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Entry Level Cloud Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Junior AI/ML Strategist

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$98K - $163K/yr

Collaborate with engineering, data, and compliance teams to ensure client deliverables align with ... Security+, AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, or equivalent entry-level cloud/cyber credentials.

... cloud-native software application development." We are looking for an Entry-Level Software Engineer to join our growing team! As a member of our dynamic and fast-paced environment, you'll have the ...

... cloud-native software application development." We are looking for an Entry-Level Software Engineer to join our growing team! As a member of our dynamic and fast-paced environment, you'll have the ...

... cloud-native software application development." We are looking for an Entry-Level Software Engineer to join our growing team! As a member of our dynamic and fast-paced environment, you'll have the ...

Junior DevOps Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$56.25 - $77/hr

... Entry Level Job Type Full-time Location CTAC HQ - Falls Church, VA 22042 US (Primary) Travel 0 ... Develop cloud-first applications, infrastructure as code, and tooling to improve business processes ...

Experience with cloud services, preferably with Amazon Web Services (AWS) * Experience with ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

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Entry Level Cloud Engineer information

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How much do entry level cloud engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cloud engineer in Virginia is $62.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53.12 and $71.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Cloud Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cloud Engineer, you need foundational knowledge of cloud computing concepts, networking, and scripting, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, as well as certifications such as AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner or Azure Fundamentals, is highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn, and effective teamwork set standout candidates apart. These skills are vital for building, maintaining, and optimizing cloud infrastructure in dynamic, collaborative technology environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cloud Engineer vs Cloud Support Associate?

AspectEntry Level Cloud EngineerCloud Support Associate
Required CertificationsBasic cloud certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner)Basic cloud certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning, deploying, and managing cloud solutionsProviding technical support and troubleshooting cloud issues
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, cloud service providers, enterprisesIT service providers, cloud vendors, support centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in cloud computingClarifying support-focused cloud roles

The Entry Level Cloud Engineer typically focuses on designing and deploying cloud solutions, requiring foundational certifications and technical skills. In contrast, a Cloud Support Associate primarily provides technical support and troubleshooting for cloud services. Both roles are entry-level but differ in responsibilities and daily tasks, catering to different career paths within cloud computing.

What Does an Entry-Level Cloud Engineer Do?

As an entry-level cloud engineer, you work as a junior engineer to learn more about cloud software and storage through hands-on training. Many of these roles are unpaid or paid internships rather than part-time or full-time employment. Your duties include tasks involved with cloud computing, like designing a cloud network or managing information stored in the cloud. You handle your responsibilities under the supervision of a skilled cloud engineer who trains you on the job. You need excellent computer, programming, and development skills and a willingness to learn how to work as a cloud engineer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level cloud engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level cloud engineers often encounter challenges such as navigating complex cloud environments, adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, and understanding the security best practices required for cloud infrastructure. To address these, it's important to actively seek mentorship from experienced team members, participate in ongoing training, and regularly practice with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as developers and security specialists—also helps in gaining a broader perspective and accelerating learning.

What are Entry Level Cloud Engineers?

Entry Level Cloud Engineers are professionals who assist in designing, implementing, and managing cloud-based solutions for organizations. They typically work with cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud to help migrate, deploy, or maintain applications and infrastructure. These roles are suitable for individuals who are new to cloud computing and often involve tasks such as configuring virtual machines, monitoring cloud resources, and supporting senior engineers. Entry level positions usually require foundational knowledge of cloud concepts, networking, and some scripting or programming experience.

How to become a cloud engineer with no experience?

To become an entry-level cloud engineer with no experience, focus on learning foundational cloud concepts and gaining hands-on practice with platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud through free tutorials and labs. Earning relevant certifications such as AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner or Microsoft Azure Fundamentals can also improve job prospects and demonstrate your skills to employers.

How much does AWS pay entry-level?

Entry-level Cloud Engineers working with AWS typically earn between $70,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on location, certifications, and experience. Starting salaries may be lower in some regions but tend to increase with skills in AWS services, scripting, and cloud architecture fundamentals.

Is there an entry-level role for cloud engineering?

Yes, entry-level cloud engineering roles typically focus on foundational skills such as cloud platform knowledge (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), scripting, and basic infrastructure management. These positions often require relevant certifications, like AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, and are suitable for candidates with limited professional experience seeking to develop their skills in cloud environments.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level cloud engineers do not earn that level of salary, highly experienced cloud engineers with specialized skills, certifications, and leadership roles can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in senior positions or in high-cost-of-living areas. Such salaries often include bonuses, stock options, or other incentives and typically require extensive experience and expertise in cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cloud Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Cloud Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cloud Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cloud Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Cloud Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Cloud Engineer job openings:
Associate Cloud AI Engineer - TS/SCI clearance - Travel

Associate Cloud AI Engineer - TS/SCI clearance - Travel

PGTEK

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Associate Cloud AI Engineer (Entry Level)

Location: Various U.S. Federal Client Sites (Onsite)
Travel: Travel required to customer sites throughout the Continental U.S.
Salary: $80,000 – $100,000
Clearance: Active TS/SCI or the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance required

About PGTEK

PGTEK is a leading provider of enterprise IT modernization, cloud transformation, and AI solutions supporting U.S. Federal Government agencies. As we continue expanding our Google Cloud and AI practice, we're seeking motivated engineers who want to build their careers deploying next-generation cloud and AI technologies in secure government environments.

This is an excellent opportunity for early-career cloud professionals, recent graduates, military veterans, and PGTEK Academy candidates looking to gain hands-on experience with Google Cloud Platform (GCP), enterprise AI, and federal cloud modernization projects.

Position Summary

As an Associate Cloud AI Engineer, you'll work alongside Senior and Lead Cloud AI Engineers to help deploy, secure, and support Google Cloud environments for federal customers. You'll participate in cloud migrations, infrastructure deployments, automation initiatives, and AI platform implementations while developing expertise in Google Cloud technologies and federal security best practices.

This role offers significant mentorship and professional growth opportunities as you build toward becoming a Cloud AI Engineer and ultimately a Cloud Architect.

Responsibilities
  • Assist with deploying and configuring Google Cloud Platform (GCP) environments
  • Configure resource hierarchies, IAM roles, Cloud Identity, and organizational policies
  • Support Google Cloud Assured Workloads implementations
  • Deploy and manage Compute Engine virtual machines, Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE), Cloud Run, and enterprise AI services
  • Configure cloud networking including VPCs, subnets, firewall rules, and network security policies
  • Assist with Google Cloud storage, databases, and data services including:
    • Cloud Storage
    • Cloud SQL
    • BigQuery
    • Spanner
    • Pub/Sub
    • Dataflow
  • Support Infrastructure as Code (IaC) deployments using Terraform, Config Connector, and Helm
  • Utilize Google AI-assisted tools including Gemini CLI and Gemini Cloud Assist
  • Monitor cloud environments using Cloud Monitoring, Cloud Logging, Cloud Trace, and Cloud Profiler
  • Assist with identity, access management, encryption, and least-privilege security implementations
  • Support compliance documentation and evidence collection for FedRAMP and DoD environments
  • Collaborate with senior engineers throughout cloud migration and modernization projects
  • Continuously expand Google Cloud knowledge through certifications, mentoring, and hands-on experience

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or another STEM-related field (or equivalent practical experience)
  • 0–2 years of experience supporting cloud infrastructure or enterprise IT environments
  • Basic understanding of cloud computing concepts
  • Familiarity with Linux and networking fundamentals
  • Experience using command-line tools and scripting is a plus
  • Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills
  • Excellent communication and willingness to learn
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced team environment
Preferred Qualifications

Experience or exposure to any of the following is a plus:

  • Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
  • Kubernetes
  • Docker or container technologies
  • Terraform or Infrastructure as Code
  • Git and CI/CD pipelines
  • Cloud networking
  • Python, Bash, or PowerShell scripting
  • AI or machine learning concepts
  • Legacy-to-cloud migration projects
Required Certifications
  • Google Cloud Certified – Associate Cloud Engineer (ACE) (Required at hire or within the first 90 days of employment)
  • Google Cloud Certified – Professional Cloud Architect (PCA) (Preferred or active pursuit encouraged)
Security Clearance
  • Active TS/SCI clearance or eligibility to obtain a TS/SCI clearance is required.

Benefits

Our comprehensive benefits package for full-time salaried employees is effective immediately upon the start date. Benefits include comprehensive PPO medical coverage with access to a Health Savings Account (HSA) option, a vision plan, and dental insurance with the base dental plan option paid for by PGTEK. Life Insurance, Short and Long-Term disability, and Critical Illness insurance have premiums covered. Additionally, PGTEK offers a matching 401(k) plan and a discount on pet insurance through ASPCA Pet Insurance. An Employee Assistance Program is available at no cost to all employees. PGTEK offers a generous amount of PTO and Holidays, and an Education Assistance Program is available after 12 months of employment.

ABOUT PGTEK

PGTEK is a true consulting organization dedicated to helping clients achieve their business and technology objectives utilizing our decades of experience and business relationships. PGTEK invests in the educational advancements of our staff by providing the necessary resources to complete Professional and Business Certifications. Our company is our people, and we treat them like family.

EOE, including disability/veterans