How to write a DevOps manager job description

It’s essential to regularly update DevOps manager job descriptions due to the constantly evolving nature of the field. But listing too many tools and platforms can intimidate and turn away skilled candidates. Plus, failing to balance technical abilities and management skills in one description can lead to mis-hires, damaging productivity and team morale. 

To attract qualified candidates, you need to write job descriptions that clearly define the role, balance hard and soft skills, and promote your company culture. 

So in this guide, we explain the key skills to look for in a DevOps manager, how to write a great job description, and common mistakes to watch out for. We also provide a template to kick off your process.

What is a DevOps manager

A DevOps manager coordinates between the software creation team (Dev) and the team that manages and runs it (Ops). They not only plan, build, and test new code but also ensure its smooth transition into operational use. By making these teams work together effectively, they help companies produce and update software efficiently, which is essential for staying competitive and meeting user needs.

Key skills to look for in DevOps managers 

Look for a blend of these hard and soft skills in your candidates:

• Proficiency in automation tools: Familiarity with tools like Jenkins, Ansible, and Terraform for streamlining software setup and managing its underlying infrastructure.

• Cloud services knowledge: Working knowledge of platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud for deploying and managing applications.

• Packaging software: Experience with tools like Docker and Kubernetes, which package software for easy setup and management.

• Coding for infrastructure: Using code to set up and control the technical systems (like servers) where software runs.

• Communication: Ability to explain technical details clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Collaboration: Ensuring software creators (Dev) and those managing its technical side (Ops) work in harmony to achieve shared project goals.

• Problem-solving: Addressing technical hiccups between software development and operations, and finding effective solutions to keep projects on track.

• Leadership: Steering both the software-making and tech teams, making critical decisions, and nurturing a culture of continuous learning.

How to write an effective DevOps manager job description 

To prepare a great skills-based job description, consider the following:

Clearly define the role 

When drafting the duties for a DevOps Manager, clarity is key. Instead of a vague "Oversee software deployment," dive into detail like, "Coordinate weekly software releases using Jenkins, ensuring zero downtime."

Emphasize how candidates will connect teams, like frontend developers and IT, for seamless collaboration. Also, set clear tech expectations, referencing tools they should know, such as Docker, Kubernetes, or cloud platforms like AWS.

This detailed approach not only sets clear role expectations but also helps potential candidates gauge their fit, ensuring you attract the right talent.

Emphasize soft skills 

Don't underestimate the power of soft skills. Instead of just listing "good communication," specify the need to "translate tech terms for non-tech teams." Remember, DevOps managers are managing relationships as much as code. 

Highlight leadership skills, like "Guiding teams through tight project timelines," or their ability to "find middle ground in tech debates."

By emphasizing these interpersonal skills, you'll draw in candidates who mesh well with both the tech and the team.

Show off your company culture 

When detailing a position for a DevOps manager, don’t overlook the atmosphere of your workspace. Paint a vivid picture of your company culture. Instead of saying "dynamic work environment," try "A fast-paced hub where ideas fly, and innovation is celebrated." 

Highlight the methods you employ, like "We rally around Agile sprints," rather than a generic "team-focused approach." Dive into what sets your development and operations apart. Maybe it's the cutting-edge tools you use, or perhaps it's the once-a-month hackathons.

Spotlighting these elements gives candidates a taste of the environment they'd be stepping into, ensuring a mutual fit from the start.

DevOps manager job description template 

Use this template as your starting point and adjust it to fit your needs.

Company introduction

Introduce your company, its mission, and unique DevOps culture. Highlight what makes you stand out, and describe how a DevOps Manager will impact your tech projects and bridge the development and operations teams.

Benefits of working with [Your company]

Outline the advantages of joining your team. These might include advanced training programs, a collaborative DevOps culture, competitive compensation and benefits, or special perks like flexible work hours.

The DevOps landscape is constantly evolving. Highlight the ongoing learning and development opportunities you offer and how your team keeps up with the newest tools and approaches. 

DevOps manager job brief

[Company name]

Job Title: [DevOps Manager, Director of DevOps, or CTO (Chief Technology Officer)]

Reports to: [For instance, Director of DevOps or Vice President of Engineering]

Position type: [Full-time, part-time, on-site, remote, or hybrid]

[Compensation details]

DevOps manager responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the tools and processes that automate technical systems, ensuring consistency and reliability.

• Work closely with software development and IT teams to ensure changes in software are smoothly integrated and deployed for users.

• Investigate and suggest new ways to make the software setup and updates more efficient and dependable.

• Ensure the continuous monitoring and swift response to any issues in the software's performance or delivery.

• Coordinate between multiple departments to ensure smooth software releases, minimizing downtime or disruptions.

• Regularly review infrastructure's health and security, making recommendations for improvements.

• Stay updated on trends to keep the tech environment advanced and efficient.

Requirements/Qualifications and training required

• Bachelor’s/master’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience)

• Deep understanding of DevOps tools and methodologies like Jenkins, Docker, and Kubernetes

• Experience with development and operational tools such as Git, Ansible, and Terraform

• [Additional requirements based on your company’s preferences]

3 things to avoid when writing a job description for DevOps manager 

Avoid these pitfalls in your job description to attract the right candidates for your business 

Overloading the role

It's tempting to want a DevOps manager who can handle every aspect of development and operations. However, avoid piling on too many responsibilities or requiring mastery of every tool out there. Such a list can seem daunting to candidates. Instead, focus on the core responsibilities and skills that truly matter for your specific setup and team dynamics.

Only focusing on today’s tools

Technology shifts quickly, so emphasize an ability to adapt and pick up new tools. It's key for a DevOps manager to stay updated and be a continuous learner.

Ignoring company specifics

Every company's DevOps needs are different, shaped by its culture, projects, and team dynamics. Avoid using a generic managerial job description. Instead, highlight what makes your environment unique. Maybe your team has a particular workflow or you use certain niche tools. Craft a description that's a true reflection of your company's DevOps role.

Next steps: Attracting and assessing DevOps manager candidates

Share your job description on multiple platforms, including job boards, LinkedIn, and tech-specific sites where DevOps professionals hang out. Consider joining DevOps-focused groups or communities like DevOps.com or the DevOps subreddit, both goldmines for finding passionate talent.

Once you’ve grown your applicant pool, it’s time to assess your candidates’ DevOps skills. You’ll want to test their coding and scripting skills but also crucial soft skills like communication and problem-solving. For the most accurate results, use a combination of TestGorilla’s multi-measure talent assessments. 

Start with our DevOps online test, for example, to establish candidates’ core knowledge of DevOps concepts, like troubleshooting and improving infrastructure. Then, assess their leadership skills with TestGorilla’s leadership and people management test. 

To ensure a good fit with your existing teams, consider using our Enneagram Personality test to understand your candidates' personality types.

Once candidates advance to interviews, try our DevOps interview questions to observe their engineering skills in real time. If they’ll need to work with Linux, try these 15 Linux interview questions. 

FAQs

What is a DevOps manager salary? 

The salary of a DevOps manager varies widely based on factors like location, experience, and company size. As of 2022 in the US, they typically earned $110,000 to $180,000 annually. In Europe, salaries might range from €50,000 to €100,000. 

Should I mention where my company is at with DevOps? 

It’s wise to state to what degree DevOps practices have been integrated into your company. Whether you're just beginning your DevOps journey or have a well-established process, being upfront attracts candidates suited for your current stage.

Hire skilled DevOps managers with TestGorilla 

You've just unpacked the ins and outs of a great DevOps manager job description. Finding the sweet spot between leadership and technical skills is key.

But how do you hire the perfect DevOps manager? This is where TestGorilla shines. Our platform offers tests tailored for DevOps expertise, ensuring a thorough screening of both leadership and technical skills.

Ready to optimize your hiring process? Sign up for a free account today or book a 30-minute demo to get started.