Are you passionate about creating apps to make people’s lives easier? Do you have a knack for understanding how cloud computing works? If so, you could be bringing home a big paycheck with a tech career. There are so many tech jobs available and they continue to grow.
If you’re looking for employment, the tech industry is the place to be. It makes up about one-tenth of the U.S.’s total economy, according to a 2020 report from PR Newswire. It’s the third largest sector in the economy, trailing behind manufacturing and government.
Because of its scale alone, the tech industry presents many opportunities to potential workers. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering a career in technology and further looking into available tech jobs.
Technology Careers Discussed in This Article
What are Some Technology Fields You Can Enter?
Technology is a broad industry, and there are several different career fields in tech. Understanding how you can contribute to the tech industry starts by getting an idea of its subdivisions.
Learn about the different fields of technology below:
Computer Science
A career in computer science involves designing and implementing computer software, hardware, and applications. Individuals in this field utilize advanced technology and revised designs to define new approaches to computing.
Data Science
Data science is an incredibly useful field with many real-life applications. It’s the reason women can predict their menstrual cycles via phone apps. It also helps shipping companies optimize their delivery routes.
Basically, data science is the practice of taking unorganized, meaningless data and turning it into something that can yield actionable results.
Information Technology
Every company has an IT guy. This person ensures that computer-based information systems are working properly. To do so, they study, develop, design, support, implement, and manage computer hardware and software applications.
Software Engineering
From running network control systems to developing computer games, software engineering encompasses a lot. Software engineers update existing software and create new apps to meet users’ ever-changing demands.
Software Development
Similar to Software Engineering, software development involves the creation of new software. This field tends to fall underneath software engineering. Software engineering is much more technical, while software development involves finding creative solutions to existing issues. However, you’ll still need a solid understanding of code and other technical principles.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity involves keeping people protected from hackers. It refers to the techniques and technologies that are made to protect programs, networks, and data from attacks and unauthorized access.
Computer Programming
Picture the geniuses in TV shows and movies that write code to ensure applications and software run properly. That’s computer programming in a nutshell. Computer programmers can learn the top programming languages to make more contributions to their field.
Understanding the Different Careers in Technology
Before diving into the world of technology careers, it is essential to understand the difference between careers in technology and IT careers. While often used interchangeably, careers in technology encompass a broader range of sectors, including software development, cybersecurity, data analytics and data science, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), in addition to information technology (IT).
Each technology sector plays a unique role in the digital landscape. Software development involves creating and maintaining applications, systems, and platforms that power technology solutions. Information technology (IT), on the other hand, focuses on managing and maintaining computer systems, networks, and infrastructure to ensure smooth operations for organizations.
Cybersecurity professionals protect digital assets, including sensitive data and systems, from cyber threats and attacks. Data analysts and data scientists extract insights from large datasets, helping organizations make informed decisions. Cloud computing experts design, manage, and optimize cloud-based resources, while AI and machine learning specialists develop algorithms and models that enable machines to learn and improve autonomously.
Each of these sectors holds significant importance in the current job market. As technology continues to advance and shape the world, the demand for skilled professionals in these fields is expected to grow. Pursuing a career in any of these technology sectors offers promising potential for job stability, growth, and satisfaction.
Steps to Pursue a Career in Technology
The journey toward a fulfilling career in technology begins with identifying your interests and aptitude. Assess your strengths, weaknesses, and passions to determine which technology sector aligns best with your skillset and preferences. Once you have a clear understanding of your interests, research potential careers in technology to learn about the job responsibilities, required skills, and educational background typically needed for each role.
After narrowing down your career options, focus on gaining the necessary skills and education. This might include formal education, such as degree programs or certifications, as well as online learning platforms and resources. Additionally, networking and joining professional organizations can help you connect with industry experts, gain insights into the field, and discover potential job opportunities.
As you accumulate knowledge and experience, it’s essential to build a strong resume and portfolio showcasing your skills and accomplishments. Highlight your most relevant and impressive projects, certifications, and achievements to demonstrate your expertise and set yourself apart from other candidates.
Finally, the job application and interview process are crucial steps in securing a technology position. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each job application, emphasizing the specific skills and experiences that make you an ideal fit for the role. Prepare for interviews by researching common questions and practicing your responses, ensuring that you effectively communicate your qualifications and passion for the technology sector.
What are the Most Popular Technology Careers?
Have any of these tech fields captured your attention? Read on to discover specific positions that you could one day fill:
Data Scientists
A data scientist’s job is to gather raw data for companies, clean it up and make it actionable. They take this unorganized, seemingly trivial data and find meaningful patterns. Companies use data scientists’ findings to increase productivity.
Data scientists should have an affinity for statistical thinking, enjoy challenges, and communicate via multiple modes.
Education Requirements
For an entry-level position, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in Data Science or a related field. Additionally, there are alternative education options that can prepare you for a career as a Data Scientist such as a data science bootcamp or a data science micro-degree program.
Salary and Job Growth/Outlook
Data scientists make around $120,000 per year in the U.S. Data Scientists are the highest paid tech jobs in the United States. The job growth for data scientists is between 10 and 15% over the next decade.
Similar Tech Job Titles
Some similar job titles include:
– Data analyst
– Quantitative analyst
– Data scientist intern
IT Technician
IT technicians diagnose, maintain, and repair computer systems’ software and hardware components. As an IT technician, you should enjoy installing software and programming databases. You should also have excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
For an entry-level position, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science.
Salary and Job Growth/Outlook
IT technicians make around $74,000 per year. The job growth for IT technicians is around 8% over the next decade.
Similar Tech Job Titles
Some similar job titles include:
– Network administrator
– Computer systems analyst
– Computer support specialists
Software Engineer
Software engineers personalize third-party software to meet companies’ needs. They also create software from scratch for companies that need more custom solutions to conduct business.
Software engineers should be able to work well on their own and in group settings with other specialists. You’ll particularly enjoy this career if you want to specialize in a certain area like databases, operating systems, applications, or networks.
Education Requirements
Some companies may require that you hold at least a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, data science, information technology or math for an entry-level position. However, career training programs, such as coding bootcamps, might meet the education requirements of today’s employers and help you become a Software Engineer.
Salary and Job Growth
Software engineers make over $100,000 per year. The job growth for software engineers is around 24% over the next decade.
Similar Tech Job Titles
Some similar job titles include:
– Computer programmer
– Software developer
– Test engineer
Cybersecurity Analyst
A cybersecurity analyst specializes in data protection. They create, run, and manage software designed to prevent hacking. To be a successful Cybersecurity Analyst, you should be passionate about protecting companies’ and their customers’ safety and privacy. You’ll need to stay calm under pressure and effectively communicate with upper management if a security issue arises.
Education Requirements
For an entry-level position, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field or have completed cybersecurity coding bootcamp.
Salary and Job Growth
Cybersecurity analysts make around $86,000 per year. The job growth for cybersecurity analysts is about 30% over the next decade.
Similar Job Titles
Some similar job titles include:
– Database administrators
– Computer support specialists
– Computer network architects
Back-End Web Developer
A website’s back-end consists of its database, application, and server. It’s where all the behind-the-scenes processes happen, and a back-end web developer manages them all.
A back-end web developer will need to know how to expertly manipulate data to produce a functional website for companies and their customers to use. You’ll need extensive knowledge of server-side languages like Java and tools like SQL servers to build and update a website.
Education Requirements
For an entry-level position, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field or have completed a coding bootcamp in software engineering or computer science.
Salary and Job Growth
Back-end web developers make an average of $123,000 per year. The job growth for back-end web developers is around 8% over the next decade.
Similar Job Titles
Some similar job titles include:
– Web developer
– Digital designer
– Graphic designer
Front-End Web Developer
Front-end web developers deal with the portions of websites that users actually see. You’ll manage everything from colors, fonts, sliders, and dropdown menus.
You should have a keen eye for design, a creative attitude, and a solid understanding of HTML, JavaScript, and CSS.
Education Requirements for a Front-End Web Development
For an entry-level position, you’ll need a minimum of a background in a technology-related field. One pathway is by earning a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field. Another pathway to becoming a front-end developer is to opt to complete a coding bootcamp in either computer science or software engineering. Or you might want to consider a popular, low-cost option such as a micro-degree.
Salary and Job Growth
Front-end web developers make around an average of $70,000 per year. The job growth for front-end web developers is around 8% over the next decade.
Similar Job Titles
Some similar job titles include:
– Web developer
– Digital designer
– Graphic designer
Full-Stack Web Developer
Distinguishing between the back and front ends of a website is often difficult. So, a full-stack developer manages the front-and-center and the behind-the-scenes aspects. A full-stack web developer is one of the most popular and in-demand tech jobs today.
You should have excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to look at the big picture when it comes to designing and maintaining a website.
Education Requirements
For an entry-level position, you’ll need to have a background in technology. You’ll need either a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field or have completed a coding bootcamp in software engineering. A Full-Stack Web Developer micro-degree is another option you can pursue.
Salary and Job Growth
Full-stack web developers make an average of $75,000 per year. Your experience, location and industry will likely be the most important factors influencing your salary.
The job growth for data scientists is around 8% over the next decade.
Similar Job Titles
Some similar job titles include:
– Web developer
– Digital designer
– Graphic designer
Web Programmer
A web programmer ensures that websites work properly. They use coding languages like Ruby, PHP, Java, JavaScript, and Python to design and improve web pages, applications, and programs.
You’ll need to enjoy performing tests and pinpointing the reason why an application isn’t working properly. Web programmers should also have great interpersonal skills, as they’ll need to communicate with their clients about their progress regularly.
Education Requirements
For an entry-level position, you’ll need at least a background in a tech-related field. Some options to consider include a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a completing a coding bootcamp.
Salary and Job Growth
Web programmers make around $82,000 per year. The job growth for web programmers is around 13% over the next decade.
Similar Job Titles
Some similar job titles include:
– Web developer
– Computer programmer
– Software developer
Webmaster
A webmaster manages the everyday functions of a company’s website. They make updates to the existing content and reply to customer inquiries. Sometimes, webmasters fill more complex roles like programming and website design. A webmaster is the least technical career of all tech jobs.
This career is ideal if you like working from home, as a lot of webmasters do so. You should have a basic understanding of the programming languages and content management systems to succeed in this role.
Education Requirements
You’ll need to obtain a certificate in web programming or some other type of relevant post-secondary education for an entry-level position such as a coding bootcamp program.
Salary and Job Growth
Webmasters make around $50,000 per year. The job growth for webmasters is around 20% over the next decade.
Similar Job Titles
Some similar job titles include:
– Customer support specialist
– Graphic designer
– Software developer
Navigating the Challenges of a Career in Technology
While pursuing a career in technology offers numerous benefits, it also comes with its share of challenges. Work-life balance can be a concern for technology professionals, as long hours and tight deadlines are common in the industry. To maintain a healthy balance, it’s essential to set boundaries, prioritize self-care, and develop effective time management strategies.
Another challenge in technology careers is staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements. As the field evolves rapidly, professionals must continually learn and adapt to remain competitive. This requires dedication to staying informed on emerging technologies, tools, and methodologies through research, online resources, and networking with industry peers.
Finally, continuous learning and professional development are integral to success in a technology career. By investing in ongoing education, attending workshops and conferences, and seeking mentorship opportunities, you can enhance your skills, expand your knowledge, and advance your career in the dynamic world of technology.
Technology Career Outlook
Under current projections, the BLS predicts that tech jobs will grow much faster than average over the next decade (nearly 11%!). The industry expects to add more than half a million jobs, emphasizing information security and data collection positions.
To be a part of this growth, start preparing for a career in tech today!