The fifth industrial revolution is upon us. While it sounds like a Star Wars reference, it actually describes how humans and machines will work together in the future. More and more business operations are increasing efficiency through digital technology and automation tools. Machine learning and artificial intelligence are making machines smarter than ever before.
But machines are only as smart as the people who make them. And this shift in the way we work is creating significant career opportunities for those with technical knowledge and skills.
So, if you’re interested in future-proofing your career, what roles should you be considering? In this article, we’ll check out the seven best tech jobs for the future. We’ll look at what these roles do and future growth prospects. We’ll also check out earning potential and give you all the info you need on how to become them.
But, let’s face it, you’re unlikely to be mixing it solely with robots anytime soon. So, we’ll also give you a nudge about how to develop the soft skills that will give you a competitive edge as this shift takes place.
The pace of change remains rapid. And technology adoption is an area unlikely to buck the trend. 84% of employers are working on digitizing their workflows.1 And many key priorities for business leaders are technology-focused. These include the adoption of cloud technologies and the increased use of e-commerce platforms. It also includes the interrogation of big data to make informed decisions.2
The pace of change remains rapid. And technology adoption is an area unlikely to buck the trend. 84% of employers are working on digitizing their workflows.1 And many key priorities for business leaders are technology-focused. These include the adoption of cloud technologies and the increased use of e-commerce platforms. It also includes the interrogation of big data to make informed decisions.2
While 37% of employees are worried about automation, this shift is not merely about replacing people with machines.3 Automation technologies will replace some roles. But, the number of ‘jobs of tomorrow’ created is likely to surpass the number of roles lost.4 What will change is the technical and soft skills required of employees in the future.
Critical thinking, data analysis, adaptability, and problem-solving are the skills most likely to be in demand in the future.5 Technology jobs require many of these crucial soft skills. So those currently employed in tech roles are likely to be well-placed for the challenges of the revolution ahead.
Plus, role holders already have the technical competence required to support workplace digitization. Employees with technology skills are in high demand. As of April 2022, the unemployment rate for tech talent was only 1.3%. As the shift towards digital increases, tech job opportunities will grow in response.
So you’re convinced that technology is where it’s at for jobs of the future. But exactly what roles should you be considering to cement your success in the fifth industrial revolution?
To help smooth your furrowed brow, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the top high-paying tech jobs for the future. We’ll tell you why we think you should be considering these jobs. Plus, we’ll let you know how to become them and how much you can really hope to earn.
Let’s get started!
Information security analysts are responsible for maintaining the security of hardware and software. These security specialists check the business’s network for security breaches and take action should one occur.
Information security analysts are responsible for selecting and maintaining security software. They’re also responsible for implementing security protocols and standards. They will report on successful and unsuccessful security breaches to senior management.
The projected 10-year job growth rate is 35%.7 This is much higher than average. In fact, Information Security Analyst was ranked no. 5 in the top 100 best jobs.8 As technology changes and advances, the demand for information security analysts remains high. As attackers become more sophisticated, analysts enable businesses to stay one step ahead and keep their data secure.
In the US, the median pay for information security analysts is US$102,600.9 In the UK, this figure is £43,017 (US$52,101).10
To become an information security analyst, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree. This should be in a computer science or technology-related subject. Some analysts may enter the tech field via industry certification instead. Specialist certification, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional, can improve your job prospects.
Soft skills are as important as technical ones. Information Security Analysts will need to have good analytical and problem-solving skills. They will also need to be able to communicate information effectively.
Software engineers create operating and software systems. They also design and develop computer applications and software programs. Software engineers use modeling and analysis to predict capabilities and system performance outcomes. They may also provide system and software quality assurance to businesses. They will conduct tests to check functionality, usability, and security.
Software engineers are in high demand. There is a 25% growth outlook over the next decade, much higher than average.11 In Australia, many top companies are often recruiting software engineers. These include Deloitte, Google, IBM, and Accenture.12
In the US, the average salary for a software engineer is US$109,020.13 In the UK, the average base salary is £49,303 (US$59,861).14 The median salary in Australia is AUD$104,415 (US$72,024).15
Most software engineers have a college degree in a related field. This could be information technology, computer science, engineering, or maths. Having a master’s level degree can make you more competitive. Experience in the software engineering field can be gained through internships.
Professional certification can be helpful. Extensive knowledge of computer programming and common computer languages will also be required. Soft skills are also important. These might include analysis skills, effective communication, and creativity.
Chief technology officer (CTO) is an executive-level role. CTOs are responsible for developing a technology strategy that aligns with the business’s overall goals. They are also accountable for the implementation of this strategy. CTOs need a combination of technical skills, soft skills, and good business acumen.
Job growth for executives over the next decade is predicted to be 6%. This outlook spans the C-suite and may include other roles, such as the chief executive officer. Given their strategic responsibility for responding to emerging tech trends, it’s safe to say this role is pretty future-proof.
Chief technology officers earn an average base salary of US$274,200.16 They’re also likely to earn a significant annual bonus. The average annual salary + bonus package for CTOs in the US is $329,100.17
CTO salaries may differ significantly depending on industry and market. In the UK, the average base salary is £95,362 (US$115,089).18 In Australia, the median salary is AUD$164,290 (US$111,462).19 In India, the average CTO salary is ₹3,327,747 (US$40,175).20
Executive recruitment values experience over education. But, a relevant undergraduate degree is useful. It’s important for many of the entry-level and middle-management tech positions that precede executive leadership. Relevant degrees include computer science, information technology, engineering, and math.
At the executive level, post-graduate education can also be beneficial. Many CTOs also have a master’s level degree, commonly a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). Well-developed soft skills are also crucial. These include leadership, collaboration, and strategic decision-making.
Computer programmers take the software and application design created by software engineers and codify it. Using programming languages, they write the instructions needed for computers to function.
Programmers are also responsible for testing software and applications. They need to make sure they function correctly. If something isn’t working, computer programmers review and modify the code to remove any mistakes.
In the US, the 10-year projected growth is more static than other technology roles. This is mainly due to offshoring. This means the job outlook is much more positive in countries such as India. Many computer programmers are maintaining their relevancy by adding additional skills. These include software development and information security certifications.
Computer programmers still earn a competitive yearly salary. The median amount in the US is US$93,000 annually. In the UK, the average base salary is £36,339 (US$44,143). In India, computer programmers can earn ₹486,082 (US$5,955) on average.
To become a computer programmer, you’ll likely need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject. This could be computer science, information technology, or math. You’ll need coding skills and to be proficient in several different programming languages. Computer programmers may go on to diversify their experience in other technology roles. Those with business experience may become systems analysts or may take up a managerial position.
Web developers are responsible for the creation, maintenance, and performance of websites. They’ll need to report on technical performance metrics, such as loading speed. Web developers may be back-end developers or front-end developers.
Back-end developers are responsible for creating the website framework. They also ensure it functions as required by the client. Front-end developers are responsible for the technical elements of the website’s design. They integrate page content, graphics, and applications such as e-commerce functionality.
The career outlook for web developers is positive. The number of roles is expected to grow by 23% over the next decade.21 Web developer was voted no. 9 in the top 100 jobs.22 This could be because it is a role that enables a good work-life balance. There are also great opportunities for career advancement and salary increases.23
In the US, the average salary for a web developer is US$78,300.24 However, this is dependent on skills and experience. Those in the upper quartile earn over US$100,000.25 In Australia, the median salary for web developers is slightly more, around AUD$128,123 (US$88,497).26 In the UK, the average salary is somewhat lower, around £39,432 (US$47,895).27
Like other tech professionals, some web developers have an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject. Others demonstrate their skills to employers via professional certification or prior work experience.
A strong understanding of HTML programming is essential for the role. Knowledge of other programming languages and multimedia publishing tools may make candidates more competitive. Web developers will need to undertake continuous professional development to stay up to date on new tools and software.
Full-stack engineers are responsible for the design and implementation of software applications and programs. They are high-level software engineers with responsibility for the entire development cycle. The term full stack refers to the fact that they work with both front-end and back-end development. They may also provide leadership to programming teams.
Full-stack engineers work with back-end developers to design the underpinning application architecture. They will also review and test the code created by computer programmers. At the front end, they will help design the user experience and ensure overall functionality and usability. As they work with so many teams, full-stack engineers need excellent collaboration and communication skills.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn’t have a specific job outlook for full-stack engineers. It is likely to be aligned with that of other software engineers at about 25%.28 This is significantly higher than average. Full-stack engineers are also likely to lead other technology professionals. So, their job outlook could be even more positive as subordinate positions increase.
The average salary of a full-stack engineer in the US is $121,883.29 This reflects the additional leadership responsibilities of the role. The median salary in Australia is AUD$135,000 (US$93,264).30 In the UK, it’s £56,915 (US$69,145).31 Like most roles, geographic location and level of experience can influence overall salary.
In terms of educational requirements for this role, many people complete a relevant undergraduate degree. This could be in computer science or information technology. A degree in engineering or math is also appropriate. A master’s level degree can also make you more competitive for roles.
Some full-stack engineers gain professional certification in lieu of formal education. Combined with work experience, this is also a valid route to full-stack engineer positions. Full-stack engineers often have leadership responsibilities. Training or experience in this competency can be useful.
As we mentioned above, front-end developers are responsible for the user experience of a website or mobile application. They’re responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of the visitor-facing elements. Back-end developers are responsible for the technical elements behind the scenes.
Front-end developers design and code the user interface. They work with user experience designers to optimize the user experience. They also work with digital designers to plan the graphic design of the website or mobile app. They want it to be attractive to users on both their computers and mobile devices. Front-end developers are also responsible for identifying and removing any bugs that interfere with the usability of the website.
Like other software developers, the job outlook for front-end developers is extremely positive. The predicted 10-year job growth is around 25%.32 Continued advancement of AI, robotics, and the Internet of Things will provide security for tech professionals skilled in software and application development.
The average salary for front-end developers in the US is $119,224.33 In the UK, the median base salary is £55,278 (US$67,190).34 Salaries for front-end developers can vary by experience, industry, and market. In India, the average base salary is ₹946,184 (US$11,589).35
Like other software engineers, front-end developers tend to have a relevant professional degree. This could be computer science, engineering, information technology, or math. An advanced degree may make candidates stand out from the competition. Professional certification and work experience can replace formal education requirements. Either way, extensive computer programming skills are important. A deep understanding of common programming languages is also critical.
To future-proof your success, you need both hard and soft skills. Here at F4S, we’re experts at understanding the motivation behind the soft skills you need to succeed. After all, we’ve been studying them for over 20 years! Our in-depth people analytics tools offer insight into the attitudes and behaviors that help you perform at your best.
Why not take our free assessment today? You’ll get personalized insights from Coach Marlee that will help you understand your own motivations better. And you’ll discover how they relate to the essential soft skills needed for future tech jobs. This information will help you improve your performance. You’ll be able to identify your blind spots and build a personal development plan for future success.
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All the roles above rely heavily on their technical skill set. But they also have something else in common. Soft skills, such as analysis, effective communication, creativity, and problem-solving, are also key to success. And this trend is likely to continue. While it’s hard to predict the exact technical requirements of future jobs, soft skills will no doubt still be crucial.
Artificial intelligence or machine learning engineers will still need analytical skills. Virtual reality developers will still need creativity. Deloitte suggests that technical skills become outdated as quickly as every 2.5 years.36 So, to future-proof their careers, tech professionals will also need to be open to learning. They’ll need to be adaptable and resilient. Continuous professional development will be required so they can hone the technical skills required to stay relevant in jobs we’re just starting to imagine.
It’s likely that some digital technologies currently viewed as niche will become mainstream. For example, the use of cryptocurrency such as bitcoin. As that grows, more blockchain developers and blockchain engineers will be required. Increased use of AI in recruitment may mean an uptick in digital talent platforms.
As cloud systems such as the Internet of Things grow, more jobs in technology will be created. Connected devices will need different mobile app development. Cloud engineers will be needed to create and maintain an advanced cloud architecture.
There will also be jobs that solve problems we can’t even predict. For example, the mobile app development required during the Covid-19 pandemic. Mobile application developers had to scramble to create new contract-tracing solutions. These helped monitor and slow the spread of the virus.
One job currently in its infancy, but with huge potential, is a robotics engineer. A robotics engineer ideates, designs, builds, and maintains robotic devices. They need great analytical skills to identify business problems that could be solved by robotic technology. Plus, they need creativity to then design the answers to those problems.
Specialist degree programs are helping provide the skills needed to excel in roles such as these. For example, at the New England Institute of Technology, you can pursue a bachelor’s and master’s level degree in robotics. Or you can minor in robotics alongside a core engineering degree. Currently, robotics engineers can expect to earn an average annual salary of US$92,503.37
While we don’t have a crystal ball, the job outlook for technology roles is strong. The predicted growth outlook for the next decade is around 25%. And that’s not likely to change any time soon. Engaging in continuous professional development will help you keep your skills relevant. This can include both technical skills and soft skills.
There’s currently a talent gap in the tech industry. This means that skilled professionals are in high demand. Of the non-executive roles that we’ve highlighted here, full-stack engineers are the best paid. This reflects their ability to combine technical and soft skills to secure leadership roles. But it’s likely that as demand outstrips supply, all tech professionals will be in a strong position to negotiate highly competitive salaries.
Pretty much every career in technology we’ve showcased relies on relevant degrees. To future-proof your tech career, degrees in computer science, information technology, engineering, and math are good options. As more jobs of the future emerge, specialist degree programs will become available. For example, you can already take a degree in robotics. You can also study specialist programs alongside more traditional degrees.
Entry-level jobs build your experience. Choose one with a focus on software design and development and programming languages. These skills are likely to be useful for future careers in tech. There are many entry-level jobs that provide the ability to build your technical skills. An internship with a tech company would also be a good option.
And don’t forget to look for roles that help you develop your soft skills, too. Push for projects that allow you to develop your analytical and critical-thinking skills. Or those that need innovative responses to business problems.
As far as we can predict, the most useful degree programs are commonly available. Any colleges that offer high-quality, relevant degrees are a good option. Relevant degree programs include computer science, information technology, engineering, or math.
Specialist universities may begin to offer more niche programs. MIT already offers a Professional Certification Program in Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence. The Engineering Institute of Technology in Australia offers an Advanced Diploma of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering.
1. World Economic Forum. (2020) ‘The Future of Jobs Report 2020’. Available at: WEF_Future_of_Jobs_2020.pdf (weforum.org)
2. Ibid.
3. PWC. (2018) ‘Workforce of the future’. Available at: Workforce of the future (pwc.com)
4. World Economic Forum. (2020) ‘The Future of Jobs Report 2020’. Available at: WEF_Future_of_Jobs_2020.pdf (weforum.org)
5. Ibid.
6. Deloitte. (2023) ‘Tech Trends 2023’. Available at: Tech Trends 2023 (deloitte.com)
7. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022) ‘Occupational Outlook Handbook: Information Security Analysts’. Available at: Information Security Analysts : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov)
8. U.S. News & World Report. (2023) ‘Information Security Analyst - Career Rankings, Salary, Reviews, and Advice’. Available at: Information Security Analyst - Career Rankings, Salary, Reviews and Advice | US News Best Jobs
9. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022) ‘Occupational Outlook Handbook: Information Security Analysts’. Available at: Information Security Analysts : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov)
10. Glassdoor. (2023) ‘Salary: Information Security Analyst’. Available at: Salary: Information Security Analyst (January, 2023) | Glassdoor
11. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022) ‘Occupational Outlook Handbook: Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers’. Available at: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm
12. Glassdoor. (2023) ‘Top Companies Hiring for Software Developer Jobs’. Available at: Top Companies Hiring for Software Developer Jobs | Glassdoor
13. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022) ‘Occupational Outlook Handbook: Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers’. Available at: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm
14. Indeed.com (2023) ‘Software engineer salary in United Kingdom’. Available at: Software engineer salary in United Kingdom (indeed.com)
15. Indeed.com (2023) ‘Software engineer salary in Australia’. Available at: Software engineer salary in Australia (indeed.com)
16. Salary.com. (2022) ‘Salary calculator: CTO’. Available at: https://www.salary.com/research/salary/alternate/cto-salary
17. Salary.com. (2022) ‘Salary calculator: CTO’. Available at: https://www.salary.com/tools/salary-calculator/cto?type=bonus
18. Payscale.com. (2022) ‘Average Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Salary in United Kingdom’. Available at: https://www.payscale.com/research/UK/Job=Chief_Technology_Officer_(CTO)/Salary
19. Payscale.com. (2022) ‘Average Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Salary in Australia’. Available at: https://www.payscale.com/research/AU/Job=Chief_Technology_Officer_(CTO)/Salary
20. Payscale.com. (2022) ‘Average Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Salary in India’. Available at: https://www.payscale.com/research/IN/Job=Chief_Technology_Officer_(CTO)/Salary
21. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022). ‘Occupational Outlook Handbook: Web developers and Digital Designers’. Available at: Web Developers and Digital Designers : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov)
22. U.S. News & World Report. (2023). ‘Web Developer - Career Rankings, Salary, Reviews and Advice’. Available at: Web Developer - Career Rankings, Salary, Reviews and Advice | US News Best Jobs
23. Ibid.
24. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022). ‘Occupational Outlook Handbook: Web developers and Digital Designers’. Available at: Web Developers and Digital Designers : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov)
25. U.S. News & World Report. (2023). ‘Web Developer - Career Rankings, Salary, Reviews and Advice’. Available at: Web Developer - Career Rankings, Salary, Reviews and Advice | US News Best Jobs
26. SalaryExpert. (2023). ‘Web Developer Salary Australia’. Available at: Web Developer Salary Australia – SalaryExpert
27. Salary.com. (2021). ‘Web Developer Salary in Uniter Kingdom’. Available at: Web Developer Salary in United Kingdom | Salary.com
28. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022) ‘Occupational Outlook Handbook: Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers’. Available at: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm
29. ZipRecruiter. (2023). ‘Full Stack Engineer Salary’. Available at: FULL Stack Engineer Salary ($121,883) ZipRecruiter
30. Talent.com (2023) ‘Full Stack Engineer Salary in Australia - Average Salary’. Available at: Full Stack Engineer Salary in Australia - Average Salary (talent.com)
31. Indeed.com (2023) ‘Full stack developer salary in United Kingdom’. Available at: Full stack developer salary in United Kingdom (indeed.com)
32. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022) ‘Occupational Outlook Handbook: Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers’. Available at: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm
33. Salary.com. (2023). ‘Front-End Developer Salary’. Available at: Front-End Developer Salary | Salary.com
34. Indeed.com. (2023). ‘Front-End Developer Salary in United Kingdom’. Available at: Front end developer salary in United Kingdom (indeed.com)
35. Indeed.com. (2023) ‘Front-End Developer Salary in India’. Available at: Front end developer salary in India (indeed.com)
36. Deloitte. (2023) ‘Tech Trends 2023’. Available at: https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/insights/articles/us175897_tech-trends-2023/DI_tech-trends-2023.pdf
37. Indeed.com. (2023) ‘Robotics engineer salary in United States’. Available at: Robotics engineer salary in United States (indeed.com)
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