Deployment engineers are individuals who make software available for company employees or other clients to use. These professionals need to thoroughly understand how computer programs work and must be good at budgeting to ensure that their projects are in line with their organizations’ financial plans. A person who seeks to become a deployment engineer usually needs to complete a bachelor’s degree program in a subject area such as computer science or information technology, which typically lasts four years. This type of engineer has to have strong design skills, aim to enhance technology systems, and stay current in this industry.
A major task of a deployment engineer is to create a plan to install new software at a company so that it is ready to use. This type of individual specifically needs to understand how to use virtualization software, which allows several operating systems and applications to run at the same time on a computer. After helping clients to install their software, a deployment engineer assists them with evaluating the results of the computer programs to make sure that they achieve the desired outcomes.
Workers in this career area additionally must produce detailed plans regarding their technology initiatives. For instance, prior to making software available for use, the engineer has to create a diagram that shows the physical design of the future computer system, which includes hardware and various other technical components. To do this effectively, he or she needs to determine the cost of the resources needed to develop a system based on these established specifications and then try to perform the project in as cost-effective a way as possible.
Striving to improve computer networks also constitutes a valuable responsibility of a professional in this field. A deployment engineer offers suggestions to make computer systems perform better in addition to troubleshooting problems. He or she needs to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills for addressing any technical issues that arise.
Professionals in this industry must be willing to keep their skills fresh in this constantly-changing field as well. Many employers prefer or require job candidates who are certified in a wide range of software products. Certification typically involves passing exams administered by the manufacturers of those computer programs and simply proves to companies that the engineer is proficient in the use of certain products. A deployment engineer also must be prepared to complete continuing education requirements to maintain his or her voluntary credential as well as keep his or her knowledge of this industry up-to-date.