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20 Top Career Paths for Tech Geeks: Which One Is Right for You?
If you love technology and data, these are the careers for you.
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From developing computer games to building secure financial transaction platforms, tech skills remain essential to the economy. Although the tech industry has faced high-profile layoffs, demand for skilled professionals remains — a demand reflected in the continued growth of tech salaries, which averaged over $112,500 in 2024, according to the 2025 Dice Tech Salary Report.
We’ll highlight 20 high-paying tech careers, provide in-depth insights into what top tech jobs entail and share tips on how to break into the industry.
20 top-paying tech jobs in America right now
If you have an aptitude for and interest in technology, the job market offers numerous high-paying and future-proof career opportunities.
“There are many rewarding career paths that have a bright future ahead for the technically [inclined],” said Larry Jacobson, former senior engineering manager at Amazon and Snap and now a consultant and executive coach. “Look to be the candidate that can demonstrate technical depth.”
Here are 20 of the highest-paying tech jobs in America and what you might expect to earn as you hone skills and earn experience.
Job title | Entry | Average | Experienced |
|---|---|---|---|
Blockchain engineer | $136,161 | $161,853 | $200,000 |
Cloud architect | $137,060 | $157,483 | $193,165 |
DevOps manager | $133,025 | $155,009 | $195,000 |
Artificial intelligence engineer | $127,500 | $155,000 | $200,000 |
Data architect | $127,179 | $149,999 | $187,556 |
Data scientist | $112,184 | $139,980 | $184,984 |
Technical lead | $110,752 | $137,368 | $177,906 |
Computer network architect | $104,386 | $135,000 | $175,500 |
Video game developer | $100,000 | $132,600 | $200,000 |
Data modeler | $109,437 | $129,560 | $163,724 |
Ruby on Rails developer | $105,886 | $127,140 | $162,494 |
Interaction designer | $101,153 | $126,750 | $162,862 |
Python developer | $107,105 | $126,624 | $158,494 |
Full-stack developer | $100,014 | $120,853 | $155,358 |
Agile project manager | $104,208 | $120,647 | $150,000 |
C developers | $97,500 | $119,651 | $156,000 |
Artificial intelligence specialist | $105,500 | $118,538 | $192,520 |
Mobile application developer | $98,003 | $115,000 | $140,400 |
Cybersecurity specialist | $95,662 | $114,388 | $153,097 |
Computer hardware engineer | $80,000 | $92,155 | $167,300 |
Salary information from Talent.com.
20 best careers for technology geeks
What do you need to know to land one of the top 20 highest-paying tech jobs? Here’s a breakdown of why professionals in these roles are in high demand, what type of work you’d be doing and the key skills you’ll need to succeed.
An important note: The tech industry is constantly evolving. “I always tell folks to never get complacent,” said Owen Luddy, the head of investment at the alternative investment advisory Arootah. “Always keep an eye on what is emerging, evaluate it and use it so that you can make recommendations when needed. Stay ahead of the game.”
Candidates should view this list not as a definitive career roadmap, but as a starting point to help guide their future growth and skill development.
20. Computer hardware engineer
Computer hardware engineers design, develop and oversee the production of computer hardware, including circuit boards, chips, printers, modems and keyboards.
They’re similar to electronic engineers, but they specialize in computer technology. In addition to designing hardware, they supervise manufacturing processes, contribute to prototype development and ensure quality control during production.
Average salary: $92,155
19. Cybersecurity specialist
Cybersecurity specialists develop, implement and enforce security protocols to protect sensitive information and their company’s IT infrastructure from existing and new cyber threats. They also identify gaps in employee knowledge, create cybersecurity training programs and ensure that team members understand security best practices.
To succeed in this role, you’ll need experience conducting cybersecurity risk assessments, up-to-date knowledge of existing and emerging threats, and experience developing and enforcing security policies.
Average salary: $114,388
18. Mobile application developer
It’s much easier to check your bank balance or shop on Amazon using an app than through a web browser, which can be slower and less convenient.
Companies understand that customers prefer the ease and convenience of mobile apps, so they rely on mobile application developers to create seamless, user-friendly experiences that give them a competitive edge.
To succeed in this role, mobile app developers need strong UX/UI design expertise and mobile programming skills at a minimum.
Average salary: $115,000
17. Artificial intelligence specialist
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) help companies increase efficiency and reduce waste. AI specialists adapt and implement the technologies to achieve those goals. To do it effectively, they must combine AI/ML expertise with a deep understanding of their company’s business needs.
Employers seek candidates with advanced knowledge of software development and information security and a firm grasp of IT hardware limitations.
Average salary: $118,538
16. C developers
C and C++ developers write code and create .NET solutions that enable desktop software to function. Their responsibilities include designing, developing and testing new application features and maintaining, debugging and improving existing code.
Employers typically seek candidates with strong proficiency in C and C++, along with experience in Node.js, Go, Python and Java. Knowledge of Lint, Valgrind, Git, Mercurial and SVN is also highly desirable.
Average salary: $119,651
15. Agile project manager
Agile companies don’t focus on bringing a static, finished product to market. Instead, they focus on launching a minimum viable product (MVP) and continuously roll out updates and upgrades throughout its lifecycle.
Agile project managers don’t write code themselves. Their role is to lead teams through the initial product launch and ongoing development cycles. They excel at problem-solving, team leadership and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
Average salary: $120,647
14. Full-stack developer
Full-stackers aren’t experts in a single field of coding. Instead, they have a working knowledge of programming languages used in servers, browsers and databases. That expertise and versatility allow them to collaborate with various teams and contribute to all stages of product development, from initial planning and prototyping to deployment.
Employers typically look for full-stack developers with experience in responsive web design, Apache, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Java, SASS, jQuery, PHP, frameworks, Python, MySQL and Ruby.
Average salary: $120,853
13. Python developer
Python is a popular programming language used in software, database and web development to automate workflows and connect databases.
Most Python developer job roles require experience in jQuery, JavaScript, Django, CSS, HTML, Git and GitHub.
Average salary: $126,624
12. Interaction designer
Interaction designers focus on making websites and apps more intuitive and user-friendly. People are more likely to stay engaged with and loyal to apps that allow them to easily find information and access services.
A well-known example of interaction design is infinite scroll, originally created by Aza Raskin for social media platforms. The feature is now widely used on news and current affairs websites.
Employers typically seek interaction designers with proficiency in jQuery, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Git, GitHub and various frameworks.
Average salary: $126,750
11. Ruby on Rails developer
Developers use Ruby on Rails to create web applications, e-commerce sites and content management systems. Ruby on Rails developers work on both the front end (what visitors see) and the back end (the code powering the website or app).
Employers expect Ruby on Rails developers to have expertise in JavaScript libraries, SQL, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, Git and GitHub.
Average salary: $127,140
10. Data modeler
Data modelers extract, interpret and structure data to provide actionable insights that support senior management in business decision-making. Their key skill is the ability to make sense of unstructured and seemingly unrelated big data to uncover valuable insights. The role requires vision, creativity and strong analytical thinking.
To succeed as a data modeler, you’ll need a solid grounding in information science and the ability to apply both practical and conceptual high-level thinking.
Average salary: $129,560
9. Video game developer
Video game developers create games for consoles, computers, smartphones, tablets and smart TVs. With gaming demand at an all-time high, the industry continues to expand rapidly.
Game development is a collaborative environment in which different teams handle specific responsibilities. Developers collaborate on tasks ranging from visual design and gameplay to debugging and optimization.
To become a video game developer, you’ll need experience with game-creation platforms and programming languages. Employers also seek creativity, teamwork skills and the ability to work under tight deadlines.
Average salary: $132,600
8. Computer network architect
Computer network architects design, build and maintain communication networks such as local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs). They create blueprints for new networks and upgrade hardware in existing systems to support evolving business needs. Network architects also ensure their company’s communications infrastructure meets staff and customer expectations — now and in the future.
To enter this field, you’ll typically need a degree in information and communication technology (ICT) or engineering, along with experience as a network or computer systems administrator. Some employers may also require an MBA for senior roles.
Average salary: $135,000
7. Technical lead
Like agile project managers, technical leads must be great leaders with excellent team-building skills. They must also be highly experienced programmers.
A technical lead’s primary role is steering a project to completion by coordinating the skills of various programmers and teams. In addition to managing others, they use their own keen programming expertise and insights throughout the project’s duration. They also manage the project budget and bring in outside expertise if necessary.
Average salary: $137,368
6. Data scientist
Data scientists use data analytics to help business leaders identify and interpret relevant data to guide future business strategies.
To excel in this role, you must be able to determine which data is most valuable to decision-makers — a skill that requires a comprehensive understanding of the business and its goals. Using analytical expertise, data scientists translate complex information into actionable insights for C-suite executives and board members.
Average salary: $139,980
5. Data architect
Data architects plan and design how companies capture, store and use data to support their strategic goals. In this role, you’ll be responsible for building and managing databases, as well as decommissioning outdated systems and archiving historical data.
Most employers seek problem-solvers with expertise in Oracle and SQL, along with previous experience as data analysts or data scientists.
Average salary: $149,999
4. Artificial intelligence engineer
AI engineers execute plans developed by AI specialists, focusing on programming and achieving project deliverables in artificial intelligence and machine learning applications.
To succeed in this role, you’ll need expertise in software development, data science and data engineering, along with a strong understanding of AI frameworks and tools.
Average salary: $155,000
3. DevOps manager
DevOps managers provide leadership and coordination across development, operations and quality assurance teams. In this role, you’ll oversee the creation of apps and software and manage key IT functions, including change management and problem management (identifying and resolving IT issues).
The best DevOps managers can see challenges through the eyes of the people they lead and spot the limitations of any tools they use. They’re also great team builders and communicators.
Average salary: $155,009
2. Cloud architect
Cloud computing has skyrocketed in usage and popularity due to the storage and processing power it provides organizations. Cloud architects design, build and implement the technical and security infrastructure needed for cloud services and operations.
For this role, you’ll need experience working with IaaS providers such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure, along with knowledge of emerging cloud technologies such as serverless computing, containers, APIs and DevSecOps.
Average salary: $157,483
1. Blockchain engineer
Blockchains are digital ledgers that store transaction-related data. Initially designed to track trades of cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin, they are now used in various industries beyond financial technology. Blockchain engineers design, develop, implement and maintain blockchains and their operating protocols.
To succeed in this role, blockchain engineers need a deep understanding of blockchain technology and its applications. They must also be proficient in programming languages such as Java, Golang, C++ and Solidity.
Average salary: $161,853
Tips for scoring a tech job
Despite the shortage of tech talent in the U.S., high-paying tech jobs remain competitive. Employers seek top-tier candidates with a balance of technical expertise and soft skills. Here are expert-backed strategies to stand out in the hiring process.
Master essential soft skills.
- Develop strong communication skills. Technical ability will take you only so far — communication is key to a lasting career. “Being able to communicate clearly and concisely is a huge career boost in any role,” Jacobson said.
- Learn how to be a team player. Tech jobs may seem solitary, but career growth requires collaboration. “Demonstrating a sense of ownership, going above and beyond, and doing what’s best for the team are great attitudes that will impress any hiring manager,” Jacobson said.
- Stay adaptable and keep learning. The tech industry evolves rapidly. “Never get complacent,” Luddy said. “Always keep an eye on what is emerging, evaluate it and use it so that you can make recommendations when needed. Stay ahead of the game.”
Gain hands-on experience and build your skill set.
- Explore different areas of tech to find your niche. Unless you have an advanced degree in a specialty area, you’ll likely start in front-end, back-end or full-stack development. “Start coding and deploying on your own to see what technologies you enjoy,” Jacobson said.
- Proactively identify your strengths. Luddy suggests formal assessments such as Myers-Briggs, StrengthsFinder and Criteria Corp to determine where you’ll thrive. “These tools help you understand your cognitive abilities and which tech fields align with them,” Luddy said.
- Gain real-world experience. Even if an opportunity doesn’t seem like the perfect fit, don’t dismiss it. “Practical experience in the space is a major win,” Luddy said. “[Those] who have encountered [specific] problems, tackled them and learned from them bring an edge that candidates who have not seen those same scenarios would miss out on.”
- Pursue continuing education. Luddy advised taking advantage of free and professional development resources from institutions such as MIT, Stanford and Carnegie Mellon. “There are also a plethora of incubation programs where you become a fellow of a program, learn the fundamentals of the space and have potential for job outplacement,” Luddy said.
Optimize your job search strategy.
- Create a personal portfolio site. A website showcasing your projects, problem-solving abilities and coding skills makes a lasting impression.
- Tailor your resume to the role. Research the company and the position, then customize your resume to show hiring managers how you can help them achieve their goals.
- Use LinkedIn. Networking on LinkedIn can be enormously rewarding. To get started, create a LinkedIn profile and start promoting yourself. Join groups of like-minded people with similar skills. Share your thoughts, experiences and solutions with others so you can build your online personal brand.
- Stay persistent. The job hunt takes time. Keep improving your skills, expanding your network and refining your approach. You’ll get there.
Mark Fairlie contributed to this article.
