23 Highest Paying IT Careers: Salaries/Job Prospects

Information technology (IT) does not need to be introduced. Apparently, IT has become one of the fastest-growing careers in the past years. it is rapidly changing the way we live and is having a positive effect on every part of our daily life.

Today, almost every student you meet along the street wants to become an IT specialist and that is no surprise at all because there is no industry at this time that is not using IT to run its course.

According to statistics, the IT industry is the top employer. Almost 6 million people work in sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance, and education.

In this article, we have highlighted the top paying IT careers that every aspiring IT specialist should know. Read through and also learn the steps you should take to succeed in this in-demand industry.

What is information technology IT?

Information technology or IT is the use of computers to store, retrieve, transmit, and use data or information. IT is a subset of information and communication technology (ICT).

However, the IT system is still all-encompassing. It is both an information system, a communication system, and a computer system that is operated by a limited group of users.

The information age brings advances in computing and communication technology that we call “the information revolution”. This revolution creates a greater demand for access, management, and transformation of information.

While people are exchanging computers and computer networks for information technology, IT also includes other information distribution technologies. Television, telephone, computer hardware, software, electronics, databases, websites, are all part of IT.

Why choose an IT Career?

IT careers are highly lucrative and offer personal satisfaction as they offer individuals the opportunity to participate in something that will change the world.

The Information technology field is growing and this growth opens up new roles. While you may be less relevant in one area if you keep learning you can be invaluable in a new area.

There is also the option to work in any industry. All industries need designers and developers for their hardware, software, and even their multimedia. Technology gives companies a greater competitive advantage and they want you to control their technology.

Interestingly, there is less training cost to become an IT professional. In most cases, you may not need a four-year college degree to earn in a chosen IT career path. You can enroll in a quick certification.

After all, there are no limits to what you can become with IT knowledge. You can start your own business like Facebook and Microsoft if you have enough knowledge, a strong idea, and a good work ethic.

What are the Highest Paying IT Careers in the World?

AutoCAD draftsman
Chief Information Officer
Computer animator
Data scientist
Computer systems analyst
Graphic designer
Hardware engineer
Database administrator
Health informatics
Help desk technician
IT manager
Computer scientist
Mobile app developer
Computer programmer
Network administrator
IT project manager
Network architect
Robotics engineer
IT security specialist
Software developer
User interface developer
Computer game designer
Web developer

Now let’s discuss each of these IT careers in order of salary – from the highest-paying to the lowest-paying.

#1. Chief Information Officer (CIO)

Chief Information Officers are IT specialists who are responsible for the technical management of the company.

The CIO outlines the company’s technology goals. He also plans and oversees critical IT projects such as budgeting, recruiting, and equipment procurement to achieve company goals.

Meanwhile, an effective CIO must have an agile strategic mind, demonstrate strong leadership skills, and have a high understanding of technology and business.

Minimum training requirement: At least a bachelor’s degree is required for this IT career path. However, many companies prefer that you also have a college degree. A college major in management information systems (MIS), computer information systems (CIS), IT management, and project management are desirable.

Average Annual Salary: $153,082

Employment growth outlook: The CIO’s forecast for employment growth is 12% from 2016 to 2026.

#2. Network Architect

These are IT professionals who plan and design computer networks. While network administrators manage and support the network and network engineers build and repair it, network architects plan and design data and communication networks.

In addition, these professionals must understand the business needs of the company in order to develop an efficient, secure, and scalable network that is aligned with strategic goals.

Minimum training requirement: To become a network architect, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree and a practical network role of five years or more.

Average Annual Salary: $120,940.

Employment growth outlook: Network Architect’s growth forecast is 6% from 2016 to 2026.

#3. IT security specialist

These are IT specialists who protect and defend an organization’s information systems. There are high levels of cyber threats resulting from advanced cyber warfare that compel companies to be vigilant. You have to fight attackers and protect your information resources.

For this reason, IT security specialists use extensive knowledge of cybersecurity threats, technologies, and countermeasures to create secure computer systems.

Minimum Education Requirement: This IT career path requires you to have at least an associate or undergraduate degree in information security or a related field.

IT job experience and security-focused certifications increase your chances of securing positions as an IT security specialist.

Average Annual Salary: $117,537.

Employment growth outlook: The growth forecast for IT security specialists is 28% from 2016 to 2026.

#4. Data scientist

These are IT specialists who analyze business data for actionable information.

Data scientists mine and analyze data from customer transactions, clickstreams, sensors, social media, and other data sources. Their job is to unlock valuable and predictive insights that influence business decisions and increase competitive advantage.

Minimum Education Requirement: To become a data scientist, you definitely need an advanced degree, such as a master’s, MBA, or Ph.D. However, some companies accept undergraduate degrees in analytical concentration, such as computer science, mathematics, and statistics.

Average Annual Salary: $117,345.

Employment growth outlook: Data Scientist’s employment growth projection is 32% from 2016 to 2026.

#5. Computer scientist

These are IT specialists who research and develop new technologies.

A computer scientist is a driving force behind modern computer development. They combine deep technical insight with creativity and scientific research skills to invent new information systems and improve existing ones.

Meanwhile, these professionals may work in hardware and software design companies, the federal government’s defense sector, as well as IT research firms and academia.

Minimum Education Requirement: This IT career path requires you to have a graduate degree – Master or Ph.D. – in computer science (CS) or a related field. However, the military or federal government takes a bachelor’s degree for entry-level jobs in computer science. IT applicants will have to pass some strict security and background checks.

Average annual salary: $111,405

Job growth outlook: The job growth projection in computer science is 19% from 2016 to 2026.

#6. Software developer

These are IT professionals who develop computer systems and applications.

Software engineers design, develop and improve the computer programs we use everyday, such as operating systems and social networks. Software engineers can also be Applications Software Engineers or Systems Software Engineers.

While the application software engineers analyze the needs of an end-user and develop a custom program to meet them, the systems software engineers oversee the creation, maintenance, and expansion of an organization’s internal computer systems.

Minimum Education Requirement: This IT career path requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in software engineering or a related programming field. A portfolio of documented examples or live links to your best applications and software development projects is an advantage.

Average Annual Salary: $106,845.

Employment growth outlook: The software Engineer growth forecast is 24% from 2016 to 2026.

#7. Mobile Application Developer

These are IT specialists who make software for mobile devices.

Mobile devices and applications are changing the way we live. Every major function of our lives is now linked to our mobile devices.

The focus of mobile developers is on writing programs in a mobile development environment using Objective C, C++, C#, or Java programming languages.

Minimum Education Requirement: To become an IT security specialist, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in software engineering or a similar programming-oriented field. You need a portfolio of completed mobile application samples and your best development projects to increase your salary.

Average Annual Salary: $105,137.

Employment growth outlook: The growth forecast for IT security specialists is 31% from 2016 to 2026.

#8. Computer hardware engineer

These are IT professionals who create designs and build computer systems.

There will always be a high demand for computer hardware engineers or computer designers who use their skills to develop the next generation of computer systems. Because technology continues to play an important role in our daily lives and will continue to do so for a very long time.

Minimum training requirement: This IT career path requires at least a bachelor’s degree in computer technology. You can also have a degree in electrical engineering or a similar computer hardware-focused field.

Average Annual Salary: $103,810.

Employment growth outlook: The growth forecast for Computer Hardware engineers is 5% from 2016 to 2026.

#9. IT Manager

These are IT professionals who plan, drive and support IT initiatives.

They ensure that their team or department functions optimally and in accordance with the organizational goals. The IT manager also works closely with senior executives and department heads to identify, develop and support new technology solutions.

Minimum educational requirements: In order to become an IT manager, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in IT in addition to a certain amount of technical experience, e.g. B. Computer Science. To be successful in this role, you need a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on technology.

Average Annual Salary: $97,461.

Employment growth outlook: The forecast growth for IT managers is 12% from 2016 to 2026.

#10. IT project manager

These are IT professionals who oversee large technology projects.

The IT Project Manager or IT Operations Manager ensures that complex technical projects such as system upgrades are completed on time and on budget.

You will also plan and coordinate the efforts of the internal project team, external contractors, and consultants to ensure the successful completion of projects.

Minimum training requirement: You must have at least a bachelor’s degree in this IT career path. Some employers require you to have a diploma.
Average Annual Salary: $97,312.
Employment growth outlook: The IT program manager’s growth forecast is 12% from 2016 to 2026.

#11. Database administrator

These are IT professionals who organize and manage a company’s data.

Database administrators monitor corporate data to ensure that it is accurate, available, and secure. Since the corporate database is at the heart of major business systems, these professionals are vital to business.

Hence, DBAs are recognized and rewarded for the role they play in the success of the organization.

Minimum Education Requirement: This IT career path requires you to have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer systems analysis and other related fields. While an MBA in Management Information Systems (MIS) or CIS will advance a DBA’s career, you may still need to earn certificates in one or more database management systems (DBMS).

Average Annual Salary: $93,538.

Employment growth outlook: The database manager’s growth forecast is 11% from 2016 to 2026.

#12. Robotics engineer

These are IT specialists who design and manufacture both robots and robotic systems.

Robotics is growing in its industry-wide application. Manufacturing, medicine, energy, and scientific research are some of the industries that use robotics.

However, robotic technology falls under Computer-Aided Drafting & Design, Building, and Research & Development.

Minimum training requirement: To become a Robotic Engineer, you need a strong natural science talent in order to be admitted to a relevant degree in Robotics Engineering. there are currently no specific Bachelor’s programs in the field of robotics. Prospective students study mechanical engineering or electrical engineering instead.

Average Annual Salary: $89,481.

Employment growth outlook: The forecast growth for Robotic engineers is 7% from 2016 to 2026.

#13. User interface developer

These are specialists who shape our dealings with the digital world.

User interface (UI) developers or UI engineers combine programming, psychology, and creative design to create easy-to-use controls for software and hardware.

To be successful in this area, you need to be able to create an interface that will behave the way users expect it to.

Minimum training requirement: This IT career path requires at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, as well as a strong portfolio.

Average annual salary: 77,379.

Employment growth outlook: The growth forecast for user interface developers from 2016 to 2026 is 19%.

#14. Web developer

This is one of the best IT Careers on our list. Web developers create websites and web-based applications.

Web developers create web pages and web-based applications that make up the Internet. A fundamental role as a web developer also includes collecting, planning the layout and navigation of the website, coding the web pages, and then testing and optimizing it for a superior user experience.

In addition, an experienced web developer is fluent in the programming languages that run on the World Wide Web.

Minimum training requirement: To become a web developer, you need to have hands-on experience and master the programming languages your potential employer uses.

Average annual salary: $75,487.

Employment growth outlook: The growth forecast for web developers is 15% from 2016 to 2026.

#15. Computer systems analyst

These are IT professionals who manage IT solutions to achieve business goals.

Computer systems analysts equip themselves with both business and technological understanding. In doing so, they analyze the organization’s current computer systems and procedures and recommend strategic changes to move the organization forward.

However, the primary goal of the systems analyst is to maximize the return on investment (ROI) of a company’s IT spending.

Minimum training requirement: To become a computer systems analyst, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer systems analysis and other related fields. Since this IT career path encompasses both business and IT, you may also need a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Average Annual Salary: $74,285.

Job growth outlook: The forecasted job growth rate for computer systems analysts is 9% from 2016 to 2026.

Here is an article on Easy Guide To Getting A Master’s Degree In Computer Science

#16. Computer game designers

These are IT specialists who combine creativity, technical skill, and a passion for games to create first-class games.

To fit into this IT career path, you must love gaming and have a desire to learn the latest skills in programming, arts, and media production.

Most video game designer jobs, however, fall under a game artist, game designer, or game programmer.

Minimum training requirement: To become a video game designer, you must have a degree or certificate in game design and video game development or software engineering. You may also need a specialized two- to four-year degree in game arts or a degree in traditional arts. These certifications/degrees will depend on your specialty.

Average Annual Salary: $73,182.

Employment growth outlook: Video Game designers’ growth forecast is 30% from 2016 to 2026.

#17. Network administrator

Network administration is a top IT career available. Professionals in this field manage networks and communication systems. They install, maintain, and manage the networks and computer systems that guarantee a smooth flow of information.

They also deploy and maintain network hardware and software, troubleshoot network problems, and ensure network security, availability, and performance standards.

Minimum training requirement: To become a network administrator, you must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or any other related field. Network certifications like Network + from CompTIA and CCNA from Cisco also give you a head start.

Average annual salary: $68,156.

Outlook for employment growth: The network operator’s growth forecast is 6% from 2016 to 2026.

#18. Computer programmer

These are IT specialists who write the code that performs computer operations.

Computer programmers interpret project specifications from software and systems engineers into a script of logical instructions for computers to work with. In other words, they make computer systems and applications work.

To be successful in this information technology career path, you must have proficiency in a number of programming languages as each language has specific strengths.

Minimum training requirement: This IT career path requires hands-on programming experience. The more programming languages you master, the better your chances of gaining a higher status.

However, you can earn an accredited degree or specialized certification in computer programming and related fields to expand your portfolio. Here is an Easy Guide To Getting A Master’s Degree In Computer Science.

Average annual salary: $67,090

Job growth outlook: The forecasted job growth rate for computer programmers is 7% from 2016 to 2026.

#19. Computer animator

Computer animator is one of the high-paying IT careers on our list. These are IT specialists who create 3D animation graphics and visual effects.

Computer animators creatively create stunning visual animation for film, television, video games, mobile apps, and even websites. By the job title, you should know that these professionals use computer software and hardware to get their jobs done.

Plus, this IT career path is ideal for entrepreneurs who don’t want to work under anyone.

Minimum Education Requirements: To become a computer animator, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer animation, multimedia design, graphic design, or a related field. However, to qualify for a job on this IT career pathway, your demo role and portfolio need to speak for themselves.

Median Annual Salary: $51,463.

Employment growth outlook: The Computer Animator’s forecast for employment growth is 8% from 2016 to 2026.

#20. Graphic designer

Graphic designing is one of the popular IT Careers in the world today. IT specialists who combine creativity and technology to create visually appealing graphics that convey a message.

The tasks of the graphic designer include the design of websites, the formatting of catalogs and newsletters, the design of logos, and all other interactive media that your customers want.

In addition, there are many self-employment opportunities for talented designers who have an entrepreneurial spirit and take their work seriously.

Minimum educational requirements: In this information technology career path, you have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in graphic design or a comparable field in the creative arts. In the meantime, hands-on experience in graphic design may be more important than your degree.

Median Annual Salary: $48,561.

Employment growth outlook: The forecast growth for graphic designers is 4% from 2016 to 2026.

#21. Help desk technician

These are IT specialists who provide technical support to IT end-users.

Help desk agents are vital to the IT staff of any organization. Not only do they hold the technologies that companies rely on to keep business up-to-date, but they also run smoothly.

Their job is to provide technical support and troubleshooting services to end-users who need help with their computer hardware or software. An organization can have an in-house technician, an outside technician, or both.

Minimum training requirement: You do not need a diploma to become a helpdesk employee. A certificate in PC repair or IT/help desk support, as well as training in computer information systems (CIS), will increase your salary.

Average Annual Salary: $44,402.

Employment growth outlook: Helpdesk technician growth forecast is 11% from 2016 to 2026.

#22. Health informatics

Health informatics is one of the most lucrative IT Careers today. Professionals in this field manage electronic patient data.

With massive federal funding and aggressive medical practice laws introducing standardized electronic records in the United States, now is the time to become a health information technician.

These professionals use specialized computer programs and management techniques to ensure that patient’s electronic health records (EHRs) are complete, accurate, accessible, and secure.

Medical Coding, Medical Billing, and Cancer Registry are among the highest paying IT jobs on this career path.

Minimum training requirement: To become a Health Information Technician, you must have at least an Associate Degree in Health Information Management (HIM), Healthcare IT, or Health Informatics. You may need to get certified by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) to better qualify.

Median Annual Salary: $44,401.

Outlook for employment growth: The growth forecast for health information technicians is 13% from 2016 to 2026.

#23. AutoCAD draftsman

AutoCAD draftsman is one of the best IT jobs anyone can consider. These are IT specialists who design technical schemes for products and construction.

You use Autodesk’s drawing and construction software to create 2D and 3D construction drawings. However, these drawings become blueprints for building products and structures such as buildings, machines, toys, and microchips.

AutoCAD draftsmen now have a number of job titles such as engineer, draftsman, calculator, and architect.

Minimum training requirement: To become a CAD draftsman, you must complete at least a two-year associate degree program at a technical college or community college. However, a bachelor’s degree can boost your career, as can degrees in architecture or engineering. CAD drawing courses now include math, science, drawing, and design.

Median Annual Salary: $44,000

Job growth outlook: The CAD builder’s job growth forecast is 7% from 2016 to 2026.

How do I become an IT Specialist?

The primary role of an IT professional is to monitor and manage computer hardware, software, and networks within an organization.

Because of the technical nature of this career, the job attracts potentially lucrative salaries and offers a range of opportunities for personal development.

Below are the steps you need to take if you want to become an IT specialist.

1. Earn a degree

The minimum academic requirement to become an IT expert is a bachelor’s degree. You can choose to study computer science, computer science, computer technology, or business informatics.

All of these programs last four years and cover topics such as IT systems analysis, risk assessment, IT management, information security, and data networking.

If you want to become a respected IT specialist and have excellent academic qualifications.

2. Gain experience

Find a job after you graduate, even if you don’t get paid well. Think of work as a stepping stone to bigger things, not a source of income.

You can start as a technical support analyst or a project management assistant. This exhibition will help you understand how IT infrastructures work and develop your problem-solving skills.

You can also opt for an accredited company. It could be an IT consultancy, a government agency, or even the military.

3. Be certified

To secure the best types of IT jobs, you must be certified. After you have acquired the appropriate academic qualifications and experience, you must apply for certification from a recognized professional organization.

Nobody will take you seriously if you have no professional training.

The top certifications include Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).

These certifications increase your chances of finding advanced, high paying jobs.

4. Specialize

The IT profession is very diverse. If you don’t specialize, you won’t become an expert at anything.
You can specialize in a specific product, an area of information technology such as mobile computing and data networks, or a brand such as Microsoft, Cisco, or Apple.

The key is to identify something that is very popular and interests you.

Once you identify the area of expertise, reach out to people and become the person everyone turns to when they have a problem in the area.

5. Network-wide

You need a wide area network to get your name out there. Without them, nobody will know that you are an IT professional.

Ultimately, you will not receive any job offers. Go there and tell people what you are doing. Or you can open a Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn account and communicate with people.

Conclusion

Information technology or IT is the use of computers to store, retrieve, transmit, and use data or information. This is a subset of the ICT that runs the world.

The application spans all industries and the salary for this career path is substantial. Securing the best IT jobs not only pays off for your skills, but it also gives you intrinsic satisfaction.

Hence, if you are IT-oriented, we believe our list of high-paying IT careers will help you find your career decision.

FAQs

What is the average IT career salary?

The IT specialist salary range from $52k to $119k

What are the top 5 IT careers in the world?

UX designer
Robotics engineer
Data scientist
Cloud engineer
Chief Information Officer

How can I choose a career in IT field?

Earn a degree
Gain experience
Be certified
Specialize
Network-wide