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IT jobs with the highest paying salaries

IT jobs with the highest paying salaries

Information technology (IT) professionals are in high demand, with many companies needing help to fill open positions as quickly as they appear. In fact, some organizations are facing an information technology talent shortage so severe they're having trouble recruiting qualified candidates for even the most basic positions. As you can imagine, this is driving up salaries for the highest-paying IT jobs. In this article, we'll explore the highest-paying jobs in IT in America and help you get started on a path toward one yourself.

Blockchain engineer salary

Blockchain engineers keep distributed and decentralized blockchain-based networks running and maintain and support blockchain applications and platforms. They might also contribute to the development of new blockchain technologies and applications.

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Systems architect (computer systems analysts) salary

  • Median salary: $99,270 per year
  • Growth outlook: 9% from 2021 to 2031
  • Education level: Bachelor's degree

A systems architect designs the overall structure and organization of a computer-based system. Systems architects analyze current and future technology needs to make recommendations on what should be purchased or upgraded next. They also coordinate with other departments, such as business analysts and project managers, to ensure everyone stays on schedule while implementing new systems.

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Information security analyst salary

Network security analysts are responsible for monitoring, managing, and securing networks. They monitor network traffic to detect security threats, identify vulnerabilities, and provide recommendations to improve the overall security of their organization's IT infrastructure. 

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Data scientist salary

Data scientists use data analytics to find patterns in data that can help them make better decisions for their organizations or companies. Most data scientists will need to have expert experience with data querying languages (e.g., SQL), scripting languages (e.g., Python), and statistical/mathematical programming languages (e.g., Python, R, SAS).

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Software engineer salary

A software engineer plans the scope and order of work during software development. They often direct developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers during software development. They have an in-depth knowledge of computer science concepts related to information processing, problem-solving, and programming languages. Software engineers work closely with an organization's business leaders to create software that meets their needs.

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Computer network architect salary

Computer network architects are responsible for designing and implementing data networks. For example, they determine the best way to connect a company's different locations and how to manage the flow of information between them. They might also be responsible for designing internal systems that use networks (e.g., email or instant messaging), hardware upgrades needed to support computer networks, and designing and implementing security systems (e.g., firewalls).

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Database architect salary

Database architects are responsible for designing a system's data model, access, and storage. As a result, they ensure their organization's systems can process the volume of information they need to function correctly. The responsibilities of a database architect can include designing the data model for a system (e.g., ERD), designing and implementing data access (e.g., SQL queries), and designing and implementing data storage (e.g., relational databases).

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"In fact, some organizations are facing an information technology talent shortage so severe they're having trouble recruiting qualified candidates for even the most basic positions. As you can imagine, this is driving up salaries for the highest-paying IT jobs."

Cloud architect salary

Cloud architects are high-level architects who design and implement cloud computing solutions for organizations. They must manage complex infrastructure systems, including storage, virtualization, and networking technologies. Cloud architects also work closely with other teams, such as IT operations or DevOps, to ensure their designs meet business requirements.

Cloud architects have a broad knowledge base across multiple domains, including cloud computing services such as AWS/Azure/GCP, software development tools like Docker containers, and DevOps practices (CI/CD).

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Computer and information research scientist salary

Computer and information research scientists are responsible for creating computer hardware and software. They might also work on improving existing systems, such as those used in computers, laptops, or smartphones. These scientists make programs as efficient as possible by simplifying complex computing tasks. Their research leads to advancements in many types of technology, including machine learning systems and cloud computing.

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Vice president of information technology salary

  • Median salary: $154,903 per year
  • Growth outlook: 15% from 2021 to 2031
  • Education level: Bachelor's degree, though a graduate degree is often preferred

The vice president of information technology is a senior-level executive overseeing an organization's IT department. This person is responsible for the overall planning, development, and management of the IT department. They are also responsible for implementing new technologies into their company's infrastructure and ensuring they have access to all necessary resources to complete their job duties successfully.

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Computer and information systems manager salary

Computer and information systems managers oversee the day-to-day operations of an organization's information technology department. They develop strategies that help their company reach its business goals through computer systems, such as database management and email servers. In addition, these professionals might supervise a team of employees responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining computer systems within a company.

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Chief technology officer (CTO) salary

  • Median salary: $170,926 per year
  • Growth outlook: 15% from 2021 to 2031
  • Education level: Bachelor's degree, though a graduate degree is often preferred

Chief technology officers (CTOs) are senior-level executives who oversee all aspects of an organization's technology strategy. They're responsible for the company's overall success and work closely with other executives to meet the company's goals.

CTOs might also have a hand in creating new products or services, ensuring they adhere to industry standards and internal policies. Sometimes, they might be responsible for hiring new employees and managing higher-level employees.

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Chief information officer (CIO) salary

  • Median salary: $172,030 per year
  • Growth outlook: 25% from 2021 to 2031
  • Education level: Bachelor's degree, though a graduate degree is often preferred

A chief information officer is the highest-ranking IT executive in a company. They are responsible for overseeing all the IT functions in an organization, including the overall strategy and direction of the IT department and planning, implementing, and evaluating the use of technology.

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Chief information security officer (CISO) salary

  • Median salary: $173,544 per year
  • Growth outlook: 15% from 2021 to 2031
  • Education level: Bachelor's degree, though a graduate degree is often preferred

The CISO is responsible for the security of all information technology. They are responsible for developing a strategy to protect sensitive data, handling all issues related to data privacy, and ensuring systems are secure from attacks.

Explore Job Openings for Chief Information Security Officers

Information technology is one of the fastest-growing industries and offers many opportunities to advance your career. You can find a job in almost any city across the country and even internationally if you are willing to relocate. Upload your resume and start applying for IT jobs today.

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