Best Paying Jobs in Technology

Technology is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and cybersecurity shaping the future of our society. Most other industries also rely on technology to function, grow, and stay secure. In this article, you’ll find the best-paying jobs in technology, in terms of compensation, job growth, and demand, as well as the qualifications and skills required for each.

Then, you’ll learn about the top tech companies to work for, common benefits and perks offered to tech employees, and tips for getting a high-paying job in tech regardless of your experience level. Whether you’re an aspiring tech professional or a seasoned veteran, you’ll discover useful insights to help you decide which steps to take next in your career.

Best Paying Technology Jobs in the U.S.

The technology industry offers some of the highest-paying jobs in the world. To keep up with the rapid pace of growth and innovation, demand for skilled workers is also constantly on the rise.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates about 418,500 jobs for computer and information technology occupations each year, with a median annual wage of $97,430. This translates to a 15% growth rate, much faster than the average for all occupations.

In particular, some of the fastest-growing tech industries that stand out from the rest include:

• Financial Technology (FinTech): refers to the use of technology to provide financial services.
• Workplace Technologies: includes a wide range of tools and software that helps companies run more efficiently, such as project management software.
• Cybersecurity: as more and more companies and individuals rely on technology to protect their sensitive data, those in cybersecurity are among the most requested and highest-paying tech jobs.
• Healthcare Technology: a field that combines healthcare and technology to improve patient outcomes and make healthcare more accessible to all.
• Virtual Reality (VR): used in a variety of fields, VR creates immersive and stimulating environments that users can interact with by using specialized hardware, such as headsets and controllers.
• Cloud Computing: allowing users to access shared computing resources, such as servers, storage, and applications over the internet. This tech is critical for businesses in a variety of industries.
• AI (including Machine Learning): refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that would normally require human intelligence, such as making decisions, and learning and improving from experience.

Let’s take a closer look at the qualifications and skills required to land some of the best-paying jobs in technology, so you can start working towards your dream career in tech.

Software Developer

One of the highest-paid tech jobs is software developer. These professionals design, develop, and maintain computer software applications and systems. To become a software developer, you need a strong background in programming through a degree in software engineering or a related field, self-study, or coding boot camps.

Must have skills for software developers include proficiency in programming in languages (such as Java or Python), software testing, and debugging. The employment of software developers is projected to grow 25% over the next decade, which translates to about 162,900 jobs each year. The average annual wage for software developers in the U.S. is $132,930 and increases to $155,680 in Seattle and even $234,540 in San Jose, CA.

Browse all software developer jobs on Monster.

Blockchain Developer

Blockchain developers are software developers specializing in creating, implementing, and maintaining blockchain solutions. Essential skills for becoming a blockchain developer include proficiency in programming, cryptography, and all types of blockchain architectures. According to a DevSkiller report, the demand for software developers with blockchain skills continues to increase exponentially by as much as 552%.

Browse all blockchain developer jobs on Monster.

Mobile Applications Developer

Mobile applications developers are software developers specialized in designing and developing applications for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. To become a mobile app developer, you need proficiency in languages like Swift or Objective-C for iOS apps and Java or Kotlin for Android apps. The demand for mobile applications developers is anticipated to rise to 24% over the next few years.

Browse all mobile applications developer jobs on Monster.

Video Game Developers

The global video games sector is set to be worth over $321 billion and the demand for top talents is outpacing the available supply. Video game developers have one of the best tech jobs for game lovers and work on various aspects of game development, including:

• conceptualizing game ideas
• designing game mechanics and levels
• coding gameplay features
• testing and debugging games

Browse all video game developer jobs on Monster.

Computer Network Architect

More than worthy of a place on our list of the best-paying technology jobs, computer network architects design and build computer networks for organizations. To become a computer network architect, you need a strong understanding of network protocols, design principles, and security measures.

Most computer network architects hold a bachelor’s degree, while some senior roles require a master’s degree as well. The salary for computer network architects in the U.S. ranges from $74,605 to $145,280. Locations with high demand often pay higher. For example, the median salary in Dallas (TX) and Chicago (IL) rises above $120,000.

Browse all computer network architect jobs on Monster.

Cloud Architect

Cloud architects are responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing the cloud infrastructure to ensure the efficient operation of cloud-based systems. To work as a cloud architect, you need hands-on experience with cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP).

In the U.S., the yearly salary of cloud architects averages $134,093 within a range from $99,711 to $155,952. Job locations with high demand include Atlanta and Chicago where the yearly median salary is $141,984 and $144,530 respectively.

Browse all cloud architect jobs on Monster.

Computer and Information Research Scientist

Computer and information research scientists conduct research and invent new technologies in the field of computer science and contribute to advancements in AI, data science, and cybersecurity. To become a computer and information research scientist, you typically need a master’s degree or Ph.D. in computer science or a related field.

Job prospects for this career will grow by 21% over the next decade, bringing about 3,300 openings each year. Computer and information research scientists earn a median yearly salary of $155,880, making this one of the highest-paying computer science jobs. The top-paying states for this profession are California with an annual average wage of $232,210 and Washington with $182,900.

Browse all computer and research scientist jobs on Monster.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Specialist

AI specialists develop and improve AI algorithms and systems by conducting research, designing experiments, and analyzing data to develop innovative AI solutions. Most AI specialists hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree, although some of the best jobs in artificial intelligence may prefer candidates with a Ph.D. in AI or a related discipline. The global AI market is projected to grow 37.3% over the next decade, indicating strong job opportunities in this field.

Browse all AI specialist jobs on Monster.

Machine Learning (ML) Engineer

Among the fastest-growing and best-paying technology jobs in the U.S., machine learning engineers work on designing, training, and optimizing machine learning systems for various applications and industries. To work as an ML engineer, you typically need a bachelor’s degree or higher and practical experience through internships, personal projects, or competitions.

Browse all machine learning jobs on Monster.

Robotics Scientist

The field of robotics is growing day by day and so is the need for robotics scientists, one of the best-paying jobs in technology with a median salary of $94,351 per year. Robotics scientists design, develop, and research robot systems and technologies. Most jobs for robotics scientists require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and some prefer a Ph.D. in robotics or a related discipline.

Browse all robotic jobs on Monster.

Web Developer

Web developers design and build websites using programming languages, markup languages, and various web development tools. To become a web developer there are different paths you can pursue, such as earning a bachelor's degree in web development or acquiring your skills through coding camps, online courses, and practical experience.

The employment rate for web developers in the U.S. is estimated to grow 23% over the next decade bringing about 21,800 openings each year. Web developers make a median salary of $89,559 per year and senior web developers earn around $105,196.

Browse all web developer jobs on Monster.

Database Administrator (DBA)

Database administrators, or DBAs, manage and maintain databases to ensure their performance, security, and integrity. They handle tasks such as database installation, configuration, backup, recovery, and data optimization.

To become a database administrator you need to be an expert in database management systems such as Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, or MySQL. In the U.S. you’ll earn a median salary of $102,530 per year, and the top paying states are New Jersey and Maryland, with salaries of $122,410 and $116,970 respectively.

Browse all database administrator jobs on Monster.

Data Architect

Data architects mainly design and develop the overall structure and organization of databases. They work closely with database administrators, software developers, and stakeholders to create systems meeting business requirements and needs. The estimated median salary of data architects in the U.S. is $136,540 per year and in states such as Washington, California, and Maryland it goes over $150,000.

Browse all data architect jobs on Monster.

Big Data Engineer

Big data engineers design, develop, and manage the infrastructures and systems required to process and analyze large volumes of complex company data. One of the best-paying jobs in technology, big data engineering in the U.S. can see you earning an average salary of $117,264 per year. In job locations with high demand, such as New York City and Jersey City, the average salary is over $130,000.

Browse all big data engineer jobs on Monster.

Information Systems Manager (IT Manager)

Information systems managers, also called IT managers, oversee the planning, implementation, and management of information systems within an organization. Most jobs for IT managers require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, and some prefer candidates with a master’s degree or higher.

Employment for IT Managers over the next decade is projected to grow 16%, opening up about 48,500 positions each year. Moreover, information systems managers have one of the highest-paying computer science jobs. In the U.S. they earn an average salary of $173,670 and in metropolitan areas with a high employment level, such as New York City and San Francisco, this goes above $220,000.

Browse all information systems manager jobs on Monster.

Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

Chief technology officers are high-level executives who oversee the technological aspects of an organization. On top of a strong educational background in computer science, information technology, or a related field, to become a CTO you must first gain extensive experience in technology leadership roles. You also need excellent leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills.

The salary for chief technology officers in the U.S. ranges from $ 86,676 to $166,994. job locations with high demand offer median salaries above $145,000, including in San Francisco (CA) and Chicago (IL).

Browse all chief technology officer jobs on Monster.

Cybersecurity Manager

Another of the best-paying technology jobs are found in careers in cybersecurity, which are also in very high demand. Cybersecurity managers are responsible for overseeing an organization’s cybersecurity operations. They develop and implement security policies, protocols, and procedures to protect digital assets and sensitive information from cyber threats.

The national median salary for cybersecurity managers is $96,853 per year, ranging from $71,030 to $123,888. Locations with high demand for these professionals, where the median salary is above $145,000, include San Francisco in California and Chicago in Illinois.

Browse all cybersecurity manager jobs on Monster.

Information Security Analyst

Information security analyst is one of the best-paying jobs in technology and the employment rate is projected to grow exponentially over the next decade at 35% or about 19,500 openings per year. In this job, you’ll assess the security measures in place, identify vulnerabilities, and develop strategies to enhance an organization's overall security status.

To become an information security analyst, you typically need a bachelor’s degree or higher and relevant certifications such as CISSP or CEH. The estimated median salary of information security analysts in the U.S. is $119,860 per year and in states such as Virginia, California, and Maryland it rises to over $130,000.

Browse all information security analyst jobs on Monster.

System Analyst

System analysts analyze organizations’ computer systems and processes to identify areas for improvement and design effective solutions. They possess a solid understanding of software development methodologies, systems design, and project management. To work as a system analyst, a bachelor's degree or higher is typically required, as well as strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

BLS anticipates an average of about 44,500 annual openings for system analysts over the next decade. The average salary for system analysts in the U.S. is $107,530 per year, ranging from $61,390 to $161,980.

Browse all system analyst jobs on Monster.

Top Tech Companies to Work For

In the competitive world of technology, landing a job at one of the best tech companies to work for can be a dream come true for many professionals. Aside from being some of the highest-paying tech companies, the following offer exciting work environments and innovative projects.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or looking to transition to the highest-paid tech jobs, take a look at the opportunities available at the best workplaces in technology.

• Cisco: a multinational technology conglomerate known for its networking and communication solutions. They offer a wide range of tech jobs, including network engineer, software developer, cybersecurity analyst, and cloud architect positions.

Browse all Cisco jobs on Monster.

• Salesforce: a cloud-based customer relationship management (CRM) platform that helps businesses manage their sales, marketing, and customer service operations. They provide opportunities including tech roles in data analytics, AI and machine learning, and cybersecurity.

Browse all Salesforce jobs on Monster.

• Nvidia: a leading tech company in graphics processing units (GPUs) and AI computing. Focused on advancing technology in areas like gaming and data centers, they have jobs for AI engineers, GPU architects, software developers, and many more tech careers.

Browse all Nvidia jobs on Monster.

• Intuit Inc.: renowned for its financial software solutions, including TurboTax, QuickBooks, and Mint. They offer opportunities in software engineering, data science, product management, and cybersecurity.

Browse all Intuit Inc. jobs on Monster.

• Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (HPE): a global tech company specializing in IT infrastructure and enterprise solutions. HPE provides a variety of tech jobs, including system administrator, network engineer, software developer, and cloud architect roles.

Browse all Hewlett Packard Enterprise jobs on Monster.

Typical Benefits and Perks for Tech Employees

In addition to competitive base salaries, tech companies often understand the importance of providing a comprehensive package of benefits and perks to attract and retain top talent. These are the most common advantages you can expect to find in the best-paying jobs in technology:

• Flexible hours and/or remote working: It is very common for tech companies to offer flexible work schedules and the option to work remotely to increase employee satisfaction and productivity.
• Health, dental, and life insurance: The specific coverage and costs vary across companies, but most provide access to quality healthcare, dental insurance plans, and life insurance coverage.
• Parental leave: Providing parental leave policies that offer paid time off for new parents promotes work-life balance and supports employees in their personal responsibilities.
• 401(K) plan: Retirement benefits such as 401(k) plans help employees save for their future. Often companies will add to the plan by matching – in part of or fully – their employees’ contributions.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): FSAs and HSAs are tax-advantaged accounts that allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars to cover qualified medical expenses.
• Paid vacation: Employees who take vacations are more productive. Many tech companies know this and offer generous paid vacation policies to give employees time to relax, recharge, and spend time with their families.
• Paid medical leave: Paid medical leave allows employees to have time off to address their health needs or recover from an illness without losing pay or vacation days.

Tips for Getting a High-Paying Job in Tech

In order to secure one of the best-paying jobs in technology, you must adopt a strategic approach and a strong foundation of skills and knowledge. From acquiring the right education and certifications to honoring your skills and acing interviews, the following tips will empower you to make informed decisions and maximize your potential.

Get the Proper Education and Certifications

If you want to work in tech, a strong educational background and relevant certifications can significantly boost your prospects in the industry. Also, in such a rapidly evolving field where new technologies emerge frequently, staying updated and equipped with the necessary knowledge and credentials is essential.

These are some of the best graduate schools for a career in technology:

• Massachusetts Institute Of Technology (MIT)
• California Institute Of Technology (Caltech)
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Georgia Institute Of Technology
• Arizona State University

Then, check out some of the highest-paying and most requested certifications for tech jobs:

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Google Professional Cloud Architect
• Project Management Professional (PMP)

Expand and Improve Your Skills

Expanding and improving your skills will help you stay competitive and secure any of the best-paying technology jobs you like. Focus on acquiring skills that align with your career goals and are in high demand in the industry. If budget or time is an issue, use online learning platforms such as Coursera and Udemy, for a wide range of free and paid online courses and tutorials to learn at your own pace.

These are some of the most requested skills for highest paying tech jobs:

• Mobile application development
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:
• Cloud computing
• Blockchain
• Cybersecurity

Send Accurate Job Applications

Once your education, certifications, and skills are on point, when aiming for one of the best-paying jobs in technology is also important to use a well-crafted job application that gets you noticed. When writing your technology resume and cover letter, highlighting your tech skills, qualifications and suitability for the role will help you make a great first impression.

Moreover, when sending an accurate job application, you reflect your professionalism and dedication to the job search process, and your attention to detail, all crucial qualities in highest paying tech jobs. Don’t forget to proofread and edit your resume and cover letter by paying attention to grammar, spelling, and format used.

Prepare for Your Job Interviews

A well-prepared and confident performance during the interview can significantly increase your chances of securing high-paying tech jobs. Follow these tips to get ready and face your job interview with more confidence:

• Research the company to better understand its mission, culture, products, or services.
• Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method (situation, task, action, result) method to structure your answer.
• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask your interviewer.
• Brush up on essential technical concepts and skills relevant to the high-paying tech job you are interviewing for.
• Prepare a portfolio or a list of your best projects and achievements.
• Check out our guides on tech interview errors and thought interview questions in tech.

Join Monster to Land one of the Best Paying Jobs in Technology

Act today and download the Monster app to stay ahead in your quest for high-paying jobs in the technology industry. Create an account with us to gain access to new job listings tailored to your preferences. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to upload your resume and enable recruiters to send direct proposals your way.