Top 10 Highest Paying Tech Jobs & Careers 2024 (Inc Salaries)

It's pretty obvious to one and all, unless you are living in a small village in darkest deepest Africa and you have no coms with the outside world that the technologies industry has just exploded in the last two years.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), including ChatGPT, Lumen 5, Murf, and Gen-1 are taking the world by storm and making personal and working lives so much easier. So, bearing that in mind, it stands to reason that there is a great deal of demand for experts in this industry now due to the rapidly evolving landscape of technology across industries. As businesses increasingly rely on digital solutions to innovate, optimize processes, and stay competitive, there's a pressing need for skilled professionals who can navigate and leverage these technological advancements so a career in tech is getting more lucrative by the day as best-paying technology jobs abound.

From cybersecurity specialists protecting valuable data to software engineers developing cutting-edge applications, and data scientists interpreting complex datasets for strategic decision-making, tech experts possess specialized knowledge and expertise that organizations require to thrive in today's digital era and land high paying tech jobs.

According to the bureau of labor statistics, the demand for these professionals that also includes roles such as Devops Engineer, Security Analyst, Data Science Architect, Computer Programmer, and Product Manager, stems from their ability to create, implement, and maintain innovative solutions that drive efficiency, enhance user experiences, and address evolving challenges, making them invaluable assets in an ever-evolving technological landscape and able to command average salaries over $100,000.

With that being said, let's dive into the highest paid tech jobs!

Top 10 Best Paying Tech Jobs & Careers 2024

1. Full-Stack Developer 

A Full-Stack Developer is a versatile professional capable of working on both the front-end and back-end aspects of web development and is one of the best-paying tech jobs. They are proficient in a wide range of technologies, frameworks, and languages required to build a complete web application, hence the term "full-stack," which encompasses both the client-side (front-end) and server-side (back-end) development, and their expertise in multiple layers of web development enables them to work on various aspects of a project, leading to more efficient workflows and the ability to develop end-to-end solutions.

Becoming a Full-Stack Developer requires a combination of education, hands-on experience, continuous learning, and skill development, but generally you will require: Gaining a solid understanding of fundamental web development technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. There are numerous online resources, tutorials, and courses available on platforms like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, and Udemy that can help you grasp these basics. Diving deeper into front-end development by learning popular frameworks and libraries like React, Angular, or Vue.js. Familiarizing yourself with server-side programming languages such as Node.js, Python, Ruby, or PHP. Learn about databases (SQL and NoSQL) and how to interact with them using technologies like MySQL, MongoDB, PostgreSQL, etc. or, gaining knowledge of tools used in full-stack development, including version control systems like Git, package managers, command-line interfaces, and development environments like Visual Studio Code or Atom. Developers are in high demand and the salaries reflect that.

The average annual salary for a Full-Stack Developer in the US is $123,986 and is one of the best paying jobs in technology.

2. Data Engineer 

A Data Engineer is a professional responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the infrastructure that enables data generation, storage, and processing and is one of the most in-demand tech jobs and highest paid jobs too. They focus on developing architectures that allow for the efficient and reliable collection, storage, and retrieval of data for analytical purposes, and work closely with data scientists, analysts, and other stakeholders to ensure that the data is accessible, available, and usable for various purposes within an organization. With their experience working with data, a Data Engineer also bridges the gap between raw data and actionable insights, contributing significantly to an organization's data strategy and success.

Becoming a Data Engineer involves acquiring a combination of technical skills, knowledge, and practical experience, but generally you will require: At least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Information Technology, Statistics, Mathematics, or Engineering. While not mandatory, a formal education provides a strong foundation. Pursuing advanced degrees like a master's or certifications in data engineering or related fields to deepen your knowledge. Gaining proficiency in programming languages commonly used in data engineering such as Python, Java, Scala, or SQL. Learning about databases including relational databases (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL) and NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Cassandra). Familiarizing yourself with data warehousing concepts and tools such as Amazon Redshift, Google BigQuery, or Snowflake. Understand big data technologies like Hadoop, Spark, and distributed computing frameworks. Learning about Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) processes and tools used for data extraction, cleansing, and loading into storage systems, or, gaining experience with data pipeline orchestration tools like Apache Airflow, Luigi, or Apache NiFi.

The average annual salary for a Data Engineer in the US is $127,294 and is one of the top 25 highest-paying tech jobs for 2024.

3. Mobile Developer 

A Mobile Developer is a software engineer who specializes in creating applications (apps) for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. They design, develop, test, and maintain mobile applications across different platforms and operating systems, catering to the specific requirements and constraints of mobile devices, and their expertise is essential in delivering high-quality and engaging mobile experiences across different platforms and devices.

Becoming a mobile app developer involves a blend of education, hands-on experience, continuous learning, and a proactive approach to mastering mobile development technologies, but generally you will require: Obtaining a solid understanding of programming fundamentals. Learn languages such as Java or Kotlin for Android development, and Swift or Objective-C for iOS development. Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields. For Android Development, familiarizing yourself with Android Studio, the official IDE for Android development, and learning Android development using the Android Software Development Kit (SDK) and related tools. For iOS development, getting acquainted with Xcode, Apple's official IDE for iOS development, and learning iOS development using the iOS Software Development Kit (SDK) and related tools. Learning about user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design principles, or, exploring design tools like Adobe XD, Sketch, or Figma to create mockups and prototypes for your apps.

The average annual salary for a Mobile Developer in the US is $123,623 and is one of the highest-paying technology jobs.

4. Network Architect 

A Network Architect is a specialized IT professional responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining an organization's computer networks. They develop comprehensive network infrastructure solutions that align with the company's business goals, ensuring efficiency, security, scalability, and reliability of the network, and their expertise is vital in ensuring that the network infrastructure meets the organization's present and future technological needs while maintaining high levels of performance and security.

Becoming a Network Architect involves a combination of education, experience, certifications, and continuous skill development, but generally you will require: A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field. A solid educational background provides a strong foundation in networking concepts and technologies. Gaining experience in entry-level networking roles such as Network Administrator, Network Engineer, or Systems Administrator, as these roles offer hands-on experience in managing and configuring networks. Acquiring a deep understanding of networking fundamentals, including TCP/IP, routing protocols (such as OSPF, BGP), subnetting, VLANs, VPNs, and network security principles. Familiarizing yourself with network hardware and software from various vendors (Cisco, Juniper, Arista, etc.). Or, pursuing relevant industry certifications to validate your skills and knowledge. Certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Juniper Networks Certified Professional (JNCIP), or CompTIA Network+ are highly regarded in the field of networking.

The average annual salary for a Network Architect in the US is $126,924 and is one of the highest-paying jobs in tech.

5. Data Warehouse Architect 

A Data Warehouse Architect is a specialized IT professional responsible for designing, implementing, and managing data warehouse solutions within an organization. They play a crucial role in creating and maintaining data architectures that support the storage, organization, and retrieval of large volumes of structured and unstructured data from various sources, and their expertise ensures that the data warehouse infrastructure is designed and maintained to support effective data-driven decision-making, analytics, and reporting within the organization.

Becoming a Data Warehouse Architect involves acquiring a combination of education, skills, hands-on experience, and continuous learning in data management and architecture, but generally you will require: A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Management, or a related field. A strong educational background provides a foundational understanding of database systems, data modeling, and architecture. Gaining experience in entry-level roles related to data management, such as Data Analyst, Database Administrator, or ETL Developer, as it provides practical exposure to database systems and data processing. Developing expertise in relational database management systems (RDBMS) like SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, or PostgreSQL. Learning about database design, normalization, indexing, and SQL query optimization. Or, familiarizing yourself with data warehousing concepts, including dimensional modeling (star schema, snowflake schema), ETL processes, data integration, and data governance.

The average annual salary for a Data Warehouse Architect in the US is $131,939 and is one of the best-paying jobs in technology.

6. Software Architect 

A Software Architect is a highly skilled professional responsible for designing and overseeing the structure and functionality of software systems or applications. They are involved in the entire software development lifecycle, from conceptualization and design to implementation and maintenance, ensuring that the software meets the desired technical and business requirements, and their expertise in designing robust and efficient software architectures helps in delivering high-quality and innovative software solutions.

Becoming a Software Architect involves a blend of education, experience, technical skills, leadership abilities, and continuous learning, but generally you will require: A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field. A solid educational foundation is essential to understanding core concepts in software development. Mastering programming languages commonly used in software development such as Java, C#, Python, JavaScript, etc. Acquiring expertise in software development methodologies, design patterns, and best practices. Learning about software architecture principles, design patterns, and architectural styles (e.g., microservices, monolithic architecture, service-oriented architecture). Gaining proficiency in UML (Unified Modeling Language) and architectural modeling tools to create architectural diagrams and documentation. Familiarizing yourself with a wide range of technologies, frameworks, databases, and development tools used in software development, or, considering pursuing advanced degrees (master's or doctorate) in software engineering or obtaining certifications in software architecture, such as Certified Solution Architect or Certified Software Architect certifications.

The average annual salary for a Software Architect in the US is $137,772 and is one of the highest paying tech jobs in 2024.

7. Enterprise Architect 

An Enterprise Architect is a senior-level IT professional responsible for designing and overseeing an organization's overall enterprise architecture. They focus on aligning business objectives with technology solutions, ensuring that IT systems and processes support the organization's strategic goals and objectives. Enterprise Architects also have a holistic view of the organization's architecture so they aim to create an integrated and efficient IT environment that supports business agility and innovation.

Becoming an Enterprise Architect requires a blend of education, experience, leadership skills, technical expertise, and strategic thinking, but generally you will require: A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, or a related field. A solid educational foundation is essential. Starting your career in IT roles such as software developer, systems analyst, IT consultant, or solutions architect to gain hands-on experience in various aspects of technology. Gaining proficiency in various technologies, architectures, and methodologies relevant to enterprise architecture, such as cloud computing, service-oriented architecture (SOA), enterprise integration patterns, and data modeling. Developing expertise in architectural design principles, modeling techniques, and frameworks such as TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework), Zachman Framework, or other industry-standard methodologies. Or, pursuing certifications in enterprise architecture such as TOGAF certification, which demonstrates your knowledge and skills in the field.

The average annual salary for an Enterprise Architect in the US is $142,336. and is one of the best paying technology jobs in the world.

8. Site Reliability Engineer  

A Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) is a professional responsible for ensuring the reliability, availability, and performance of large-scale software systems and services. SREs combine software engineering practices with principles of operations to build resilient and scalable systems that can handle high traffic and maintain high availability, and leverage automation, monitoring, and best practices in software engineering and operations to maintain and improve the reliability of systems, contributing to a seamless user experience.

Becoming a Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) requires a combination of technical skills, operational knowledge, software engineering expertise, and practical experience, but generally you will require: A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, or a related field. A solid educational foundation is crucial for understanding core concepts in computing and software development. Mastering programming languages such as Python, Go, Java, or other languages commonly used in software development. Understanding data structures, algorithms, and software design principles. Gaining experience in managing and configuring infrastructure, including networks, servers, databases, and cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Understanding DevOps practices and principles, including continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD), automation, configuration management, and infrastructure as code (IaC). Or, developing scripting and automation skills using tools such as Ansible, Puppet, Chef, or Terraform to automate infrastructure provisioning, configuration, and deployment processes.

The average annual salary for a Site Reliability Engineer in the US is $155,279 and is one of the best-paying jobs in the technology industry. 

9. Back-End Developer 

A Back-End Developer is a type of software engineer who specializes in building and maintaining the server-side of web applications, databases, and software systems and is one of the highest-paid jobs in the industry. They focus on the non-user-facing components of applications that handle data processing, server logic, database interactions, and server configuration, and their expertise ensures the seamless operation and functionality of the server-side components that power the overall application.

Becoming a back-end developer involves acquiring technical skills, practical experience, and a solid understanding of server-side programming and database management, but generally you will require: A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field. A strong educational background provides a solid foundation in programming and computer science concepts. Gaining proficiency in programming languages commonly used in back-end development, such as JavaScript, Python, Java, Ruby, and C#/.NET. Learning about data structures, algorithms, and their implementations. Gaining experience with database management systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, or others. Learning about SQL (Structured Query Language) for relational databases and NoSQL databases for non-relational data storage. Understanding web development concepts, HTTP protocols, RESTful APIs, and web servers (such as Apache, Nginx) to communicate between the front-end and back-end components. Familiarizing yourself with back-end frameworks and tools such as Node.js/Express, Django/Flask, Spring Boot, and Ruby on Rails, or, learning version control systems like Git, which are essential for collaborating on codebases and managing code repositories.

The average annual salary for a Back-End Developer in the US is $157,141 and as such is a high paying job in technology.

10. Software Engineering Manager  

A Software Engineering Manager is a leadership role responsible for overseeing a team of software engineers and managing the software development lifecycle within an organization. They bridge the gap between technical expertise and managerial responsibilities, ensuring the successful delivery of software projects while nurturing a productive and efficient engineering team, and balance technical expertise with leadership skills to drive innovation, efficiency, and collaboration within the engineering department.

Becoming a Software Engineering Manager requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, managerial experience, and a proactive approach to team management, but generally you will require: Starting your career as a software engineer or developer to gain hands-on experience in software development. Acquiring proficiency in programming languages, software design principles, and the software development lifecycle. Considering advanced education, such as a master's degree in Software Engineering, Business Administration, or related fields. Advanced degrees can provide a broader perspective and deepen your knowledge base. Transitioning into roles that involve leadership or management responsibilities, such as a team lead, technical lead, or project manager, or, acquiring knowledge in areas beyond technical skills, such as project management methodologies, budgeting, resource planning, and leadership theories.

Because it's one of the most in-demand jobs, the average annual salary for a Software Engineering Manager in the US is $160,574 and is arguably the highest-paying tech job around.

Conclusion

Developing a career in the tech industry offers a multitude of compelling advantages in today's rapidly evolving world. First and foremost, the tech sector provides an environment of constant innovation, offering opportunities to work on cutting-edge technologies and be at the forefront of advancements that shape our future. It's a field known for its dynamic nature, where learning and adaptation are constants, fostering personal and professional growth. Moreover, the demand for tech professionals spans across diverse industries, offering a wide array of career paths and job opportunities. The industry is often associated with competitive salaries, enticing perks, and a range of roles that accommodate various skill sets, from programming and engineering to data analysis, cybersecurity, and beyond. 

If you are looking to get into the tech industry with a top annual wage, there are many ways to get there. To land one of the varied high paying jobs, it would be best to consider acquiring a combination of technical skills, knowledge, and practical experience, seeking on the job training, gaining certificates, or obtaining either a BBA or an MBA degree from an internationally-recognized university such as Nexford. 

To make sure that you get the soft skills and hard skills needed to start and build a lucrative career in Chemistry, download our free report.

FAQs

What are the highest paying tech jobs in demand for the future?

This is not an exact science, but several high-paying tech jobs were in demand and expected to remain so in 2024 due to technological advancements and industry trends. While the landscape may evolve, some roles have consistently been among the highest paying and in-demand and these include: Full-Stack Developers, Data Engineers, Mobile Developers, Network Architects, Data Warehouse Architects, Software Architects, Enterprise Architects, Site Reliability Engineers, Back-End Developers, and Software Engineering Managers.

What are the most in-demand skills needed to get into a high paying tech career? 

Although the landscape changes virtually month-by-month, several high-demand skills are essential for securing high-paying roles in the tech industry and they include: Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, and others depending on the specific tech domain. Skills in data manipulation, statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization using tools like Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-Learn, TensorFlow, and Tableau. Understanding SQL for database querying and management is also valuable. Familiarity with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, or others. Knowledge of cloud services, infrastructure as code (IaC), serverless computing, and containerization with tools like Docker and Kubernetes is highly beneficial. Understanding cybersecurity principles, practices, and tools to protect systems and data. Skills in ethical hacking, threat detection, penetration testing, and security compliance are crucial. Proficiency in AI algorithms, machine learning models, neural networks, and deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Keras.

Expertise in natural language processing (NLP) and computer vision is also valuable. Knowledge of DevOps practices, continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines, automation tools (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD), and infrastructure as code (IaC) using tools like Terraform or Ansible. Skills in both front-end (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Angular, Vue.js) and back-end development (Node.js, Django, Flask, Spring Boot, Ruby on Rails) for creating versatile web applications. Understanding of blockchain principles, smart contracts, decentralized applications (dApps), and platforms like Ethereum or Hyperledger. Or, familiarity with quantum computing concepts, quantum algorithms, and programming languages like Qiskit or Cirq (though this field is still in its nascent stage).

What are some high-paying tech jobs you can get without a degree?

While many high-paying tech jobs traditionally require a degree due to the technical complexity and specialized knowledge involved, candidates can succeed in several jobs without a formal degree. Tech jobs without a degree include: Software Developer/Engineer, Web Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, IT Support Specialist, Data Analyst, Digital Marketer/Social Media Manager, or, Quality Assurance Tester. Success in these positions often depends on practical experience, certifications, specialized skills, and a strong portfolio.

How can I improve my chances of getting a high-paying job in tech?

Improving your chances of securing a high-paying job in the tech industry requires a combination of technical expertise, relevant skills, professional networking, continuous learning, and a strategic approach to career development. Steps to enhance your prospects include: Identifying the high-demand skills in your desired tech field (such as programming languages, data analysis, cybersecurity, cloud computing, AI/ML) and focus on mastering them through courses, certifications, projects, and practical experience.

Creating a portfolio showcasing your projects, coding samples, case studies, or contributions to open-source projects. A strong portfolio can demonstrate your capabilities and practical application of skills to potential employers. Obtaining certifications in your field of interest (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Google Professional Data Engineer, CompTIA Security+) to validate your expertise and enhance your resume. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, freelance work, volunteering, or personal projects. Building a professional network by attending industry events, tech meetups, conferences, and engaging with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn or GitHub. Or, staying updated with emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices.

Is a degree really necessary to get the best paying tech job?

While a degree can significantly enhance your prospects and open doors to many high-paying tech job opportunities, it's not always an absolute requirement as there are jobs available without a need for a degree. The tech industry often prioritizes skills, experience, certifications, and practical abilities over formal education, but here are some considerations regarding the necessity of a degree for high-paying tech jobs: In many cases, having a strong skill set, hands-on experience, and a robust portfolio showcasing your projects and capabilities can outweigh the lack of a degree.

There are numerous alternative paths to acquiring tech skills, such as coding bootcamps, online courses, self-study, and specialized training programs. Obtaining industry-recognized certifications in specific technologies or domains can demonstrate your expertise and competence to potential employers, sometimes compensating for the lack of a degree. Also, some companies in the tech sector have started recognizing the value of skills and experience beyond degrees, especially in roles where practical know-how and innovation are crucial. That said, it's important to note that some high-paying tech roles, especially those in research, academia, certain engineering disciplines, or highly specialized fields, may explicitly require advanced degrees due to the depth of knowledge and research-oriented nature of the work.

To make sure that you get the soft skills and hard skills needed to start and build a lucrative career in Chemistry, download our free report.