What Are Some of the Best Jobs in IT?
The Information technology industry is one of the best sectors for future job growth and lucrative salaries. In fact, IT jobs claimed several of the top slots on the “U.S. News & World Report” list of the 100 best jobs of 2014 based, in part, on these factors. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an average job growth rate of 10.8 percent from 2012 through 2022. However, some IT jobs will grow in demand by 22 percent to 37 percent during the same time frame. Also, the median annual wage of the average U.S. worker was $34,750 according to May 2012 salary information, but several IT career options pay more than double that amount. These dynamics combine to make IT an excellent industry in which to pursue a career.
Software Developers
Software developers were ranked the top job on the “U.S. News & World Report” list of the 100 best jobs of 2014. In 2012, they earned a median annual pay of $93,350, according to the BLS. Also, demand for software developers is projected to increase by 22 percent from 2012 through 2022. Software developers create applications for smart phones and other types of software for computer applications and systems. They usually have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering or a related subject.
Computer Systems Analysts
Computer systems analysts were the 2nd highest-rated occupation on the “U.S. News & World Report” list of the 100 best jobs of 2014. The median annual pay of computer systems analysts was $79,680, according to May 2012 BLS salary data. The growth rate for this profession is expected to reach 25 percent from 2012 to 2022. Computer systems analysts study an organization’s current information technology situation and then devise new computer systems or revise the existing systems to make them operate more efficiently and effectively. Most computer systems analysts have a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field.
Web Developers
Web developers landed in 9th place on the “U.S. News & World Report” list of the 100 best jobs of 2014. May 2012 salary data from the BLS indicates that web developers earned $62,500. From 2012 through 2022, web developers can expect a 20 percent increase in demand for their services. Web developers create websites, and determine the overall look, functionality, capacity and speed of the websites. They may also incorporate audio, video and graphic elements and monitor web site traffic. An associate’s degree in web design or a related field, along with a programming background, is usually the educational requirement for web developers.
Information Security Analysts
Information security analysts held the 11th spot on the “U.S. News & World Report” list of the 100 best jobs of 2014. They could expect to earn $86,170 according to May 2012 data from the BLS. A 37 percent growth rate is projected from 2012 through 2022. Information security analysts monitor an organization’s computer networks and systems to discover vulnerabilities and then develop ways to provide protection from cyber threats and other types of security breaches. Information security analysts typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming or a related degree.
