5 High-Paying, Fast-Growing Careers in Technology

No one can see the future, but if the present is any indication, a career in technology is one of the safest bets you can make. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the computer job market will grow by at least 11% between now and 2029, adding over half a million jobs to the US economy.

Whether you’re creative or analytical, detail-oriented, or a big-picture thinker, there’s a job in technology that’s right for you. You can dive into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and help create chatbots and other tools driven by machine learning, protect companies from global cyber threats and massive data breaches, or even invent new software languages and systems that will revolutionize the industry. The options are unlimited – and expanding by the minute.

Best of all, there are rewarding careers in tech at every level, so whether you’re in interested in earning a bachelor’s degree in computers or you’re ready to up your game with a Master of Science in Information Systems, you can pursue the option that’s right for you and get started right away.

To learn more about some of the most exciting career opportunities in computer-related fields right now, check out these top jobs in the tech sector.

1. Artificial Intelligence Specialist

With an explosive growth forecast and a high salary, Artificial Intelligence Specialist is one of the most exciting tech careers you can pursue. Demand for some AI/ML positions (like Machine Learning Engineer) has already increased by 344% between 2015 and 2018 – and is just ramping up.

To work in AI and Machine Learning (ML), you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or mathematics – and as your career advances, you may need a master’s or doctoral degree in a related field. You’ll also need a deep understanding of algorithm design, cloud software, and coding, along with a balance of developer knowledge and business analytics skills that will position you to make a strategic impact using these in-demand technologies. With most employers just beginning to tap into the business applications of AI/ML, the future potential of career options is nearly limitless. Plus, you can expect to earn an average annual salary in the range of $113,000.

2. Information Security Analyst

If you’re detailed oriented and have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, working as an Information Security (IS) Analyst will ensure a high paying salary and job security. Over the next 10 years, the field is expected to grow by 31% as ransomware, malware, data breeches, and other threats become an increasingly damaging risk to business.

As an Information Security Analyst, you’ll stay on top of the newest techniques used by hackers and bad actors and the technologies that protect against them. That includes everything from data encryption and the use of firewalls to establishing security policies and best practices for the employees in your organization. To get started, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or programming, along with work experience as a network administrator or in a similar position to gain the necessary expertise. Many IS professionals also go on to earn an MBA in information systems before becoming Information Security Analysts and averaging $104,000 annually.

3. Software Developer

Whether you dream of creating the next great game, app, or program, you can make a huge impact on the technology landscape and the lives of millions of users by working as a software engineer. Plus, with demand expected to grow by 22% in the next 10 years, you’ll have tremendous career potential – and plenty of job security.

The first step to becoming a software developer – also called a software engineer – is to earn a bachelor’s degree in a computer science program that will build your programming and coding skills and give you a broad range of knowledge about the software development process. You’ll use that knowledge to figure out how to best meet your users’ needs, design new products or fine-tune and optimize the ones that already exist and maintain functionality with continuous testing and reassessment. On average, you can expect to earn an annual salary of roughly $110,000 as a software developer, with some software engineers earning as much as $145,000 annually.

4. Dev Ops Engineer

A development operations – or DevOps – engineer straddles the line between operations and technology, working to establish and optimize a company’s enterprise applications. Part of the thriving software development industry, experts predict the field will grow by as much as 22% between now and 2029.

To work as a dev ops engineer, you’ll first need to earn a bachelor’s degree in a tech-related field like computer science or engineering to build a solid foundation in JavaScript, Linux, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and other tech fundamentals. Many also pursue additional certifications like “Certified DevOps Engineer” from AWS or become members in organizations like DASA – the DevOps Agile Skills Association. These added qualifications will prepare you for a career that involves day-to-day troubleshooting as you work to make your company’s hardware and software interact as effectively and efficiently as possible – and you can expect an annual salary of $95,000 for your efforts.

5. Computer and Information Research Scientist

One of the fastest growing tech careers with a projected 15% increase in demand between now and 2029, computer and information research scientists are also on the cutting-edge of innovation, finding new and exciting solutions to complex business problems by using existing technology in inventive ways.

Building on a bachelor’s degree in a tech-oriented field, most computer and information research scientists go on to earn a master’s degree in computer engineering or computer science. Many also build specialized knowledge of the field in which they apply their skills, either through experience or through additional training. From there, they often work with scientists and engineers to invent new computer languages, software systems, or other tools that improve a specific issue or a field in general (like robotics or programming). While the average salary is $127,000 a year, some computer and information research scientists make as much as $194,000 annually.

Ready to forge your future in tech and secure an in-demand job with a great salary? Learn more about our many programs:

Undergraduate computer science programs:

• New York School of Career and Applied Studies (NYSCAS)
• Lander College of Arts & Sciences
• Lander College for Men
• Lander College for Women

Graduate programs:

• Graduate School of Technology