6 High-Paying IT Careers

If you’re looking for a stable, high-salary career, information technology is an excellent choice. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects strong IT job growth in the coming decade, especially for roles like software developer, cybersecurity analyst, and database administrator. These positions—and others like them—offer a strong combination of job security and high earning potential (with figures that are well above the national average).

Yes, information technology is home to many in-demand roles, even during economic downturns. In addition, tech careers consistently rank highly for job satisfaction and opportunity, evidenced by their frequent presence in Glassdoor’s “Best Places to Work” listings.

While nearly every IT job offers good job security, some roles in particular are more stable than others. Here’s a list of six that stand out in terms of growth, salary, and stability:

When ranking lucrative IT careers, information security analyst (or cybersecurity analyst) often tops the list. With a 33% growth rate from 2023 to 2033 and an average annual salary of $124,910 in May 2024, the role boasts both the high pay and security that today’s job seekers value. 

But what does an information security analyst do? These analysts monitor computer systems and networks for external and internal threats. They perform digital risk assessments and develop new ways to protect against cyber threats like malware and phishing. Information security analysts should be detail-oriented, good problem-solvers, and willing to innovate. 

Their common day-to-day tasks include: 

·       Implementing security protocols to safeguard computer networks, digital files, and other vital electronic infrastructure. 

·       Responding to computer systems breaches and viruses. 

·       Testing for and strengthening security vulnerabilities. 

Most information security analysts earn at least a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity or a similar subject and have experience in incident response, penetration testing, and data management. 

Software developers combine analytical thinking, creativity, and strong project management skills to design, build, and maintain software systems. Many software developers oversee the full life cycle of software development—from coding and scripting to deployment and updates.

Job responsibilities include:

·       Working with users to define software requirements and understand their goals.

·       Ensuring software meets security and performance standards.

·       Designing software architecture and writing clean, testable code.

• Troubleshooting and updating existing applications.

Software development remains one of the most in-demand and well-paid tech careers, with nearly two million professionals employed in the U.S. since 2023. The BLS states that the average annual salary for software developers in May 2024 was $133,080. Additionally, employment of these professionals is projected to grow by 17% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

Successful software developers typically earn a bachelor’s degree in software development or computer science and have a working knowledge of programming languages like JavaScript and Python.

While software engineers may be directly involved with software development, not all software developers are engineers. A software engineer applies hierarchical engineering principles to the design, development, and evaluation of computer software. 

Most software engineering professionals perform work like:

·       Creating scalable software architectures and cloud-based systems.

·       Planning a software project’s scope and viability.

• Managing software developers and computer programmers. 

A large number of software engineers begin their careers as developers. With their added responsibilities and increased experience, engineers earn as much as—and often more than—developers.

Software engineering and computer science are common degree choices for a software engineering role, and many engineers gain skills in leadership and management in order to supervise development teams.

Often referred to as “DBAs,” database administrators manage and monitor database development and performance. Organizations rely on database administrators to keep track of their data, especially while storing it and transferring it from servers to users.  

Other duties of database administrators include:

·       Securing and backing up sensitive information.

·       Managing user permissions and logins.

·       Collaborating with data analysts to optimize databases.

• Performing ongoing database support.

DBAs enjoy attractive salaries and solid job growth. In May 2024, database administrators earned an average annual salary of $104,620, with the highest 10% earning more than $160,000. The BLS projects a growth rate of 9% for DBAs from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the national average.

Earning a bachelor’s degree in data analytics, information technology, or a similar field is a great way to begin a career as a DBA. It also pays to develop skills in data management, data science, and database cybersecurity.

Virtually every business and organization has a website to make their presence known online. And behind every website is a skilled web developer. Web developers bridge the gap between shape and function. They craft a site's design while ensuring smooth operation behind the scenes.

Their daily tasks may include: 

·       Building and testing web applications.

·       Writing responsive code and designing layouts.

·       Monitoring performance and site traffic.

·       Ensuring mobile-friendliness and user accessibility.

According to the BLS, the average annual salary for web developers in May 2024 was $98,090. The projected job growth for web developers is faster than average at 8% from 2023 to 2033. Web developers experience solid earning potential without the higher educational barriers required by other similar tech jobs.

In addition to earning an IT degree, web developers gain and apply skills in core web technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and modern frameworks.

Computer systems analysts—or systems architects—evaluate an organization’s computer infrastructure and research ways to optimize computer systems and related technology. They bring business and IT sensibilities together by understanding the needs and limitations of each.

Other essential responsibilities include:

·       Consulting with IT and business leaders to determine organizational needs.

·       Reviewing cost and other requirements for computer systems upgrades and automation.

·       Training users how to take advantage of new computer infrastructure.

Computer systems analysts earned an average annual salary of $103,790 in May 2024, according to the BLS. In addition, employment of these analysts is projected to grow by 11% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Some of the best bachelor’s degrees for computer systems analysts include computer science, information systems, and business or IT management. Effective computer systems analysts also leverage both soft business and hard technical skills.

Certain trends in the current IT market have an important influence on the tech jobs listed above and others like them. The most impactful trends today include the following:

·       Agentic AI. Organizations are shifting from artificial intelligence (AI) experimentation to deploying autonomous AI agents like ChatGPT and Gemini that can perform tasks with minimal human input.

·       Quantum cryptography and computing. More work is being put toward applying principles of quantum mechanics to encrypt data and solve complex computational problems.

·       Robotics. The use of robotic technologies has become more widespread across manufacturing, logistics, and service industries.

·       IoT and 5G/6G telecommunications. The Internet of Things (IoT) and wireless networks continue to expand and deliver faster, more reliable communication.

Because technology is such a critical component of modern life, qualified IT professionals will be in high demand for the foreseeable future. If you have a passion for tech, you can cash in on these stable jobs by earning a bachelor’s degree in the IT field that best suits your interests.

WGU offers IT degree programs that are 100% online with no set log-in times. With WGU, you’ll have the flexibility to work full-time while getting the degree you need to move ahead.

WGU’s programs also include industry-recognized certifications at no extra cost. These kinds of certs can help you maximize your earning power and set yourself apart in the job market. 

But besides earning a degree and certifications, you might also consider:

·       Networking at in-person events or on social media sites like LinkedIn.

·       Completing an internship.

·       Updating and optimizing your résumé.

·       Preparing for job interviews.

·       Building your own online portfolio.

With the right degree and certifications, a rewarding tech career with long-term growth potential is well within reach. Take the next step and build the future you’ve been working toward—on your schedule. Learn more about how WGU can prepare you for a high-paying IT career today.