Technology is everywhere. In fact, nowadays it may be hard to imagine life without it, as it's part of every aspect of our daily living and required in most industries. With the rapid growth in technology, the need for skilled professionals is also increasing dramatically.
Here are some of the top technology careers that are leading the way for the future.
Computer Support Specialist
Enjoy customer service and troubleshooting? This may be the occupation of choice. Computer Support Specialists help software issues and use excellent communication, writing abilities, problem-solving, and patience to assist customers. An associate degree in a computer-related field may be all that is required to be a Computer Support Specialist, though many employers prefer a bachelor's degree in computer science. The average annual salary is $52,810 with growth rate faster than average at 10 percent.
Web Developer
Responsible for creating websites from the bottom up, Web Developers are skilled in creating programs and applications for websites. They use code with programming language like HTML or Javascript and are responsible for developing technical information that is on the backend of user-friendly web features. Another responsibility is to monitor website performance, such as speed or traffic capacity. An associate degree is often all that is required for entry-level positions along with knowledge of coding and website design. The growth rate is higher than most careers at 15 percent with an average annual salary of $67,990.
Web Designer
Web Designers develop the appealing, user-friendly layout of a website. Unlike Web Developers who focus on the backend, Web Designers are skilled in graphic and media applications, and proficient in computer languages, such as HTML and CSS. When developing the website, Web Designers have a variety of issues to consider, such as color schemes, typography, and how viewers will interact with the website. Depending on experience, some employers may accept a high school diploma for an entry-level position, though typically a 2-year degree is required in web or graphic design. For high paying positions, a bachelor's in web design is needed. Growing at similar rate to Web Developer positions, the average annual salary is $68,670.
Database Administrator
Stored data, such as financial information or customer buying habits, can be a gold mine for businesses. A Database Administrator is responsible for creating, maintaining, and protecting the company's data in an organized and reliable fashion. Attention to detail is a required trait for this profession due to the need for problem-solving skills and willingness to offer timely responses. Typically, a bachelor's degree in information Technology or Computer Science is necessary. Growth is faster than average for this career at 11 percent with an average annual salary of $87,020.
Computer Systems Analyst
Also called System Architects, Computer Systems Analysts analyze an organization's computer systems and determine how to effectively improve the current operation. By acting as a liaison between a company's needs and technology, they create efficient systems to improve business practices. A bachelor's degree in computer science is helpful, though not always required, as some companies will accept a business degree with computer programming skills. Demand is expected to increase for these professionals with a growth rate of nine percent and an average annual salary of $88,270.
Information Security Analyst
Especially needed for health care industries, government agencies, financial institutions, and any organizations concerned about database security, Information Security Analysts are rapidly in demand. Their responsibilities include implementing security methods that will protect an organization from cyberattacks. An inquisitive mind and ability to solve problems is a natural fit for this skill set. For an entry-level position, a bachelor's degree is required in a computer-related field. The growth rate is incredibly high at 28 percent according with an average salary of $95,510.
Software Developer
As the masterminds behind technology we use each day, software developers must have a knack for thinking outside of the box. They are creative with technical skills to bring innovative ideas to reality. Attention to detail is critical to improve software and correct errors. An ability to collaborate and communicate efficiently with others is important because a team effort is required. Major job growth is seen in this field at 24 percent with the increased demand for new software programs. The average annual salary is $103,560.
Computer Programmer
After a Software Developer has designed an operating system or software application, a Computer Programmer will create code to make the new system work. They are also responsible for ensuring the code is error-free. This career path is best suited for people who like to work on their own. Typically a bachelor's degree in a computer science field is needed for this profession. Job growth is expected to remain an average six percent due to many employers outsourcing to other countries where costs are lower. The average annual salary is $79,840.
Computer Network Architect
They may not build new homes, but Computer Network Architects build, improve, and maintain data communication networks— including LANs (local area networks), WANs (wide area networks), and Intranets. From small connections between two offices to cloud infrastructures that serve multiple customers, a Computer Network Architect must have a strong understanding of the business objectives to efficiently meet networking needs. A bachelor's degree is needed in a computer field, such as network and computer systems. $104,650 is the average annual salary with projected growth averaging at about six percent.
IT Manager
An IT Manager can bring experiences to create short and long-term vision for a company's information technology goals. Supervising IT staff, the IT Manager balances priorities, such as upgrades to software, hardware, and overseeing security for computer systems. They coordinate with top executives and present their vision for the company's IT needs. A bachelor's degree in computer or information science is typically needed with many companies requiring a graduate degree in similar areas. Growth in this profession is 12 percent above average with the average annual salary at $139,220.
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