There was a time when only a small group of innovative, largely self-taught individuals worked on computers and the internet. Today, nearly every career requires the use of computers, tablets, or other tech in some capacity.
But if you have a knack for computers and operating the latest technology, you can also opt for a career that puts you front and center to developing new ideas, promoting online security, or helping businesses manage their digital presence.
Keep reading to learn 5 of the top IT jobs you can choose from today.
1. Mobile Application Developer
If you’re looking for a trendy, in-demand career with an opportunity to work for yourself, a career as a mobile application developer might be for you.
Mobile app developers create applications for smartphones, as well as for desktops. To do this, they need an advanced knowledge of at least a few programming languages.
Some mobile application developers work in-house for companies, while others may work as contractors or freelancers.
You could always try going it alone and developing your own applications to sell. But keep in mind that with 2.2 million apps on the Apple App Store and 2.8 million on the Google Play Store, your app is going to have a lot of competition.
2. Web Developer
One of the fastest growing IT jobs available today is in web development.
Similar to mobile app developers, web developers also need to know how to code in a variety of languages. They also need to learn to design websites that can handle heavy traffic, deal with bandwidth issues, and more.
Many web developers also produce content for the websites they create. If they don’t, they might instead, turn written content and images from producers into web-friendly content and post them to the site.
3. Business Analyst
The title might not necessarily imply that this is an IT career. But business analysts use technology to manage business finances and operations and to look for solutions to problems as they arise.
You won’t need to know how to code to succeed as a business analyst. Instead, you’ll use computer software to find solutions and streamline operations.
To land a job as a business analyst, you’ll need to first prove that you know how to use the necessary software. Besides learning on your own, look for ways that you can prove to potential employers that you know what you’re doing, such as by earning your TOGAF certification.
4. Information Security Analyst
Every 39 seconds, a hacker attacks an individual or business. These attacks can lead to identity theft, stolen credit card information, sensitive information being compromised, and more.
It’s the job of Information Security Analysts to stop these attacks. Working for businesses, they take a look at an organization’s online security features and improve it as necessary. Then, they monitor online activity and report or correct potential breaches.
If you dream of fighting crime on the web in a high-paying, steady career field, this might be the perfect job for you.
5. Database Administrator
Businesses in every industry have information that they need to store digitally. From customer information to purchase histories to patient health records, all this information has to go somewhere.
That’s where databases come in. A Database Administrator is in charge of setting up and monitoring these databases.
Like Information Security Analysts, Database Administrators look for breaches of security and prevent them where possible. They are also constantly updating and upgrading database software.
Choosing the Best IT Jobs for You
Any of the IT jobs on this list is a good fit for someone with a passion for the latest technology and an interest in working in a competitive, challenging field.