As nearly all aspects of life become more and more intertwined with technology, information technology (IT) careers are experiencing, and will continue to experience, substantial growth during the coming decade.
With cloud computing, mobile applications, massive amounts of data, software of all sorts, the ever-expanding world wide web, social media, and a whole world’s-worth of information security threats, organizations large and small rely more and more on well-qualified and highly-specialized IT professionals.
In accordance with this rising demand, IT jobs often pay well, and many come with desirable benefits, such as options to work remotely, and room for promotion.
Sifting through the many IT career options can be a daunting task. This article pulls together the twenty best IT jobs for 2018 and coming years.
Rankings guidelines: We based our IT jobs ranking on salary, employment growth projections, and job satisfaction. The jobs appear alphabetically.
Information Source: Salary statistics information has been sourced from PayScale.com, and reflects median annual salaries as of March 2018. Employment growth outlook information comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, for 2016–2026.
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20. Hardware Engineer
What they do:
Hardware engineers design computer hardware.
Hardware engineers draw on computer engineering to develop hardware, either for use within an organization, or as a product to be sold commercially. Hardware engineers work in teams with other technology professionals and scientists to design, build, and troubleshoot existing computer hardware or entirely new hardware. Hardware engineers work with the goals of maximizing technological efficiency, minimizing issues and errors, and meet current technological needs.
Median annual salary:
$85,441
Education Requirements:
Individuals in this field must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field, such as computer engineering or electrical engineering. Some employers may require a master’s degree.
Employment growth outlook:
5.5%
19. Network Administrator
What they do:
Network administrators oversee networks and communication systems to keep information and communications flowing smoothly.
Network administrators implement and maintain network software and hardware, fix network problems, and ensure network security, availability, and performance standards. They also optimize existing systems to reduce costs and increase productivity, as well as install, optimize, and secure new systems. Network administrators typically work with a team of other IT professionals with unique specializations.
Median annual salary:
$57,142
Education Requirements:
Network administrators must have a bachelor’s degree in network administration, computer science, systems engineering, or a related field. Some employers require a master’s degree. Network administrators can increase their career opportunities with network certifications, such as Cisco’s CCNA, or CompTIA’s Network+.
Employment growth outlook:
6.1%
18. Data Architect
What they do:
Data architects oversee the design and maintenance of data across a variety of information systems and databases.
The main goal of data architects is to ensure that data in a system or database is accurate and readily accessible. More than just administering a system, data architects must employ knowledge and analytical skills to determine if data is being handled in the best, most efficient way possible, and what methods can be implemented to improve existing systems. Data architects work alongside other IT professionals in teams.
Median annual salary:
$112,825
Education Requirements:
Data architects must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in information technology, information systems, computer science, or a related field. Some positions may require a master’s degree.
Employment growth outlook:
6.5%
17. Solutions Architect
What they do:
Solutions architects develop technological solutions for organizations.
Solutions architects rely on technological knowledge and critical thinking to assess an organization’s technological needs and goals, and to develop and implement a plan toward reaching those goals. Solutions architects communicate between various departments in an organization to determine what solutions need to be in place, and how to make them happen.
Median annual salary:
$115,231
Education Requirements:
Individuals in this field should have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, information systems, or a related field. A degree in business, such as a bachelor’s in business administration, or an MBA, could also be useful.
Employment growth outlook:
6.5%
16. Computer Network Architect
What they do:
Computer network architects design, build, and implement computer and data networks in a diverse array of settings.
Computer network architects may work with local area networks, wide area networks, or intranets. Computer network architects, plan for maintenance and updates of computer networks, to ensure that networks function efficiently and remain technologically up-to-date. Individuals in this field may work for computer network service firms, or directly within a specific corporation or agency.
Median annual salary:
$116,332
Education Requirements:
Computer network architects must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, information systems, or a related field. Individuals may benefit from earning a master’s degree as well, in a technical field, or in an area of business study, such as an MBA.
Employment growth outlook:
6.5%
15. Computer Technical Support Specialist
What they do:
Computer technical support specialists engage in troubleshooting and problem solving, both within a corporation and for individual clients.
Computer technical support specialists draw on a general knowledge of computer systems, hardware, and software, as well as knowledge of specific products, to alleviate technological issues. Some individuals in this field work for technical support service companies, while others work within corporations or agencies. Computer technical support specialists must maintain up-to-date knowledge of current technologies and technological issues.
Median annual salary:
$48,309
Education Requirements:
Computer technical support specialists should have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, information systems, information technology, or a related field. A master’s degree can lead to professional advancement in some areas of employment.
Employment growth outlook:
8.3%
14. Site Reliability Engineer
What they do:
Site reliability engineers work to ensure that an organization’s website runs smoothly and efficiently serves its intended purpose.
Site reliability engineers maintain, update, and troubleshoot websites for their employer, to guarantee that the website remain functional and do not suffer from interruptions. Site reliability engineers utilize a variety of programming language, including HTML, Javascript, and CSS, as well as website management technologies. Site reliability engineers work alongside teams in their organizations to keep the website in alignment with organizational goals, and to keep it up-to-date in relation to the rest of the web.
Median annual salary:
$119,024
Education Requirements:
Site reliability engineers must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming, information technology, or a related field. Some employers may require a master’s degree.
Employment growth outlook:
8.3%
13. Computer Systems Analyst
What they do:
Computer systems analysts draw on business and technical expertise to evaluate a company’s computer systems and procedures, with the goal of recommending strategic changes to increase productivity, lower costs, and achieve other objectives.
Computer systems analysts design and program computer system updates or closely oversee the development team. Those without a programming background collaborate with the software development department to implement changes. The main objective of a computer systems analysts is maximizing the return on investment of a company’s IT budget.
Median annual salary:
$66,910
Education Requirements:
Computer systems analysts must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer systems analysis, computer information systems, computer science, business intelligence, information systems, information technology, or a similar field. Since the occupation deals with both business and IT, some computer systems analyst jobs require a Master of Business Administration (MBA), preferably with a technical focus.
Employment growth outlook:
9.1%
12. Software Engineer
What they do:
Software engineers design, develop, test, and optimize computer programs used in areas such as operating systems, business applications, network control systems, video games, and social networks.
The field encompasses a wide range of careers and professional roles. Some software engineers may work on specialized software or projects for niche companies, while others may work on software for networks and databases, for large groups or government agencies. Software engineers typically work in teams with other engineers, as well as administrators.
Median annual salary:
$81,940
Education Requirements:
Individuals in this field must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer programming, computer engineering, or a relevant field. Some employers may prefer a master’s degree.
Employment growth outlook:
11.1%
11. User Interface Designer
What they do:
User interface designers work to ensure that software functions smoothly and logically for users and consumers.
User interface designers operate within a software development team to design, create, and troubleshoot the user interface aspects of software. User interface designers rely on technical knowledge, familiarity with a variety of programming languages, critical thinking, and ingenuity to ensure that the user experience for software is not hampered by a poorly designed interface.
Median annual salary:
$63,313
Education Requirements:
User interface designers must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software programming, information technology, or another relevant field. Some employers may require a master’s degree.
Employment growth outlook:
11.3%
10. Database Administrator
What they do:
Data Administrators are responsible for organizing and managing an organization’s data, making sure that data is accurate and available and that database performance meets organizational requirements.
Database administrators make sure that software and hardware is maintained, allowing for vital information to be easily stored, accessed, and utilized. Database administrators also help guarantee security of data, and work alongside teams of other IT professionals.
Median annual salary:
$71,513
Education Requirements:
Individuals in this field must hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in database administration, computer science, computer information systems, information technology, or a related field. Employers may prefer candidates with an MBA with a concentration in database management, computer information systems, or management information systems.
Database administrators may enhance their résumé with specialized training and certifications in popular database management systems such as Microsoft SQL Server, Sybase, Oracle, MySQL, and IBM DB2.
Employment growth outlook:
11.5%
9. Business Intelligence Developer
What they do:
Business intelligence developers oversee databases and information systems with the goal of optimizing the storage, implementation, and flow of data in corporations.
Business intelligence developers must draw on a large pool of skills and knowledge to complete a variety of tasks, including coding and designing systems, troubleshooting systems, analyzing data systems, and managing teams of IT professionals. Individuals in this field combine aspects of computer and information technology fields with business administration.
Median annual salary:
$78,076
Education Requirements:
Business intelligence developers should have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in information technology, information systems, or computer science. A degree in business, such as a bachelor’s in business administration or business intelligence, may also be useful.
Employment growth outlook:
11.5%
8. Information Technology Manager
What they do:
Information technology managers oversee the IT needs of an organization.
Information technology managers typically supervise IT service teams within corporations or agencies. They engage with solving IT problems through troubleshooting, updating and implementing technology, and assessing the technological needs of their organization. IT managers draw on knowledge from an information technology background, as well as a business management background.
Median annual salary:
$84,440
Education Requirements:
Information technology managers must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in an area such as information technology management, information technology, or computer science. Some employers may require a master’s degree. Business degrees with a technical focus, such as a bachelor’s in business administration with a concentration in information technology, may also be desirable.
Employment growth outlook:
11.5%
7. Data Scientist
What they do:
Data scientists direct the gathering and application of data for a variety of organizations, including corporations and government agencies.
Data scientists approach the retrieval, storage, and implementation of data and data systems from a broad view. Rather than just focusing on the architecture of database systems, their administration, or the specific methods used to store and convey data, data scientists work to develop large-scale models of how an organization relates to its data. Individuals in this field consider methods of data mining, methods of storage and conveyance, hardware and software, trends in data, and niche applications of data.
Data scientists work alongside teams of other IT professionals, often taking a directorial approach.
Median annual salary:
$90,958
Education Requirements:
Individuals in this position must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, computer engineering, or another relevant field. A master’s degree may be preferred. Also, a degree in an areas such as business administration business analytics may be useful.
Employment growth outlook:
11.5%
6. Development Operations (DevOps) Engineer
What they do:
DevOps engineers function as a “jack of all trades” in regards to databases and information systems in organizations.
DevOps engineers work in a variety of technical areas within their organizations, utilizing a broad set of knowledge and skills. DevOps engineers often work with IT teams to oversee areas of concern such as database architecture and maintenance, web and software development, information security, cloud storage and maintenance. DevOps engineers must have a wide knowledge of current technology and trends, as well as strong communication skills.
Median annual salary:
$91,465
Education Requirements:
DevOps engineers must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, information technology, or a related field. A master’s degree may be desirable for career advancement. DevOps engineers may also pick up a wide range of professional certificates.
Employment growth outlook:
11.5%
5. Applications Architect
What they do:
Applications architects ensure individual software projects follow the organization’s application development methodology and parameters. They also ensure the project fits a company’s technology infrastructure and business strategy.
Typically, large companies employ applications architects to work with a diverse set of existing applications that need to be integrated with numerous new application development projects. Based on an employer’s design standards, applications architects design components of applications, including middleware, interface, and infrastructure.
Median annual salary:
$107,831
Education Requirements:
Individuals in this field must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or information systems. Some positions may require a master’s degree.
Employment growth outlook:
12%
4. Cloud Solutions Architect
What they do:
Cloud solutions architects design solutions for companies seeking to move their IT infrastructure and services from on-premise servers to a cloud-based storage solution.
Cloud solutions architects define the cloud structure for a company and work with business analysts to make sure the architecture is in line with business requirements. They also make sure the cloud service provides high availability, scalability, and fault tolerance. Cloud solutions architects manage cloud infrastructure and ensure that private and public clouds interface well.
Cloud solutions architects must have an understanding of the basics of enterprise architecture, including how to configure information technology assets around the needs of a company; they also need to have an expert understanding of service-oriented architecture (SOA).
Median annual salary:
$120,067
Education Requirements:
Individuals in this field must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, information technology, or a related technical field. Some positions may require a master’s degree in the aforementioned fields. Cloud architects may also choose to pursue a variety of certifications.
Employment growth outlook:
12%
3. Web Developer
What they do:
Web developers collect or create web content and plan website layouts and navigation, as well as coding for web pages. They also test and optimize a website for user experience and optimum performance.
Web developers draw on expert knowledge in programming languages used for the web to develop front-end and back-end aspects of websites and applications. They need to be highly proficient with HTML, Javascript, and CSS, and should be familiar with server-side programming languages to develop more complex applications. Web developers typically work in teams alongside web designers and other IT professionals.
Median annual salary:
$58,005
Education Requirements:
Web developers must have a bachelor’s degree in an area such as computer science, computer programming, information systems, or a related field. Some employers may prefer a master’s degree.
Employment growth outlook:
15%
2. Information Security Analyst
What they do:
Information security analysts develop and implement computer security strategies and systems to protect vital information from computer crime and cyber warfare.
Information security analysts monitor networks for security breaches and, when required, respond to attacks with countermeasures. Information security analysts must understand the current state of threats in the field, the needs of their employers, and current systems available for combating threats to information security. Information security analysts also educate employees on computer security.
Median annual salary:
$70,521
Education Requirements:
Many employers require at least a bachelor’s degree in information security, network security, computer information systems, computer science, or a related field. Also, security-focused professional certificates increase employment opportunities.
Employment growth outlook:
28.5%
1. Mobile Application Developer
What they do:
Mobile application developers create applications for mobile devices, such as iPhones and Androids.
Mobile application developers utilize multiple programming languages to optimize application functioning on a variety of mobile platforms. Individuals in this field may find diverse project and employment opportunities, including optimizing mobile versions of existing applications, designing game apps, or designing functional lifestyle apps.
Median annual salary:
$72,066
Education Requirements:
Mobile app developers should have a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, mobile application development, mobile computing, or a related field of study.
Employment growth outlook:
30.7%