The demand for information technology (IT) professionals is on the rise. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that hiring in this job field will grow 11 percent by 2029. Industry experts believe that this rate is faster than the average for all other occupations.
If you want to know more about the best IT jobs out there, this article is for you! Check out our guide to learn more about these roles that you should consider applying for. Your next best career might be waiting around the corner for you.
What are IT Jobs?
Information technology (IT) jobs manage computer equipment, hardware and software applications. You'll find these jobs in both the public and private sectors.
Hardware management includes developing and testing equipment. Hardware architects also set up intranets and other data communication networks.
Software management includes designing, developing, and analyzing computer systems. These professionals also create computer programs and business applications. You'll find these applications used in data storage and cloud computing.
The Best IT Jobs of 2021
There are many different job titles and competencies in the IT industry. Like most industries, these titles vary based on the size of the individual company.
For example, a larger company may have a specific title. In a smaller company, you might find generalist job descriptions. Here are some examples of the best IT jobs on the market today. Study them to see if one is a good fit for you:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning Engineers
An AI/machine learning engineer creates models with big data. These models ease image recognition and natural language forecasting.
AI engineers can also use the Internet of Things (IoT) technology. They use this process to create models for economic forecasting. They are in high demand as the IT industry continues its trend towards automation. Most AI engineers earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science. They can also earn credentials is artificial intelligence or data science.
AI engineers know Python and Java programming. They’re also skilled at applied mathematics.
Data Scientists
Data scientists use computer algorithms on a daily basis. These algorithms help extract insights from structured and unstructured data sources. These scientists then compile, clean, and translate this data for organizational leaders.
This compiled data helps leaders make the big decisions they need to make for company growth and direction. Data scientists have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science, or a related field. Data science professionals usually pursue an advanced degree like a master’s degree. A Ph.D. can also further their careers.
Data scientists gather, analyze, and interpret big data. They’re also skilled at using Hadoop. Hadoop is a software framework that helps process large data sets that use simple programming models.
Information Security Analysts
An information security analyst designs safeguards that protect an organization's technology infrastructure. They conduct vulnerability tests to assess any potential threats and install cybersecurity strategies. These strategies help prevent a cyber-attack from occurring in the first place. They’ll also recommend systems that can protect digital networks and information files.
Information security analysts will typically earn a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering. These analysts may also hold certifications in other fields. These other fields include coding languages or operating systems.
A popular certification for security analysts includes the Comp TIA security certification. These analysts can also hold the Certified Information Systems Security Professional designation.
Information Security Forensics Analysts
These analysts will identify and investigate cyber attacks on networks or computers. They detect patterns left by hackers that lead to finding flaws within their system. They use reverse engineering to find an attacker’s trail to uncover planted malware.
Information security forensic analysts need a bachelor's degree in computer science or information technology. Criminal justice and accounting courses also help prepare analysts for the skills they’ll need in the workplace. Most information security forensic analysts have a global information assurance (GIAC) certification. This certification demonstrates that they have technical skills in intrusion detection.
Penetration Testers
These professionals test systems to look for security weaknesses that attackers can abuse. Penetration testers collect the details on an organization’s network flaws. Testers locate these entry points and run exercises to try and attack the system.
Sometimes penetration testers qualify for jobs based on several years of job experience. Most testers, have their bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or information systems. Penetration testers should also have their Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification.
Medical Coders
Medical coders translate patient health medical information into numeric codes. Medical coders use a standard health care coding system. This system assigns diagnosis and procedures for patient care and health statistics. Doctors and pharmacists use these codes to understand a patient’s medical condition.
Medical Coder professionals have three choices for an undergraduate degree. They can choose from either an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree or a certificate program. Medical coders need certification to use today’s common medical coding systems. One system is the International Classification of Diseases (ICD.) The other system is the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT).
Electronic Health Record Developers
Electronic health record (EHR) developers create electronic healthcare record systems. They certify that systems operate correctly and design upgrades that improve efficiency. EHR developers also design and perform testing scenarios and then analyze their results.
These professionals also gather input from clients to put improvements in place. EHR developers will also draft procedures for staff to use. They can also offer ongoing training to clients that covers any new version of the client’s system.
EHR developers earn an associate’s degree in health records technology. These professionals also usually have a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification. Qualified candidates should also have a Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) certification as well.
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