Our AWS certification program is one example of how you can use cloud technology to drive performance and job opportunities as a Junior Cloud Engineer.
The following will help to answer your questions about what it takes to become a Junior Cloud Engineer and what you can expect from this IT career.
What Is a Junior Cloud Engineer?
A Junior Cloud Engineer, or JCE, is an entry-level position in cloud computing. In this role, you’d be assisting the senior cloud engineers with the development, deployment, and maintenance of cloud-based systems.
What is the average Junior Cloud Engineer salary?
The nationwide average Junior Cloud Engineer salary is about $71,799 annually, about $35 per hour, according to Zip Recruiter. Also, keep in mind that overtime may be required in this career.
But despite the overtime requirement, this position could be a launching pad for more advanced Cloud Engineer careers that pay substantially more. Cloud Directors, Senior AWS Cloud Architects, and Senior Cloud Architects are three future options for those who choose to continue learning as they gain real-world experience with a scope to turn upwards of $126,557 per year.
2025 Salary Snapshot — Top-Paying States
| Rank | State | Avg. Annual Pay |
| 1 | Washington | $81,320 |
| 2 | District of Columbia | $81,135 |
| 3 | New York | $78,551 |
| 4 | Massachusetts | $78,414 |
| 5 | Alaska | $77,324 |
Salary statistics by ZipRecruiter.
What are the responsibilities of a Junior Cloud Engineer?
A Junior Cloud Engineer serves as a supporting team member during cloud project implementation. The JCE is typically the first line in the chain, working from the service desk or support channels. Working in this position will be a combination of maintaining, supporting, and monitoring cloud infrastructure.
Junior cloud engineer job responsibilities will vary greatly, depending on where you work, i.e., academia, a medical environment, manufacturing, real estate investment, or another sector. Some common duties may include:
- Supporting migration to a cloud-based system
- Negotiating with vendors’ servers providers, hardware vendors, backup utility suppliers, etc.
- Coordinating and scheduling collaborative team efforts
- Developing and implementation of cloud-based policies
- Monitoring cloud-stored data and other assets
- Providing internal and external IT support
- Evaluating costs and lifecycle of technology assets
- And, other system and administration support services, as needed
Industry certification requirements necessary to gain Junior Cloud Engineer jobs vary widely, depending on the needs of an organization seeking IT workers. An AWS Practitioner certificate and appropriate systems certificates will be enough to demonstrate your basic competencies.
The AWS certificate is the second set of credentials that demonstrate your commitment to professional growth as the IT field evolves.
Learn more about the roles and responsibilities of a cloud engineer.
What Skills Are Required?
Whether you’re a career changer or a tech enthusiast, here’s what employers typically look for in Junior Cloud Engineers:
Technical Skills
- Understanding of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
- Networking basics
- Scripting (Python, Bash)
- Operating systems (especially Linux)
- Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines
Soft Skills
- Analytical thinking
- Problem-solving under pressure
- Team collaboration
- Strong documentation practices
If you’re looking to build these skills, CCI’s Computer and Network Technician or Cloud Computing Technician programs can give you a strong foundation.
Is Certification Important?
Absolutely. Certifications show employers that you’re serious and technically competent. Some of the essential certifications are:
- CompTIA Cloud+
- CompTIA Network+
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (great for beginners)
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
- Google Associate Cloud Engineer
Still not sure if this is the right career choice for you? Check here.
Can I become a Junior Cloud Engineer without a degree?
Yes. Most companies will want at least two years of relevant experience working as a system engineer, or in a supporting role to senior-level cloud engineers or system architects. In lieu of a computer science degree, many will accept a Technical IT diploma from a trusted tech school and/or an Amazon Web Services certificate.
Check out our Q&A: AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner blog for more information.
Accelerate Your IT Career Today with CCI Training Center
CCI Training Center prepares students to accelerate their IT career with foundational IT courses and advanced classes designed to help gain valuable industry certifications. You can start that journey by applying for the Cloud Computing Technician Training program today!
FAQ
Is junior cloud engineering still a good career in 2025?
Absolutely! Due to everything being online, the demand is growing faster than the talent pipeline. Therefore, it is an excellent career choice.
Do I need strong coding skills?
While you don’t require in-depth coding skills and most employers are willing to teach basic coding, being comfortable with scripting (Python, Bash, or PowerShell) is a plus.
Can I specialize later?
Yes. After becoming a junior cloud engineer, common paths include Site Reliability Engineer (SRE), Cloud Security Engineer, or FinOps Analyst.
