What Can You Do with That Degree? The Top 8 Jobs in IT for Recent Tech Graduates
The global information technology market will become a $5-billion industry this 2019. The United States accounts for 31% — or $1.6 trillion — of that market.
That makes the U.S. IT sector the largest in the world!
After all, almost nine in 10 Americans already use the Internet. 78% of the U.S. population also own a smartphone, and 73% are desktop/laptop users.
This huge reliance on info tech devices is one of the reasons for the projected 13% growth in U.S. computer and IT jobs. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates there will be 557,100 new jobs in IT between 2016 and 2026!
That’s awesome news for all you recent tech graduates! Now the big question is, which specific occupation should you start with?
Don’t worry. We did the research for you, and we found these eight jobs in the IT industry to be the best picks.
1. Computer Support Specialist
Computer support specialists are also known as IT service help desk specialists. Their primary role is to assist users with software or computer systems. They resolve problems that affect computer software and hardware, networks, and Internet connections.
These support specialists also guide end-users with step-by-step troubleshooting of issues. They answer technical questions, especially how-tos and the dos and don’ts of device usage. They inform users about hardware and software updates, including installation steps.
Help desks provide both organizations and customers a single point of help contact. Some companies even have separate help desks for their employees and their end-users. You can check out Charlotte IT Solutions for more information on this topic.
According to the BLS, computer user support specialists had a median salary of $52,810 in 2017. Most of them work in the Computer Systems Design and Related Services industry. Jobs will also grow by 11% between 2016 and 2026, faster than other occupations.
2. Software Developer
Also known as applications developers, they create programs for computers and mobile devices. These apps or software make information processing quicker and more efficient for users.
Software developers write, run, and test codes to ensure the effectiveness of these programs. Many people also turn to software developers for business website creation. They also develop mobile apps, which are now crucial for effective digital marketing.
The BLS reports a 2017 annual median pay of $103,560 for software developers. Job growth (from 2016 to 2026) in this sector is also faster than other occupations, at 24%.
3. Network Administrators
Network administrators are responsible for managing a company’s computer networks. They’re also often called IT managers or systems administrators. They can provide both on-site and off-site managed IT services.
These IT specialists install and maintain local area networks or wide area networks. They also cover intranet and communications systems installation and management. Part of their role is to resolve and repair problems with these systems.
In 2017, network administrators had an annual median salary of $81,100. Job growth for 2016 to 2026 is at 6%, which is the average for all other occupations.
4. Business Intelligence Analyst
Business intelligence analysts collect and analyze data to uncover market trends. They then use this information to boost efficiency and profits in an organization. They review past and current business trends to see which ones would work for their clients.
Business intelligence analysts often gather data through mining software. They also use competitor data to determine what makes these other businesses successful. From here, they can make recommendations to clients on what they need to improve.
The 2017 annual median pay of computer system analysts was $88,270, according to the BLS. Intelligence analyst jobs in the IT industry are also expected to grow at a 9% rate between 2016 and 2026.
5. Network Engineering
Network engineering is one of the more complex IT graduate jobs, but the pay is worth it. In 2017, BLS reported their median annual salary to be $115,120. Plus, the more experience you get, the more specialist technical certifications you earn.
Network engineers set up, maintain, and upgrade communications systems. These include the LANs and WANs organizations use. But their roles also include ensuring effective data storage, security, and recovery.
6. Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer and information systems managers manage an organization’s entire computer and network setup. That includes all computer devices, hardware, software, and Internet networks. This broader scope of specialization is what sets them apart from network administrators.
These professionals also help organizations figure out their IT goals. They help their clients determine which hardware and software need upgrading. They also review current setups to determine areas for improvement.
With so many specializations, it’s no wonder these people made an annual median salary of $115,120 in 2017. The BLS expects this specific occupation to grow by 5% between 2016 and 2026.
7. IT Consultant
IT consultants provide technical expertise to external clients, often through project-based work. Typical projects involve developing and enforcing IT systems. But clients can also hire them to assess and improve existing computer and IT networks.
Because IT consultancy work is flexible, they can take part in any stage of a project. Clients can hire them for specific areas of a project, such as just for design or code development.
8. Cyber Security Engineers
Cybersecurity engineers design and develop cybersecurity systems. This is one of the more advanced careers in IT, as it needs an in-depth understanding of cyber threats, especially since cybercriminals develop 360,000 new types of malware every day.
Cybersecurity engineers design computer and IT systems that can withstand these attacks. They also create natural disaster-proof systems and develop appropriate data recovery programs. In case an actual breach takes place, they will be the first to respond to mitigate its effects.
Cybersecurity engineers make an average of $93,553 every year. Those with greater tenure can take home as much as $130,998 a year.
Make the Most of Your Degree with One of These Jobs in IT
There are plenty of other jobs in IT, but these eight are some of the most in demand. Most are also great choices for new grads since they only require a bachelor’s degree. It’s best you get started on applying ASAP though, so you can avoid being part of the 4% unemployment rate.
Once you’ve found your dream job, be sure to follow these recruitment tips we have! These’ll help boost your chances of securing that position you want for your career.