Computer and information technology might be one of the most exciting fields for teens to consider as they think about their future careers. These jobs are often very well paid (the average salary in this field is more than double compared to other occupations). The growth outlook for technology careers is terrific too, at around 11% over the next 10 years (the average for all jobs is about 4%). Here are some of the top tech jobs for high schoolers to consider as they plan for the future.
Note: All salary information is via Indeed.com and Glassdoor.com as of March 2025.
Jump to:
- Artificial Intelligence, Data, and Emerging Technologies Careers
- Technology Careers in Cybersecurity, Cloud, and IT Infrastructure
- Software Development, Engineering, and Technology Leadership Careers
Artificial Intelligence, Data, and Emerging Technologies Careers
AI Engineer
An AI engineer designs, develops, and integrates artificial intelligence models and systems. They use machine learning, deep learning, and data science techniques to create the AI systems of the future.
- Education: Bachelor’s or master’s in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or Data Science
- Average Salary: $206,000
Machine Learning Engineer
A machine learning engineer teaches computers how to use data to make smart decisions. They build computer programs that can recognize patterns and make sure these programs work efficiently in real-world applications.
- Education: Bachelor’s or master’s in Machine Learning, Computer Science, or Applied Mathematics
- Average Salary: $163,600
Data Scientist
A data scientist analyzes large amounts of information using math, coding, and machine learning. Then they turn that data into useful predictions or recommendations to help businesses and organizations make better decisions.
- Education: Bachelor’s or master’s in Data Science, Statistics, or Computer Science
- Average Salary: $125,900
Internet of Things (IoT) Engineer
IoT engineers design, build, and optimize smart devices, from fitness trackers to industrial sensors. As these devices become ever more popular, this is a field that will offer lots of new opportunities in the years ahead.
- Education: Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Embedded Systems
- Average Salary: $106,500
Blockchain Developer
A blockchain developer builds secure digital systems that store information in ways that can’t be easily hacked. They’re responsible for keeping private information safe but accessible online.
- Education: Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
- Average Salary: $187,100
Technology Careers in Cybersecurity, Cloud, and IT Infrastructure
Cybersecurity Analyst
Keeping people and their online data safe is more important now than ever before. This is a career that will offer huge opportunities for growth going forward.
- Education: Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or Computer Science
- Average Salary: $102,400
Penetration Tester
Also known as an “ethical hacker,” these security experts try to break into computer programs to find potential weaknesses before real hackers do. They simulate cyberattacks, then help companies figure out how to make their security stronger and safer.
- Education: Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or Information Security
- Average Salary: $124,800
Cloud Engineer
These IT professionals design, build, and maintain an organization’s cloud computing infrastructure. They ensure that data storage, applications, and services run efficiently and securely on cloud platforms.
- Education: Bachelor’s in Cloud Computing, Information Technology, or Computer Science
- Average Salary: $129,500
DevOps Engineer
These technology professionals combine skills in both software development and IT operations to help design, develop, release, and test programs in a live business environment.
- Education: Bachelor’s in Software Engineering, IT, or Computer Science
- Average Salary: $127,000
Database Administrator
Database engineers ensure that an organization’s data is stored safely, organized efficiently, and accessible when needed. They design, build, and maintain data storage and backup systems to keep data secure.
- Education: Bachelor’s in Database Management, Information Systems, or Computer Science
- Average Salary: $100,600
Software Development, Engineering, and Technology Leadership Careers
Software Developer
Designing new software programs means assessing consumer needs, writing code, debugging errors, and using programming skills to solve problems and enhance user experiences. It’s a terrific career for those fascinated by technology.
- Education: Bachelor’s in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or IT
- Average Salary: $105,700
These software developers work on both the back-end server-side and front-end user-interface components of web applications. They handle programming code along with designing positive user experiences.
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