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18 Highest-Paying Tech & IT Jobs for 2025

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As technology continues to play a crucial role in our daily lives, the demand for skilled
information technology (IT) professionals continues to rise. According to the Bureau of Labor
Statistics, employment in the IT field is projected to grow 11% from 2023 to 2033, much faster
than the average for all occupations.

With this growth, there is also an increasing demand for highly paid professionals who possess
the necessary skills and expertise to keep up with the rapid pace of innovation. In this article,
we present the essential guide to the highest-paying IT careers, outlining the necessary
education, skills, and certifications required to pursue these lucrative opportunities. Whether
you are just starting out in the field or looking to advance your current career, this guide
provides valuable insight into the top-paying IT jobs and the steps you can take to achieve your
professional goals.

Let’s start with the median salary for “Computer and Information Technology Occupations,” as
reported with recent data by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The median annual
wage for this group was $104,420 in May 2023, which is more than double the median
annual wage for all occupations ($48,060).

Key Takeaways
As technology evolves, IT professionals are in high demand—so much so that they
earn, on average, double the annual wage of other occupations.

IT o!ers various sub-specialties like cybersecurity, data science, cloud computing,

and more.

Individuals can strategically advance their career with certifications, networking, and
tailored job-seeking strategies.

IT Career Paths: Sub-Specialties and Top

Employers
Information technology (IT) is a diverse field with a wide range of career paths and sub-
specialties. To help you navigate the vast landscape of IT careers, we’ve broken down some of
the most in-demand and highest paying IT jobs by sub-specialties. From software development
and cybersecurity to data analysis and cloud computing, each IT sub-specialty requires a unique
set of skills and expertise. By exploring these sub-specialties, you can gain a better
understanding of the di!erent paths available within the IT field and identify which area may be
the best fit for your interests and career goals.

Here is just a partial list some of the notable specialties within IT:

Cybersecurity

Data science and analytics

Cloud computing

Artificial intelligence and machine learning

Network and systems administration/telecommunications

Web development

Mobile application development

Software development

Database administration

Project management

User experience (UX) design

Technical writing and documentation

Technical support

Digital marketing and e-commerce

IT consulting

IT auditing and compliance

Each of these specialties requires a unique set of skills and knowledge, and may require specific
certifications or degrees. However, they all o!er opportunities for career advancement and high
salaries in the growing field of information technology.

And since information technology now encompasses every sector of the economy, top
employers across nearly all industries are on the lookout for IT talent.

Companies that regularly make the lists of top IT employers include:

Alphabet (Google)

Cisco

Salesforce

Nvidia

Intuit

Adobe

Citrix Systems

Apple

Microsoft

Accenture

Meta

Intel

Ultimate Software

Workday

World Wide Technology

IT Career Outlook, 18 Best Jobs, and Salary

Ranges
Let’s take a closer look at a handful of some of the best IT jobs — with job descriptions,
educational requirements and median salary compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
and Business Insider:

Average Education
Occupation Description
Salary Needed

A software developer is
responsible for
designing, coding,
Software Developer $130,160 Bachelor’s
testing, and maintaining
software programs and
applications.

Computer and
Information Research
Scientists are
responsible for
inventing and designing
Computer and new computing
Information Research technologies and finding $145,080 Master’s
Scientists innovative uses for
existing technologies in
order to advance fields
such as business,
science, medicine, and
engineering.

Computer Network
Architects are
responsible for
designing and
implementing data
Computer Network communication
$129,840 Bachelor’s
Architects networks for
organizations, ensuring
that the networks are
secure, e"cient, and
meet the organization’s
needs.

An Information Security
Analyst is responsible
for protecting an
organization’s computer
Information Security networks and systems
$120,360 Bachelor’s
Analysts from cyber threats by
developing and
implementing security
measures and
protocols.

A Computer Systems
Analyst is responsible
for analyzing an
organization’s computer
Computer Systems systems and procedures
$103,800 Bachelor’s
Analysts and recommending
solutions to help the
organization operate
more e"ciently and
e!ectively.

Database
Administrators and
Architects are
responsible for
developing,
Database
implementing, and
Administrators and $117,450 Bachelor’s
maintaining an
Architects
organization’s database
systems, ensuring that
they are secure,
e"cient, and meet the
organization’s needs.

Computer Programmers
are responsible for
writing and testing code
for software
applications and
Computer programs,
$99,700 Bachelor’s
Programmers troubleshooting errors
and bugs, and
collaborating with
software developers to
ensure programs meet
client needs.

An IT Manager is
responsible for
overseeing an
organization’s
technology
infrastructure, including
IT Manager $169,510 Bachelor’s
hardware, software, and
networks, and ensuring
that the technology
aligns with the
organization’s goals and
objectives.

A Software Engineer is
responsible for
designing, developing,
and maintaining
software systems and
applications, ensuring
they are scalable,
Software Engineer e"cient, and aligned $186,500 Bachelor’s
with user requirements.
They work
collaboratively with
cross-functional teams
to implement innovative
solutions and solve
technical challenges.

A Product Designer is
responsible for creating
user-friendly and
visually appealing
designs for products
and interfaces. They
Product Designer conduct user research, $155,500 Bachelor’s
develop prototypes, and
work closely with
engineering and
product teams to
ensure a seamless user
experience.

A Data Scientist is
responsible for
analyzing complex data
sets to uncover trends,
generate insights, and
build predictive models
Data Scientist that drive business $183,000 Master’s
decisions. They use
statistical analysis,
machine learning, and
data visualization
techniques to solve real-
world problems.

A Site Reliability
Engineer (SRE) is
responsible for ensuring
the reliability, scalability,
and performance of an
Site Reliability organization’s software
$147,500 Bachelor’s
Engineer systems. They
implement monitoring,
automate tasks, and
work to improve system
stability and operational
e"ciency.

A Senior Data Analyst is

responsible for
interpreting data,
generating actionable
insights, and creating
reports that support
Senior Data Analyst $149,500 Bachelor’s
strategic decision-
making. They lead data
analysis projects,
mentor junior analysts,
and ensure the accuracy
and integrity of data.

A Product Manager is
responsible for
overseeing the
development and
lifecycle of a product,
from concept to launch.
Product Manager They work with cross- $169,000 Bachelor’s
functional teams to
define product goals,
prioritize features, and
ensure the product
meets customer needs
and business objectives.

An Engineering Manager
is responsible for
leading and mentoring a
team of engineers,
ensuring the successful
Engineering Manager delivery of projects. $203,500 Bachelor’s
They coordinate
resources, set technical
direction, and align
engineering e!orts with
organizational goals.

A Technical Program
Manager (TPM) is
responsible for
planning, coordinating,
and executing complex
Technical Program technical projects. They
$174,000 Bachelor’s
Manager work across teams to
manage timelines,
mitigate risks, and
ensure successful
delivery of technical
initiatives.

A Principal Software
Engineer is responsible
for leading the design
and architecture of
complex software
systems. They mentor
Principal Software
engineering teams, $244,500 Bachelor’s
Engineer
solve high-level
technical challenges,
and ensure best
practices in
development and
deployment.

A Machine Learning
Engineer is responsible
for developing and
deploying machine
learning models to solve
Machine Learning specific business or
$206,000 Bachelor’s
Engineer technical problems.
They work with data
scientists to build
algorithms and integrate
models into production
systems.

Information Technology and Tech Trends

In 2025, the technology is experiencing a significant transformation due to AI, quantum
computing, and network advancements. These developments will not only impact the industries
themselves but also the demand for specialized IT roles. Some unique trends focus on:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cybersecurity: With AI’s growth, companies are investing
in AI-driven security systems, which is increasing the need for AI Security Specialists. These
professionals develop machine learning models to detect cyber threats before they
escalate.

Quantum Computing Advancements: Moving from theoretical research to real-world

applications, quantum computing has opened new paths for problem-solving and data
processing. As a result, there’s a demand for Quantum Computing Specialists—experts
who make algorithms and applications tailored to quantum systems.

5G and Network Expansion: To improve speed, reduce latency, and enable AI-powered
IoT systems, businesses need Network Engineers and IoT Specialists to maintain 2025’s
advanced networks.

IT Career Advice: How Can You Earn a High-

Paying Job?
Whether you’re starting out, advancing in your field, or switching specialties, these tips can help
you land a rewarding IT role:

Earn a Certification: While work experience is crucial, IT certifications showcase

advanced skills and a dedication to learning. With certifications tailored to specific roles or
areas of interest, you can boost your expertise and stand out to employers.

Here is a quick rundown of some of the most valuable IT certifications.

Do Some Networking: Attend conferences, join LinkedIn groups, participate in industry

events, or set up informational interviews. Networking builds valuable connections,
sharpens interpersonal skills, and enhances your professional profile.

Complete an Internship: Internships, even outside top-tier companies, provide hands-on

experience and help you grow your skills and confidence. They’re especially valuable for
entry-level professionals building their resumes.

Tailor Your Resume: Speaking of resumes, be sure to customize your resume for each
role. For example, if you’re applying for a web developer position, highlight relevant
experience and skills instead of broader aspirations like game design.

Prepare for the Interview: Research the organization, its industry, and the role’s
technical requirements. This preparation demonstrates diligence, motivation, and a strong
fit for the position.

IT Degree Options: Earning Your Master’s

Degree Online
Information technology is well-known to be one of those fields where you don’t need a degree
to be successful. And sure, there are plenty of programming pros who’ve dropped out of high
school, honed complex skills that for some reason come easy to them, and jumped straight into
a high-paying career at a tech giant that serves free poké bowls and seared scallops for lunch.

But that’s obviously not a realistic pathway for everyone. And as the IT jobs landscape continues
to get more competitive, having an academic degree in a sought-after specialty is likely to give
you a competitive edge — just as it does in countless other careers.

Among the many other helpful advancements in information technology, it is now easier than
ever to earn an IT degree online. Whether it’s a certificate, associate, bachelor’s, or master’s
University of Cincinnati’s online IT programs feature robust curriculums in many of the areas
discussed above, and enable you to work on a flexible schedule and earn your degree in as little
as one year*.

Want to learn more about accelerating or starting your technology career? Then get in touch
with a UC enrollment advisor today for stress-free, one-on-one help.

*Program completion times will vary based on multiple factors including degree level, previous
education, and full- or part-time status.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Are the Most In-Demand IT Jobs in 2025?
In 2025, some of the most in-demand IT jobs includes roles in areas like software development,
data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI) and machine
learning. Specific roles might include software developers, data scientists, cybersecurity
analysts, cloud architects, AI engineers, and technical support specialists.

Do All IT Jobs Pay Well?

While many IT jobs o!er competitive salaries, pay varies depending on factors such as job role,
education, experience, skills, location, and employer. Overall, IT o!ers a wide range of career
paths with varying salary levels—allowing individuals to find opportunities that align with their
skills and career goals.

What Is the Highest Paying Job in Technology?

With salaries reaching well into the six figures, the highest-paying jobs in technology often
include roles such as Principal Software Engineer, Engineering Manager, or Machine Learning
Engineer. These roles typically require a strong combination of experience, advanced technical
skills, and leadership abilities.

Which Technology Degree Pays the Most?

No specific degree guarantees the highest salary; it’s about how you leverage your education
and skills in the workplace. However, studies show that earning a master’s degree in IT or a
related field often correlates with higher salaries, as it demonstrates advanced expertise and
opens doors to senior roles. The key is aligning your degree with in-demand skills and emerging
technologies to maximize earning potential.

How Can I Get Started in IT?

If you aren’t currently working in information technology, it can feel daunting trying to break in
from the outside. However, anyone motivated to gain relevant education, skills, and experience
can land a fulfilling career in IT. Typical steps include pursuing a degree or certification, gaining
hands-on experience (through internships, projects, or entry-level roles), and networking with
professionals in the field.

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