The 9 Best Technology Jobs of 2013
Technology impacts the way our country operates on a daily basis. We live in an age where digital communication reigns supreme and modern technology runs the networks that control and store much of the country's vital information.
It's no surprise, then, that technology jobs are in heavy demand in 2013.
Think about the daily tasks you carry out at your job. How often are you utilizing technology? I'm sure the answer is "frequently" for many of our readers.
Many online students are realizing the potential payoff of pursuing a technology-related degree. At Grantham University, computer science and information technology are two of the most popular online degrees. It's no coincidence that the reason relates to the array of career opportunities that exist in these fields.
U.S. News and World Report recently identified a list of the nine best technology jobs of 2013. If you're enrolled in computer science, information technology or a related degree program, these careers could be worth considering as technology continues to advance. According to the report, the criteria for ranking the nine jobs were as follows: number of openings, chance to advance and be professionally fulfilled, and the ability to meet financial obligations. Let's get to the list:
1. Computer Systems Analyst
What you need to know: Computer systems analysts evaluate hardware/software and design and develop computer systems. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment in this career to grow 22.1% between 2010 and 2020, faster than the 14% average across all occupations. By 2020, the BLS also projects 120,400 computer systems analysts jobs will open up.
2. Database Administrator
What you need to know: Professionals in this position store, manage and organize data based on an organization's database needs. The BLS projects a whopping 30.6% employment boom between 2010 and 2020.
3. Software Developer
What you need to know: These tech-savvy professionals develop the software systems that we use every day, such as your favorite mobile applications on your smartphone. In fact, one Grantham student recently started his own software consulting business. The BLS projects employment for this position to grow 30% in the next decade and for 143,800 jobs to be created in that time.
4. Web Developer
What you need to know: Web developers are responsible for the layout and overall experience of the websites they design. The BLS projects 21.7% employment growth this decade and for 65,700 new jobs to become available.
5. Computer Programmer
What you need to know: Computer programmers write, rewrite and test software and computer programs for their organization and/or clients. The BLS expects computer programmer employment to grow 12% between 2010 and 2020, adding 43,700 positions.
6. Mechanical Engineer
What you need to know: These highly-skilled professionals develop, build and test various devices for optimal computer functionality. The BLS expects 21,300 new mechanical engineering positions to open between 2010 and 2020.
7. IT Manager
What you need to know: IT managers protect the organization's computer network from hackers and malware. They also solve computer troubleshooting issues within the organization. The BLS projects an employment growth of 18% in the next decade, with 55,800 new jobs becoming available.
8. Computer Systems Administrator
What you need to know: These administrators ensure that email and data storage networks properly function on the organization's intranet or local computer network. The BLS expects an employment growth of 28% between 2010 and 2020, with 96,600 new positions created.
9. Civil Engineer
What you need to know: Civil engineers utilize software to plan and design the structure of buildings, bridges and roads. The BLS predicts a 19% employment growth this decade, with 51,100 new jobs becoming available.
Are you an aspiring technology professional, or perhaps already in the field? In your experience, what positions would you add to this list? Post them in the comments section below.
About the author: Eric Sorrentino joined Grantham University as Social Media Manager in October 2011. Prior to that, he blogged about Big 12 Conference athletics for KUsports.com and was a sports copy editor for the Lawrence Journal-World. Eric received his bachelor's degree in Journalism from the University of Kansas.