Top 15 Azure Skills Employers Look for in Candidates (2024)

Microsoft Azure skills are the knowledge and proficiency required to work with Microsoft's cloud computing platform, Azure. These skills are essential for individuals and organizations looking to leverage the power of the cloud to deliver innovative solutions with greater agility, efficiency, and scalability. As per your role, the exact skills may vary. These days both AWS and Azure are quite popular, but, this article going to specifically discuss Azure to help you understand the benefits of earning skills related to this platform.

Azure technical skills include a broad range of expertise needed to work effectively within Microsoft's cloud computing platform.  The Azure skills list is mentioned as follows:

• Cloud Concepts: Grasping cloud concepts empowers you to make well-informed decisions throughout the entire Azure lifecycle, from designing and deploying solutions to ongoing management. You'll be able to choose the most suitable service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) and resource types for each project, ensuring optimal efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Azure engineer skills include having cloud fundamentals.
• Azure Services: This forms the core of your Azure expertise. Gain a comprehensive understanding of core Azure services like computing, storage, databases, networking, and security. Be familiar with popular options within each category, such as Azure Virtual Machines for computing, Azure Blob Storage for data, and Azure SQL Database for relational databases.
• Azure Administration: You'll need expertise in managing Azure subscriptions, including creating and monitoring them, assigning access controls, and implementing billing policies. You'll also need to be familiar with provisioning and managing resources like virtual machines, storage accounts, and databases.
• Azure Security: Skills in securing Azure resources, including implementing access control (Azure Active Directory), protecting data (Azure Key Vault), and using security monitoring tools (Azure Security Center). If you want to be an MS Azure developer, then focus on this one of the important Microsoft Azure developer skills.
• Azure Data Services: Knowledge of working with Azure data services to store, manage, and analyze data. This could involve using Azure Data Factory for data movement and orchestration or Azure Synapse Analytics for large-scale data warehousing and analytics.
• Programming Languages: Azure development involves coding, so it's better to choose at least one programming language commonly used for Azure development, such as Python, .NET (C#, VB.NET), or JavaScript. The specific language you choose depends on the type of Azure development you're interested in, such as web apps, mobile apps, or serverless functions. But it is one of the essential Azure cloud engineer skills. 
• Scripting: While advanced coding may not be necessary for all Azure roles, grasping scripting languages like PowerShell or Bash can be incredibly beneficial. These languages allow you to automate deployment and management tasks in Azure, saving you time and reducing errors.
• Understanding of IaaS, PaaS, and Kubernetes: Grasp the fundamental Azure cloud skills, i.e., service models: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and container orchestration with Kubernetes.  IaaS provides virtual machines and storage that you manage, while PaaS offers pre-configured environments for building and deploying applications. Kubernetes helps manage containerized applications in Azure.
• DevOps and Agile Methodologies: Understanding DevOps principles like automation and continuous integration/delivery (CI/CD) can streamline your cloud development process.  Familiarize yourself with Agile frameworks like Scrum that promote iterative development and collaboration in cloud projects. You can see this one as one of the major skills required for Azure developers.
• Azure AI & Machine Learning: The ability to leverage Azure services to build, train, and deploy artificial intelligence and machine learning models. This might involve using Azure Machine Learning services or cognitive services APIs.

Here are the top soft skills you'll need for a thriving Azure career, whether you're focusing on engineering or development:

• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: The cloud can be complex, and you'll inevitably encounter issues. Strong problem-solving skills are vital for troubleshooting and finding effective solutions. You'll need to analyze the root cause of problems, think critically to develop potential solutions, and then choose the most appropriate course of action.
• Communication Skills: The ability to explain technical concepts clearly and concisely is essential. You'll need to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences. This includes breaking down complex technical details for colleagues who may not have an Azure background, as well as clearly explaining solutions and recommendations to clients or stakeholders.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Azure projects often involve collaboration between developers, engineers, and other IT professionals. Effective teamwork skills are crucial for success.  Being able to work effectively within a team, actively listen to different perspectives, and contribute meaningfully to discussions is essential.
• Time Management and Organization: Azure projects can involve juggling multiple tasks and deadlines. Strong time management and organizational skills are essential for staying on track and meeting project goals. Being able to prioritize tasks effectively, manage your time efficiently, and keep yourself organized will ensure you can deliver high-quality work within deadlines.
• Attention to Detail: Working with cloud technologies requires a keen eye for detail. Small mistakes can have significant consequences, so it's important to be detail-oriented and ensure accuracy in your work. This includes carefully reviewing configurations, code, and other technical aspects of your Azure projects.

You must have the required skills to ensure a successful career in Azure cloud computing. Certification courses are a big yes when it comes to honing your skills. Here is a list of the top azure courses that can help you gain azure skills in demand:

• Getting Started with Azure by Coursera: This introductory azure course is designed for those with no prior experience in cloud computing. It uses clear explanations and avoids complex technical jargon. It covers the core Azure services across computing, storage, databases, networking, and security, providing a strong foundation for understanding how Azure works. The course includes labs and exercises that allow learners to practice using Azure services in a sandbox environment. This hands-on approach reinforces learning and helps develop practical skills.
• Azure Security Engineer Certification: Microsoft Azure Security Technologies (AZ-500) by QuickStart: This AZ-500 certification delves into core Azure security concepts, including identity and access management, data encryption, threat protection, and security best practices. This knowledge is essential not only for the AZ-500 exam but also for real-world Azure security tasks.
• Microsoft Azure Cloud Engineer Masters Program by Edureka: MS Azure Cloud Engineer Masters Program equips you with the skills to become a certified Azure expert. The program claims to cover a wide range of topics, including core Azure services, administration, security, DevOps, and data services. This well-rounded approach could provide a solid foundation for an Azure career. It prepares you for multiple Azure certifications, potentially increasing your job prospects.
• Cloud Developer using Microsoft Azure by Udacity: Cloud Developer using Microsoft Azure Nanodegree program equips you with the skills to build, deploy, and manage applications on the Microsoft Azure cloud platform. This program involves real-world projects that allow you to apply your learnings and build a portfolio to showcase your skills. The program curriculum is developed in collaboration with industry experts, ensuring it covers relevant Azure services and technologies used in the field.
• Microsoft Azure Developer Associate Certification: AZ-204 by Edureka: This beginner level AZ-204 course aims to prepare you for the AZ-204 exam that validates your ability to develop cloud solutions on Microsoft Azure. It helps you gain comprehensive knowledge of Azure development using IaaS and PaaS solutions as well as related Storage, Security and Integration Services

Acquiring specialized Microsoft Azure skills is crucial for professionals seeking a career in cloud computing. This sector demands expertise in various skills. If you are looking to hone your azure skills or want to gain the trending ones, you must take the help of Careervira.

You can explore top online Azure certification courses and compare them so that you can pick the one that meets your requirements. Pursuing such courses emerges as a strategic move, providing a structured pathway for skill enhancement. These courses not only impart essential knowledge but also offer hands-on experience, equipping individuals with the practical acumen crucial for success.