10 Best Paying Jobs in Technology
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that information technology (IT) jobs will grow 15% from 2021 to 2031. It’s not only one of the fastest-growing job markets but also one of the most lucrative. The BLS also reports that the median annual wage for IT workers is more than double the average — a median of $97,430 per year as of 2021’s Q2, compared to $45,760 for all occupations.
It makes sense when you consider nearly everything is tech-focused. Banking, dating apps, healthcare, commerce, vehicles and much more run on tech. If you’re in search of a career path or job change, this guide shares some of the best paying jobs in technology.
Top 10 Tech Jobs
After reviewing the BLS database of IT jobs, ten positions stood out the most as the best paying jobs in technology. For nearly all jobs, a Bachelor’s degree or better is the key to earning more in the field.
10. Computer Support Specialists
Annual median salary: $57,910
If you’re an Apple user, you’re probably familiar with the Genius Bar crew who are ready to help with any tech-related questions or trouble. Nearly all companies today have some level of computer support specialists to help troubleshoot issues and keep systems running properly. Of all the best paying jobs in technology on this list, computer support specialists require the most people skills, since specialists will be working with customers on issues.
9. Web Developers and Digital Designers
Annual median salary: $78,300
Web developers and designers work hand in hand to bring you the best possible online experience. The web developer will create and maintain websites. Digital designers can also develop and create a website but take it one step further by ensuring that the product is user friendly. To do so, they’ll typically test a website’s or interface’s functions, navigation and layout to make improvements to the overall experience as needed.
8. Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Annual median salary: $80,600
Network and computer systems administrators oversee the daily operation of computer networks. For anyone who enjoys some variety in their schedule, this role involves the oversight and maintenance of all IT-related things, including networks, hardware/equipment, computer systems, software and more.
7. Computer Programmers
Annual median salary: $93,000
One of the best-known IT positions is the computer programmer. They create and write apps and software, many of which you’re familiar with. While the best paying jobs in technology when it comes to programming require a Bachelor’s degree, individuals with knowledge and experience may also have the opportunity to work as a programmer. According to Berkley, JavaScript, Python, HTML, CSS and Java are the most in-demand programming languages to know.
6. Computer Systems Analysts
Annual median salary: $99,270
A computer systems analyst has the skills to examine how an organization’s computer systems are running to determine how to create a more efficient system. Also known as systems architects, their goal is to set up or design systems and procedures so an organization can run its computer systems better.
5. Database Administrators and Architects
Annual median salary: $101,000
The amount of data that organizations store can become unmanageable. Database administrators and architects design organized systems that store and secure company data. They often work with extremely large databases. Besides designing and organizing the systems that collect and hold the data, they also set standards for database operations to keep things running smoothly and securely.
4. Information Security Analysts
Annual median salary: $102,600
Cybersecurity is a growing industry as more and more of our personal data, critical company information and systems we take for granted are all connected to the internet. Information security analysts are a critical line of defense, ensuring security measures are in place to protect an organization’s systems, networks and data.
3. Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Annual median salary: $109,020
Software developers design programs and apps. They don’t necessarily write the programs — that’s the job of the computer programmer. Testers and quality assurance analysts review the final product and test the applications or programs to find problems that need to be corrected.
2. Computer Network Architects
Annual median salary: $120,520
Anyone who has ever tried to set up a home network knows how complicated it can be to get all the devices synced. Computer network architects will design and build whole networks — the complexity of the job is why they’re highly paid. Part of the networks they create include setting up Intranets, local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs).
A Bachelor’s degree is typically required to enter the job market for network architects.
1. Computer and Information Research Scientists
Annual median salary: $131,490
If you’re analytical yet creative, a career in this field could be ideal. Computer and information research scientists are the designers that envision and create the uses for existing and new tech.
It’s the best paying job in technology but requires a Master’s degree to land the more lucrative positions.
Takeaway: Which Is the Best Career in Technology?
There are countless opportunities in the tech field. The best-paying jobs in technology typically pay well beyond an average salary and often allow you to even work remotely. To choose a field, you’ll need to do some research on the role and whether it’s a good fit based on your personality and work style.
Although a college degree may be required to land more lucrative roles, it’s not always the case. One of the keys to working in IT is experience. If you can show you have past IT experience and can perform according to the job requirements, you may be able to land a dream job in one of the best-paying jobs in technology.
FAQ
What are the top five technology careers in demand?
According to Indeed, the following tech careers may be the most in demand:
– Video game designer
– Network administrator
– Computer systems analyst
– IT manager
– Information security analyst
What is the highest-paying job in technology?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a computer and information research scientist earns an annual median salary of $131,490 – the highest in the IT field.
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Best Paying Jobs in Technology
