Top 20 In-Demand Tech Roles with Salary Insights

One of the most promising career fields in the US? Yes, it’s none other than the technology, or IT, field. The tech career still dominates the dynamic world we are living in today. With the enormous advancements in technology and the use of smartphones and the internet, career opportunities in technology are endless.

The tech sector is booming, and many MNCs and upcoming startups are looking for tech professionals to leverage their IT skills. It is estimated that by 2030, nearly 3.7 billion people will be accessing the Internet. Imagine the amount of data we will be consuming. Imagine the number of data specialists, developers, analysts, and other IT professionals who will be required.

Top 20 In-Demand Tech Jobs

If you are a freshly graduated student or a working professional looking for a career transition, know about the top 20 high-paying job roles in the technology or IT Field. We have curated this list to share in-depth information about each tech job role.

1. Software Engineer
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer
3. Cloud Architect
4. Blockchain Developer
5. Full Stack Developer
6. Product Manager
7. Data Scientist
8. DevOps Engineer
9. Big Data Engineer
10. Mobile Application Developer
11. Data Security Analyst
12. Cyber Security Engineer
13. Development Operations Manager
14. User Interface (UI) Designers
15. Front-end developers
16. Database Manager
17. Software Architect
18. Business Intelligence Analyst
19. IOT Solution Architect
20. Machine Learning Engineer

1. Software Engineer

 As a software engineer, your job responsibilities include developing and running different software that can operate on different platforms and operating systems. A software engineer needs to design, develop, and test code for the smooth working of the software.

As a fresher, software engineering is the perfect job field to start your career in. With a few years of experience as a software engineer, one can acquire the post of software engineering manager.

Skill Set required: For becoming a software engineer, you must be well-versed in computer languages like Python, Java, and Javascript. Other than these, you need to have a strong grasp of concepts like data structures, data management, and operating systems.

Average Salary: In the US, the average starting salary of a software engineer is $66,000 to $120,000 per year; mid-level salaries could range from $99,000 to $180,000 per year; and senior-level salaries could range from $132,000 to $240,000 per year. Depending on the years of experience, the salary increases over time. 

2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer

Amidst the buzz of AI replacing your jobs or not, an AI engineer creates these AI software and applications. There’s a high demand for this job profile in the coming years. An AI engineer builds AI models through machine learning, deep learning, and neural networks. These models work on the business insights necessary to make business decisions that affect the entire organization.

Skill Set required: Python, R, and Java. Adequate knowledge of the concepts of probability, linear algebra, statistics, and algorithms is essential.

Average Salary: You can expect an annual salary of around $100,000 to $150,000 in the US as an Artificial Intelligence Engineer. As per your skill set and experience, your salary may vary.

3. Cloud Architect

The prominent job responsibilities of a Cloud architect include cloud application design, cloud management, and monitoring. The technician develops applications, identity, and access management networks, and data management.

Skill Set required: One should have basic knowledge of Java and Python. One needs to be well-versed in cloud computing and cloud technologies like the Google Cloud Platform, Microsoft Azure, and Amazon Web Services.

Average Salary: In the US, you can earn around $135,000 per year as a Cloud Architect.

4. Blockchain Developer

Blockchain Developer develops a software application for blockchain protocol architecture. Developers conduct research, analyze, design, and execute. They create interfaces, features, and architectures.

Skills Set required: As a blockchain developer, you’ll have to learn web design, development, and the programming of apps. And programming languages like C++, Java, and Python are essential.

Average Salary: The average salary of a blockchain developer in the US ranges between $80,000 and $150,000, with an average annual salary of $110,000.

5. Full Stack Developer

Indeed, being a full-stack developer is one of the most in-demand career options. It’s a very well-paying job, not just in the US but abroad too. A full-stack developer is a versatile professional who is skilled in both the front-end and back-end development of web applications. They are responsible for creating and maintaining all aspects of a website or web application, from the user interface and user experience (front end) to the server-side logic and database management (back end).

Skill Set required: Individuals should be proficient in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and server-side programming languages like Python or Java. Additionally, they should know about databases, web development frameworks, and version control systems and possess strong problem-solving and communication skills.

Average Salary: Full-stack developers can earn around $70,000 to $120,000 per year. But with the increase in experience, knowledge, and skills, this salary can be as high as $120,000 to $180,000 per year.

6. Product Manager

A product manager needs to understand the customer’s problem and create features and solutions for it. A technology project manager is responsible for managing the development and execution of technology projects within an organization. They collaborate with stakeholders, including developers, designers, and clients, to define project goals, create project plans, allocate resources, and ensure timely delivery.

Skill Set required: Along with basic programming skills and knowledge of SQL codes, one should know about software or tools like Figma, Jira, and Google Analytics.

Average Salary: The startup culture in the US is booming, and it has increased the demand for project managers. The average salary could be around $80,000 to $120,000 per year.

7. Data Scientist

The job role of a data scientist involves analyzing complex data sets to extract meaningful insights and patterns. They use statistical models, machine learning algorithms, and data visualization techniques to uncover valuable information that can guide business decisions. Data scientists also play a crucial role in developing and implementing predictive models, conducting experiments, and communicating their findings to stakeholders.

Skill set required: Apart from programming languages like Python and R, a data scientist requires a strong background in mathematics, statistics, programming, and a deep understanding of data analysis techniques.

Average Salary: A data scientist is one of the premier job roles offering high payments. The average salary is approximately $100,000 to $150,000 per year.

8. DevOps Engineer

A DevOps engineer creates tools and software to support and automate the various stages of the software life cycle, from coding and testing to deployment and maintenance.

Skill Set required: Coding/scripting, automation tools, cloud platforms, containerization. DevOps engineers should also possess interpersonal skills since they work across company silos to create a more collaborative environment.

Average Salary: A DevOps Engineer’s salary in the US ranges between $90,000 and $150,000. The average salary is approximately $120,000. 

9. Big Data Engineer

The work of a big data engineer revolves around big data applications. They manage the entire life cycle of large-scale deployments, utilizing their technical expertise in the following areas: Software utilities, such as Hadoop and Spark, Data warehousing technologies, and Data visualization

Skill Set Required: One needs skills in programming languages like Java, Python, or Scala, as they are commonly used in Big Data processing frameworks like Hadoop and Spark. Proficiency in working with distributed computing systems and experience with data processing and storage technologies are beneficial.

Average Salary: The average big data engineer salary in the US ranges between $100,000 and $160,000, with an average annual salary of $130,000.

10. Mobile Application Developer

We live in the digital age, surrounded by apps and software to make our lives easier. The demand for mobile application developers has increased like never before. Mobile app development has emerged as one of the most profitable and rapidly expanding professions.

Skill Set Required: One needs skills in programming languages such as Java, Kotlin, Swift, or React Native, as these are commonly used for mobile app development. Proficiency in mobile development frameworks, understanding of mobile app architecture, knowledge of UI/UX design principles, and experience with mobile app testing and debugging are also crucial skills for mobile application developers.

Average Salary: The average mobile application developer salary in the US ranges between $70,000 and $120,000, with an average annual salary of $90,000.

11. Data Security Analyst

Data security professionals ensure that computer networks and systems are protected from viruses and hackers. They frequently perform this service for individual firms, ensuring that antivirus software and other security products are up-to-date and functioning properly.

Skill Set Required: One needs skills in cybersecurity concepts, practices, and technologies such as network security, encryption, vulnerability assessment, and incident response. Proficiency in tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and security information and event management (SIEM) systems is important.

Average Salary: The average security analyst salary in the US ranges between $60,000 and $120,000, with an average salary of $90,000.

12. Cyber Security Engineer

A cyber security engineer designs and implements security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems. They may also conduct security audits and manage security incident response.

Skill Set Required: Cyber engineers should be familiar with network security, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities and the capacity to think strategically about security threats and weaknesses are required.

Average Salary: Depending upon work experience, location, and other factors, the average salary for a Cyber Security Engineer is approximately $90,000 to $150,000 in the US.

13. Development Operations Manager

A development operations manager is in charge of a company’s development and operations. They ensure that all these operations occur smoothly and efficiently and that all projects are completed on time and within budget.

Skill Set Required: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a similar field is mandatory for development operations managers. They must possess strong leadership and managerial abilities and a thorough understanding of the development process. In addition, they should be familiar with Agile development methodologies.

Average Salary: In the US, the typical yearly payment for a Development Operations Manager ranges from $100,000 to $160,000.

14. User Interface (UI) Designers

User interface designers work on the appearance and feel of digital products—websites, apps, and software. They collaborate with people to understand their demands and build user-friendly designs that achieve their objectives. This career has recently started gaining demand in the tech field.

Skill Set Required: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is preferred. One should have a strong grasp on subjects like Interaction Design, Visual Design, Graphic Design, or a related field.

Average Salary: UI/UX Designers in the US can expect a salary of approximately $60,000 to $110,000 per year ($5,000 to $9,000 per month).

15. Front-end developers 

Front-end developers are professionals who work on designing and developing the visual components of websites and applications to make them more engaging and user-friendly.

Skill Set Required: Programming Languages: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript Front-end developers design user-interactive elements of websites and apps such as menus, buttons, and forms. They need soft talents such as effective communication and interpersonal abilities.

Average Salary: The average salary for a front-end developer in the US is approximately $70,000 to $120,000 per year.

16. Database Manager

A database manager develops and oversees the systems that a company uses to store and organize data. They ensure the security of the stored data by implementing several security protocols. Furthermore, the database manager monitors the day-to-day operations and evaluates the data storage requirements of enterprises.

The average yearly earnings for a database manager in the US are approximately $80,000 to $140,000, with wages ranging from $70,000 to $160,000.

17. Software Architect 

A software architect enhances the development process by making design choices and establishing standards for coding, tools, and platforms. A software architect determines what a client requires and develops prototypes.

Skills like programming and analytical skills, knowledge of software, and Data modeling are very beneficial for a career in software architecture.

Average Salary: In the US, the demand for software architects is at an all-time high, and the salaries can range from $120,000 to over $250,000 annually.

18. Business Intelligence Analyst

A Business Intelligence Analyst is a specialist who analyses data and reports on trends, patterns, and insights to improve a company’s operations and performance.

For a job as a business analyst, a degree in business, economics, computer science, or a related field is required. Proficiency in coding languages such as SQL, R, and Python and data visualization tools such as Tableau and Power BI is also helpful. The skills required to succeed as a Business Intelligence Analyst include strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Average Salary: In the US, the payment package for a business analyst is around $70,000 to $100,000. However, a senior business analyst has an average salary package of $90,000 to $130,000.

19. IOT Solution Architect

An Internet of Things (IoT) solution architect designs and manages the Internet of Things for a business. An IoT specialist creates and demonstrates the IoT concept and architecture. It is one of the tech jobs that will be in demand.

The salary of an IoT Solution Architect typically ranges from $110,000 to $180,000 per year.

20. Machine Learning Engineer

Machine learning experts use data analysis and software engineering techniques to assist machines in learning on their own without the need for additional programming. They typically create intelligent programs and algorithms that enable devices to learn naturally, make decisions, and execute actions based on experiences without input from humans, such as news feeds or self-driving cars.

Skill Set required: To be a successful machine learning engineer, you should be familiar with concepts such as data mining, predictive analytics, computational statistics, mathematical optimization, and exploratory data analysis.

Average Salary: The average machine learning engineer salary in the US ranges between $100,000 and $180,000, with an average salary of $130,000.

Prominent Recruiting Companies for Tech Professionals in the US:

• Robert Half Technology
• TEKsystems
• Randstad Technologies
• Hired
• CyberCoders
• Indeed Prime
• LinkedIn Talent Solutions
• Dice
• Workbridge Associates
• Toptal

Conclusion

The technology sector continues to provide an abundance of in-demand job opportunities. Career options like Cybersecurity professionals, data scientists and analysts, software developers and engineers, AI and ML experts, IT project managers, and many more are vital for advancing innovation, improving security, and ensuring successful digital transformations.

If you recently graduated and aspire to work in the technology field, this is the right time to build on your skill sets and get hands-on experience. Work experience and advanced skill sets will bring you high-paying working opportunities.

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