Skip to main content

Core Skills for Platform Engineers

Edit on GitHubStar

Master the fundamental technical skills that form the foundation of platform engineering. These core competencies are essential regardless of your specialization or the specific technologies your organization uses.

Skill Categories​

🐧 Linux & Systems Administration​

The backbone of modern infrastructure:

  • Command-line proficiency
  • Process management and systemd
  • File systems and storage
  • Performance tuning
  • Shell scripting

🌐 Networking Fundamentals​

Understanding how systems communicate:

  • TCP/IP stack and OSI model
  • DNS, DHCP, and network services
  • Load balancing concepts
  • Network security basics
  • Troubleshooting connectivity

☁️ Cloud Computing Basics​

Essential cloud knowledge:

  • Compute, storage, and networking services
  • Identity and access management (IAM)
  • Virtual private clouds (VPCs)
  • Managed services vs self-managed
  • Cost optimization strategies

💻 Programming & Scripting​

Code your way to efficiency:

  • Python for automation
  • Bash for system tasks
  • Go for cloud-native tools
  • Git version control
  • API development basics

🔧 DevOps Fundamentals​

Bridge development and operations:

  • CI/CD concepts
  • Configuration management
  • Infrastructure as Code basics
  • Containerization with Docker
  • Monitoring and logging principles

Learning Approach​

Start with Foundations​

  1. Linux Mastery: Everything runs on Linux
  2. Networking Basics: Understand how systems connect
  3. Cloud Concepts: Learn cloud-agnostic principles

Build Practical Skills​

  • Work through hands-on exercises
  • Build projects that combine multiple skills
  • Practice troubleshooting scenarios
  • Contribute to open-source projects

Deepen Your Knowledge​

  • Read technical documentation
  • Follow industry blogs and podcasts
  • Attend webinars and conferences
  • Join study groups

Skill Assessment​

Evaluate your proficiency in each area:

Beginner Level​

  • Navigate Linux filesystem
  • Write basic shell scripts
  • Understand IP addressing
  • Deploy resources in one cloud provider
  • Use version control

Intermediate Level​

  • Manage Linux services and processes
  • Troubleshoot network issues
  • Implement cloud best practices
  • Write automation scripts
  • Set up CI/CD pipelines

Advanced Level​

  • Optimize system performance
  • Design network architectures
  • Implement multi-cloud strategies
  • Build platform tools
  • Mentor others

Common Interview Topics​

Prepare for these frequently asked areas:

  • Linux command-line scenarios
  • Network troubleshooting exercises
  • Cloud architecture discussions
  • Scripting challenges
  • System design basics

Resources for Deep Learning​

  • Books: "The Linux Programming Interface", "TCP/IP Illustrated"
  • Courses: Linux Foundation certifications, Cloud provider training
  • Practice: Home lab setups, cloud free tiers
  • Communities: Stack Overflow, Reddit communities

Ready to build your foundation? Start with the area where you need the most growth!