The tech industry is booming, so now is the perfect time to learn about the best tech jobs in the industry. We’ve ranked these top jobs in tech based on several factors, including salary, job outlook, and education requirements.
The information in this guide comes from a variety of sources, including the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, ZipRecruiter, and PayScale.
2020 is here, so we won’t keep you waiting–here are the best tech jobs for the new decade.
The 20 Best Tech Jobs for the Future
1. Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Engineer
- Average Base Salary: $146,085
- Job Growth, 2015-18: 344%
AI/Machine Learning Engineers are in high demand as the tech industry shifts its focus toward the emerging field of automation. Thus, AI and Machine Learning gigs are among the best tech jobs for the future by most measures.These developers spend their time using big data to train models involved in natural language processing, economic forecasting, and image recognition.
2. Data Scientist
Organizations and businesses are collecting more and more data every day. That’s why it’s more important than ever to have experts skilled in data science. Data Scientists spend their working hours compiling, cleaning, and presenting data for organizations to make informed decisions. The number of job openings for Data Science is huge and shows no sign of slowing. With this high demand, data scientist is an easy choice for any list of best tech jobs.
3. Information Security Analyst
- Median Salary, 2018: $98,350
- BLS Job Outlook, 2018-28: 32% (much faster than average)
Computers and digital information continue to encompass nearly everything in the business world. That’s why we need Information Security Analysts. They work on the front lines to protect information systems from cyber threats. Security Analysts are essential to protecting user data and sensitive company information. They ensure that our data is safe and that companies utilize effective protective systems.
Many employers still expect a bachelor’s degree in computer science, but it’s possible to land an information security analyst position without a degree.
4. Software Engineer
- Median Salary, 2018: $105,590
- BLS Job Outlook, 2018-28: 21% (much faster than average)
Software engineering is one of the most versatile tech jobs on this list. Think about it– you probably use the work of software engineers every day. The apps on your phones were developed by software engineers. Your Internet browser was designed by software engineers. In fact, nearly every industry in the world uses some kind of software. This means the demand for software engineers isn’t waning anytime soon.
If you’re interested in this thriving field, there are a number of paths to a career as a software developer. Some developers opt for a bachelor’s degree or even a master’s in computer science. But more and more tech companies and other employers are becoming less interested in applicants having college degrees in computer science. Instead, many employers focus on the need for practical experience in developing software applications.
5. Computer Research Scientist
- Median Salary, 2018: $118,370
- BLS Job Outlook, 2018-28: 16% (much faster than average)
Computer Research Science is one of the most lucrative and rewarding careers in tech. Computer Research Scientists are at the forefront of technological innovation. They research and discover new ways to do amazing things with computer technology and help drive progress.
6. Data Analyst
In today’s business world, data is king. That’s why more and more roles in companies have a heavy focus on data and making data useful. One such role is that of data analyst. Data analysts have to be skilled at interpreting data. They ensure data accuracy and find the best ways to use that data.
7. IT Manager
- Median Salary, 2018: $142,530
- BLS Job Outlook, 2018-28: 11% (much faster than average)
Another fantastic tech job is in IT management. IT managers focus on the information technology sector of a company. They plan and coordinate everything this department does. They also look for ways to improve IT systems. IT managers are typically in charge of a highly skilled technical team.
8. Database Administrator
- Median Salary, 2018: $90,070
- BLS Job Outlook, 2018-28: 9% (faster than average)
Database Administrators, similarly to data scientists, work with large volumes of digital information and help clients manage data. These professionals also maintain databases and ensure that computer systems run as efficiently and effectively as possible.
9. Web Developer
- Median Salary, 2018: $69,430
- BLS Job Outlook, 2018-28: 13% (much faster than average)
Web developers use programming languages and frameworks to design, build, and maintain websites and web applications. The internet is here to stay, so the need for qualified web developers will continue to grow for the foreseeable future. Even better, Web Developers bring in handsome salaries. Entry level developers also command impressive wages. Web developers are behind every website and web application you use, including this one.
10. Computer Hardware Engineer
- Median Salary, 2018: $114,600
- BLS Job Outlook, 2018-28: 6% (as fast as average)
Computer Hardware Engineers design, build, and repair the physical circuitry that makes computers work. And while software is the face of the tech industry, tech companies still need hardware professionals. Hardware engineers are well-paid, and the position offers a hands-on approach that’s attractive to many people.
11. Computer Systems Analyst
- Median Salary, 2018: $88,740
- BLS Job Outlook, 2018-28: 9% (faster than average)
Computer Systems Analysts are essential because technology changes rapidly. These professionals analyze computer systems for companies and perform updates to make systems more efficient.
12. DevOps Engineer
- Average Salary, 2019: $111,311
- Job Outlook: N/A
DevOps engineers primarily work with the production of software, overseeing code releases to make sure everything goes smoothly. Their job is to find where the software is inefficient and ensure that everything runs as efficiently as possible. They do this by monitoring the software, troubleshooting it, and editing or configuring it if need be.The best part is, most tech companies are now open to remote work as telecommuting becomes easier. This makes DevOps Engineer one of the highest paying remote jobs in the market.
13. Computer Network Architect
- Median Salary, 2018: $109,020
- BLS Job Outlook, 2018-28: 5% (as fast as average)
Computer Network Architects design complex digital systems and cloud computing infrastructure for big and small businesses. This field helps companies function in the digital era. Computer Network Architects command a high salary and good job prospects.
14. Java Developer
- Average Salary, 2019: $103,464
- Job Outlook: N/A
Another one of the best tech jobs around today is in Java development. Java is a robust programming language. It’s extremely useful for finance, building Android apps, research, big data, and much more. A Java developer uses their Java skills to develop and test programs. Since Java is used so widely in a variety of big industries, opportunities in the field will continue to rise.
15. Tech Sales Engineer
- Median Salary, 2018: $101,420
- BLS Job Outlook, 2018-28: 6% (as fast as average)
Tech sales is a great way to start a technology career without learning to code. For some people, especially former salespeople, this position can be highly rewarding and quite lucrative. Plus, the demand for qualified sales engineers is very high. Tech sales professionals enjoy good salaries, commission, and straight-forward education options, often with job guarantees.
16. PHP Developer
- Average Salary: $86,616
- Job Outlook: N/A
PHP developers use their skills to improve websites and software. Using their knowledge, they can add features and new functions to websites. They do this to make programs more dynamic.
17. Python Developer
- Average Base Salary: $85,571
- Job Outlook: N/A
Python is another extremely popular and widely used programming language, and Python development is one of the best tech jobs today. A Python developer creates and test code for a variety of apps, software, and systems. They work with data mining, cloud and web development, machine learning, and more. They also update and evaluate programs on a regular basis.
18. Network and Systems Administrator
- Median Salary, 2018: $82,050
- BLS Job Outlook, 2018-28: 5% (as fast as average)
Network and Systems Administrators are in-demand today in virtually every industry in the country. Every business utilizes systems and networks. As a result, businesses need trained professionals to manage these vital and complex systems. Network and Systems Administrators earn high salaries, even compared to other technology jobs.
19. Mobile Application Developer
- Average Salary, 2019: $73,034
- Job Outlook: N/A
Mobile Application Development is an exciting tech field that demands creativity and keen problem solving skills. Do you have an idea for a new app that will offer entertainment, convenience, or some other value? Then consider mobile app development, since we’re all waiting for the next great app!
20. Web Designer
- Average Salary, 2019: $64,030
- Job Outlook: N/A
Web designers, like web developers, work with websites and web applications. However, the position is oriented towards the visual aspects of site building. It makes web design an attractive option for creative people. Web design is a broad career path, but there are plenty of opportunities in the job market.
Are you ready to break into one of the best tech jobs and future proof your career? Take our free career quiz and find out which in-demand jobs in tech are right for you!
Good list you sorted here
This list is braindead. Web Developers only make $65,000 but PHP devs make $90k .. OKAYDOKEY!!!!!
Hi, Jon! Thanks for the feedback. For this article, we used the best publicly-available information we had access to. As for the disparity between WebDev and PHP Dev salaries here, it likely has something to do with the wide range of web development out there. For instance, a WebDev that focuses solely on front end development might command a lower salary than one who specializes in PHP for back end development. That’s just a hypothesis, but I’ll definitely look into this further to hopefully provide a better answer and update the post. Thanks again for taking the time out to offer your take!