Technology is everywhere, and it seems like everyone wants to get in on the action. But not everyone has the time to spend in school to get a bachelor’s degree. The good news is there is a growing movement allowing people to get training and employment in some of the best paying technology jobs in less time.
In the past, many of the careers mentioned below might have required a bachelor’s degree or more. But more and more companies are considering candidates with certificate and associate degree’s from bootcamps and community colleges.
So what are the best paying jobs in technology that you can get with just a certificate or associate’s degree? Well, there are several high-paying positions you can consider.
Let’s take a look at some of the best-paying jobs in technology you can get with just an associate’s degree or certificate.
Web Developer
A web developer is responsible for the development of websites. They create, design and code webpages using programming languages like HTML, CSS or JavaScript.
Responsibilities may include creating pages that are visually appealing with appropriate graphics; ensuring page content meets accessibility standards; coding new sites from scratch or converting site designs to various formats (i.e., mobile-friendly); adding interactive features such as slideshows; developing backend databases; interfacing with marketing staff to make updates/revisions accordingly.
Software Engineer
Software engineers design and develop operating systems, compilers, programming languages, and other computer programs that makeup computer software. They are experts in both hardware and software. Software engineering is a highly technical field, requiring expertise in multiple disciplines. These include Computer science (CS) and mathematics; knowledge of various programming languages; understanding of operating systems principles from CS or electrical engineering; plus skills such as project management to coordinate work among different teams.
The best candidates have degrees with a focus on computing from schools with top CS programs. In addition to their education requirements for employment as a software engineer, they may also need certification credentials such as CEH or CPT certifications for penetration testing jobs or MCSE/MCSA certifications for system administration jobs
Computer Programmer
Computer programmers code software to solve business problems and develop new ways to use computers.
They also design detailed specifications for computing projects and create flowcharts of processes including inputs, outputs, decision points, opening files etc. They work primarily as independent contractors or as employees on large projects so they need to be highly self-motivated. Often there is no one looking over their shoulder telling them what tasks to complete next which makes this a challenging career.
Systems Analyst
Systems analysts work on managing and improving computer networks, troubleshooting software bugs, and dealing with security issues. They also help design new hardware or software solutions for businesses to improve processes or efficiencies.
If this sounds like an interesting field for you then consider becoming a systems analyst.
Cybersecurity Engineer
If you are looking to get into one of the best-paying jobs in technology without a degree, becoming a cybersecurity engineer is an excellent idea.
A certificate or associate’s degree will suffice for this job. And while some employers may require some experience with computer programming, many companies do not have strict requirements on education level.
The best part about being a cybersecurity engineer? The average salary hovers around $90k per year! That’s more than the average starting salary of someone with a bachelor’s degree.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists are responsible for developing data-driven solutions to complex business problems. You don’t need a Ph.D. or an MBA, but you will need to have at least two years of experience as well as many certifications and skills.
The best way to become a data scientist is by taking courses on statistics, computer science, mathematics, and engineering with the help of an experienced mentor who has already been through this process themselves.
You can find certificate and degree programs of all types in the area of data science these days. Earn a certificate from an online course provider like Coursera or edX, a local or online BootCamp, or a nearby community college.
Digital Marketer
Marketers are evolving with the times.
With the rise of social media, marketers have to be more agile and creative than ever before.
This is why Digital Marketing has become so popular. It’s a great way for professionals to get their foot in the door without having to spend years mastering traditional marketing skillsets. At the same time you can earn an average base salary of $60k/year according to Indeed.com.
Digital Marketing encompasses everything from paid advertising on platforms like Facebook or Google AdWords to email marketing. It also encompasses SEO techniques that ensure your website ranks high in the search engine, and content creation – including blogs, articles, and videos.
Digital Marketers are also tasked with monitoring analytics data for insights into these digital campaigns’ performance.
If you’re looking for a career change or are just starting out, Digital Marketing is a great place to gain the skills you need with less financial risk than more traditional professions.
Database Administrator
A Database Administrator is an information technology specialist who works on designing, creating, maintaining and administering databases. Their responsibilities include architecting new systems, recommending best practices, and ensuring compatibility with hardware and software products to support a multi-vendor environment.
Good knowledge of networks is essential because they must understand how databases interact with other information technology components within an organization.
Database administrators need to be very familiar with database management tools and best practices, such as SQL.
They also often work directly in a team with applications developers and IT architects for the purpose of designing new systems that will support enterprise-wide business processes.
A Database Administrator often works for a company that provides data storage and management services to other organizations or individuals, such as social networking sites or online stores.
Project Manager
Project managers are in charge of projects and the people who work on them. They ensure that their project is completed within budget, timeline, and scope.
If you want to be a project manager, there are many different paths you can take. Some have a degree in business management or engineering and learn on the job. Others take specialized courses at colleges and universities that teach skills like how to manage teams effectively or how to create budgets for large projects. Whichever path you choose, it’s worth the time because the average salary of a project manager is over $100k per year!
UI Designer
A UI designer is a user interface engineer who would create interfaces for computers, smartphones, tablets, etc. The job of a UI designer is to layout clear and easy-to-use interfaces. This includes crafting buttons and menus, designing the layouts from scratch or from pre-existing templates, and ensuring that all buttons are visible and comprehensible.
In order to become a UI designer, you will need to take courses in both graphic design and web design. It’s also important that you have a creative mind. You can expect to learn about subjects like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketch App, Microsoft Word, HTML5, CSS3 and JavaScript.
Social Media Manager
As a social media manager, your job is to monitor and respond to what’s happening on various social networks. You need to be able to interpret the data you see and understand how it translates into real-world impacts.
You’re in charge of determining which content goes where and when, as well as how it will be presented.
Social Media Managers are typically found at companies that have a large following or those who want their products/services seen by many people quickly (i.e., like restaurants). The position can also work for artists with big followings, celebrities, bloggers with lots of readers, etc.
Mobile Developer
If you enjoy solving problems and working with new technologies, becoming a mobile developer might be the perfect career for you.
Mobile developers create software that allows people to use their mobile devices in ways they couldn’t before. As an industry it’s booming, and is expected to grow even more in the next few years.
The demand for apps has never been higher, creating a huge opportunity for those who can fill this gap.
Computer Support Specialist
Computer support specialists provide technical support for computers and networks by troubleshooting hardware and software issues; providing information about products; installing new equipment or upgrades; maintaining security systems; coaching end-users on how to use software applications or other technology tools; identifying trends in network performance or user activity patterns via data analysis techniques such as packet sniffing, traffic monitoring, log file monitoring, or other means; and coordinating the installation of new technology or network devices.
Computer support specialists often work in corporate settings with large computer networks. They can provide onsite service for individual companies, consult businesses to develop effective IT solutions, coordinate efforts between multiple departments within their own company (such as sales and engineering), teach employees how to use software programs more effectively through video tutorials, virtual classroom sessions, on-demand webinars or short seminars at an office location.
The job market is good for people who are interested in becoming computer support specialists. There are always jobs available due to the increased demand for all of today’s technology tools.
Network Engineer
Network engineers work with a variety of hardware and software to maintain the connectivity between computers, as well as other devices.
They can also diagnose problems in networks or individual computers. In this role, they typically have a high degree of technical competence and knowledge about how computer networks function.
Network engineers may be employed by large organizations such as universities or hospitals. Many also work for smaller companies that specialize in network consulting and support services.
SEO Manager
SEO is the process of optimizing your content so that it ranks higher in Google search results. From blog posts to tweets, there are many ways to optimize your content for higher rankings with the help of a qualified Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Manager.
This can be done by using specific keywords throughout your post or article, including appropriate metadata tags and alt text. You’ll also need to understand webmaster guidelines for on-site structure and internal linking strategies.
You can become a SEO Manager by getting an education or through experience. You don’t need to go back to school, but you should take the time out of your day-to-day activities and practice what you learn online before taking on clients as a full-time job. There are many courses available for those looking for quick training.
It also helps to have some web development knowledge first , such as HTML and CSS basics. They’re helpful to know when giving advice about on-site structure. By knowing enough about coding, you’ll be able to take better advantage of the tools out there.
You can start by becoming a freelancer and picking up small projects from local businesses or non-profit organizations for experience. If possible, try to find an internship with a large company in your area that has existing SEO campaigns. You can even offer pro bono work if they don’t have money set aside specifically for marketing – think about it as some free advertising on their part!
Once you’ve developed enough expertise, consider starting your own agency so that you can help others grow online while still doing what you enjoy most.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there are actually best-paying jobs in technology that don’t require a bachelor’s degree. If you’re looking for an exciting and challenging career but feel like college is too much of a commitment or cost at the moment, then these best paying jobs in technology may be perfect for you! You’ll love how rewarding they are without all of the expenses associated with going back to school. So if this sounds good so far, get started by reading books on digital marketing or project management–you won’t regret it!