16 highest paying tech jobs in 2024

But not everything is doom and gloom. The January 2024 jobs report(opens new window) from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed more than 350,000 jobs were added in the first month of the year—outdoing expectations. There are still well-paying, in-demand tech careers to choose from—but these positions may not be housed at the technology firms applicants typically expect.

According to a study of post-pandemic tech recruiting(opens new window), smaller companies are driving demand for tech workers. Some high-paying tech jobs are also in unexpected cities like Miami and Salt Lake City.

So, tech skills are still in high demand, but which tech jobs pay the most in 2024?

We’ve researched to find the 16 highest-paying tech jobs for you below.

A Data Scientist collects, evaluates, and visualizes data. They use machine learning and other techniques to glean insights from data and help companies make informed decisions.

Developing the right skills can help you enter this in-demand field. Primary skills for Data Scientists include:

Because data science has a broad range of practical applications, it’s one of the fastest-growing tech careers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics(opens new window) (BLS) predicts that Data Scientist job openings will increase 35% between 2022 and 2032. Employers will create around 17,700 new data science positions a year during this period.

We’ve included updated entry-level, mid-career, and average Data Scientist salary data below .

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

A Database Architect writes the code for and maintains databases. They troubleshoot issues and evaluate user trends to continually improve existing data systems.

To become a Database Architect, learn one or more programming languages to create databases—C, Java, Python, and Ruby. You'll also need to know SQL, the language of databases.

Data Architects can also specialize as Cloud Engineers. To do this, you'll need a strong understanding of cloud computing and platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS).

The demand for Database Administrators and Architects(opens new window) will grow 8% between 2022 and 2032. As a result, around 10,200 new jobs will open up each year over the decade.

The typical Database Architect salary varies depending on the source. According to data from CareerExplorer(opens new window), mid-level salaries average out at $90,052, while the highest-earning professionals can expect up to nearly $172,000 a year.

Software Developer is a broad term for tech professionals who create, implement, and maintain code.

Software Developers typically specialize in at least one programming language. The best programming language to learn depends on your intended profession. For example, game developers often use C++ and Java to build gaming systems. Front-end developers create interactive web pages with JavaScript.

By 2032, the demand for Software Developers(opens new window) will increase 25%—much faster than the average for all professions. The BLS projects more than 150,000 software development jobs will be created over the next decade per year.

Many job titles get folded into the category of Software Developer, so salaries and job outlooks can vary widely.

A Full-Stack Developer is a skilled professional who writes the code for the front and back-ends of a website or application.

Since Full-Stack Developers combine front-end and back-end development, they need a well-rounded skillset. Most start learning beginner-friendly programming languages like CSS, HTML, and JavaScript.

These are the languages Front-End Developers use to create the appearance and user experience for websites and mobile applications. Back-End Developers often learn database management systems like MySQL and Oracle Database, in addition to programming languages.

Apprentices that finish Multiverse’s software engineering program are proficient in full-stack development. In the 15-month program, you’ll:

The BLS doesn’t look at Full-Stack Developer job growth individually. Instead, it’s part of a broader job category of Web Developers and Digital Interface Designers(opens new window). Based on BLS data, the job market for these roles will increase by 16% between 2022 and 2032.

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

A Web Developer handles website coding, design, function, and layout.

Web development is highly collaborative. You may work closely with clients, Graphic Designers, and other tech professionals. Soft skills like communication and teamwork will come in handy.

Most Web Developers need to know HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Learning other languages like Python, Ruby, or C++ can help you take on more complex, higher-paying jobs.

Niche skills like 3D and graphic design can also help you stand out to potential employers.

The BLS estimates that Web Developers(opens new window) (not including Designers) will increase by 16% by 2032.

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

A Software Engineering Manager oversees teams of Data Architects, Software Developers, and other professionals.

A Software Engineering Manager role requires at least three to five years of work experience. These skills can help you pursue a career as a Software Engineering Manager:

A Software Engineering Manager isn't typically entry-level, so we've listed the lowest salary range.

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

The demand for Machine Learning Engineers grows as artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT(opens new window) grow. These experts design artificial intelligence systems that use algorithms to interpret enormous datasets and forecast the future.

To succeed as a Machine Learning Engineer, you must be proficient in many mathematical and technical skills.

The most popular programming languages for Machine Learning Engineers are C/C++, Python, and R. However, you should expect to continuously update your skills as the field evolves.

Additionally, you'll need to know mathematical concepts and statistical learning models to develop and use machine learning algorithms. Strong data modeling skills are also a plus since you'll likely work with large datasets.

While we don't have BLS projections for Machine Learning Engineers, as recently as 2022 , the LinkedIn Jobs on the Rise(opens new window) list named Machine Learning Engineer as one the top four fastest-growing careers.

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

An Information Security Analyst responds to security breaches in computer networks.

To become an Information Security Analyst, you should learn how to use intrusion detection software like security information and event management programs. These tools can help you stop cybersecurity attacks.

This profession frequently uses security management frameworks developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology(opens new window).

Cybersecurity experts are in high demand as the threat of cyberattacks grows. Information Security Analyst(opens new window) jobs will increase by 32% between 2022 and 2032.

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

A Site Reliability Engineer automates processes and repairs bugs to keep software applications and websites functioning smoothly.

You can prepare for a career as a Site Reliability Engineer by learning how to use automation tools like AppDynamics and Grafana. These technologies will help you quickly interpret data and monitor systems.

You should also be comfortable with programming languages like Java and .Net, and newer languages like Scala.

The BLS doesn’t provide specific data for the job outlook of Site Reliability Engineers. However, this career could fall under the classification of Computer Network Architects(opens new window). The BLS forecasts a 4% job growth rate for these positions by 2032.

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

A Mobile Developer designs and codes mobile apps and devices.

The programming languages you need for mobile app development depend on what you build. For example, Mobile Developers who create iOS apps use Objective-C and Swift. To develop Android apps, it will be helpful to learn Java.

User Experience (UX) knowledge helps develop accessible and immersive mobile applications. You may need to test multiple versions of your product with real users to create the best experience.

A DevOps Engineer handles development and operation tasks. These tech professionals manage automation processes throughout the software development life cycle.

You can make yourself competitive for DevOps Engineer jobs by gaining business and technical skills. Troubleshooting technical issues can help you solve software problems, and a customer-centered mindset can help you design client-facing software.

Most DevOps Engineer roles require more than entry-level experience, so we’ve included a starting salary range instead.

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

A Product Manager oversees the development of new products.

Product Managers don’t need to know how to code, but they need some technical expertise. Learning about web development processes can make it easier for you to communicate with and mentor your project team.

It's also helpful to understand user design principles and practices. You'll use this information to advocate for products and features that best serve your customers.

The BLS doesn’t track data for Product Managers. However, LinkedIn(opens new window) lists Technical Product Managers as one of the 11 most in-demand jobs of 2022.

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

A Financial Manager protects a company’s financial health. They advise senior managers about financial decisions and oversee spending.

A Financial Manager typically has five years of experience in business roles.

The demand for Financial Managers(opens new window) will grow by 16% between 2022 and 2032. In that time, the job market will add over 69,000 jobs each year.

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

An IT Manager maintains information technology (IT) systems, oversees IT workers, and repairs hardware and software errors.

IT Managers have at least two years of experience. The field is broad, but here are the top skills.

Between 2021 and 2031, the BLS forecasts a 15% job growth for Computer and Information Systems Managers(opens new window).

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

A Business Intelligence Analyst gathers and interprets data. Then, they use this information to forecast financial trends.

A Business Intelligence Analyst studies data analytics or data science. Here are the top skills for the role:

The demand for Management Analysts(opens new window) will increase by 10% by 2032.

Source: Indeed(opens new window)

A Project Management Specialist oversees teams to ensure they complete projects on time and within budget.

Project Manager roles have various interpersonal and technical skills, including

Project Management Specialist(opens new window) jobs will increase by 6% by 2032. As a result, organizations will add about 68,000 new positions each year.

Source: Glassdoor(opens new window)

You can get most of these tech jobs without a college degree.

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) to scan job applications for relevant keywords. Adding these terms to your cover letter and resume can help your application pass through ATS filters.

To do this, look at the hard and soft skills employers list in the job description. You can find this in the qualifications or responsibilities section. Some job descriptions may use different names like “must-haves” or “what you will do”, but the information is the same.

If you build a strong network, it can lead to more (and higher-paying) job opportunities. Companies often hire candidates through employee referrals. Some open jobs are never even posted online, so you’ll only know about them through networking.

Here are actionable tips on how to build a network that contributes to career success.

Remember–strong networks have a balance of give and take. Add value and give help to your network as much as you ask for it.

Create an online portfolio that shows off your technical skills. Put a link to your portfolio in your resume. Here are a few ways to get projects to add to your portfolio.

Volunteer work

Build your programming skills by creating projects for nonprofit organizations. For example, you could update a local nonprofit’s website or design a mobile app for a charity. Then, add those to your portfolio.

Briefs

Even if you don’t have clients or a job in your profession yet, you can create projects for your portfolio. You can generate briefs with some of these tools:

Certifications, online courses, and other training programs show employers that you have the right credentials and experience. For instance, an Information Security Analyst can earn an IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate.

Multiverse offers on the job training programs for various tech careers. You can become a Data Scientist or Software Engineer in 12-15 months, and earn a salary throughout the program. Below is step-by-step rundown of how our programs work.

Our apprentices gain real work experiences that set them up for some of the highest-paying tech jobs. As a Multiverse apprentice, you can connect with professionals in your field and create projects to showcase in your portfolio.