Businesses and organizations are increasingly moving their services and activities online. Our personal lives are also heavily influenced by the growing tech industry, which plays a vital role in our daily activities like communication, education, and work.
This has led to a growing demand for people with expertise in different technological fields. It’s a great time to start a tech career, whether as a full-time job or a side hustle.
Tech careers offer many benefits, such as an excellent work-life balance, growth, and competitive compensation and benefits.
Researching your career options and finding a path that truly resonates with you is crucial. Only then can you truly achieve a sense of fulfillment and purpose in your work.
This article provides an overview of various career paths in tech with a list of 20 career opportunities In technology that are currently in demand.
List 20 Career Opportunities in Technology: Your Ultimate Guide
Here are 20 career opportunities in technology that may be right for you.
- FRONTEND DEVELOPMENT
Frontend development focuses on building the part of a website that users see and interact with directly. This includes designing the layout of a website, styling the various components of a website, implementing various interactive features, and responsiveness for mobile and tablet browsers.
People who work in this field are called Frontend Engineers (or Frontend Developers) and work alongside the backend developers. They bring a website’s visual and audio elements to life and integrate them into a web-friendly format using technologies & frameworks like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, etc.
If you want to go into frontend development, here are some skills you should have: basic communication skills, an eye for design with an understanding of design principles, patterns, and thinking, the ability to work with teams, and the programming languages required for frontend development. e.g., JavaScript
As a newbie, you can earn up to $200/month on collaborative projects depending on assigned tasks and earn as much as $110,895 per year as you gain proficiency, depending on your location. - BACKEND DEVELOPMENT
Backend development focuses on building the logic and upkeep of the behind-the-scenes aspects of an application, which could be for mobile, web, or desktop. It includes server-side programming, which handles authentication, authorization, user input processing, API development, database management, etc.
Backend developers contribute to developing web applications, alongside frontend developers to develop working websites.
If you are looking to begin a career in backend development, you should be proficient in a web server programming language/framework like PHP, Node.Js, Python, etc., as well as security protocols and database technology like SQL etc.
As a newbie, you can earn up to $200/month on collaborative projects depending on assigned tasks and earn as much as $159,370 per year as you gain proficiency, depending on your location. - CYBERSECURITY
The field of cybersecurity focuses on the protection and securing of user data and sensitive information. Data is a crucial asset for every business, and safeguarding it is essential to mitigate risks and preserve its value.
Data reliability can determine a business’s success or challenge, with IT security experts at the forefront of protecting its integrity.
From safeguarding trade secrets during launches to securing client lists, order information, personal information, and credit card information. Defending and securing applications and data against hackers, spammers, DDOS attacks, and industrial espionage falls squarely on the shoulders of Cybersecurity experts and their specialized knowledge.
If you are looking to begin a career in cybersecurity, you should understand how the internet works, know about operating systems to enable you to understand their potential vulnerabilities, learn about network security, and have forensic skills, cloud security, application security, cryptography, and analytical skills.
The average salary of a Cyber Security Analyst in the United States is $109,607 per year. - DIGITAL MARKETING
A digital marketer is a specialized professional who leverages digital channels, online platforms, and internet tools to promote products, services, and brands. Their role is multifaceted, encompassing various activities to boost revenue, enhance brand presence, and engage with customers online.
Digital marketing professionals are responsible for creating and executing comprehensive marketing strategies that may include:
Digital Advertising: Deploying targeted digital display advertisements across various online platforms to reach potential customers.
Content Marketing: Crafting and sharing valuable, relevant content to attract and retain a clearly defined audience, ultimately driving profitable customer action.
Social Media Engagement: Utilizing platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok to engage with audiences, share content, and build brand loyalty.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Implementing techniques to improve a website’s visibility in search engine results, driving more organic traffic.
Email Marketing: Creating and sending targeted email campaigns to nurture leads and maintain relationships with existing customers.
Public Relations: Managing the brand’s online reputation through press releases, influencer partnerships, and community engagement.
Analytics and Reporting: Analyzing data to gauge the success of campaigns, understand customer behavior, and make data-driven decisions.
If you are considering a career in digital marketing, it’s essential to have a foundational understanding of various social media applications and online marketing tools. Familiarity with graphic design, copywriting, and basic web development can also be beneficial.
The educational background for digital marketers may vary, but courses or certifications in marketing, communications, or related fields can provide a strong foundation. Continuous learning and staying up-to-date with digital marketing trends and technologies are vital in this rapidly evolving field.
In the United States, the average salary for a Digital Marketer is approximately $62,873 per year. However, this figure can vary widely based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and level of expertise.
A career in digital marketing offers a dynamic and rewarding path for those interested in the intersection of creativity, technology, and business strategy. Whether working for an agency, in-house for a company, or as a freelance consultant, digital marketers play a crucial role in shaping the online landscape and driving business success in the digital age. - PRODUCT MANAGEMENT
A product manager leads a company’s development team, steering a concept’s transformation into a market-ready product. These professionals offer essential expertise during the company’s strategic deliberations about which products to create.
Additionally, they research the target consumer market and competitors’ offerings, enabling them to craft a distinct product vision that delivers meaningful value to customers. A product manager should possess strong communication skills, leadership abilities, analytical skills, etc.
The average salary of a product manager in the United States is $113,564 per year. - DATA ANALYSIS
A data analyst specializes in collecting, organizing, and analyzing vast amounts of data to uncover valuable insights that drive informed decision-making. They use sophisticated computer systems, computational tools, and statistical techniques to identify specific variables, trends, and patterns that may go unnoticed.
The role of a data analyst involves several key responsibilities:
Data Collection and Preparation: Gathering and cleaning data from various sources to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Data Analysis: Employing statistical methods and analytical tools to interpret data, identify key insights, and uncover hidden trends.
Report Creation: Compiling comprehensive reports clearly articulating findings highlighting inefficiencies, potential business challenges, and opportunities.
Visualization: Creating visual representations of data, such as charts and graphs, to make complex information more accessible.
Collaboration: Working closely with other departments, such as marketing, finance, or operations, to align data analysis with organizational goals and strategies.
These resultant reports are instrumental in pinpointing areas that require attention and resolution, guiding both short-term actions and long-term strategic planning. By identifying inefficiencies and potential business issues, as well as uncovering opportunities for growth and improvement, data analysts play a vital role in shaping the direction of a company.
Data analysts often use technologies like Python for data manipulation and analysis, SQL for querying databases, and various data visualization tools. Familiarity with machine learning algorithms and big data technologies can also be beneficial.
In the United States, the average salary for a data analyst is approximately $76,007 per year, though this figure can vary based on factors such as experience, industry, location, and level of education.
A career as a data analyst offers a rewarding and intellectually stimulating path for those passionate about numbers, problem-solving, and the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.
In an increasingly data-driven world, the role of a data analyst is essential in helping organizations navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape. - CLOUD ENGINEERING
A cloud engineer is a specialized professional responsible for the architecture, design, and ongoing maintenance of cloud-based systems and services. Their role is multifaceted, encompassing various tasks ensuring seamless cloud infrastructure operation and security.
Key responsibilities of a cloud engineer include:
Designing Cloud Solutions: Creating tailored solutions that align with organizational needs and industry standards, including selecting appropriate cloud platforms and services.
Implementing Security Measures: Ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of data by adhering to best practices in network security, including firewalls, encryption, and access controls.
Managing Cloud Infrastructure: Overseeing the deployment, configuration, and maintenance of cloud-based systems, including monitoring performance and troubleshooting issues as they arise.
Software Development: Utilizing programming and scripting languages like Python and JavaScript to develop and automate cloud-related tasks and processes.
Integration with Existing Systems: Collaborating with other IT professionals to integrate cloud services with existing on-premises systems, ensuring a cohesive and efficient technology environment.
Compliance and Governance: Ensuring cloud solutions comply with relevant regulations, industry standards, and organizational policies.
A cloud engineer’s expertise spans various domains, including software development, networking, security, and systems architecture.
Familiarity with popular cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud and a background in designing and implementing web services in the cloud are often essential.
In the United States, the average salary for a cloud engineer is approximately $122,167 per year. This figure can vary based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and level of education. - TECHNICAL WRITING
A technical writer collaborates with subject matter experts to translate complex technical information into easily understandable content for non-technical readers. Various industries, from engineering to finance, employ skilled technical writers to produce materials tailored to specific audiences.
Depending on the field, their tasks might involve crafting documents such as instruction manuals, reports, summaries, or press releases. When looking to start a career in technical writing, you should have a basic knowledge of the technology you would be writing about and be able to review and edit content created by other writers.
The average salary of a Technical Writer in the United States is $62,644 per year.
Learn more about What technical writing is and isn’t here - MACHINE LEARNING
Machine learning engineers work in the artificial intelligence (AI) industry. They collaborate with
data scientists, computer engineers, and developers to create programs that allow machines to function without direct human assistance.
The machine learning engineer creates models that ensure ML programs work according to requirements. Starting a career in this field requires you to be proficient in data science, statistics, and software engineering. ML engineers create AI algorithms for social media, online stores, Internet of Things (IoT) products, and self-driving cars.
They use technologies like Python, Java, C++, etc., to design, build and maintain machine learning systems.
The average salary of a Machine Learning Engineer in the United States is $158,676 per year. - SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
Software engineers are the innovative minds driving the creation of computer programs. They start by understanding how customers intend to utilize the software and identifying the essential functionalities required.
They are responsible for the entire lifecycle of software development. This includes gathering requirements, designing, coding, testing, deploying, and maintaining software applications. Beyond the core functions, they also address aspects like security and performance. Once the design is established, they guide programmers who write and test the code.
In cases where the program encounters issues or challenges during testing, software engineers are tasked with revisiting the design phase to rectify problems and enhance the program.
After the software’s release to customers, software engineers handle updates and ongoing program maintenance.
If you want to start a career in software engineering, you should possess knowledge of programming languages like Javascript, C#, Java, Python, Ruby, PHP, etc.
The average salary of a Software Engineer in the United States is $115,092 per year. - DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR
Often called a DBA, a database administrator is crucial to a company’s IT team. Their primary responsibility is to guarantee consistent access to company data and applications for employees.
While data processing firms employ many database administrators, their expertise is also sought by various industries, including insurance, healthcare, universities, and financial institutions.
Database administrators should have work experience using database products and be proficient in at least one of the major database management systems.
The average salary of a Database Administrator in the United States is $99,449 per year. - DEVOPS ENGINEER
A DevOps engineer is a professional who bridges the gap between software development and IT operations. They focus on automating and streamlining the processes of deploying, managing, and maintaining software applications.
DevOps engineers work to enhance collaboration between development and operations teams, ensuring faster and more reliable software releases. They play a critical role in modern software development by fostering a culture of collaboration, automation, and continuous improvement, resulting in more efficient and reliable software delivery.
Anyone pursuing a career in DevOps engineering should know about version control systems like Git. They should be familiar with cloud platforms like AWS, GCP, and Azure and proficient in scripting languages like Python.
They should also possess good problem-solving skills, strong organizational skills, and a good team spirit.
The average salary of a DevOps Engineer in the United States is $125,395 per year. - UI/UX DESIGNERS
UI/UX design combines User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) expertise.
They play a pivotal role in shaping digital products.
A User Experience Designer (UX designer) ensures seamless interactions by focusing on functionality, aesthetics, and branding. Meanwhile, a User Interface Designer (UI designer) specializes in the visual aspects, crafting the graphical elements that enhance a product’s appeal.
They collaborate closely with various teams to create engaging and user-friendly digital experiences.
A UI/UX designer should be able to conduct user interviews to understand what the user needs. They should also know design principles; some companies would like you to have basic knowledge of HTML and CSS.
The Average UI/UX Designer salary in the United States is over $90,000 annually. - MOBILE DEVELOPERS
Mobile developers are specialized software engineers who design and build mobile device applications, including smartphones and tablets. Unlike traditional developers who may focus on desktop or web environments, mobile developers tailor their work to mobile platforms’ unique constraints and opportunities.
Professionals often specialize in creating applications for specific operating systems within mobile development. They may choose to become:
Android Developers: Utilizing languages like Kotlin and tools specific to the Android platform, these developers create apps that run on various Android devices.
iOS Developers: Focusing on Apple’s ecosystem, iOS developers use Swift and other Apple-specific technologies to craft applications for iPhones, iPads, and other iOS devices.
Cross-Platform Development: Besides platform-specific development, many mobile developers work with cross-platform technologies like Flutter or React Native. These tools allow developers to write code once and deploy it on multiple platforms, providing a more consistent experience across different devices.
With the continuous rise in mobile device usage, surpassing desktops in many areas, the demand for skilled mobile developers has soared. The field offers numerous career opportunities, ranging from working with startups to established tech giants. Creating engaging, user-friendly mobile experiences is a highly sought-after skill in today’s digital landscape.
Mobile developers must be proficient in various programming languages, frameworks, and tools tailored to mobile development. Kotlin is a popular choice for Android, while Swift is commonly used for iOS development. Familiarity with design principles, user interface (UI) guidelines, and mobile testing methodologies is also essential.
In the United States, the average salary for a Mobile Developer is approximately $133,878 per year. This figure can vary widely based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and level of expertise. - TECHNICAL SUPPORT SPECIALIST
Technical support specialists offer guidance and aid to customers facing challenges with technology equipment or software.
They commonly address concerns, provide answers, and offer recommendations via phone, email, or instant messaging channels.
These specialists tackle various issues, including connectivity problems, sluggish computer performance, and data loss. Their typical employers are hardware and software manufacturing companies, often specializing in specific brands or models.
Technical support specialists must have an in-depth understanding of the technology or software they support, have good problem-solving skills, and have a skill in documenting issues and solutions for future reference and improvement.
The average salary of a Technical Support Specialist is $59,376 per year. - SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR
System administrators are vital information technology professionals responsible for the seamless operation of computer networks within an organization. Their role extends beyond maintenance, encompassing hardware and software components’ management, configuration, and optimization.
System administrators work hands-on with various computer systems, typically in offices or other technology-centric environments. They are often the go-to experts for troubleshooting issues, implementing updates, and ensuring system integrity.
Their Key Responsibilities include:
Network Management: Overseeing the network infrastructure, including servers, routers, switches, and firewalls, to ensure uninterrupted connectivity.
System Security: Implementing and maintaining security protocols to protect against unauthorized access and cyber threats.
Software and Hardware Maintenance: Regularly updating and patching software, managing hardware components, and ensuring compatibility and performance.
Operating System Expertise: A proficient system administrator should have in-depth knowledge of various operating systems such as Windows, Linux, macOS, and others, allowing them to manage diverse environments.
System administrators often utilize programming languages and scripting tools like Python, SQL, and JavaScript to automate tasks and enhance functionality. Familiarity with virtualization, cloud computing, and other emerging technologies is also valuable.
The skills and experience gained in systems administration can open doors to career advancement opportunities. Professionals may transition into specialized roles such as computer hardware engineers, computer network architects, database administrators, information security analysts, and more.
In the United States, the average salary for a System Administrator is approximately $81,003 per year. Again, this figure can vary based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and level of education. - FULL STACK DEVELOPER
A Full-stack Stack Developer is a versatile software engineer responsible for developing both the client-side (frontend) and server-side (backend) architecture of web applications and software solutions.
Full-stack Developers closely coordinate with UI/UX designers, web designers, and other engineers to transform conceptual designs into fully functional applications. They are proficient in many technologies, including but not limited to PHP, MongoDB, JavaScript, and Python.
Key Responsibilities include:
Frontend Development: Create intuitive and visually appealing user interfaces using technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript frameworks such as React or Angular.
Backend Development: Develop robust server-side logic using languages like Python, Java, or Node.js, often in conjunction with databases like MongoDB or SQL.
API Integration: Connect frontend and backend components through RESTful APIs or GraphQL.
Code Review and Quality Assurance: Ensure code quality through reviews and by adhering to best practices, including unit testing and documentation.
Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including UI/UX designers, product managers, and other developers, to deliver high-quality projects on schedule.
Essential Skills
Technical Proficiency: Strong grasp of multiple programming languages, frameworks, and libraries.
Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot issues and come up with efficient solutions.
Version Control: Familiarity with Git or other version control systems for tracking changes and collaborating with team members.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective team collaboration and documentation.
Adaptability: Willingness to learn new technologies and methodologies to stay current in a rapidly evolving field.
The average salary for a Full-stack Developer in the United States is approximately $124,529 per year, reflecting the specialized skill set and broad range of responsibilities associated with this role. - PROJECT MANAGEMENT
An IT project manager is a skilled expert who aids organizations in accomplishing their IT objectives through the strategic planning and execution of projects. These professionals might oversee initiatives to implement fresh software solutions, optimize IT procedures, or transition an organization’s cloud service provider. Anyone looking to start a career in Project Management should possess basic skills such as good analysis and communication skills.
The average salary of a project manager in the United States is $87,010 per year. - TECHNICAL RECRUITER
A Technical Recruiter plays a crucial role in the tech industry, helping companies find the right talent for specialized software development, data science, and engineering roles. They are often well-versed in the technical jargon and skills required for these roles, enabling them to screen candidates and effectively match them with suitable positions.
The role of a Technical Recruiter can vary depending on the size and nature of the organization. In startups, they may be responsible for building entire teams from scratch, while in larger organizations, they may focus on filling specific, highly specialized roles.
Here are some key responsibilities and skills often associated with Technical Recruiters:
Responsibilities:
Job Posting: Create and publish job descriptions that accurately reflect the skills and experience needed for technical roles.
Sourcing Candidates: Use various platforms like LinkedIn, job boards, and internal databases to find potential candidates.
Screening: Conduct initial screenings to assess candidates’ technical skills and experience.
Interview Coordination: Schedule and coordinate technical interviews, often working closely with technical leads or hiring managers.
Offer Negotiation: Assist in negotiating compensation and other terms of employment.
Onboarding: Facilitate the onboarding process for new hires, ensuring a smooth transition into the company.
Skills:
Technical Knowledge: A basic understanding of technical skills, languages, and tools is essential for effective screening.
Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills are crucial for interacting with candidates and hiring teams.
Networking: Ability to build and maintain a network of potential candidates and industry contacts.
Negotiation Skills: Proficiency in negotiating offers to satisfy both the candidate and the company.
Organizational Skills: Must manage multiple tasks, timelines, and candidates simultaneously. - SERVER ADMINISTRATOR
A server administrator, commonly known as an admin, assumes comprehensive authority over a server. This typically pertains to a business setting, where the admin supervises the operational efficiency and status of numerous servers within the organization. Alternatively, it could refer to an individual managing a single game server.
The role of the server administrator encompasses the design, installation, management, and optimization of enterprise servers and their associated components. The overarching objective is to achieve optimal performance for the various business functions supported by these servers. This involves guaranteeing the accessibility of client/server applications, configuring new implementations, and establishing protocols for the ongoing administration of the server environment. Additionally, where relevant, the server administrator aids in overseeing the physical security, integrity, and safety of the data center or server farm.
The average salary of a server administrator in the United States is $90,972 per year.
For those embarking on a tech career journey, it’s imperative to begin by self-exploration to pinpoint your interests.
Identify the career paths that align with your passions and aspirations. Tailor your educational pursuits and professional path to focus on the specific field and systems to which you aspire to contribute. Afterward, concentrate on acquiring the required skills and certifications. It is important to note that not all tech roles require certifications, but obtaining them can significantly enhance your chances of securing a job. Once you’ve gotten the essential knowledge and certifications, focus on gaining practical work experience. Internships serve as a valuable avenue for building experience, as numerous companies offer opportunities to train and develop interns. Search for such companies and consider applying for internships or graduate trainee programs to kickstart your career journey.
As you embark on your journey into the dynamic world of technology, remember that your passion, dedication, and continuous learning will be your driving forces. Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow and refine your skills. Stay curious, adaptable, and open to exploring new areas within the vast landscape of tech. With each step you take, whether it’s honing your skills, acquiring certifications, or gaining hands-on experience, you’ll be building a strong foundation for a rewarding and fulfilling career in the ever-evolving realm of technology.
References:
https://www.indeed.com/career/salaries
https://intechnica.com/insights/careers-insights/why-choose-a-career-in-technology/
https://uk.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/it-career-path
https://skillspot.co/careers/
