Do you have the brains for technical problem solving and mathematic systems? For most people the answer is no, but for the few gadget gurus out there, the answer is yes and the opportunities are endless.
Here are 4 great careers ideal for tech-savvy minds.
Computer systems analyst
Called the most underrated job two years in a row by CareerCast.com, a computer systems analyst makes a median salary of almost $80,000 a year. People in this position makes sure that a company’s hardware, software, and networks work together seamlessly for the best functioning system. For this job you need to understand how systems interact with each other and how they can best be used to meet different needs. Without this kind of efficiency and cohesion, work at an office can become frustrating and even impossible, so the position is an important one.
How do you become a computer systems analyst? The job is a blend of business knowledge and computer science, so you should be in good shape with at least a computer science degree, and a minor or master’s degree in business wouldn’t hurt. However, if you just have experience or courses in business systems analysis, you have a good chance at the job.
Mechanical engineer
Almost nothing in America can get done without a mechanical engineer getting involved at some point. The most recognizable industries work with automobiles and aerodynamics, but mechanical engineers are just as necessary for any sort of manufacturing, heating and cooling systems, energy conservation, and even in creating prosthetics and implants for biotechnology.
This field generally only requires a bachelor’s degree, but the coursework is difficult. If you have an analytical side and a creative side, however, you’ll probably love it anyway. Look for courses in mechanical engineering and electromechanical engineering the get your feet wet. While in school look for ways to brush up on your skills in design, physics, reading comprehension, and complex problem solving—all skills companies are looking for in their engineers.
Web developer
As companies continue to move towards an internet-centric business model, they increasingly need eye-catching, effective websites in addition to perhaps a mobile site and smartphone app. The needs are endless, and the job can pay well while also offering a lot of job flexibility as the terms “Web developer” and “telecommuter” almost work interchangeably. Many people treat this career as a side job or even as a hobby and thousands of others are freelancers. The median salary is over $60,000 a year.
You don’t need a degree to work as a web developer, but what you do need is a sound understanding of JavaScript, HTML, PHP, and a slew of other programming languages and applications. You can learn these on your own or take classes. If you are working on a site from beginning to end, you also need a creative side and a good eye for design to make a website as appealing and functional as possible.
IT manager
Like helping other people and have a golden touch with computers? With these job title skills, your team will help coworkers manage everything from viruses to the weird glitch that won’t let a computer connect to the office printer. You don’t just do damage control, however. You also keep computers, firewalls, and anti-virus software up-to-date to prevent an emergency altogether. You’ll be the one who is on the ground floor making sure that everyone’s computers are safe and running smoothly. For such an important job, the median salary sits at around $118,000 per year.
Becoming an IT manager involves at least a bachelor’s and possibly a graduate degree, and several years of experience. Every company needs IT help, so smaller companies may not care as much about the graduate degree, but you’ll definitely need experience. To get started, don’t be afraid to begin as an IT assistant.
Whether you like tinkering with programming languages or physics or are more business-minded, you can find a career that has less stress, higher job prospects, and good pay with these tech job opportunities.
What careers have you considered in the tech industry? Join the conversation in the comments below.
Image via Flickr.
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