How to Start a Career in UNIX: Training and Certifications Required

Unix is a powerful and versatile multi-tasking and multi-user operating system that was developed in the late 1960s. It was originally developed based on ideas from the Multics project.  It is widely used in business, academia, and government settings, as it offers numerous advantages, such as stability, security, and flexibility. A Unix Developer is a skilled computer science professional who applies their expertise to develop, maintain, and improve Unix-based systems and applications. They collaborate with clients to understand their specific needs and objectives and design and implement solutions that optimize productivity and minimize errors. A career as a Unix developer can be both challenging and rewarding, as it requires a deep understanding of computer science principles and the ability to translate them into practical solutions that meet real-world business needs.

To become a Unix developer, you must have the required education and skill set. Here are the requirements to become a Unix Developer:

Step 1: Get a Degree

To become a Unix system administrator, it is recommended to start by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Many employers require this level of education. Some universities offer degrees specializing in systems administration within the computer science program.

If your school does not offer courses in operating systems and networking, it may be beneficial to take these courses to gain knowledge in installing and configuring servers and networks. Pursuing a graduate degree in computers or information technology (IT) may also be beneficial, particularly for those interested in working in academia or research.

Step 2: Get a Certificate

Prospective employers will be highly impressed by the independent steps you are taking to move to a UNIX position. A fantastic approach to getting your foot in the door is to earn your UNIX/Linux certifications. Certifications demonstrate your ability to recollect facts to pass an exam, but they also show that you are familiar with the fundamental UNIX and Linux commands. Some businesses need qualifications and might not even consider candidates who lack specific credentials. You are not “generally” required to be certified if you have work experience.

Step 3: Get Skills

Becoming a Unix Developer requires a diverse skill set that covers several areas of knowledge. Here are some tips to help you develop the necessary skills to succeed in this field:

1. Computer Programming: Unix Developers must have knowledge of programming languages such as C, C++, Java, Perl, KSH scripting, ILOG, Korn, HTML, XML, and ILOG. These programming languages are essential to developing and maintaining the applications that run on Unix systems. Learning the basics of these programming languages can help you create, maintain, and debug complex applications.
2. Operating Systems: As a Unix developer, you will work with several operating systems like Windows XP, Vista, Linux, AIX, and Unix. A thorough understanding of these operating systems is necessary to configure and manage these systems. It is important to have an understanding of the file system structure, user management, and security protocols of these systems.
3. Databases: Unix developers need to be proficient in databases, including SQL, PL, MySQL, and Oracle. They must have the skills to design and maintain databases to store and retrieve data efficiently. Knowledge of data normalization, indexing, and query optimization is essential for effective database management.
4. Applications: Working with MS Project, MS Office, and Visio are among the skills of a Unix developer. They must possess the skills to handle, manipulate, and inspect file streams and process data. Additionally, knowledge of software development life cycle (SDLC) and project management methodologies is critical for the successful delivery of projects.

To develop these skills, it is recommended to take online courses or enrol in a computer science degree program. You can also practice programming by contributing to open-source projects or developing your own applications. Additionally, attending workshops, seminars, and conferences can help you stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices in the field.

Step 4: Read Books

Every UNIX System Administrator you meet will advise you to read a different book. Numerous books have been written about UNIX. The following books are beneficial and have been around for a long time. Because technology develops quickly, you should look for the most recent versions.

• UNIX System Administration Handbook — by Evi Nemeth, Garth Snyder, Scott Seebass
• Solaris Solutions for Systems Administrators- by Sandra Henry-Stocker/ Evan R. Marks
• UNIX in a Nutshell — by O’Reilly
• Learning the vi Editor — By O’Reilly
• Essential Systems Administration — by O’Reilly

Step 5: Do an Internship

To become a full-time Unix Developer, you must complete internships. People with extensive understanding of scripting languages like Perl, Python, and UNIX shell are more in demand by employers. Unix Developer interns must work on the most recent hardware to reduce latency and participate in significant software projects.

Building a Career in Unix: Tips and Advice

To succeed in this field, there are some important things to keep in mind:

• Stay current on new technology developments by attending industry events, reading industry publications, and networking with other professionals.
• Sharpen your problem-solving skills to effectively address issues with the systems you administer. Hone your analytical abilities to evaluate situations and choose the best course of action.
• Use available resources, such as mentors, colleagues, online forums, and industry-related books and publications like “Unix Power Tools.”
• Backup and recovery are critical. Ensure that you have a robust backup system in place and perform backups regularly.
• Apply what you’ve learned in practice to become more proficient in your skills. And don’t forget to back up your work regularly.

Conclusion

Overall, building a career in Unix requires a combination of technical skills, knowledge, and experience. By staying up-to-date with the latest technological developments and learning from experienced professionals, you can develop the skills necessary to succeed in this field.