Getting a tech degree is a smart choice.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers says that if you study computer and information sciences, you’re in for a good job market.
This is especially true if you get an advanced degree. You might even start with a salary close to $100,000. A recent study by CareerBuilder also says that science and tech jobs will grow twice as fast as other jobs.
As of May 2021, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that if you study something related to computers, you can get a good job with good pay. The average yearly wage for these jobs is about $97,430.
The best tech jobs pay a lot more than the average job, which pays around $45,760. And, these tech jobs are expected to grow by 13%, which is faster than most other jobs.
We made this list by looking at data from different places, like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Highlights:
- Tech jobs are in high demand, especially in the 2030s.
- If you study STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), you’ll have an advantage when applying for software development, engineering, IT, or research jobs.
- 667,000: The number of new jobs in computer and information sciences fields that will be added over the next decade, according to BLS.
In this article, we’ll explore the best technology jobs according to U.S. government data. So, here are the top 10 best tech jobs for the future:
| Best Tech Jobs | Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|
| ⓵ Data Scientist | $108,660 |
| ⓶ Software Developer | $110,140 |
| ⓷ Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| ⓸ Computer Systems Analyst | $99,270 |
| ⓹ Web Developer | $77,200 |
| ⓺ Sales Engineer | $103,710 |
| ⓻ Information Technology Manager | $159,010 |
| ⓼ Computer Research Scientist | $131,490 |
| ⓽ Network and Systems Administrator | $80,600 |
| ⓾ Computer Support Specialists | $57,910 |
What you'll learn:
1️⃣ Data Scientist
- Job outlook through 2030: 2.4%
- Number of new jobs through 2030: N/A
The Harvard Business Review (HBR) calls data scientists “the sexiest job of the 21st century.” There is a high demand for individuals who can evaluate data to help companies make business decisions; however, there is a relatively low supply of qualified candidates.
According to a 2021 Burtch Works report, salaries for level three data scientist managers are as high as $250,000. Burtch Works also notes that most data scientists have either a Master’s degree or a Ph.D. in mathematics/statistics, computer science, or engineering.
2️⃣ Software Developer
- Job outlook through 2030: 22%
- Number of new jobs through 2030: 409,500
- Median annual wage: $110,140
Software developers are in great demand. This growth is fueled by the demand for mobile apps and other products that are driven by technology.
While some software developers design applications, systems software developers design operating systems and interfaces. A bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or mathematics is usually a requirement.
3️⃣ Information Security Analyst
- Job outlook through 2030: 33%
- Number of new jobs through 2030: 47,100
- Median annual wage: $102,600
By far, the largest number of job openings on the list is for information security analysts. More than 22 billion records were breached in 2021, according to Risk Based Security/Flashpoint, an international security company.
These breaches illustrate the urgent need for information security analysts. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or programming is the typical requirement, although some employers prefer an MBA in information systems.
4️⃣ Computer Systems Analyst
- Job outlook through 2030: 7%
- Number of new jobs through 2030: 42,800
- Median annual wage: $99,270
Computer systems analysts are needed to design and install new computer systems, and IT consulting firms hire most of them.
Growth has occurred primarily in the following areas: cloud computing, mobile technology, and healthcare records.
Candidates usually need a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, although the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that sometimes a liberal arts degree is sufficient.
5️⃣ Web Developer
- Job outlook through 2030: 13%
- Number of new jobs through 2030: 25,500
- Median annual wage: $77,200
This is one of the few jobs on the list that you can get without a bachelor’s degree. There are three types of web developers; web designers, who create the layout and feel of the website, need an associate degree in web design.
Webmasters, who maintain the website, may have a webmaster certificate, an associate degree in web development, or a bachelor’s degree, depending on the employer.
Web architects, who handle the technical construction of the site, usually need a bachelor’s degree in programming or computer science.
6️⃣ Sales Engineer
- Job outlook through 2030: 8%
- Number of new jobs through 2030: 5,000 total (specific tech numbers not available)
- Median annual wage: $103,710
The demand for sales engineers in other industries is only projected to increase by 8%; however, as per a 2021 global market report, the growth rate is nearly three times as fast for professionals selling computer software and hardware.
Most sales engineers have a degree in business, science, or a technology field. They must also be well-versed in technology to present proposals, explain products, and answer questions.
7️⃣ IT Manager
- Job outlook through 2030: 11%
- Number of new jobs through 2030: 52,700
- Median annual wage: $159,010
Information technology managers go by a variety of other names; for example, computer and information systems managers, chief information officers (CIOs), chief technology officers (CTOs), IT directors, or IT security managers.
While duties may vary, they usually oversee an IT team and handle the organization’s technology needs. A bachelor’s degree in a computer or information science-related major is required, though some employers prefer an MBA.
8️⃣ Computer Research Scientist
- Job outlook through 2030: 22%
- Number of new jobs through 2030: 7,200
- Median annual wage: $131,490
This position has the least number of new jobs, but that’s because it is a difficult field to enter. Computer and Information Research Scientists typically require a Ph.D., and so the candidate pool is small, which keeps the demand for this role high.
Among other duties, computer and information research scientists write algorithms to help businesses analyze data.
9️⃣ Network & Systems Admin
- Job outlook through 2030: 5%
- Number of new jobs through 2030: 18,800
- Median annual wage: $80,600
This job has the lowest growth rate on the list, but don’t let that fool you.
Companies need network and computer systems administrators to handle their day-to-day technology operations, which include installing and maintaining local and wide area networks, intranets, etc.
Typically, candidates for this role hold a degree in information science, computer science, computer engineering, or electrical engineering.
🔟 Computer Support Specialists
- Job outlook through 2030: 9%
- Number of new jobs through 2030: 72,200
- Median annual wage: $57,910
It’s the lowest paying job on the list, but it also requires the least amount of time in school; most employers will hire candidates with a postsecondary certificate or an associate degree.
There are two types of computer support specialists: computer network support specialists and computer user support specialists.
Computer network support specialists usually work with IT staff to troubleshoot problems. Computer user support specialists, also known as help desk techs, assist customers and non-technical employees.
☞ Best Tech Jobs FAQ
What Tech Jobs Pay the Most?
The highest-paying tech jobs include IT Managers and computer research scientists. They typically earn well over $100,000 per year as their median annual wage.
Any Tech Jobs That Don’t Need a Degree?
While having a bachelor’s degree can be helpful, there are several tech jobs that don’t demand a four-year degree.
Examples of such roles include web developers, software developers, and computer support specialists.
While some companies prefer a four-year degree for developers, having a robust portfolio of coding work or relevant certifications can also open doors.
Where to Look for Tech Jobs?
Finding tech jobs is similar to searching for other careers. You can explore job opportunities on company websites, job boards, LinkedIn, and by networking with professionals in the field.
Since tech jobs often require specialized skills, recruiters can also help you find suitable positions.
☞ Final thoughts
The tech industry is booming and always in high demand. Use this list to help you assess the job prospects, salary, and educational prerequisites for your ideal tech career.
