5 top jobs in 2021-22 for technology graduates

Some of the most lucrative top jobs in 2021 were in the technology sector, which is recognised as the ultimate growth industry of the 21st century. In the US alone, the information technology sector is expected to be worth US $5 trillion by the end of 2021 — which opens up a host of possibilities for Gen Z graduates.

Gen Z has always existed in a virtual world where expression, enhancement, and entertainment dominate. This lifestyle translates to an intimate understanding of technology, which makes these graduates prime candidates for careers within this space.

How to break into top jobs in 2021 for technology

A good way to start is to obtain a computer science, actuary, or information technology degree. Formal qualifications are incredibly valuable, and a university experience will enrich your career in many ways. However, the skills necessary to excel in technology must also be sharpened by keeping up with trends and best practices.

As for the career options? When it comes to tech, there is no shortage of top jobs in 2021 and beyond. In the UK, for example, tech sector job vacancies now make up 12% of all open positions. These vacancies reach an average of 132,000 per week.

So if you’re embarking on a tech education, it’s time to weigh your future career options. Each of these jobs could earn you over US$100,000 a year; each is expected to grow in demand and capacity. Here’s a look at five top jobs in 2021 for technology graduates.

Any of these top jobs could earn you an annual salary of over $100,000. Source: Jens Schlueter/AFP

Data scientist

In an age where data is king, mathematical science expertise is not just valuable but necessary. Data scientists combine statistics, quantitative reasoning, and computer programming skills to turn insights into solutions.

They are needed in every modern organisation, from startups and research institutions to corporations and government agencies. It comes as little surprise, then, that over 10,000 jobs are expected to open up in the coming decade, within the US alone.

Cloud architect

The vast computer networks we use today were built by architects well-versed in this fast-changing technology. They are not only deeply technical, but are guided by a keen sense of business awareness as they have to align network provision to organisational objectives.

Workplaces of the future will need these architects to design, build, and maintain computer networks. As cloud computing grows, so does the potential of this role.

Information security analyst

Did you know that nearly four billion records have been stolen online in the past 10 years? Cyber attacks continue to infiltrate and threaten organisations, creating a demand for IT professionals with security expertise.

Think of every big data breach in the past decade — Sony, Target, eBay, even Facebook. Even major corporations can be compromised. Every company needs security analysts, especially those operating with expansive information systems. Expect over 40,000 jobs to crop up in the US alone.

Silicon Valley giants like Apple will employ hundreds more designers and developers in the coming years, driving up the demand for these professionals in the US. Source: Brittany Hosea-Small/AFP

Database administrator

A key role in tech teams, the database administrator is responsible for setting up an organisation’s database infrastructure and upgrading it as necessary. They also implement security measures to protect sensitive data.

If you have a keen eye for detail, a knack for problem-solving, and the communication skills to bridge the two, you could occupy one of the 12,8000 spots opening up in the US over the next decade.

Software developer

Developers come up with new, exciting ways to use technology in everyday life, whether to work, interact, shop, or relax. Software developers create the applications that enable us to perform specific tasks on devices, while applications developers tailor applications as per specific client requests.

They are not just skilled coders, but creative problem-solvers and effective collaborators. Software developers are sought-after in key industries such as manufacturing and finance, with an estimated 300,00 jobs opening up in the US within the next 10 years.