Best In-Demand IT Jobs for Tech Professionals

Here is a list of popular IT jobs you can apply for if you want a career in the IT sector:

Information security analyst

Average base pay: $76,410 per year An information security analyst protects all sensitive or confidential information in an organization. They monitor and analyze the organization’s computer networks for IT security issues or cyber threats. These professionals also design and implement counter-threat security strategies in response to threats they find. A candidate may need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or other related fields with a minimum of three years of working experience in information security. Some employers also accept candidates with a certificate in cybersecurity and related professional qualifications.

Software developer

Average base pay: $76,526 per year Software developers design and develop applications or systems software that run on computers, mobile phones, and other computing devices based on the needs and demands of the users. Through maintenance and testing, they ensure the continuous functioning of the program. To become a software developer, you may need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming, or related fields. If you have a master’s degree and strong programming skills, you may have an advantage over other candidates.

Web developer

Average base pay: $68,524 per year As the need for e-commerce grows, it’s not surprising that web developers are in high demand. Web developers create and design websites, usually for commercial purposes. After creating the website, they are also responsible for the overall functioning and maintenance. Sometimes, they build content for the websites as well.

Data scientist

Average base pay: $113,309 per year Data scientists handle the collection, analysis, and interpretation of large data for modeling, prediction, and decision-making purposes. Aspiring data scientists can have a bachelor’s degree in statistics, mathematics, computer science, or economics. Knowledge of advanced statistical techniques and concepts, such as regression, correlation, properties of distributions, statistical tests and their appropriate applications, is an important requirement for this job.

Data analyst

Average base pay: $62,453 per year A data analyst works as a subset of a data scientist. Data analysts mine and organize data collected from primary or secondary sources. They apply statistical tools to analyze, interpret, and present the data to decision makers or stakeholders who use it to identify trends and patterns that can aid decision-making processes. While many employers need candidates to have a bachelor’s degree in data science or data analytics, becoming a data analyst also requires in-depth knowledge of statistics and economics.

Computer systems analyst

Average base pay: $64,394 per year The role of computer systems analysts is to find ways to improve the efficiency of an organization’s computer systems. When their analysis finds weaknesses in systems, they perform upgrades and, when necessary, build new and improved computer systems. Besides needing a degree in computer science or related fields, some employers accept candidates with relevant experience. Critical thinking, creativity, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential for this role.

Java developer

Average base pay: $79,137 per year These professionals use the Java programming language to develop, revise, and update applications, programs, or websites. Candidates may need a degree in computer science, computer programming, or related fields to become a Java developer. You can also gain experience with online courses and voluntary or freelance projects.

DevOps engineer

Average base pay: $99,604 per year The primary duties of Development operations (DevOps) engineers are to produce, update, and secure a company’s software. They oversee the entire software development cycle, including coding, running tests, and configuring, maintaining, and updating software to ensure the systems software runs smoothly and efficiently.

Software engineer

Average base pay: $92,046 per year Software engineers design and develop the applications and software we use on our devices. Their job is to design, test, and maintain software with which users can perform tasks on their devices. Becoming a software engineer does not require a degree. While some companies may be interested in your bachelor’s or master’s degree in related fields, some tech companies place much more emphasis on practical skill and experience.

Cloud engineer

Average base pay: $100,242 per year A cloud engineer largely deals with duties related to cloud computing. This includes designing, developing, testing, managing, maintaining, and evaluating computer systems that support the implementation of cloud services.

Computer network architect

Average base pay: $84,428 per year A computer network architect is responsible for designing, building, deploying, and managing computer networks in an organization. They manage an organization’s local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), intranets, and cloud networking. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a candidate looking for a computer network architect job should have a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field and must have a minimum of 5 to 10 years of working experience in IT systems and related occupations.

Database administrator

Average base pay: $78,779 per year The primary duty of database administrators is to ensure the efficient functioning of databases. They organize, store, modify, and process databases. They also prevent data loss through backup and restoration. A degree in computer science or database management, plus an understanding of database languages, can help you become a database administrator.

Network and computer systems administrator

Average base pay: $64,892 per year A network and computer systems administrator determines the performance and operation of an organization’s networks. They install, maintain, evaluate, and ensure optimal functioning of computer and network systems. You can earn a certificate that qualifies you for this job by taking online courses and attending conferences. However, some employers may ask for a bachelor’s degree.

Computer and information research scientist

Average base pay: $77,173 per year These professionals design and develop innovative technologies. They also create new computing tools, languages, and methods to improve upon existing technologies. You need a degree in computer science, information systems, or other related fields to become a computer and information research scientist.

Machine learning engineer

Average base pay: $114,121 per year The duty of a machine learning engineer is to design and develop software that functions independently and performs automated statistical analysis functions efficiently. A machine learning engineer needs to have deep knowledge of mathematical and statistical operations and algorithms. The position requires a degree in computer science, mathematics, and/or statistics.

Artificial intelligence engineer

Average base pay: $114,121 per year AI engineers design and develop software that makes computer systems behave like humans. Behaviors that require human intelligence such as decision-making, problem-solving, and being able to recognize images, speech, or voices are embedded in computer systems by AI engineers. An aspiring AI engineer needs excellent programming skills, knowledge of algorithms, and communication and problem-solving skills, along with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or related fields.

Python developer

Average base pay: $76,526 per year A Python developer uses the Python programming language to create software, websites, or programs for a wide range of personal and enterprise applications. Python developers may need a degree in computer science or related fields to get employed. Some organizations will hire candidates with industry certifications and experience.

NET developer

Average base pay: $68,524 per year The primary duty of a NET developer is to use various programming languages to write code and design new web applications for an organization’s systems and to assess and (when needed) upgrade existing applications. Becoming a NET developer requires knowledge of programming languages, database applications and the use of web development tools like JavaScript and HTML.

PHP developer

Average base pay: $73,506 per year PHP developers use PHP script language to design and develop websites, applications, and programs from the backend. Besides holding a degree in a related field, what is more important to becoming a PHP developer is to have sound knowledge and understanding of the PHP programming language.

Mobile apps developer

Average base pay: $96,016 per year A mobile app developer is responsible for developing properly functioning, user-friendly mobile applications and for upgrading existing apps based on user feedback and company objectives. Mobile app developers can have degrees or gain knowledge and skills through online courses and projects.

IT managers

Average base pay: $85,253 per year IT managers are responsible for the planning, coordination, and direction of all day-to-day IT activities, including installation and maintenance of computer systems. Degree qualifications and years of experience required for this job vary depending on the employer. However, many employers require candidates to have at least a bachelor’s degree. If you have the skills and qualifications, there are several in-demand IT jobs that offer lucrative salaries and opportunities for career advancement. Use this guide to choose the positions that will best align with your experience, knowledge, and career goals.