A Breakdown of the Best Jobs in IT

An IT job, also known as a computer and information technology occupation, involves working with computer systems, networks, software, and hardware. There are many careers to choose from in this industry, which vary based on job responsibilities, salaries, prestige, and employer expectations. For example, computer systems analyst, web developer, and database administrator are some occupations you can choose from in IT. 

The Bureau of Labor Resources projects growth in future IT opportunities, which pay higher than median wage jobs in other industries. For those considering a job in IT, here are a few roles worth familiarizing yourself with. 

You can find your dream job among the following coveted opportunities in IT: 

Computer and information research scientist

Average base pay: $122,840 per year

A computer and information research scientist designs new computing technologies and discovers alternate ways to use existing tech. Most entry-level opportunities require a minimum of a master’s degree in computer science or a similar area, but the federal government could hire you with a bachelor’s degree. Key job duties include:

• Research problems in computing technologies and address them with models and theories
• Help others, such as engineers, to solve computer technology issues
• Invent new methods, such as computer languages, to improve human-computer interactions

IT manager

Average base pay: $146,360 per year

An IT manager supervises professionals who perform tasks that involve computer technologies. This is an executive role that usually requires work experience as a supervisor and a bachelor’s degree. Key duties include:

• Coordinate and manage a team of IT professionals in various industry subfields
• Motivate subordinates toward meeting project goals
• Evaluate progress and make necessary managerial changes to improve team performance

Learn more: Get a free, personalized salary estimate based on today’s job market

Computer hardware engineer

Average base pay: $117,220 per year

A computer hardware designer develops essential hardware for computer systems, such as routers, circuit boards, and processors. The largest employers for this job include computer systems design firms and electronic component manufacturers. Key duties include:

• Design schema of new computer hardware
• Build prototypes of hardware designs and conduct testing
• Supervise the hardware manufacturing process for new designs

Chief technology officer

Average base pay: $104,690 per year

A chief technology officer is a top executive who supervises a company’s technological work. Key duties include:

• Collaborate with other members of the senior management to achieve technology targets and improve the IT infrastructure
• Develop strategies, protocols, and policies for the use and development of computer technologies
• Make budgets for IT projects and work with the chief financial officer to have them approved

Computer network architect

Average base pay: $112,690 per year

A computer network architect develops networks that facilitate data communication between computer systems, such as WANs, LANs, and Intranets. You usually need relevant work experience and a bachelor’s degree in computing technologies. Key job duties include: 

• Conduct research and develop corresponding plans for data communication networks
• Upgrade software and hardware as necessary to support networks
• Make proposals to management for changing networks

Learn more: How to Improve Your Attention to Detail Skills

Software developer

Average base pay: $107,510 per year

A software developer designs the applications that run on devices made with computer technologies. You usually need a bachelor’s degree in computer science to get an entry-level job in this career path. Key job duties include:

• Use computer programming skills to design applications for computers and web pages
• Oversee the software development process and the work of computer programmers
• Analyze customer needs and meet them by developing targeted functionalities in products

Information security analyst

Average base pay: $99,730 per year

An information security analyst evaluates and secures a firm’s computer systems. Usually, you would need a computer science bachelor’s degree and relevant work experience to be an ideal candidate for this job. Key duties include:

• Perform penetration testing, identify security risks, and find solutions
• Recommend security improvements to management and install protective software and hardware
• Research industry best practices and develop security protocols for the company

Database administrator

Average base pay: $93,750 per year

A database administrator directs a computer database by storing and organizing data using software. You need a computer science bachelor’s degree to get a job in this area. Key duties include:

• Identify database needs of firms and workers
• Develop, maintain, test, and modify databases
• Secure company data and handle permissions

Computer systems analyst

Average base pay: $90,920 per year

A computer systems analyst, or systems architect, analyzes the computer systems of an organization and improves their efficiency. Most employers prefer you have a bachelor’s degree in information science, but some will hire with an unrelated degree if you have IT skills. Key duties include:

• Analyze computer systems, research emerging computing technologies, and identify improvements
• Develop a cost-benefit analysis for upgrade recommendations to IT infrastructure
• Implement new computer systems and test them

Computer programmer

Average base pay: $86,550 per year

A computer programmer writes the code needed to make an application functional in various digital environments, such as in phones, laptops, desktops, and web pages. An associate’s degree sometimes meets hiring requirements. Key duties include:

• Use programming languages, such as C++ and JavaScript, to write code for applications
• Test applications in IDEs, identify errors, and correct coding mistakes
• Update and replace applications

UX designer

Average base pay: $73,760 per year

A UX designer optimizes the user experience of computer-based products and services, such as websites and applications. Key duties include:

• Test web pages to evaluate their user experience and spot weaknesses
• Recommend ideas for improving user experiences
• Createwireframes, prototypes, and layouts of web pages to improve the user experience

Learn more: How to Write a Resume

Network and computer systems administrator

Average base pay: $83,510 per year

A network and computer systems administrator maintains the day-to-day operations of computer systems. While most employers prefer a bachelor’s degree in information science or a related field, you could get hired with an associate’s degree or a professional certificate. Key duties include:

• Identify a firm’s computer technology needs and make necessary upgrades and repairs
• Optimize performance of computer systems and solve usability issues
• Manage network permissions and train users

Web developer

Average base pay: $73,760 per year

A web developer develops websites and other online marketing communications. You could get this job with an associate’s degree. Key duties include:

• Write code using programming languages, such as HTML to build web pages
• Develop website applications
• Work with other professionals to develop websites with video, audio, and graphics

Computer support specialist

Average base pay: $54,760 per year

A computer support specialist provides administrative support services to users of computer technologies in organizations. You could be eligible for this occupation with an associate’s degree in a relevant field, but some employers could insist on a bachelor’s degree. Key duties include:

• Provide technical support to computer technology users
• Check computer systems, identify issues, and make improvements
• Ensure network functionality by performing regular maintenance

Art director

Average base pay: $94,220 per year

An art director supervises the design process of graphic communications for newspapers, television, movies, product packaging, and magazines. Key duties include:

• Conceptualize and identify the best way to present concepts
• Develop a theme or style for a campaign and supervise graphic designers
• Select design elements such as typography and photographs

Graphic designer

Average base pay: $52,110 per year

A graphic designer uses design skills and computer software to create visual communications. An ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a similar area and a portfolio of relevant work experience. Most jobs are available in self-employment, advertising, design, news, and printing. Key job duties include: 

• Use software, such as Adobe Creative Suite programs, to design layouts, illustrations, and logos
• Make presentations of concepts and advertising campaigns to senior colleagues and clients
• Revise designs based on feedback and review artwork before publication

Animator

Average base pay: $75,270 per year

An animator develops motion graphics and special effects using computer software. You usually need a degree in computer graphics or a similar field with a strong portfolio to get hired. Key duties include:

• Create designs for animations based on project requirements
• Work with a team of design professionals to develop products such as movies, effects, or games
• Use computer animation software and write code

Those are just some hats IT professionals wear within their industry. There are countless more out there and more and more popping up every single day. Ready to jump start your new career in IT?

Learn more: See open IT positions