Job hunting has changed significantly in recent years as roles in the information technology sector have become increasingly popular. The demand for skilled professionals has skyrocketed and is projected to go up for many positions. But what are the highest-paying IT jobs, and what are the requirements for getting them?
As businesses worldwide strive to leverage the power of the internet, digital automation, and AI to gain an edge over the competition, the search for capable talent who can make that happen continues. IT jobs range from software engineering to cybersecurity and product management. Let’s find out what the highest-paying IT jobs are with the best outlook!
Key Takeaways
The field of information technology is rapidly expanding, offering a great variety when it comes to the highest-paying IT jobs.
One of the highest-paying careers to get into in the current digital business landscape is artificial intelligence (AI) development.
Other high-paying roles that require extensive knowledge and experience in the field include software engineer managers, cloud architects, cybersecurity architects, and DevOps engineers.
You can get many of the highest-paying IT jobs without a degree, with one of the most prominent examples being web development.
To start your career in IT, you should identify your area of interest and dream role, improve your technical skills, get experience through personal projects or internships, do networking, and so on.
9+ Highest Paying IT Jobs
We’ve compiled an extensive list of IT jobs and their salaries. Keep reading to learn about the job descriptions, median salaries, job outlooks, barriers to entry, and more.
#1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer
Artificial intelligence (AI) engineers are highly knowledgeable IT experts who work on complex algorithms that mimic human intelligence. They have extensive experience with machine learning, deep learning, neural networks, natural language processing models, and other concepts.
The field of AI is encountering a huge expansion that started with the staggering success of ChatGPT, which has set the record for the fastest-growing user base. Artificial intelligence is being increasingly used in many different fields. There are AI virtual assistants and chatbots, fraud detectors, image creators, and more.
Current job growth for AI engineers is at around 19% and is expected to continue. Furthermore, the average salary for AI and machine learning engineers is around $168,000 per year, which makes this one of the highest-paying IT jobs in the world. A strong artificial intelligence engineer resume can help you get one of these positions.
#2. Software Engineer Manager
Software engineer management is the next step in the career of software engineers. This is the job for adept professionals who have attained plenty of experience in the field and are capable of coordinating other people and activities toward reaching common goals.
Due to the numerous responsibilities of software engineer managers, they not only need to have exceptional technical skills but also strong leadership and management skills. They need to have in-depth knowledge of the entire development lifecycle, to control the process from inception to completion and ensure everything is done on time and within budget.
All that responsibility comes with a substantial median salary of $159,920 per year. On top of that, there’s a positive job outlook of 4%. Typically, software engineer managers need a bachelor’s degree and at least five years of experience in the field. A considerable work history is necessary to provide the invaluable coding and problem-solving skills required.
#3. Cloud Architect
Cloud architects are in charge of the digital platforms and solutions in the cloud. Their job is to conceptualize, develop, and implement these solutions, working on them every step of the way.
These professionals need to have a thorough knowledge of cloud computing to create efficient, secure, and scalable systems and applications. This requires considerable technical prowess and proficiency in cloud services, such as Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.
More than that, they need to be adept at cloud security, network design, resource management, and more. Cloud architects often collaborate with professionals from related fields—such as cybersecurity—and stakeholders. As a result, they need strong communication skills.
A median salary for cloud architects varies based on the location, but it hovers at around $150,000 per year. As for education requirements, a degree in computer science or relevant fields is a must. On top of that, a relevant certification, such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect, can vastly improve your job prospects and salary.
#4. Cybersecurity Architect
Cybersecurity architects are tasked with creating, organizing, and maintaining the strategies surrounding the organization’s IT security. Their goal is to protect the company’s data and systems, keep the network stable, and ensure smooth operations at all times.
To do their job, cybersecurity architects need to have a thorough understanding of the company’s computer systems and constantly be updated on the latest trends and practices. That allows them to run continuous vulnerability tests, create and update security policies, provide technical advice to other teams, and more.
As a cybersecurity architect, you can expect a median salary of around $140,000 per year, with 32% job growth in the field of information security. That makes it one of the highest-paying IT jobs with an excellent job outlook.
To get the job, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity or a related major, such as computer science. On top of that, most employers look for at least 5 years of experience in relevant positions. A well-written cybersecurity resume can help you showcase your strengths in the best way possible.
#5. DevOps Engineer
DevOps engineers bridge the gap between software development and IT operations. They are multi-skilled professionals adept at automating processes, shortening development times, reducing resource waste, ensuring the highest quality of work, and expediting deployment.
Such a complex role requires a unique blend of hard skills and soft skills. They allow DevOps engineers to connect interdisciplinary teams and overcome traditional problems that arise when transferring projects from the software development team to quality assurance, testing, and so on.
The DevOps market is projected to grow by 20% between 2023 and 2032. High demand, coupled with a median salary of around $125,000, makes this a lucrative career for IT professionals.
Another benefit of a DevOps career is that you can get into it from several different roles. For instance, software developers interested in IT operations can become DevOps professionals the same way system engineers can after learning to code and test.
#6. Software Developer
Software development is one of the highest-paying IT jobs if you’re into coding. These experts are adept at designing and developing computer programs and software that have a myriad of uses.
The work of a software developer ranges from creating niche applications with specialized uses to inventing robust computer systems and platforms. This requires extensive knowledge of relevant coding languages, such as Python, C++, Java, Ruby, JavaScript, and so on.
Furthermore, as a software developer, you need to have a keen eye for detail and superior analytical and problem-solving skills. That will net you a median salary of $124,200 per year and an exceptionally high job outlook of 25%.
Ultimately, software development is expected to be one of the top IT jobs in the future, based on demand. To get an entry-level position, you typically only need a bachelor’s degree and a well-written software engineer resume.
#7. Database Manager
Database managers are IT professionals in charge of databases that store an organization’s valuable information. They are responsible for ensuring the data remains secure and easily accessible. This is critical for most businesses that use large volumes of digital information for decision-making.
Professionals adept at data management can design these databases to serve specific purposes, implement them in optimal ways, make necessary modifications, conduct performance tuning and security checks, and more.
To become a database manager, administrator, or architect requires at least a bachelor’s degree in a field such as engineering or computer science. Employers also look for proficiency in relevant programming languages and database languages like SQL. Certifications might not be necessary, but they are often provided by software vendors.
Should you get into this career, you’re looking at a median salary of $112,120 per year and an 8% job outlook. A starting salary for these IT jobs is around $99,890 for administrators, but it rises to $134,870 for database architects.
#8. Product Manager
Product managers are in control of the product’s entire lifecycle. Their work starts long before production even begins, as they are the ones who identify the needs of the customers before developing optimal solutions. After that, product managers come up with goals and objectives and manage teams until they are reached.
This complex role requires a varied skill set that ranges from technical expertise to analytical prowess and interpersonal skills. Product managers need to take the customer experience into account when developing roadmaps and actionable plans. Furthermore, they need to maintain constant communication with other teams and stakeholders.
Ultimately, product managers are at the cross-section of business, technology, and UX. For that, they can expect a median salary of $110,422 per year. The salary rapidly grows with seniority, so principal product managers can expect a $180,934 median salary.
A bachelor’s degree is a typical requirement for the job, and a certification can improve your chances as long as you properly showcase it on your product manager resume.
#9. Mobile App Developer
Mobile app developers are code-savvy IT professionals who specialize in creating, testing, and modifying applications for smartphones, tablets, and other portable computers. The vast majority of these specialists work on applications for Android and iOS platforms, but there are those who develop for the Windows Store, Amazon Appstore, and BlackBerry World.
Apart from proficiency in coding, which is standard for mobile app developers, they also need to be well acquainted with the latest trends and practices. They need to have a solid understanding of user experience and visual design and to know how mobile devices differ from traditional computers.
As mobile apps continue to dominate the digital landscape, so will the need for talented professionals who can make them. The current projected growth of job openings is around 21% between 2018 and 2028. Furthermore, there’s a lucrative median salary that ranges between $100,000 and $125,000 based on the company and location.
#10. Web Developer
Web developers are IT professionals tasked with creating, testing, and adjusting websites. Their work revolves around developing tailored solutions that suit clients’ needs. Websites need to be visually appealing and attractive to users, functional and polished from the user experience standpoint, technically sound, and more.
In general, there are two types of web developers:
Two Types of Web Developers
Front-end web developers work on the client side of websites. Their focus is on the visuals and user experience.
Back-end developers work with the server side of the project, and their job is more technical and coding-oriented.
Web development is also one of the highest-paying IT jobs you can get without a degree. While some employers can require a bachelor’s degree, there’s more emphasis on web developer skills, which you can obtain through boot camps or personal projects. As long as you present yourself properly on your web developer resume, you can get into the industry effortlessly.
A median salary for web developers is $80,730 per year, while the job outlook is much faster than average, at 16%.
Companies That Are Hiring in IT
Some of the biggest companies in the world are in IT and are hiring constantly. Let’s see some of the most prominent names in the industry where you can look for jobs:
Companies That Are Hiring in IT
IBM
Amazon
AT&T
Apple
Accenture
Verizon
Microsoft
Oracle
TEKsystems
Lockheed Martin
Northrop Grumman
Google
Comcast
T-Mobile
Meta
Many of these companies have openings for job seekers all the time. Sometimes, a company has hundreds of job openings in different parts of the world, so all you need is a good skill set and knowledge of how to make a resume to land one of them.
5 Tips to Start Your IT Career
Here is a list of expert tips to help you jumpstart your IT career:
5 Tips to Start Your IT Career
Identify your dream role. The field of information technology is vast, and the highest-paying IT jobs range from cybersecurity to AI development. Once you discover what interests you the most, you’ll know which technologies or coding languages to learn and what positions to look for when applying.
Improve your technical skills. Every job in the IT industry requires a specific set of technical skills. Improving these skills is paramount to everything, from getting an internship to landing a promotion and a salary increase.
Work on personal projects. Having personal projects is a great way to put theoretical knowledge into practice and gain invaluable experience. Moreover, you can use personal projects to build a portfolio and increase your chances of impressing recruiters and hiring managers.
Network. Connect with other professionals from your field through various means. This includes everything from social media platforms like LinkedIn and digital networking events to real-life meetings and gatherings. A vast professional network can significantly boost your career, regardless of where you are on your journey.
Do an internship. Internships represent an even better way of getting practical experience than personal projects. While paid internships are harder to get, you can benefit greatly from unpaid ones, as they are perfect for getting your foot in the door. All you need is enough knowledge to get started and a well-written internship resume.
Final Thoughts
The technology sector remains one of the fastest growing in today’s digital business environment. That’s why there is a lot of variety between the highest-paying IT jobs. That makes it easy to pick the career that best suits your needs while still looking forward to a lucrative salary and a positive job outcome.
However, as you begin your professional journey into the IT sphere, remember that it’s not without challenges. The substantial technical knowledge required to do many jobs can put off less determined candidates.
Moreover, there’s a constant need for learning and improving to stay relevant in your field. But as long as you persevere, you’ll be rewarded with a fulfilling career that’s all about growth, innovation, and success!
Highest Paying IT Jobs FAQ
#1. What is the easiest high-paying IT job?
One of the easiest high-paying IT jobs to get into is web development. While the job requires technical skills and coding knowledge, the barrier to entry is lower compared to many other careers. Many entry-level positions don’t even require a bachelor’s degree.
#2. What skills are required for IT jobs?
Skills required for IT jobs vary between different roles and careers. Typically, each position mandates a set of diverse technical skills. Soft skills also vary, so some positions require leadership and communication, while others need analytical skills and problem-solving.
#3. Can you get an IT job without a degree?
There are many IT jobs you can get without a degree. One of the most popular is web development, but you can also become a software engineer, mobile developer, DevOps engineer, cybersecurity specialist, and more, typically with a relevant certification.
#4. Which IT field is the best for the future?
Artificial intelligence is one of the best IT fields for the future. As the world increasingly turns toward AI, the demand for machine learning and deep learning engineers, big data scientists, and similar professionals is only going to grow.
