A cloud engineer is a technology professional who designs, implements, manages, and supports cloud-based systems and services. This role involves working with cloud computing platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. Cloud engineers help organisations move their computing resources and applications to the cloud, making IT systems more flexible, scalable, and cost-effective. Their tasks may include configuring cloud infrastructure, ensuring security, monitoring performance, and troubleshooting issues. Cloud engineers often collaborate with software developers, system administrators, and cybersecurity specialists. The role requires strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and up-to-date knowledge of emerging cloud technologies.
Cloud engineers in the UK typically earn between £40,000 and £90,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
The demand for cloud engineers has grown by over 22 percent in the UK over the past three years, with thousands of new positions advertised annually.
Major employers include tech companies, financial institutions, government agencies, and large enterprises adopting cloud solutions.
Specialises in designing and managing cloud solutions using Amazon Web Services, ensuring that systems are scalable, secure and cost-effective.
Focuses on implementing and maintaining security measures for cloud computing environments, particularly on Microsoft Azure platforms.
Works on automating cloud infrastructure deployment and management, using tools and scripts to streamline operations and improve reliability.
Focus on GCSEs or A-levels in IT, Computing, Maths, or Science to gain a strong technical background.
Subjects such as Computer Science, Maths, and Physics provide a solid foundation for understanding the principles behind cloud computing. Consider joining coding clubs or completing online coding challenges to further your practical skills.
Start learning programming languages commonly used in cloud engineering, such as Python or Java.
Free online resources and coding platforms, like Codecademy or freeCodeCamp, offer beginner-friendly tutorials. Understanding at least one programming language is essential, as most cloud services require some scripting or automation.
Familiarise yourself with major cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform.
Many cloud providers offer free introductory courses or trial accounts. Take advantage of these to experiment with deploying simple applications or using storage solutions in the cloud environment.
Pursue entry-level cloud certifications such as AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner or Microsoft Azure Fundamentals.
Certifications validate your skills and make you more attractive to employers. They typically cover basic cloud concepts, security, and services. Most certifications can be studied for and completed online, making them accessible to students.
Apply your skills by building cloud-based projects, such as hosting a website or creating a cloud database.
Project experience shows initiative and problem-solving ability. Try deploying a basic web application or setting up a virtual machine in the cloud. Document your process and results in a portfolio or online blog.
Look for apprenticeships, internships, or junior IT roles to gain hands-on experience in a real-world environment.
Many tech companies offer placements for students interested in cloud computing. Even roles that are not directly in cloud engineering, such as IT support, can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities within the technology sector.
Work on your ability to communicate technical ideas clearly and collaborate with others.
Cloud Engineers often work in teams and need to explain complex topics to non-technical stakeholders. Practice through group projects, presentations, and extracurricular activities.
Attend local tech meetups, join online forums, or participate in cloud engineering communities.
Networking helps you learn about industry trends and job opportunities. Platforms like LinkedIn and GitHub are also great places to showcase your skills and connect with professionals.
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.
Click on any card to be redirected to their vacancy page.
FMS DATA CABLING LTD
( Added 07 Jul 2025 - 2 positions available )
VQ Solutions are looking for a hardworking, determined individual to join the growing team at FMS as a Network Cable Installer. FMS have an excellent track record of training and progressing their apprentices. You will work and train on-site with their time-served engineers on national projects throughout the UK.
Closing date: in 6 days
Possible start date: 27 Oct 2025
HEYGATES LIMITED
( Added 29 Jul 2025 - 1 position available )
A fantastic opportunity has become available for an IT support trainee to join the team, reporting to the Head of IT. This new and challenging role will give the opportunity to work with a wide range of enterprise technologies and potential to travel to other sites in the UK. An exciting and varied role.
Closing date: in 1 month
Possible start date: 13 Dec 2025
BUBBLE IT SOLUTIONS LTD
( Added 12 Aug 2025 - 1 position available )
As an IT Support Engineer Apprentice at Bubble IT, you’ll be the first point of contact for customers needing technical help. You’ll gain hands-on experience resolving a range of IT issues and developing your knowledge across hardware, software, and network support.
Closing date: in 16 days
Possible start date: 10 Nov 2025
BV Dairy
( Added 27 Aug 2025 - 1 position available )
First line business support, onsite, resolving issues such as forgotten passwords, connection and printing issues, and general problem identification. Covering customer service, system maintenance, and security, preparing you for more complex technical support roles.
Closing date: in 13 days
Possible start date: 03 Nov 2025
S B K COMPUTERS LTD
( Added 05 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )
Join SBK Computers Ltd, a friendly and trusted IT company that’s been supporting businesses in Derbyshire and South Yorkshire since 1998. As an apprentice, you’ll get hands-on experience fixing hardware, installing software, first-line support, and more. You will be working with a supportive team that has helped numerous apprentices learn and grow.
Closing date: in 2 days
Possible start date: 21 Oct 2025
FORESIGHT (NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE)
( Added 08 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )
Are you organised, detail-oriented, and passionate about making a difference behind the scenes? As a Data Processor, you’ll play a key role in keeping things running smoothly, from managing vital records to coordinating services that support the community every day.
Closing date: in 21 days
Possible start date: 22 Nov 2025
INTERM IT (UK) LIMITED
( Added 08 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )
This is an IT Level 3 Apprenticeship role - split 80/20 between employment with the employer, and remote learning - gaining qualifications with Solveway Apprenticeships! We are looking for motivated, hard-working people who are passionate about technology. Our apprenticeship programme is intended for candidates who are looking for a career in IT.
Closing date: in 10 days
Possible start date: 29 Oct 2025
ENVERA TELECOMMUNICATIONS LIMITED
( Added 10 Sep 2025 - 3 positions available )
You will work closely with AI developers and project managers to implement cutting-edge automation solutions, utilizing platforms such as OpenAI, ChatGPT, Claude, Botpress, Zapier, and other LLMs. Additionally, you will be responsible for managing and optimizing Envera’s internal AI-driven systems and automations.
Closing date: in 3 days
Possible start date: 28 Oct 2025
This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.
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.
Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.
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 Cloud Engineer and an IT service engineer both work within the information technology sector, focusing on designing, implementing, and maintaining technological systems. They require similar skills in networking, infrastructure, and cloud-based platforms, making 'IT service engineer' the most comparable career title.
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.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
