10 Most in Demand Tech Jobs – Job Seeker Guide

Companies across a range of industries are seeking for ways to increase their business and streamline their workflow by integrating various technology solutions, since new technologies and client demands are increasing. Tech careers are in high demand, but do you know which ones are the most sought-after? It could be a good idea to be aware of the type of task you have ahead of you if you’re looking to hire for specific high-demand IT roles.

The tech recruitment sector is fully aware of the dearth of qualified applicants for numerous positions. There are numerous explanations. As technology develops, new job opportunities increase daily. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic of 2020, technological advancements were accelerated into overdrive to ensure that businesses could continue to run from homes around the globe.

The tech sector is hiring more people, but there are still a lot of open positions. Companies are hiring at or above pre-pandemic levels, according to Robert Half Technology’s 2022 IT pay study. To attract the top personnel, they are providing cash incentives, cutting-edge facilities, hybrid work, and more! You may earn a fantastic livelihood in a variety of hot technology occupations, but which one is right for you? IT is a diverse field, to be sure. Different areas of knowledge yield different returns. Others demand different levels of education and training. We’ve looked at job openings, pay, and necessary skills across the US to bring you the most in-demand IT positions.

The need for highly trained individuals, including developers, engineers, and scientists, who are able to carry out such duties is growing and is not expected to slow down anytime soon. Even though there are many occupations in the IT sector, if you’re interested in working in one of the six most in-demand tech positions listed in this article, your chances of advancing in your career in the upcoming year are only increasing.

How to choose an area of specialization in IT

The first consideration when selecting a specialism is your training and education. You can earn certifications in IT throughout your career. For entry-level positions, fundamental courses (like Microsoft Technology Associates) are sufficient; however, if you specialise, you might get off to a stronger start.

A minimum of an associate’s or bachelor’s degree is needed for many occupations. It’s crucial to pick a speciality that complements your objectives, abilities, and personality. You might evaluate potential employment prospects in the speciality field or consider the sustainability and long-term impact of those opportunities.

Self-Assessment for Tech Career Paths

Before diving into specific roles, conduct a honest self-assessment. Consider:

• Your natural aptitudes: Are you more abstract and mathematical, or visual and design-oriented? Do you enjoy deep focus on complex problems, or do you thrive on variety and interaction?
• Your learning style: Some tech roles require continuous formal education and certification; others value hands-on experience and portfolio development.
• Your work environment preferences: Do you want to work independently, in teams, with clients, or behind the scenes?
• Your long-term goals: Are you aiming for technical expertise, management, entrepreneurship, or consulting?

The answers to these questions will guide you toward specializations that fit not just your skills, but your temperament and aspirations.

Education Pathways

Traditional four-year degrees remain valuable, but they’re no longer the only path into tech. Consider these alternatives:

• Bootcamps: Intensive, short-term programs focused on specific skills like web development, data science, or cybersecurity.
• Certifications: Vendor-specific credentials (AWS, Microsoft, Cisco) that demonstrate specialized knowledge.
• Self-study: Online courses, tutorials, and building your own projects to create a portfolio.
• Associate degrees: Two-year programs that provide foundational knowledge and quicker entry to the workforce.

Many successful tech professionals combine multiple pathways—perhaps a degree in an unrelated field, plus a bootcamp, plus certifications. The key is demonstrating competence, regardless of how you acquired it.

Current Challenges in Filling Tech Jobs

The ongoing lack of tech workers is one of the main issues confronting employers right now. Every year, millions of computer jobs go unfulfilled because there isn’t enough labour to fill the positions. Even though higher education is working hard to establish and strengthen programmes, it takes time for students to finish them. The subjects of artificial intelligence and machine learning were quite uncommon until fairly recently. As a result, very few people have the minimal level of experience that most employers look for in applications. The current crop of competent candidates can draught their own tickets, though that will alter over time.

Filling Open Tech Positions

Filling open tech positions requires getting past challenges like a lack of qualified candidates and a small pool of applicants. By relaxing your educational criteria, you can recruit more applicants for positions in fields like programming. Although self-taught programmers may have some weaknesses, they have already shown a strong desire to learn. If knowledge is essential in a given field, think about hiring a consulting company to help you find talent quickly. For direct hires, you can also engage a recruiting company.

The Rise of Remote Global Talent

The global trend toward remote employment is one answer to the hiring problems facing tech recruiters. Hiring managers are no longer limited to filling positions in their neighbourhood; instead, they can cast a wider net and fill positions in cities and even other nations that are not near the location of their company. Nowhere is this tendency more obvious than in the countries of Africa, where technical development has skyrocketed since the epidemic. Many hiring managers are trying to hire IT specialists coming out of Africa’s technological boom in order to address the skills gap that tech companies in the West are currently experiencing.

“The increase in global start-up space has led to a rise in the demand for young, talented workers. Africa is emerging as a significant source of software engineering talent.” —weforum.org

This global talent pool benefits both employers and job seekers. Employers access skilled workers at competitive rates. Job seekers in developing economies gain opportunities that were previously unavailable. The trend toward remote work, accelerated by the pandemic, shows no signs of reversing.

The 10 Most In-Demand Tech Jobs

1. Cybersecurity engineer

There is no surprise that cybersecurity experts are in great demand given the numerous data breaches that make the news every day. Official projections place this field’s rate of growth at 32% from 2018 to 2028 in the USA, which is significantly higher than the predicted increase for other jobs. Even though this may appear to be encouraging news for people looking to advance their careers in this field, the fundamental driver of such demand is a serious threat to society and our lives, which are growing more and more reliant on technological advancements.

Despite the lack of a formal education requirement, cybersecurity engineers typically hold degrees in information technology, computer science, or system engineering. They are also skilled in security systems, have knowledge with Java, C++, Python, Ruby, or Node, and can manage security audits, vulnerabilities, and threats.

Key responsibilities:

• Designing and implementing secure network solutions
• Conducting penetration testing and vulnerability assessments
• Responding to security incidents and breaches
• Developing security policies and procedures
• Staying current with emerging threats and countermeasures

Average salary range: $110,000 – $160,000 depending on experience and location

Career progression: Entry-level security analyst → Security engineer → Security architect → CISO (Chief Information Security Officer)

2. Cloud computing jobs

Cloud computing positions, with a median income of $146,350 in 2018, are in high demand right now and will continue to be in the years to come as more and more businesses migrate from traditional servers to cloud solutions. Designing, setting up, and managing IT cloud systems are the primary concerns of cloud system engineers. Experts in this area typically work for Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, or Open Stack and are well-versed in a variety of programming languages, automation, and databases. AWS, Linux, Java, and software development are the cloud computing-related skills that are in the highest demand.

Key cloud computing roles include:

• Cloud architect: Designs cloud environments and migration strategies
• Cloud engineer: Implements and maintains cloud infrastructure
• Cloud security specialist: Focuses on securing cloud deployments
• DevOps engineer: Bridges development and operations in cloud environments

Essential skills:

• Platform expertise (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud)
• Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, CloudFormation)
• Containerization (Docker, Kubernetes)
• Scripting and programming (Python, Bash)
• Networking and security fundamentals

Average salary range: $120,000 – $170,000

Cloud Platform	Market Share	Key Certifications
AWS	32%	AWS Solutions Architect, AWS DevOps Engineer
Microsoft Azure	23%	Azure Administrator, Azure Solutions Architect
Google Cloud	10%	Professional Cloud Architect, Professional Data Engineer

3. Blockchain developer

Numerous job prospects for developers and other tech enthusiasts have developed with the growth of blockchain technology and its implementation in a range of sectors outside of banking. The creation of smart contracts and applications, as well as blockchain protocols and systems, is the responsibility of blockchain developers. In the topic of blockchain development, there are primarily two professional paths that can be taken:

Core Blockchain Developer: responsible for the architecture and consensus design of the blockchain system.

Blockchain Software Developer: Building decentralised applications and smart contracts with blockchain technology.

Blockchain developers typically have degrees in computer science, information security, or a similar profession. They also have extensive understanding of programming languages like C++, Python, Java, and Solidity, as well as strong coding and cryptographic abilities. According to CNBC, the average yearly salary for blockchain developers is between $150,000 and $170,000 dollars.

Key responsibilities:

• Designing and implementing blockchain protocols
• Developing smart contracts
• Creating decentralized applications (dApps)
• Implementing security measures for blockchain systems
• Optimizing blockchain performance and scalability

Average salary range: $130,000 – $175,000

4. Software developers

As there is an increasing need for computer software, there is a rise in the demand for both application and system developers. The rise in software-using items that are integrated into consumer gadgets will be advantageous for system developers. Application developers, on the other hand, will help businesses deliver fresh, tailored solutions to their clients through applications on PCs, smartphones, tablets, and other devices. Software developers are expected to be adept in at least one programming language and knowledgeable about the most latest programming tools. They typically hold a bachelor’s degree in software engineering or computer science.

Types of software developers:

• Frontend developers: Focus on user interface and user experience
• Backend developers: Work on server-side logic and databases
• Full-stack developers: Handle both frontend and backend
• Mobile developers: Specialize in iOS or Android platforms
• Embedded systems developers: Work on device software

Essential skills:

• Proficiency in relevant programming languages
• Understanding of software development methodologies
• Version control (Git)
• Problem-solving and debugging
• Communication and collaboration

Average salary range: $85,000 – $145,000 depending on specialization and experience

5. Data scientist

Organizations are starting to rely on data-driven insights and are in need of data scientists and analysts that can turn vast volumes of proprietary and third-party data into action as a result of the growing requirement to tailor user experience and predict customers’ behaviour. Data scientists are able to comprehend correlations, analyse data, identify flaws in business procedures, and offer potential fixes. Strong mathematical and analytical abilities, expertise with AWS, Hive or Big Query, as well as training in machine learning and statistical modelling are all expected of data scientists. They should also be fluent in at least one programming language, preferably R, Python or Java.

Key responsibilities:

• Collecting and cleaning large datasets
• Building predictive models and machine learning algorithms
• Communicating insights to stakeholders
• Designing experiments and A/B tests
• Staying current with analytical techniques and tools

Essential skills:

• Statistical analysis and modeling
• Machine learning techniques
• Programming (Python, R, SQL)
• Data visualization (Tableau, Power BI)
• Big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop)

Average salary range: $115,000 – $165,000

6. Artificial intelligence/machine learning engineer

Engineers that specialise in machine learning and artificial intelligence will have plenty of job opportunities in the years to come. These IT disciplines overlap, yet they differ in how they use data. Engineers that specialise in machine learning use data to build algorithms and systems that can learn and apply information with or without human assistance. On the other hand, AI engineers concentrate on creating tools that can interact with humans and sense their surroundings.

Take Siri and Alexa as examples. You’ll need strong programming skills, a solid understanding of computer languages, exceptional math and analytical abilities, and more to pursue one of these occupations.

Key responsibilities:

• Designing and implementing machine learning models
• Training and fine-tuning AI systems
• Deploying models to production
• Staying current with research and techniques
• Collaborating with data engineers and software developers

Essential skills:

• Deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch)
• Programming (Python, C++)
• Mathematics (linear algebra, calculus, statistics)
• Natural language processing (NLP)
• Computer vision

Average salary range: $130,000 – $180,000

These are the top six positions that will be in demand in 2020, so if you see yourself in any of the job descriptions, don’t miss your chance to apply for the position that will be the next step in your career.

7. Frontend developer

Frontend developers are responsible for all visual components of web-based applications and webpages. They are responsible for building the user interface, which may include navigation features, buttons, and menus. This work also comprises optimising for desktop and mobile viewing, as well as testing to guarantee that access and interaction are carried out without any hitches.

Key responsibilities:

• Implementing visual designs in code
• Ensuring responsive design across devices
• Optimizing performance and loading speed
• Collaborating with designers and backend developers
• Testing and debugging across browsers

Essential skills:

• HTML, CSS, JavaScript
• Frontend frameworks (React, Angular, Vue.js)
• Responsive design principles
• Version control (Git)
• Basic design sensibility and user experience awareness

Average salary range: $75,000 – $130,000

8. Backend Developer

Working with backend technologies is what the term “backend development” suggests. If you decide to work in backend development, you’ll do the grunt work to make sure the frontend functions properly. Along with other aspects of server-side development, you’ll work with databases, server technologies, APIs, and numerous cloud-based platforms. You’ll construct server-side scripts as a backend developer to establish protocols and routines that assist websites and apps in interacting with external servers to retrieve all the information they want.

Additionally, you’ll be in charge of the databases, client-server data flow, and all server logic. Even if the vast majority of your labour will go unnoticed, it is essential to make sure that the essential functions of any website or application function properly. As a result, if you wish to meet the requirements for the backend developer position, you’ll need to be educated in the following technologies:

• knowledge in high-level programming languages like Ruby, Python, C#, Java, and Visual Basic. You’ll frequently additionally need to be familiar with JavaScript and PHP.
• understanding of related frameworks like Laravel, Django, Node.js, and others.
• working familiarity with Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, or another database.
• understanding of algorithms and data structures.
• If you want to get involved in mobile backend development, you should be familiar with API and ORM.

It’s important to note that the list above does not obligate you to have knowledge of every language, framework, and database on it. It would take years to learn the entire list of them, and it would be practically difficult to become proficient in them all. It is far preferable to focus on a single language and adapt the rest of your tech stack to it. The majority of backend developers concentrate on one or two languages and related technologies. Remember that you can subsequently expand your skill set as you develop expertise in your field.

In addition to having the necessary technical knowledge, having a few more abilities will make your job as a backend developer much simpler. These consist of: a high level of education or proficiency in arithmetic, ability to think analytically and solve problems, thinking outside the box, and strong communication abilities.

Average salary range: According to Glassdoor, the average base salary for a backend developer is $80,713. The lowest submitted wage was approximately $48K, while the highest was approximately $132K. Based on 2,200 salaries, Indeed claims a higher figure of $118,856 per year. As a backend developer, you may anticipate receiving a $4,000 incentive year, according to Indeed. The average backend developer compensation, on the other hand, is $83,770 per year, with the low end being $33,500 and the high end being $149K, according to ZipRecruiter.

9. Database administrator and architect

For the purpose of managing databases, architects and administrators design and oversee the software. There are several overlaps between these top IT positions. Both supervise security, backup, storage, access, and other factors while maintaining server efficiency. They keep an eye on the servers, boost efficiency, and handle crises.

Key responsibilities:

• Designing database structures and schemas
• Implementing backup and recovery procedures
• Optimizing query performance
• Managing user access and security
• Migrating data between systems

Essential skills:

• Database management systems (MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, MongoDB)
• SQL expertise
• Data modeling and design
• Backup and recovery strategies
• Performance tuning

Average salary range: $90,000 – $140,000

10. DevOps engineer

DevOps engineers are entrusted with managing code scripting and process development in the hopes of deploying code more quickly and with fewer errors in response to the rising demand for new goods and services. DevOps represents a cultural and professional movement that stresses communication and integration between developers and IT operations.

Key responsibilities:

• Automating deployment pipelines
• Managing infrastructure as code
• Monitoring system performance and reliability
• Collaborating with development and operations teams
• Implementing continuous integration and delivery (CI/CD)

Essential skills:

• Scripting and programming (Python, Bash, Ruby)
• CI/CD tools (Jenkins, GitLab CI, CircleCI)
• Configuration management (Ansible, Puppet, Chef)
• Containerization (Docker, Kubernetes)
• Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)

Average salary range: $115,000 – $165,000

Emerging Tech Roles to Watch

Beyond the ten established roles covered above, several emerging specializations are gaining traction:

PEO (Professional Employer Organization) Technology Specialist

It’s not as tough to find a PEO as you would assume. In order to focus on businesses that can assist you in solving these issues, the first step in any choice to purchase a business is to evaluate your company’s needs. You should know which company is best for your company once you’ve compared their pricing, features, and contracts.

Advanced knowledge of linked financial or operational systems is the responsibility of the PEO technology specialist. They gather and evaluate thorough financial data for PEO organisations, create and publish advanced integrated revenue/expense analysis, predictions, and reports, and suggest method and procedure improvements.

They produce and analyse complex monthly, quarterly, and yearly reports, help with the creation, application, maintenance, and upgrading of suitable internal and accounting controls. When working with a PEO, you are in charge of developing fresh financial and accounting assessments as well as reconciliations.

In a co-employment arrangement, the company and the PEO split some employer duties. The PEO often handles payroll processing, payroll tax withholding and payment, maintenance of workers’ compensation insurance, benefit administration, and advice on human resources. This puts you in charge of managing routine business activities, such as giving consumers goods and services and choosing which staff to hire or fire.

Mobile Application Developers

Mobile app developers are among the most sought-after specialists right now as a result of the pandemic’s dramatic increase in the use of mobile applications. These experts are skilled in creating apps for a variety of mobile operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, and more.

Network Manager

These experts take care of everything involving LAN/WAN protocols, software, hardware, and any other network component that affects how systems interact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a computer science degree to get a tech job?

A: While many tech professionals have CS degrees, they’re not always required. Self-taught programmers, bootcamp graduates, and professionals from other fields successfully enter tech careers. What matters most is demonstrated competence through portfolios, projects, and sometimes certifications. However, some roles (particularly in specialized fields like AI or research) may require advanced degrees.

Q: Which tech job pays the most?

A: Salaries vary by location, experience, and company, but generally, AI/ML engineers, data scientists, and cybersecurity architects command the highest salaries. Senior roles in these specializations can exceed $200,000 annually, especially at major tech companies. However, remember that higher salaries often correlate with higher skill requirements and greater responsibility.

Q: How long does it take to break into tech?

A: This depends on your starting point and target role. Bootcamps can prepare you for entry-level development roles in 3-6 months. Self-study might take 6-12 months of consistent effort. Degree programs take 2-4 years. Many people transition gradually, building skills while working other jobs. The key is consistent practice and portfolio building.

Q: Are tech jobs still in demand with AI advancing?

A: Yes, and in many ways, AI is creating more tech jobs, not eliminating them. AI needs humans to build, train, maintain, and improve it. Additionally, as AI automates routine tasks, technologists can focus on higher-value work. The nature of tech jobs evolves, but demand for skilled professionals continues to grow.

Q: What’s the best tech job for someone who doesn’t like coding?

A: Many tech roles involve minimal coding. Consider UX design, technical project management, product management, IT support, or cybersecurity analysis. These roles require technical understanding but focus more on people, processes, or systems than on writing code.

Summary – 10 Most in Demand Tech Jobs

Almost all sectors in the tech industry are in high demand, as this essay has demonstrated. This is especially evident when hiring in more specialised fields like cloud architect, blockchain developer, data science, and devops. However, as we have already shown, due to the high demand for new websites that largely employ JavaScript, even highly well-liked IT positions like web developer and JavaScript developer are among the most sought-after tech occupations.

For job seekers, this demand creates unprecedented opportunity—but only for those who prepare strategically. The days of walking into a tech job with minimal skills are over. Employers seek candidates who demonstrate competence, whether through degrees, certifications, portfolios, or experience.

For each role covered in this guide, success requires:

• Technical fundamentals relevant to the specialization
• Continuous learning to stay current with evolving technologies
• A portfolio demonstrating practical application
• Professional networking and relationship building
• Persistence through the job search process

Recruiters must be aware of the best tech hiring practises in order to draw the best candidates to the most sought-after tech positions. Check out the free DevSkiller handbook, the indispensable manual for successful technical hiring, for more information on how to draw in the top tech talent.

The technology field offers rewarding careers with strong compensation, intellectual challenge, and meaningful impact. Whether you’re just starting your journey or considering a pivot, the roles covered in this guide represent some of the most promising opportunities available today. With preparation and persistence, you can position yourself for success in this dynamic field.

For authoritative guidance on tech careers, consult resources from the CompTIA organization, which provides industry research and certifications. The Association for Computing Machinery offers professional development resources. For salary data and job market trends, Robert Half publishes annual technology salary guides with comprehensive data by role and location.