A DevOps Engineer works at the intersection of software development and IT operations. Their main goal is to streamline the process of building, testing, and deploying software so that companies can deliver updates and new features quickly and reliably. This role involves working with automation tools, cloud platforms, and continuous integration and delivery pipelines. DevOps Engineers collaborate closely with software developers, system administrators, and other IT professionals to ensure systems are secure, scalable, and efficient. They also monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues, and help organisations adopt best practices for software delivery.
DevOps Engineers in the UK typically earn between £40,000 and £80,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There were over 6,000 DevOps Engineer job postings in the UK on major job boards in 2023.
Demand for DevOps Engineers in the UK has grown by more than 20 percent over the past five years, reflecting the increasing reliance on cloud technologies.
Designs and manages cloud platforms such as AWS or Azure, focusing on automation, scalability, and security for software applications.
Ensures the reliability and performance of large-scale systems by developing automation tools and monitoring solutions.
Creates and maintains pipelines for automated building, testing, and deployment of software, aiming to streamline development processes.
Gain a solid understanding of computing, programming, and networking.
You can take A-levels in Computer Science, Mathematics, or Physics, or pursue a relevant BTEC. Developing programming skills in languages such as Python, Bash, or Java is important. Consider taking online courses or attending coding bootcamps to build your skills further.
Learn to use and manage Linux and Windows operating systems.
Most DevOps roles require a strong understanding of system administration. Set up your own servers or use virtual machines to practise installing and configuring software, managing users, and troubleshooting issues.
Familiarise yourself with key DevOps tools such as Docker, Jenkins, Git, and Kubernetes.
Start by using Git for version control and Docker for containerisation. Gradually progress to more advanced tools like Jenkins for continuous integration and Kubernetes for orchestration. Many free resources and tutorials are available online to help you practise with these tools.
Gain experience with cloud services like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
Cloud computing is fundamental to modern DevOps roles. Most employers expect you to be comfortable deploying and managing resources in the cloud. Consider completing cloud provider certifications, such as AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner or similar entry-level certificates.
Apply for internships or junior positions in IT support, software development, or DevOps teams.
Entry-level roles help you build workplace skills and give you the chance to work alongside experienced DevOps professionals. Look for organisations that use modern DevOps practices so you can observe automation, collaboration, and deployment pipelines in action.
Earn recognised DevOps or cloud certifications to boost your employability.
Certifications such as the AWS Certified DevOps Engineer, Microsoft Certified DevOps Engineer, or Docker Certified Associate are valued by employers. These demonstrate your commitment to the discipline and validate your technical skills.
Cloud Engineers design, implement, and manage cloud-based systems and services, often working with platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
Site Reliability Engineers focus on improving the reliability and scalability of IT systems by combining software engineering and systems administration expertise.
Systems Administrators manage and maintain IT infrastructure, ensuring servers and networks run smoothly and securely.
Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.
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THURSTON ENGINEERING LTD
( Added 22 Feb 2024 - 2 positions available )
A great opportunity to join the team and learn the day-to-day processes of a busy engineering workshop. Working alongside skilled engineers you will progress to be conversant with all processes and machinery. The successful applicant will be given the opportunity to become a valuable player in this specialist world learning valuable skills.
Closing date: in 29 days
Possible start date: 06 Jan 2026
Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 20 positions available )
As a Survival Equipment Technician (SET), you will maintain vital lifesaving equipment to enable aircrew to operate safely. This equipment will help them to survive on land, sea or in the air in peacetime or on military operations. You will also learn how to assist in the training of aircrew on land and sea in survival techniques.
Closing date: in 8 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 60 positions available )
Joining the Royal Navy on the Accelerated Apprentice Scheme (Submariner) means being fast-tracked to working with one of our most elite teams. You'll be paid to study, gain practical skills and use highly sophisticated equipment. Prior to that you'll spend time in active service as either a Marine Engineer Submariner or Weapon Engineer Submariner.
Closing date: in 8 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 70 positions available )
As an Engineering Technician Communications and Information Systems Specialist (Submariner) you'll be part of the elite Silent Service and a central member of your vessel’s engineering team. Using ultramodern radio and satellite systems to communicate with off-vessel command, you’re key to tactical and strategic communications.
Closing date: in 8 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 100 positions available )
Being a Warfare Specialist (Submariner), means working with some of the most advanced computer systems available to identify, track and, if required, destroy potential threats. This will involve the covert monitoring of all other vessels (surface and sub-surface, friend or foe) within range of the advanced array of different sensors onboard.
Closing date: in 8 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 28 positions available )
We need to make the seas safe. For our warships, for civilian ships, for everyone. And that’s where you come in. You’ll be at the heart of these missions whether they’re in a Mediterranean port, or on operations in the Persian Gulf. As a Mine Warfare Specialist you’ll lead the way for our fleet, clearing any mines in its path.
Closing date: in 8 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 96 positions available )
Joining the Royal Navy on the Accelerated Apprentice Scheme means accelerating your training and development within one of our most elite teams. You’ll be fast-tracked to real responsibility, getting your hands on some of the most advanced kit on the planet, and guaranteeing your warship’s performance as a state-of-the-art fighting machine.
Closing date: in 8 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
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Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.
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These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!
A DevOps Engineer and an IT service engineer both focus on designing, implementing, and maintaining IT infrastructure and services. They work closely with software development and operations teams to ensure reliable deployment, automation, and system performance, making their roles closely aligned in terms of qualifications and technical skill sets.
You could get into this job through:
You could do a college course, which may help you to find a trainee job. Courses include:
You'll usually need:
You could do an Information Communications Technician or Digital Support Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
You would learn how to install equipment and software, how to handle incidents and deal with requests for help.
You'll usually need:
You could start work as an assistant IT technician after taking GCSEs or A levels and train on the job.
You may find it helpful to get some industry standard training for support engineer roles. This can be done through organisations like:
You can find out more about careers and training in computing from techskills and The Chartered Institute for IT.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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