In simple terms, the Internet of Things refers to the process of connecting different devices, creating a network of connected devices based on a specific architecture or technology with routers, actuators, and sensors (motion sensors, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, optical sensors, etc.).

They bring. These devices share data so that consumers have more control and convenience when using them. Statistics estimate that by the end of 2018, approximately 22 billion IoT devices worldwide will be connected to the World Wide Web, and this number is expected to increase to 50 billion by the end of 2030.

Because consumers and businesses both use smart devices and IoT solutions, they pose a major challenge to common infrastructure, as the industry needs skilled, talented, and skilled people to manage these complexities.

This dependence on specialized personnel has led to various job plans in the IoT industry. One of the most interesting and challenging jobs in this industry is IoT engineer.

Who is an IoT engineer?

IoT engineer is one of the jobs in this industry that requires related skills. Internet of  Things engineers are professionals who can combine, monitor, and manage IoT devices and systems by combining the three core components of data, technology, and research. Because the IoT engineer is a versatile specialist, these people must have sufficient skills in various fields including security, networking, system engineering, cloud programming, and hardware programming.

This makes IoT engineers somewhat flexible and can have multiple jobs and roles at the same time. Typically, Internet of  Things engineers works closely with teams of business analysts, engineers, data scientists, and designers to provide the best solutions to real-world problems.

IoT Engineer Responsibilities

Like other important jobs in the world of information technology, Internet of  Things engineers have well-known tasks, the most important of which are:

•   Research, build, test, and document advanced IoT solutions focusing on both aspects of integrated hardware and software development.
•  Development of native IoT software and implementation of regular software monitoring, review and update processes.
•  Design innovative IoT services that integrate with server-side technologies and develop MEAN stack solutions whenever necessary.
•  Evaluate the required performance and apply new and advanced tools and techniques with the aim of rapid construction of prototypes and structures.
• Design and development of infrastructure solutions for specific IoT applications (cloud to edge) Cloud-to-edge, so that it can be configured and deployed to suit different clients with different needs.
•  Plan and build efficient tools to optimize quality assurance (QA) support, deployment, and support services.

Skills that an Internet of  Things engineer should have

An IoT engineer must have a variety of skills to perform his or her tasks properly, including the following:

•  Practical programming experience with Python, Embedded-C, and Embedded C ++ programming languages.
•  In-depth understanding of the Linux operating system to manage and control devices and monitoring the required processes.
•  Familiarity with embedded software architecture, experience working with application diagrams in UML, classes diagram, and sequence diagram to accurately depict the architecture of the system to be implemented. – Have in-depth technical knowledge related to working with 32-bit ARM cortex M3 / M4 controllers.
•  Experience working with important wireless protocols and frameworks such as Zigby, Thread or BLE-Mesh
•  Expertise and proficiency in writing business logic related to embedded equipment using a test-driven method on RTOS and non-RTOS platforms
•  Sufficient skills in communication protocols such as 12C, SPI, 1-wire, UART, MODBUS, and DALI.
•  Ability to solve problems and think analytically and interact with others.

How to become an IoT engineer?

To become a successful IoT engineer, you must first increase your knowledge and skills in the following topics.

1. Understand the basics of sensors

As we mentioned, the Internet of Things revolves around sensors. Every IoT developer should have a deep understanding of sensors. These are the sensors that collect data on an IoT network. You need to be familiar with the working mechanism of different types of sensors and have a detailed understanding of their architecture. A proper understanding of wireless communication systems and the underlying logic are important for understanding the unique stimuli and function of the various components.

2. Pay attention to the user interface

User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) are two pillars of the success of any application, IoT applications are no exception to this rule. Because consumers rely on IoT solutions to make their daily lives easier, you can’t just focus on the user experience. The user experience can only function well if the user interface is clear, fluid, navigable, and ideal for a variety of infrastructures.

3. Gain experience working with Python and JavaScript

Since most IoT devices and solutions use advanced programming languages ​​such as JavaScript and Python as basic languages, familiarity with these two languages ​​is essential for the development of IoT applications. While Python offers great development speed and scalability, JavaScript is a web-based, event-driven language, so it is good for backends and receives feedback from devices.

4. Work with Raspberry Pi

While reputable organizations such as the IEEE believe that IoT developers must have a background in computer science or electrical engineering, solutions such as the Raspberry Pi have helped change that rule. Using Raspberry Pi, you can design and develop small IoT projects to show your skills and talents to potential employers. Raspberry Pi is a low-cost, small computer that is mostly used in IoT proof-concept projects, allowing you to connect simple circuits and then control those circuits through software. By building these simple projects, you can show that you have the knowledge and skills to take such initiatives and build IoT projects.

5. Invest in learning the basics of mobile operating systems

Mobile devices such as smartphones and smartwatches are widely using by users around the world. Since mobile devices are the most popular technology (thanks to factors such as convenience and portability), you need to acquire mobile technology skills. This will help you optimize your IoT applications and gain access to more users.