List of High-Paying Technology-Based Careers

by Alan Hughes

The world of technology provides many jobs around the world, and there are many different types of jobs within the technology field. In the early days of computing most of those involved had to do a little bit of everything, but in today’s world most people specialize in one aspect of technology or another. The complexity of systems and the education and training required to produce and maintain those systems have resulted in a number of high-paying technology careers.

Computer Programmer

Computer programmers write the actual code that runs on computers. Applications may range from operating systems to word processors to accounting packages. Of course, writing operating-system code requires much more technical ability than writing an accounting program, and the pay for an operating-system programmer is much higher. The minimum educational requirement is typically a four-year degree. As of 2010, the median pay for computer programmers was just above $71,000 a year.

Nework and Server Administrator

Network administrators manage networks to provide maximum uptime for their company. Network administrators may also manage servers as part of their responsibilities. Their job is to design and build networks and servers, monitor network and server performance, spot trends and solve problems. Many network and server administrators also manage user IDs and passwords across the enterprise. Most companies require a bachelor’s degree, and the median annual pay in 2010 was just above $69,000.

Database Administrator

Database administrators are responsible for managing a company’s data, typically stored in large relational databases. DBAs must monitor database performance trends, ensure that the data is organized efficiently and back the data up periodically for recovery purposes. As of 2010 the median pay for a database administrator was over $73,000. The minimum educational requirement is typically a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

Web Developer

Web developers create websites, including designing the site and providing its technical capabilities. Web developers must also design their sites to perform well and provide secure access for e-commerce customers. Web developers must be familiar with the HTML programming language, which is the primary language for developing Web pages. As of 2010 the median pay for a Web developer was just over $75,000.

Computer and Information Systems Manager

Managers are almost always paid more than those they manage, and the technology world is no exception. The median pay for a technology manager in 2010 was more than $115,000 a year. A management position requires a bachelor’s degree and typically a minimum of five years of experience in the technology world. Technology managers must plan and coordinate technology projects and personnel within the company, making it a high-stress but very rewarding position.

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