The Salary Landscape of Infrastructure Engineers: Key Insights from a New Survey Revealed

In an illuminating survey conducted by LPI-Japan, involving 110 infrastructure engineers, the impact of OS and foundational technology knowledge on salary levels and career advancement has been revealed to be significant. Led by Chairman Atsuo Suzuki, the organization aims to enhance the capabilities of technicians via industry-recognized Linux certification.

Key Findings from the Survey

Recognizing the Impact of OS Knowledge on Salary

The survey underscored that nearly 80% of the respondents acknowledge that knowledge and skills in OS and foundational technologies directly affect their earning potential. Interestingly, 70% admitted to experiencing barriers in their careers due to insufficient knowledge in these areas.

Income Distribution Among Engineers

When asked about their current annual income, 46.3% reported earning over 6 million yen, showcasing a notable segment of high earners in the field. However, the survey also highlighted a concerning trend, with only 30.9% prioritizing the acquisition of Linux/OS foundational knowledge, overshadowed by the 49.1% focusing on obtaining cloud certifications.

Familiarity with OS Technology

A significant portion of engineers, over 72%, stated they frequently work with OS/foundational technology in their roles, implying practical engagement with the skills essential to success in the field. Yet, when evaluated on their understanding of Linux/OS systems, only a little over 22% claimed to possess an in-depth comprehension, underscoring a clear knowledge gap among professionals.

Perceptions on Advancement

A striking 70% of engineers reported that lacking OS knowledge hindered their career growth, particularly in evaluation processes for promotions or critical project assignments. The survey highlighted that many engineers found themselves at crossroads, unable to progress due to gaps in their instrumental technical knowledge.

Barriers to Salary Growth

Among those experiencing barriers, 59.7% attributed their setbacks to not being evaluated favorably in promotions due to a lack of foundational knowledge. Furthermore, 41.6% stated they weren't assigned to desirable projects because of their limited skillset. Such insights reveal an urgent need for structured learning and skill acquisition.

Actionable Steps for Improvement

When asked about the most effective ways to improve their salary in the future, nearly half (49.1%) felt obtaining cloud certifications would be most beneficial, but a significant portion also recognized the value of systematic study of Linux/OS foundational technologies. This dual approach highlights the necessity of diversifying skill sets beyond just what is trending in the industry.

Conclusion: Bridging the Gap

The findings of the survey reflect a prevalent gap between the understanding of the importance of foundational tech knowledge and the actions taken to acquire it. The data shows that those more proficient in this traditional tech base assertively command higher salaries, further solidifying the argument for systematic education in OS technologies. The survey calls engineers to be proactive in seeking opportunities to bolster their foundational knowledge, as this will significantly enhance both their marketability and earning potential in an ever-evolving tech landscape.

For more in-depth insights and to download the full survey report, visit LPI-Japan’s official webpage.

About LPI-Japan

LPI-Japan is dedicated to the proliferation and growth of Linux and Open Technologies in Japan. Founded in July 2000, the organization facilitates IT technician certification exams, prioritizing the fair assessment of technical skills across various IT sectors. By bridging gaps in technician credentials and fostering education, LPI-Japan plays a pivotal role in the development of competent IT professionals capable of navigating modern technological challenges.

For further details about Linux certifications offered by LPI-Japan, please visit here.