INR 7.5L
Mumbai INR 7.7L
Hyderabad INR 8.5L
Pune INR 8.65L
Delhi  INR 9.7L 
Bengaluru INR 11L
Gurgaon INR 11L

Sourced By: Glassdoor

Note: The average annual salaries mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the employer and experience.

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How Can upGrad Help You?

upGrad offers comprehensive DevOps courses designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this high-demand field. With expert-led content, practical learning, and industry-relevant tools, our courses provide a structured path to becoming a DevOps expert.

Advantages of upGrad's DevOps Courses:

  • Expert-Led Learning: Courses taught by industry professionals with real-world experience.
  • Hands-on Projects: Work on practical projects to gain valuable experience.
  • Flexible Learning: Learn at your own pace with flexible schedules.
  • Industry Partnerships: Gain insights from top companies and develop skills that are highly sought after.
  • 24/7 Access to Learning Materials: Study anytime, anywhere with access to online resources and support.
  • Career Support: Get guidance on job placements and career growth.

Ready to kickstart your DevOps career? Enroll in our DevOps Courses today and start your journey to becoming a skilled DevOps expert.

 

Boost your career with our popular Software Engineering courses, offering hands-on training and expert guidance to turn you into a skilled software developer.

Master in-demand Software Development skills like coding, system design, DevOps, and agile methodologies to excel in today’s competitive tech industry.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the role of a DevOps engineer?

A DevOps engineer bridges the gap between software development and IT operations, ensuring that both teams collaborate seamlessly. Their primary role is to automate processes, build continuous integration and delivery pipelines, manage infrastructure, and monitor system performance, helping organizations deliver high-quality software quickly and efficiently.

2. Is DevOps a good career for freshers?

Yes, DevOps is an excellent career choice for freshers. The demand for DevOps professionals is high across various industries, and freshers can easily find opportunities to grow in this field. By acquiring relevant skills and certifications, freshers can quickly develop expertise and make themselves valuable to employers in tech-driven industries.

3. How does DevOps help organizations?

DevOps streamlines the software development and deployment process, reducing the time it takes to get products to market. By fostering collaboration between development and operations teams, DevOps helps improve system reliability, reduce errors, and accelerate delivery, ultimately benefiting organizations in terms of efficiency and innovation.

4. What industries use DevOps?

DevOps is widely adopted in industries like IT, healthcare, finance, retail, and e-commerce. These sectors rely on DevOps to streamline their software development processes, improve system performance, and maintain high levels of security. As digital transformation continues, the demand for DevOps expertise across all industries is expected to rise.

5. What skills do I need to become a DevOps expert?

To become a DevOps expert, you need a combination of technical skills and soft skills. Key technical skills include proficiency in automation tools (e.g., Jenkins, Ansible), cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure), scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash), and CI/CD pipelines. Strong communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills are also essential for working effectively with cross-functional teams.

6. What certifications are required for DevOps?

Certifications validate your expertise and can help you stand out in a competitive job market. Must-have certifications include AWS Certified DevOps Engineer, Docker Certified Associate, Kubernetes Certified Application Developer (CKAD), and Google Professional Cloud DevOps Engineer. These certifications demonstrate proficiency in key DevOps tools and practices.

7. What are the key responsibilities of a DevOps engineer?

DevOps engineers are responsible for automating the software deployment process, building and managing CI/CD pipelines, overseeing system infrastructure, and ensuring security and performance optimization. They also facilitate collaboration between development and operations teams, helping to reduce bottlenecks and improve overall productivity.

8. How do I get started in DevOps?

To get started in DevOps, you should begin by acquiring foundational knowledge in computer science, IT operations, and software development. Learn essential tools like Jenkins, Docker, and Kubernetes, and gain hands-on experience with cloud platforms like AWS. Earning certifications and building a portfolio of real-world projects will further enhance your career prospects.

9. How can DevOps improve software development?

DevOps improves software development by enhancing collaboration between development and operations teams, automating manual tasks, and promoting continuous integration and delivery. This reduces the time it takes to deliver updates and fixes, ensuring faster development cycles and higher-quality software.

10. What tools are essential for DevOps professionals?

Key DevOps tools include Jenkins, Docker, Kubernetes, Terraform, and Ansible for automation and orchestration. Cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud are essential for managing infrastructure, while monitoring tools like Prometheus and Grafana help track system performance.

11. Is DevOps only about coding?

While coding is a crucial part of DevOps, it is not the only aspect. DevOps involves automating processes, managing infrastructure, and ensuring smooth collaboration between development and operations teams. Knowledge of tools, cloud platforms, and system administration are just as important as coding skills in a DevOps role.

References:
Chennai: https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/chennai-devops-engineer-salary-SRCH_IL.0,7_IM1067_KO8,23.htm
Kolkata: https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/calcutta-devops-engineer-salary-SRCH_IL.0,8_IC2901633_KO9,24.htm
Mumbai: https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/mumbai-devops-engineer-salary-SRCH_IL.0,6_IC2851180_KO7,22.htm
Hyderabad: https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/hyderabad-devops-engineer-salary-SRCH_IL.0,9_IM1076_KO10,25.htm
Pune: https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/pune-devops-engineer-salary-SRCH_IL.0,4_IM1072_KO5,20.htm
Delhi: https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/new-delhi-devops-engineer-salary-SRCH_IL.0,9_IM1083_KO10,25.htm
Bengaluru: https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/bangalore-devops-engineer-salary-SRCH_IL.0,9_IM1091_KO10,25.htm
Gurgaon: https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/gurgaon-haryana-devops-engineer-salary-SRCH_IL.0,15_IC2921225_KO16,31.htm\
Stats: https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/devops-market

Pavan Vadapalli

900 articles published

Pavan Vadapalli is the Director of Engineering , bringing over 18 years of experience in software engineering, technology leadership, and startup innovation. Holding a B.Tech and an MBA from the India...

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