5 Exciting IT Careers to Consider
From breakthroughs in artificial intelligence to cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions, the IT field is constantly evolving, giving rise to an ever-expanding range of career trajectories. The rapid pace of technological innovation has created an environment where there are always new frontiers to explore and complex challenges to tackle. If you're considering an IT profession, there is no shortage of possibilities to pursue. The following well-paying, in-demand IT jobs allow you to play a pivotal role in shaping the global digital landscape. Read on to learn about some of the most innovative and rewarding IT careers awaiting your exploration.
1. Forensic Computer Analyst
Individuals who are passionate about technology and have strong investigative skills may want to consider a career in forensic computer analysis. Professionals in this field use their IT skills to investigate and analyze digital assets for information that’s valuable to legal cases. Forensic computer analysts employ advanced techniques to crack passwords, recover destroyed or hidden data, trace emails, and detect suspicious network activity. They work in many different settings, including law enforcement agencies, cybersecurity companies, corporate IT departments, and law firms. Forensic computer analysts handle a variety of responsibilities. On any given day, they may search networks or devices for evidence of fraud or other criminal activity, provide expert testimony in court, or determine how cybercriminals breached a computer system.
Forensic computer analysts use their proficiency in programming languages, network architecture, and cybersecurity best practices to scour digital assets for information. The top forensic computer analysts have excellent problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail. As digital evidence becomes increasingly crucial in legal cases, the demand for information security analysts, including forensic computer analysts, is projected to increase significantly. According to Payscale, the median annual salary for forensic computer analysts is $78,107. Most forensic computer analyst jobs require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, digital forensics, cybersecurity and information assurance, network engineering and security, or a related field. Advanced positions may require a master’s degree.
2. Penetration Tester
The term “hacker” is sometimes considered synonymous with cybercriminal. However, some IT professionals make a living by hacking into networks to help companies strengthen their security measures. Penetration testers are ethical hackers who conduct simulated attacks on security systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit. Preventing cyberattacks is a top priority for businesses across industries. Forbes estimates that by 2025, the cost of cybercrime worldwide will reach a staggering $10.5 trillion. Vulnerability assessments conducted by penetration testers provide valuable insights that organizations can use to eliminate vulnerabilities, enhance cybersecurity measures, and safeguard against attacks.
The median annual salary for penetration testers is $94,148. Most penetration testers, or pen testers, have a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity and information assurance, computer science, or IT. Because the job requires auditing digital assets for potential security risks and vulnerabilities, penetration testers need a robust understanding of operating systems, network protocols, and web applications. Familiarity with the latest cyberattack strategies and companies' methods to combat data breaches and other cybercrime is also essential.
3. AI Trainer
As AI becomes integral to numerous digital tools and programs, the demand for IT professionals who can develop and implement AI technologies also increases. AI trainers are essential to creating reliable AI models. These professionals teach chatbots, image recognition programs, and other AI systems to make accurate predictions and decisions. They have a broad range of duties. During a typical workday, an AI trainer may organize and clean input data, configure AI conditions and responses, test conversational flows, and gather metrics about the program’s effectiveness.
Organizations increasingly invest in AI trainers to improve algorithmic efficiency, reduce biases, and enhance the overall reliability of AI programs. AI trainers typically need a bachelor's degree in data analytics, data management, IT, computer science, or a related field. They also must possess strong analytical and writing skills, especially if they're training chatbots to have natural conversations. According to Glassdoor, AI trainers make an average annual salary of $92,404.
4. Automation Architect
In today's highly competitive business environment, companies increasingly turn to automation to gain a competitive edge. Through automation, businesses can reduce costs, minimize errors, streamline processes, and drive innovation. Automation architects are the professionals who make this happen. They collaborate with business leaders and stakeholders to understand the company's needs and identify areas where automation can provide the most value. They then design and implement automation solutions that meet these needs, ensuring that the automated processes function as intended. Automation architects are primarily concerned with enhancing business processes rather than focusing on specific technologies or platforms.
Companies employing automation architects often prefer candidates with formal education in IT, computer science, data science, or a related field. They also look for individuals with the business savvy needed to understand strategic objectives and communicate effectively with stakeholders. Payscale estimates that, on average, automation architects earn about $101,114 a year. Salaries for automation architects can vary. An individual’s professional experience, education, and geographic location can influence their pay rate substantially.
5. Algorithm Engineer
Algorithm engineers design, develop, and implement algorithms. These talented individuals create the rules and systems that enable algorithms to solve problems and execute tasks. Leveraging a combination of data science, programming, and mathematics, they fine-tune algorithms to manage data sets and derive meaningful insights. Their responsibilities also include analyzing algorithms for security vulnerabilities that increase the risk of cyberattacks and mitigating biases that create unfair outcomes. Becoming an algorithm engineer requires expertise in programming, mathematics, data science, and software development principles.
As the demand for technological innovation rises, algorithm engineering becomes increasingly essential, and there are plenty of career opportunities in this field. While salaries vary based on industry, location, and experience, the average algorithm engineer makes $121,500 a year. However, it is important to note that this figure is not set in stone and can fluctuate based on a variety of conditions. A degree in computer science, information technology, data science, software engineering, or mathematics can lay the educational groundwork for success in this dynamic and challenging profession.
A Wide-Open Future
As emerging technologies continue to evolve, opportunities arise in the IT industry, leading to the creation of new jobs in IT. An online IT degree can equip you with essential skills and knowledge that establish the foundation of an exciting and rewarding career in the tech industry. WGU’s bachelor’s and master’s degree programs are developed with input from industry leaders, and course content is consistently updated to align with evolving employer requirements and market trends. We also offer a wide range of online IT certifications that are designed to enhance your knowledge, bolster your résumé, and help you land your dream job. At WGU, you can earn your degree online at a speed that works for you. Our competency-based approach to higher education means that you have the flexibility to customize your learning journey to suit your individual needs. Apply today!
