Working in IT

Working in IT is a job for problem-solvers. As an IT professional, you may be expected to fix someone’s desktop computer to track down why the network mysteriously stopped functioning, and everything in between. You’ll be called upon to increase productivity, implement new technology, and refine existing processes and procedures. But most important: as an IT professional, you’re in demand, and that bodes well for job prospects and salaries.

Working in IT: Job Prospects

The IT field has been growing steadily for the past decade, and is expected to continue growing indefinitely. All businesses require IT infrastructure of some type; be it small business solutions for a few employees to large-scale, company-wide infrastructure to handle networking, technology equipment, and software solutions. With a whole range of IT careers available, you’ve got many ways in which you can contribute to IT departments and capitalize on growing demand for IT personnel.

In-Demand Careers Working in IT

Network/System Administration

Network and system administration is the cornerstone of the IT industry, and one of the most in-demand jobs in the IT field. All mid-level and large businesses require network and system administration personnel to manage networks and technology research and implementation. However, this career requires a fair amount of education, and can be difficult to find a starting position.

IT Consultant

If you prefer a freelance approach, you can work as an IT consultant to large or small businesses. Most small businesses, for example, can’t afford their own in-house IT staff, so they might coordinate with an IT consultant to periodically handle their IT needs. IT consultants for small businesses typically get a flurry of work when the business is established, and then ongoing work periodically when the business needs to make adjustments. IT consultants to large businesses typically specialize in a specific product or technology, and serve as an ‘expert’ to help a business get started with a technology or answer questions and troubleshoot.

Help Desk/General IT Support

Help desk and general IT support positions are typically the entry-level positions in the IT industry. Help desk employees usually man the phones and handle support tickets to resolve issues with technology and systems for internal users. General IT support personnel may serve as help desk support, or rotate in wherever they’re needed in the department. These positions are a great way to get into a company and can teach you the basics fast, but might not offer great opportunities for promotion.

IT Management

Every mid-level to large company needs good IT management personnel. IT management staff must be able to handle people management, as well as project management and resource allocation. IT management may come with a lot of headaches, but it pays well and offers relative stability compared to some other IT careers, like help desk and ops employees.

Working in IT Pays Well

One big pro about working in IT is that it generally pays well. Relatively speaking, IT professions pay more than any other program that requires only a bachelor’s degree or basic education. Some specialists or experienced IT professionals make over six figures, and even mid-level IT professionals make a very comfortable living relative to comparable professions.

IT Education and Certifications Improve Job Prospects and Pay

Your best way to get ahead in the IT field is to pursue IT education and certifications. You might be able to start in the IT field with a relatively basic education, but you’ll need to continue improving your education to stay on top of the field. Getting additional education or adding certifications to your skill set qualifies you for better positions and higher-paying jobs.