A Cloud Practitioner is an individual who has a fundamental understanding of AWS Cloud concepts and services. They have the knowledge to describe the basic architectural principles of the AWS platform, explain the value proposition of AWS services, and demonstrate key services such as compute, storage, networking, databases, and security. Cloud Practitioners are typically responsible for making informed decisions about the appropriate AWS services to use for a given business scenario.

How to Start as a Cloud Practitioner

Thinking about starting as a Cloud Practitioner? Check this out!

• Acquire Knowledge about cloud platforms: Choose a cloud platform to specialize in, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Each platform offers it own unique training that will make you an expert in your respective choice.
• Get certified: Certifications offered by cloud platforms validate your knowledge and expertise. For example, AWS offers the Cloud Practitioner certification, which demonstrates your understanding of basic cloud concepts and AWS services. Also, both Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform offer certifications at various levels.
• Gain hands-on experience: Practice deploying applications, managing resources, and utilizing various cloud features when you sign up for free tier on cloud platforms. Hands-on experience will help you become comfortable and proficient in working with cloud technologies.
• Stay updated: Cloud computing is a dynamic field with new developments and updates happening regularly. Stay updated with industry trends, advancements, and best practices by following industry blogs, taking part in webinars, attending conferences, and joining professional cloud practitioner communities.
• Join online courses: Universities and online learning platforms offer several courses specifically designed for cloud computing. These courses cover various topics ranging from introductory cloud concepts to advanced cloud architecture and security. Participating in such courses can help you gain in-depth knowledge and enhance your career prospects.
• Networking: connect with practitioners and experts in the field and engage them with conversations and ask questions. Networking will give insights and provide mentorship.
• Start a cloud-related job or project: Look for jobs or projects that require cloud computing skills. Gain professional experience by working on real-world cloud projects in collaboration with experienced professionals or by starting your own cloud-related initiatives. 

Skills Required of a Cloud Practitioner

To become a successful Cloud Practitioner, it’s important to develop a set of skills that align with the role. Here are some skills that are beneficial for a Cloud Practitioner:

• Understand the key concepts of cloud computing, including virtualization, scalability, elasticity, and the different types of cloud services (e.g., Infrastructure as a Service, Platform as a Service, Software as a Service).
• Acquire a fundamental understanding of the core AWS services, including compute (e.g., EC2, Lambda), storage (e.g., S3, EBS), networking (e.g., VPC, ELB), database (e.g., RDS, Dynamo DB), and security services (e.g., IAM, AWS Shield).
• Grasp the architectural principles and best practices involved in designing scalable, reliable, and cost-effective solutions on the AWS platform.
• Familiarize yourself with AWS security best practices, identity and access management, and data protection mechanisms. Understand AWS compliance frameworks and regulations.
• Develop effective problem-solving skills to identify and troubleshoot issues that may arise in cloud deployments. This includes learning how to analyze logs, monitor performance, and troubleshoot common infrastructure or application issues.
• Gain knowledge of basic networking concepts such as IP addressing, subnets, firewalls, and routing, as they relate to designing and configuring AWS infrastructure.
• Understand the different pricing models and cost allocation mechanisms in AWS. Learn how to optimize costs by implementing cost-effective solutions, selecting the right instance types, and utilizing services like AWS Cost Explorer. 
• Possess excellent communication skills to effectively communicate with team members, stakeholders, and clients. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and implement cloud solutions. 

How Much Does a Cloud Practitioner Earn? 

The salary and form of payment for a Cloud Practitioner may vary depending on factors such as experience, education, location, company size, and industry. 

In general, the average salary for a Cloud Practitioner can range from 100,000 NGN to 400,000 NGN per month.However, some professionals with significant experience and expertise can earn higher salaries, potentially exceeding 1,000,000 NGN per month according to Glassdoor

The form of payment for Cloud Practitioners in Nigeria is typically a combination of a base salary and possible additional benefits such as bonuses, allowances, and benefits packages. The base salary is usually paid on a monthly basis, while bonuses and other incentives may be given on a quarterly or annual basis. Additionally, some companies may offer benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and transportation allowances. 

Mind you, it is important to note that these figures are average estimates and may vary depending on the individual’s qualifications, negotiation skills, and the specific company they work for.