America's Most Wanted Jobs: Technology

Are you a bit apprehensive about the current job market? If so, you’re not alone. Twenty-six percent of Americans listed jobs or unemployment as their top concern, according to a Gallup poll.

What’s more, these concerns are rational, considering job openings in the U.S. hit a five-month low in September, declining by 100,000 postings in that month alone.

But don’t panic! There are certain industries that currently boast a promising job outlook. One of these industries is technology. Several of today’s most wanted jobs happen to fall into this category.

Tech-related jobs currently make up seven of the top 25 job openings posted in all industries over the past 12 months, according to Burning Glass, a comprehensive database providing statistics and insights about the present labor market.

Let’s explore what makes tech one of the most attractive industries to college hopefuls, recent graduates, job seekers, and career changers alike.

There are plenty of jobs out there

As the world becomes more technology-obsessed, hiring trends are reflecting that infatuation. Take, for example, two of the most wanted job titles in the technology world: software development and database administration.

Employment of software developers is predicted to undergo a 30 percent increase from 2010 to 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Database administrators have a slightly more optimistic outlook— projections show a 31 percent growth in that same time period.

There is good money to be made

In addition to the abundance of job openings, professionals in the technology field earned a median annual wage of nearly $73,500 in 2010, as listed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Compare that to the U.S. median wage in the same year, and tech pros are making about $47,000 more annually.

There’s not much explanation necessary, as the numbers speak for themselves. Just think of what you could do with an extra $47,000 each year!

There are enticing extras involved

If that’s not enough to get you excited about a degree in technology, maybe some glamorous perks on the side will do the trick. Tech workers are desired commodities, and apart from the high demand and impressive salaries, potential employees are also being lured by attractive fringe benefits.

These can include bulky bonuses, free meals, tickets to sporting events, gym memberships, transportation, deluxe health care plans, and even an on-site doctor, according to Gayle Laakmann McDowell – former software engineer for Microsoft, Google and Apple, and author of The Google Resume.

She says that a severe shortage of computer engineers is requiring companies to take good care of their employees. She adds that this often results in a favorable work/life balance, along with relatively short hours compared to those working in other industries.

So now what?

You are now well aware that the technology industry hosts a number of the most wanted jobs in America. So do you think a tech job sounds right up your alley?

If so, take the next step and dig a little deeper into how you might break into the tech industry. Once equipped with a game plan, you may find yourself one step closer to becoming the next technology hot shot being coveted by Google or Facebook.