If you are looking for a career that is both in-demand and lucrative, becoming a Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) may be the perfect fit for you. In this article, we will discuss what an SRE does, the necessary skills for the job, how to pursue this career path, and the current demand for SREs in the tech industry.
What is an SRE?
SREs are responsible for ensuring that websites and business applications are operating efficiently and reliably. They use their software engineering skills to address problems related to operations and architecture. SREs’ duties are typically divided between developing new features, such as automation and scaling, and addressing operational issues that arise through technical troubleshooting.
Skills Required for SREs
To excel as an SRE, you need a comprehensive knowledge of software development, proficiency in programming languages such as Java and Python, strong knowledge of major operating systems and their administration, familiarity with DevOps engineering practices, and knowledge of networking, load balancing, protocols such as TCP/IP, and services like DNS. You should also have thorough knowledge of technology such as servers, storage, virtualization, and network monitoring.
Pursuing a Career as an SRE
Most SRE roles require a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Work experience is also often required. Employers typically ask for work experience supporting scalable service environments and coding experience. However, SRE job requirements can vary greatly between companies.
Demand for SREs
The demand for SREs has been growing at a rapid pace. According to the LinkedIn “2020 Emerging Jobs Report,” SRE roles have experienced 34% annual growth in the last four years. Additionally, SREs were ranked 21st on the fastest-growing jobs in the U.S., according to the 2022 LinkedIn Jobs on the Rise list. As more companies continue to rely on technology for their operations, the demand for SREs is likely to continue to increase.
Conclusion
In summary, becoming an SRE is an excellent career choice for those who have a strong foundation in software development and engineering. With the right skills and experience, SREs can earn a median salary of $162,337 and enjoy a high-demand career in the tech industry.
