Last Updated on March 22, 2024
Let’s explore some of the lucrative professions in digital technology.
We are living in a period of transition, with some jobs being automated and others requiring specific skills and certifications.
And, as the year 2024 rolls by, if you’re considering changing careers to ensure you are future-proofing your skillset or entering a new area entirely.
Here’s all you need to know about some of the most lucrative professions in digital technology.
See which of the best-paying careers in technology appeals to you the most by reading on.
Once you’ve made your decision, the next step is to figure out what kind of training and practice, as well as certification, you’ll need to go into your field of choice.
1. Data Scientist
Data scientists are dubbed “the sexiest job of the twenty-first century” by Harvard Business Review (HBR).
There is a significant demand for people who can analyze data to assist businesses in making decisions, yet skilled personnel is scarce.
They’re also a reflection of the current era. Data scientists weren’t on many people’s radars a decade ago, but their rise underscores how corporations are approaching big data now.
That unmanageable jumble of unstructured data can no longer be overlooked. It’s a virtual gold mine that can help raise income – as long as someone digs in and uncovers business insights that no one else has considered. The data scientist enters the picture.
According to a survey by Burtch Works, level three data scientist managers can earn up to $250,000. Most data scientists, according to Burtch Works, have a Master’s or PhD in mathematics/statistics, computer science, or engineering.
2. Software Developer
Software developers have the most amount of job vacancies on the list. The desire for mobile apps and other technology-driven items is fueling this increase.
While some software developers work on the development of mobile, desktop, blockchain and web applications, others work on operating systems and user interfaces.
In most cases, a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or mathematics is required.
With an average annual salary of $73k and average yearly earnings of over $110k (for freelancers), it is regarded as one of the most lucrative professions in technology.
Read: Mental Health and Work: Strategies for Managing Workplace Stress
3. Computer Support Specialist
Computer support professionals make it easy for people who don’t have sophisticated computer training and experience to utilize computers by giving help and guidance on networks and systems.
They may test and assess existing networks, as well as maintain and troubleshoot network systems on a regular basis.
A computer support technician will frequently listen to a user’s problems and offer troubleshooting and repair recommendations to resolve the issue.
Computer design firms will employ a large number of computer support specialists. Others will work for educational institutions like universities and local schools. A 10% increase in employment is projected.
They are typically paid about $60k annually on average.
4. Computer & Information Systems Manager
Computer and information systems managers, often known as IT project managers, are advanced and experienced individuals who identify information technology goals and develop methodical methods to achieve them.
They, like many other managers, approach their tasks holistically, creating long-term strategies, distributing assignments, and structuring phases of an operation.
They’ll also have to figure out what kind of workers they’ll need in the short and long term, and hire accordingly.
As a computer and information systems manager, you’ll be in charge of overseeing all computer-related tasks and deciding how to improve the network and software system.
A bachelor’s degree is recommended as an entry-level education.
They are typically paid about $150k annually on average.
5. Computer Hardware Engineer
Processors, circuit boards, memory chips, and routers are all examples of actual computer components that these specialists deal with.
Engineers work with the physical aspects of technology, and they may be tasked with developing new hardware that is more efficient or effective.
While computer hardware engineers may not be actively involved in code and software creation on a regular basis, they will test completed versions of their devices, sometimes using existing software or programs to make the new hardware work.
They may also upgrade present gear to satisfy the expanding software’s increased requirements.
They typically make over $100k annually… tempting, isn’t it?
6. AI engineer
Artificial intelligence (AI) engineers use a combination of data engineering, machine learning, data science, and software development skills to create, test, and deploy sophisticated networks of algorithms that simulate human intellect.
That’s not all, though. Machine learning models are also converted into ready-to-use APIs by AI experts so that other apps can access them.
AI research scientist, business intelligence developer, and computer vision engineer are all popular titles for AI engineers.
The average annual AI engineer salary is over $110K
7. Cloud architect
Cloud architects are in charge of creating and maintaining cloud environments.
Depending on the needs of the enterprise, a cloud architect may recommend a public, private, or hybrid cloud infrastructure.
Within the built cloud system, cloud architects also perform deployment, maintenance, monitoring, and administration duties.
Cloud architects can also choose cloud providers and verify third-party services for security and interoperability.
The average annual Cloud Architect salary is almost $150K
8. Sales Engineer
In other industries, the need for sales engineers is only expected to grow by 9%; however, demand for experts selling computer software and hardware is expected to expand four times faster.
The majority of sales engineers have a bachelor’s degree in business, science, or technology. To present proposals, explain products, and answer queries, they must also be technologically savvy.
They frequently labour under duress because their salary and job security are dependent on closing deals. To satisfy sales targets and client needs, certain employees may work long and irregular hours.
They typically make over $100k annually so yeah… pretty lucrative.
9. Computer Research Scientist
Computer and information research scientists are at the forefront of information technology, creating and designing novel ways to use computing technology.
They study methodologies and develop new software and computer directions.
Research scientists develop innovative technology approaches for a variety of industries, including business, medicine, and science, by tackling complicated challenges.
The federal government employs a huge number of computer and information research scientists.
Many, on the other hand, work in the computer systems, information, and engineering industries, while others work in colleges and universities.
They earn between $70k-$118k annually, depending on the industry they work in.
10. Computer Network Architect
Data communication networks are designed from the ground up by computer network architects, also known as network engineers.
Local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), intranets, and extranets are examples of proposed networks.
Network architects handle issues as they arise after implementation.
They also do research into new communication networks and upgrade hardware and software to support computer networks, such as routers and network drivers.
Popular job titles in computer network architecture include computer systems analyst, network administrator, and systems architect.
The network sector is one of the most rewarding areas to work in, with an average yearly salary of $116,780.
Is Self-Employment an Option?
You may be able to benefit from the independence and earning possibilities of self-employment if you have an education, training, or experience in information technology.
This path, which provides more independence and the opportunity to be your own boss, is not for the faint of heart.
Because you’ll be running the company, you’ll be in charge of the organization, time management, accounting, marketing, and all other business-related responsibilities.
Many technology specialists, on the other hand, work as freelancers or own a small tech firm, providing information technology services to a variety of businesses.
Network configuration, security analysis, hardware installation, software development, and other services are available.
Before you go…
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