It’s no secret that the world of information technology is growing by leaps and bounds. With each new advancement in hardware, software, or networking technology, businesses and organizations of all sizes are finding new ways to use IT to improve their operations and bottom lines. As a result, the demand for qualified IT professionals has never been higher. And that means good news for young people looking for high-paying jobs with plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement.
If you’re one of those young people who are interested in a career in information technology, you’re in luck. In this article, we will explore six different IT careers that are currently in high demand and offer excellent salaries and job security. So whether you’re just starting your career or looking to change paths, these lucrative opportunities should be worth exploring.
1. Support Specialist
Support specialists are the first line of defense when it comes to technical support for a company’s customers. Whether you’re working with internal IT systems or customer-facing applications, your role is to offer expert troubleshooting and workarounds that can help end-users solve whatever problems they are facing. Some common duties you might be expected to perform include (but are not limited to):
- Answering questions about software applications or other IT-related topics that are presented by customers in person, via phone, email, or chat communication.
- Explaining technical information to customers in terms they can easily understand.
- Working closely with both customers and other IT staff to ensure timely resolution of their problems.
There are many IT companies, such as truis.com.au, that hire support specialists. However, you’ll need to have a technical background to be able to work in the IT industry. For example, some companies ask for certification in CompTIA A+, Microsoft, Cisco, or something similar.
2. Data Scientist
Data scientists specialize in analyzing and interpreting data to help businesses make more effective decisions with their IT investments, such as whether or not to upgrade an old application or purchase a new one. This requires the use of various statistical analysis techniques to offer insight into various business problems while working closely with other members of the IT team to implement solutions.
The requirements for this job can vary, but data scientists typically have a degree in information technology or a related field. In addition, some professionals choose to pursue professional certification from various organizations.
3. QA Tester
QA testers, also known as software quality assurance analysts, are responsible for helping businesses create high-quality products that meet expected standards. This includes everything from verifying products are working properly before they go to the market to helping troubleshoot issues if there is a problem.
This role requires extensive education and training, but some common requirements for this job include (but are not limited to):
- A bachelor’s degree in information technology or another related field.
- Professional certification from organizations like CompTIA or Microsoft.
- Experience testing software or other IT products.
QA testers are often employed by major companies, but you can also find work as a freelance tester on platforms such as upwork.com.
4. Web Developer
Web developers are responsible for creating websites that are functional and user-friendly. Some of the duties you might be expected to perform include:
- Analyzing website designs and wireframes provided by business managers, then creating websites that match their vision for how they want customers or members of the public to interact with it.
- Identifying areas where websites can be improved, whether in terms of functionality, usability, or other factors.
- Ensuring websites are accessible to customers using any device or web browser.
A degree in the field of information technology isn’t necessary, but web developers usually have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university. In addition, there are various types of web development roles, so you can specialize in everything from front-end design to back-end web development.
5. UX Designer
UX designers constantly assess their users’ needs and then create systems that meet those needs. This might involve helping companies use data science to identify customer needs, then create different solutions that will meet those needs. You might need to perform tasks like:
- Identifying problems faced by users in performing various activities on websites or other platforms used for business transactions.
- Brainstorming solutions with teams of UX designers and other members of the business team to develop a product that will meet user needs.
- Creating wireframes for new products and then using different techniques to help determine which features are most important for users.
You might find work as a UX designer with major companies, but there are also many platform-based tools available where you can do freelance work or set up your own shop as a UX designer. Keep in mind that you will need a degree in design or a related field, as well as experience working with customers to understand their needs.
6. IT Security Specialist
IT security specialists are responsible for overseeing all aspects of an organization’s data safety and continuity plan – especially in terms of preventing potential cyber-attacks. This role typically involves monitoring the environment for any signs that a network has been breached or for any data that has been stolen.
This role requires a lot of education and training, including the following:
- A bachelor’s degree in information technology or a related field.
- At least two years of experience managing a complex project.
- The ability to identify and address security risks.
Careers in this field require a ton of responsibility, as well as a high-level understanding of technology, so it’s important that young people understand what they’re getting themselves into before pursuing this type of work.
There you have it – six high-paying IT careers that are perfect for young people just starting their professional journey. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding field, any of these roles could be a great fit for you. Keep in mind that education and training requirements will vary depending on the role, so do your research to make sure you’re getting what you need to start climbing the career ladder. Are there other IT careers that you think to deserve to be on this list?