In the tech industry, it’s easy to assume that only software developers or data scientists are raking in six-figure salaries. However, there are numerous other roles that, while less celebrated, offer lucrative salaries and career growth. The demand for these positions is rapidly increasing, but they don’t always get the spotlight they deserve. Here are 10 tech jobs you may not know about that can earn you six figures—and why they’re in such high demand.
DevOps Engineer: $110,000 - $150,000
A DevOps Engineer bridges the gap between software development and IT operations. Their job is to make sure that both teams work smoothly together by automating processes and setting up tools that allow for faster, more reliable software releases. Imagine you’re part of a team building a big app. The developers are creating new features, and the operations team is responsible for keeping everything running smoothly. A DevOps Engineer steps in and helps both sides by setting up systems that automate the testing, deployment, and monitoring of the app, so everything moves faster and with fewer errors. This role is crucial because it speeds up development while ensuring stability, which is why it pays so well.
Gene Kim, author of The Phoenix Project, says, “DevOps isn’t just about faster releases—it’s about creating a culture of shared responsibility where development and operations work together to deliver value continuously.”
Cloud Solutions Architect: $120,000 - $160,000
A Cloud Solutions Architect designs and manages cloud infrastructure for companies. In simple terms, they figure out how a business can best use cloud services like AWS or Google Cloud to store data and run applications. For example, think of a company that wants to stop using traditional servers and switch to the cloud. The Cloud Solutions Architect is responsible for making sure the switch happens smoothly and securely, while also ensuring the new cloud setup can grow with the company’s needs. This role is essential because it allows companies to be more flexible and efficient with their technology, which is why it’s highly valued.
Michael J. Kavis, author of Architecting the Cloud, explains, “The cloud is about agility, innovation, and flexibility—it enables businesses to move fast and adapt to changing market demands, and that’s why cloud architects are so essential.”
Machine Learning Engineer: $115,000 - $160,000
A Machine Learning Engineer builds systems that allow computers to learn from data and make decisions without being explicitly programmed. To put it simply, they create models that allow machines to do things like recognize images or make predictions based on patterns in data. For instance, when you use a voice assistant like Siri, a machine learning model is behind it, helping the system understand and respond to your requests. Machine Learning Engineers are in demand because companies need these intelligent systems to automate tasks and stay competitive, and that’s why this job is so lucrative.
Aurélien Géron, author of Hands-On Machine Learning with Scikit-Learn, Keras, and TensorFlow, highlights, “Machine learning will enable businesses to automate decision-making and extract insights from data faster and more efficiently than ever before.”
Information Security Analyst: 100,000 - $130,000
An Information Security Analyst protects a company’s computer systems and data from cyberattacks. Think of them as digital security guards who create and maintain the systems that keep hackers out and ensure sensitive information stays safe. For example, when a bank needs to secure customer data, an Information Security Analyst develops the protocols and systems that prevent unauthorized access. This job is crucial because businesses of all kinds need to protect their data from threats, and the expertise required to do this makes the role highly paid.
Bruce Schneier, author of Liars and Outliers, points out, “Security is a process, not a product. It requires continual evaluation and adaptation.”
Solutions Engineer: $105,000 - $140,000
A Solutions Engineer works with clients to solve their technology-related problems by designing customized solutions. Imagine a company that wants to implement a new software system to improve its operations. The Solutions Engineer listens to the client’s needs, figures out the best technology to solve their problem, and helps implement it. This job is important because it requires a mix of technical knowledge and customer-facing skills, making Solutions Engineers highly valuable to businesses that want to expand their tech offerings.
Don Peppers, author of Managing Customer Experience and Relationships, emphasizes, “In today’s complex marketplace, the ability to provide personalized, tech-driven solutions to customer problems is the differentiator.”
Blockchain Developer: $120,000 - $160,000
A Blockchain Developer builds applications that use blockchain technology, which is a way to create secure, decentralized systems. In simple terms, blockchain is a kind of digital ledger that keeps track of transactions in a way that can’t be tampered with. Blockchain Developers are the ones who design and create systems like cryptocurrencies or smart contracts, which automate transactions without needing a middleman. This job is in high demand because blockchain technology is being used in more industries, and the ability to build these systems is highly specialized.
Andreas M. Antonopoulos, author of Mastering Bitcoin, says, “Blockchain will disrupt industries beyond finance—it’s about decentralizing trust, empowering individuals, and changing how we interact with technology.”
Product Manager (Tech): $110,000 - $150,000
A Tech Product Manager is responsible for overseeing the development of a technology product from start to finish. Think of them as the conductor of an orchestra, making sure that the developers, designers, and other teams all work together to build a product that meets both user needs and business goals. For example, if a company is creating a new app, the Product Manager ensures the team stays on track, makes decisions about features, and communicates with stakeholders to keep everything moving forward. This role is critical because it combines leadership with technical knowledge, and that’s why it’s well-compensated.
Marty Cagan, author of Inspired: How to Create Products Customers Love, explains, “Great product managers understand that building the right product is about solving the right problem for the right customer at the right time.”
Data Engineer: $100,000 - $145,000
A Data Engineer builds the systems that allow companies to store, process, and analyze large amounts of data. Think of them as the architects who design and build the pipelines that move data from one place to another, making it ready for analysis. For example, when a company needs to analyze customer behavior to improve its services, the Data Engineer is the one who sets up the infrastructure that makes the data available for analysis. This role is essential because businesses rely on data to make decisions, and building the systems to manage that data is highly technical work.
Jules S. Damji, author of Learning Spark, explains, “In the era of big data, data engineers are the ones who build the foundations, making sure the data is clean, available, and ready for analysis.”
UX/UI Designer: $95,000 - $130,000
A UX/UI Designer creates the look and feel of a website or app, focusing on making it user-friendly and enjoyable to use. In simpler terms, they are the people who decide where buttons go, how easy it is to navigate, and how the design looks overall. For example, when you visit a website that’s easy to use and looks great, a UX/UI Designer made that happen by thinking through every detail of the user’s experience. This job is highly paid because a good user experience is crucial for the success of any digital product.
Steve Krug, author of Don’t Make Me Think, notes, “The best user experiences are invisible. When you make things easy for users, they don’t think—they just do.”
IT Program Manager: $120,000 - $150,000
An IT Program Manager oversees multiple tech projects to ensure they are completed on time, within budget, and in alignment with the company’s strategic goals. Think of them as the planners who keep track of all the moving parts in a large tech initiative, making sure everyone is doing their job and that all the projects are working toward the same objective. For example, if a company is rolling out a new software system, the IT Program Manager coordinates the work across different teams to ensure everything runs smoothly. This role requires both leadership and technical skills, which is why it commands a high salary.
Harold Kerzner, author of Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling, explains, “Effective program management isn’t just about tracking deadlines—it’s about ensuring that every project contributes to the organization’s larger strategy.”
Conclusion: The Hidden Gems of Tech Careers
While roles like software engineering or data science often steal the spotlight, these lesser-known positions are just as critical to the success of tech-driven companies—and often just as lucrative. As the tech industry continues to expand, the demand for professionals who can support growth, security, and innovation in diverse roles will only increase.
If you’re looking to break into a six-figure tech job, don’t overlook these positions. They offer not only competitive salaries but also the opportunity to play a key role in driving the future of technology.
#TechCareers #HighPayingJobs #ITJobs #SixFigureSalaries #TechIndustry #CareerGrowth
Beyond the Newsletter: Your Personal Guide to Seamless IT Support
As I delve into the fascinating realms of technology and science for our newsletter, I can't help but acknowledge the crucial role of seamless IT networks, efficient desktop environments, and effective cloud systems. This brings to light an important aspect of my work that I am proud to share with you all. Besides curating engaging content, I personally offer a range of IT services tailored to your unique needs. Be it solid desktop support, robust network solutions, or skilled cloud administration, I'm here to ensure you conquer your technological challenges with ease and confidence. My expertise is yours to command. Contact me at michael@conceptualtech.com.
About Tech Topics
Tech Topics is a newsletter with a focus on contemporary challenges and innovations in the workplace and the broader world of technology. Produced by Boston-based Conceptual Technology (http://www.conceptualtech.com), the articles explore various aspects of professional life, including workplace dynamics, evolving technological trends, job satisfaction, diversity and discrimination issues, and cybersecurity challenges. These themes reflect a keen interest in understanding and navigating the complexities of modern work environments and the ever-changing landscape of technology.
Tech Topics offers a multi-faceted view of the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of technology, work, and life. It prompts readers to think critically about how they interact with technology, both as professionals and as individuals. The publication encourages a holistic approach to understanding these challenges, emphasizing the need for balance, inclusivity, and sustainability in our rapidly changing world. As we navigate this landscape, the insights provided by these articles can serve as valuable guides in our quest to harmonize technology with the human experience.