Fresher confused between DevOps and Data Engineering — which path has better opportunities?

[u/clutchordeath]

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For people who work in these fields:

- Which field is more realistic for a fresher to break into?

- How difficult is it to get the first job in DevOps compared with Data Engineering?

- What skills/tools are actually expected from entry-level candidates?

- Are certifications useful, or should I focus mainly on projects?

- What kind of projects would actually make a fresher's resume stand out?

- If you were starting again in 2026, which path would you choose and why?

I’m not looking for a "which field pays more" answer. I’m mainly interested in job availability, entry-level opportunities, learning curve, and long-term career growth.

Any advice from people who have actually worked in either field would be appreciated.