The Outlook for In-Demand IT Jobs

Illustrated image of a man working on a server, with the text "IT Jobs Outlook"

 

Sept. 21 is IT Professionals Day, and this year we look back and recognize the agility and innovation of information technology employees who helped their organizations adapt or shift to virtual work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While much remains uncertain, we expect computer-related industries and occupations to see higher demand over the 2020–30 decade due to the increase in telework and hybrid work arrangements, expanded telehealth medical services and enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect information.

If you’re considering an IT career, the nine occupations listed below are projected to grow and all pay above – some well above! – the median 2020 annual wage of $41,950 for all jobs.

 

Information Security AnalystsIcon of a shield with a lock and key  

Information security analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems.

2020 median pay: $103,590 per year

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Number of jobs, 2020: 141,200

Projected growth, 2020–2030: 33% (Much faster than average)

Occupational openings, 2020–2030 annual average: 16,300

 

Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers Icon of a gear

Software developers design computer applications or programs. Software quality assurance analysts and testers identify problems with applications or programs and report defects. 

2020 median pay: $110,140 per year

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Number of jobs, 2020: 1,847,900

Projected growth, 2020–2030: 22% (Much faster than average)

Occupational openings, 2020–2030 annual average: 189,200

 

Computer and Information Research Scientists Icon of a computer screen showing a picture of a chart with an upward arrow

Computer and information research scientists design innovative uses for new and existing computing technology.

2020 median pay: $126,830 per year

Typical entry-level education: Master's degree

Number of jobs, 2020: 33,000

Projected growth, 2020–2030: 22% (Much faster than average)

Occupational openings, 2020–2030 annual average: 3,200

 

Web Developers and Digital Designers Icon showing a laptop

Web developers create and maintain websites. Digital designers develop, create and test website or interface layout, functions and navigation for usability.

2020 median pay: $77,200 per year

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Number of jobs, 2020: 199,400

Projected growth, 2020–2030: 13% (Faster than average)

Occupational openings, 2020–2030 annual average: 17,900

 

Computer Support Specialists Icon of the head of a customer support specialist - the man is wearing a headset with a microphone

Computer support specialists provide help and advice to computer users and organizations.

2020 median pay: $55,510 per year

Typical entry-level education: A bachelor’s degree may be required for some applicants applying to computer support specialist positions, but an associate degree or postsecondary classes may be enough for others

Number of jobs, 2020: 844,600

Projected growth, 2020–2030: 9% (About as fast as average)

Occupational openings, 2020–2030 annual average: 70,400

 

Database Administrators and Architects An icon showing computer servers

Database administrators and architects create or organize systems to store and secure data.

2020 median pay: $98,860 per year

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Number of jobs, 2020: 168,000

Projected growth, 2020–2030: 8% (About as fast as average)

Occupational openings, 2020–2030 annual average: 13,900

 

Computer Systems Analysts An icon showing two computer screens with arrows indicating a transfer of information between them

Computer systems analysts study an organization’s current computer systems and find solutions that are more efficient and effective.

2020 median pay: $93,730 per year

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Number of jobs, 2020: 607,800

Projected growth, 2020–2030: 7% (About as fast as average)

Occupational openings, 2020–2030 annual average: 47,500

 

Computer Network Architects An icon visualizing a network as a globe with multiple connection points

Computer network architects design and build data communication networks, including local area networks (known as LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and Intranets.

2020 median pay: $116,780 per year

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Number of jobs, 2020: 165,200

Projected growth, 2020–2030: 5% (Slower than average)

Occupational openings, 2020–2030 annual average: 11,000

 

Network and Computer Systems Administrators An icon showing a bar chart with data trending upwards

Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of computer networks.

2020 median pay: $84,810 per year

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree

Number of jobs, 2020: 350,300

Projected growth, 2020–2030: 5% (Slower than average)

Occupational openings, 2020–2030 annual average: 24,900

 

You can explore these and hundreds of other occupations in the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

 

Emily Krutsch is an economist in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Follow BLS on Twitter at @BLS_gov.