8 in-demand tech careers you need to know about in 2021

Tech is blowing up. In our tech-driven world, information is shared quickly and efficiently to keep operations running smoothly and people connected. 

Over the past two decades, we’ve seen a shift to remote working, distance education, virtual conferences, self-checkout lanes, robotic surgery, online gaming, virtual gambling, cryptocurrency mining, streaming movies, and social media. 

According to Leftronic, more than 90% of the world’s data has been generated in the last five years. More than 2.5 quintillion bytes of data are generated daily. Data-driven organizations are 23 times more likely to acquire customers. And enterprises with significant data initiatives are seeing a decrease in operating expenses. 

While only 8.2% of U.S. households owned a computer in 1984, today, more than 51% own at least one computer, and approximately 96% own a mobile device (Leftronic, 2021). 

The growth in tech has led to an increased demand for tech workers. So if you’re the go-to office tech geek or the friend everyone calls for help, keep reading to learn more about big tech, companies in the tech field, tech job skills, and salaries in 2021 and beyond.

What is big tech?

Big tech refers to the five most dominant technology companies in their respective sectors: Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Google, and Microsoft. These tech giants deliver products and services that many businesses and individuals have come to rely on heavily. 

Big tech companies are pushing the envelope to advance through technology. They strongly influence society and the economy by shaping the way society evolves and uses technology. People around the world use their products. And they are continuously looking to expand and deliver better products.

What companies are in the technology field?

Besides the big five, there are myriad technology companies that focus on artificial intelligence, semiconductors, payment systems, computer software, computer graphic processors, banking/investing, shopping, communications, ride-hailing, autonomous driving, entertainment, and more.

Tech companies such as Tesla, Nvidia, Alibaba, Samsung, Paypal, Adobe, TSMC, Tencent, and ASML are innovative and setting new trends. Companies like Zoom, Square, Uber, Snowflake, Autodesk, Coinbase, Crowdstrike, Qualcomm, Shopify, and Docusign are becoming household names. And new startups are born every day.

In-demand tech careers

Working for these tech companies is a dream come true for many, and offers several options. Jobs range from software/app development, to cloud infrastructure management, IT support, and cybersecurity. According to Investopedia, these jobs tend to pay well, with projected growth rates faster than the anticipated average U.S. job growth rate.

Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Engineers working in artificial intelligence are in top demand. Artificial intelligence engineers develop the analytics needed to make Siri and Alexa chat, cars autonomous, and basic computer programs come to life. 

These engineers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence. They may also have experience or training with Python, Javascript, R, or C++. They have a basic understanding of applied mathematics and the ability to multitask. Median salary: $150,549.

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine learning engineers are similar to artificial intelligence engineers. But, they develop software based on predictive models. This software can be used in many different ways, from helping medical providers predict the likelihood of disease to helping individuals start an investment portfolio with a Robo-advisor. 

These engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in machine learning. They may also have experience or training with Python, Javascript, R, or C++. In addition, they need a basic understanding of applied mathematics and the ability to multitask. Median pay is around $129,083.

Hardware Engineer

Hardware engineers design, develop, and supervise computer systems and computer components (chips, circuit boards, computer systems, modems, etc.). To become a hardware engineer usually requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science or engineering. Hardware engineers may be required to have some knowledge of code to test hardware. Median pay: $111,627.

Software Engineer

Software engineers write code that defines what apps and computer programs do, based on the functions the company intends for the app or program to perform. Software engineers often have a computer science degree and a good working knowledge of code. 

They need to know programming languages such as SQL (Structured Query Language), Python, AWS (Amazon Web Services), Java, C++, word processors, and operating systems. Median wage: $96,223.

Front End Engineer

A front-end engineer is a type of software engineer who works with designers to create the look, function, and utility of a website. They are responsible for creating the code that meets these design specifications. 

They are required to understand programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and Javascript. Median salary: $124,014.

Cloud architect

Cloud architects develop, plan, and assist with a company’s cloud infrastructure. In addition, they are responsible for the adoption, management, and monitoring of the company’s cloud platform. 

They often are required to have good communication skills because they work in teams. Cloud architects typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology. Some may have an engineering degree. They need to have an excellent working knowledge of operating systems, networks, security, and some coding such as AWS, Javascript, Python, Linux, etc. Median salary: $140,361.

Network Architect

Network architects design, build and maintain the communication network and cloud infrastructure. They must have technical skills in communication networks such as local area networks (LANs), Intranets, and wide area networks (WANs). Many of these architects have a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field and working knowledge of HTML, CSS, AWS, Javascript, Python, etc. Median salary: $152,223.

Data Scientist

Using big data analytics to accelerate decision-making and accuracy, data scientists sort through large amounts of information, and create  algorithms and predictive models that aid in decision making. Important skills include analyzing a lot of information, basic statistical understanding, and a degree in data science that could be useful. Other helpful skills include good analytical skills, data visualization, and math skills. They typically have a bachelor’s degree in data or computer science. Median pay: around $115,640.

Next steps

Technology is everywhere. It’s an essential, permanent part of our daily lives, culture, and future. It makes our lives easier, faster, and in some ways, more fun. 

We look forward to relying on artificial intelligence (AI) to prevent accidents, improve efficiency at work, and develop personalized medicine. 5G will make the internet faster. Soon ordinary people(who have the money) will be able to take commercial flights to space.  

Robots will be seen in the workplace and taking orders at restaurants, and cars will be able to drive themselves on auto-pilot. There will be no shortage of advances in technology in the next five years.

Jobs ranging from software and mobile app development to cloud computing, IT support, and cybersecurity are in demand. Sharpen your mindset, communication skills, ability to multitask, and coding knowledge to put you ahead of your competition for these roles; they teach careers.