13 Highest Paid Jobs in the Tech Industry

In life, it’s never too late for a career change. Today, technology based careers make up a large portion of the global job sector. Here are thirteen of the highest paying tech jobs you can find, all offering salaries between 50k and 100k+ per year.

13. Video Game Designer

Most of us love spending time playing video games, but might not have any idea how the games came to be. Or maybe video game design has been your dream job since you first touched a controller.

Designers use their knowledge of programming languages and personal creativity to create vastly entertaining virtual worlds. The average video game nowadays can cost up to $60 and generates millions in revenue, so talented designers of fun, popular games often earn pretty hefty paychecks for their work. 

12. Data Modeler / Architect

If you have a good head for math, then you might find work as a data modeler. Modelers use applied mathematics to create database systems and improve the transfer of data between them.

Those seeking this kind of work must be able to visualize the numbers through graphs and charts to analyze the data. Sometimes this job title is called data architect, because these workers basically construct storage and archival systems for information. 

11. IT Auditor

Interested in detective work? Information Technology Auditors investigate computer systems and collect info about accounting and controls to make sure companies obey all laws and practices. Working alongside systems admins, auditors insure networks are running efficiently and safely.

They also are responsible for consolidating all resources within a system so they operate at the highest performance possible. It's not exactly private eye level work, but it's a great job for anyone focused and observant.

10. Database Admin

Someone has to be in charge of data entry. A database administrator (DBA) uses software to collect and organize important data, like client or financial information. They have to make sure the data is secure, accessible, and consistent between all systems, and frequently troubleshoot systems when things go wrong. 

9. Systems Analyst

You've probably resorted to calling an IT company when your computer won't work. Every IT company uses system analysts to make sure every technical problem gets solved. Analyst jobs can often be split between business and applications fields and have various responsibilities within each.

Application systems analysts are responsible for overseeing all network operations and use knowledge of computers to fix technical problems and errors. Business systems analysts decide what software and system is best for their organization and have to understand the ins and outs of those programs. 

8. Web Developer

Ever wonder who made it possible to surf the web? Thanks to web developers, people all over the world have an endless supply of sites to browse when accessing the Internet.

Developers use complex languages and scripts to create web sites and can work independently as a freelancer or even help big businesses maintain a functional presence online. They often work alongside designers to create the most aesthetically pleasing site possible.

7. Software Engineer

We've come a long way since the 80s. Technology is always evolving, so there is a great need for engineers who can help mold it. Software engineers use computer languages to create programs that help consumers stay on top of the latest advancements, trends, and needs. These engineers are responsible for extensive testing of their programs and often rely on user feedback to improve all applications. 

6. Mobile Application Developer

Smart phones are huge right now and will only become more popular and useful over time. There are plenty of jobs available for people who can develop programs and applications for mobile phones, such as time-wasting games, banking apps, or small-screen versions of major websites.

Without a mobile app developer, for example, mobile devices like the LG Optimus phone would not have the functionality that people come to expect from a smartphone. If you're interested in a challenging development field where you're developing for devices with limited resources, then this might be the field for you. 

5. Mechanical Engineer

If you're as creative as you are intelligent, you might want to research the field of mechanical engineering. Architects and contractors rely on mechanical engineers to make sure their plans are safe and logical through the use of computer programs.

Engineers also maintain technology in a public setting, like traffic light computers or ATM machines. There are even positions available in factories, on oil rigs, and in the military! Mechanical engineering is definitely a broad field.

4. Computer and Information Research Scientist

Technology is a complex thing. Computer and Information researchers solve difficult computer problems and improve current tech while looking for new ways to use existing programs. Because our world is so dependent on technology, the pay is fantastic. Only the best and brightest can snag a job like this, though -- you'll probably need a doctorate in computer sciences! 

3. Programmer

As you're probably well aware, there are all sorts of languages that only a computer can understand. Programmers have a strong understanding of computer languages like C++ and Javascript and can write software with them. They often work alongside systems analysts, software engineers, and web developers to create useful programs and video games.

2. Professional Hacker

Television and movies are full of depictions of hackers trying to get into a locked-down system. The hacking you see on a movie screen is mostly made up gibberish, but there is actually a real field of work for people who can hack their way around a computer. Believe it or not, you can take classes on ethical hacking and earn certifications in a field usually seen as criminal.

Companies and governments employ hackers who can help prevent illicit attacks on servers and use their wits to take vital information from encrypted systems. It may not be as glamorous as Hollywood usually shows it, but hacking is a great job for anyone who knows how to do it.

1. Security Admin

As head of security for systems or networks, you will oversee server activity to make sure everything is running smoothly, as well as install them and run support. These admins often manage big projects and keep the network connection running well and safely. Security admins are necessary for any major online company and require plenty of experience and a good sense of judgment when it comes to system access capabilities and privileges.

If you spend most of your time in front of a computer, why not make a career of it? With a little training and technological know-how, anyone can find a cool, high-paying job working with computer programs and systems. It’s never too late to learn something new!