Best IT Jobs

IT is not one single career path. A help desk role, a cybersecurity role, and a software role all sit under the same broad label, but they ask for different skills and pay differently.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists a May 2024 median annual wage of $105,990 for computer and information technology occupations, compared with $49,500 for all occupations. That does not mean every IT job pays that much. It does show why focused technical skills can be worth building.

Use this list to compare paths before you spend time or money on training.

Help Desk and Network Infrastructure

Help desk and network roles keep employees connected and systems usable. They are often a strong entry point because they teach troubleshooting, user support, and basic infrastructure.

Input: Broken network settings, hardware problems, access issues, or software errors.
Output: Restored access, safer systems, and fewer work stoppages.
Requirements: CompTIA, Microsoft, and Cisco certifications can help prove practical support skills.

Database and Software Engineering

Businesses rely on databases, internal tools, customer apps, and reporting systems. Software and database roles help build and maintain that backbone.

Input: Business requirements, user needs, and messy data.
Output: Secure databases, working applications, and cleaner workflows.
Requirements: SQL, Python, JavaScript, C#, Java, or other role-specific tools.

Mobile Application Development

Mobile developers build apps people use from phones and tablets. This path can fit people who like visual product work, user experience, and technical problem-solving.

Input: Feature requests, product goals, and design files.
Output: Tested iOS, Android, or cross-platform apps.
Requirements: Swift, Kotlin, Java, React Native, Flutter, or related mobile frameworks.

ERP and Business Systems

ERP systems connect finance, HR, operations, inventory, and reporting. These roles are less flashy than app development, but they can be valuable because companies depend on these systems every day.

Input: Department data, process problems, and reporting needs.
Output: Cleaner workflows, better dashboards, and fewer manual handoffs.
Requirements: SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, business analysis, or systems training.

Security and Digital Operations

Companies need people who can protect systems, manage digital tools, and keep customer-facing channels working. This can include cybersecurity, marketing operations, analytics, and technical support for business platforms.

Input: Security alerts, campaign data, customer feedback, or tool issues.
Output: Safer systems, cleaner reporting, and more reliable digital operations.
Requirements: Security basics, analytics tools, SEO knowledge, CRM systems, or platform-specific training.

Get Into a Specialized IT Role

Do not try to learn every tool at once. Pick one lane, build proof, and then apply for roles that match that lane.

Choose a domain. Start with support, networking, software, data, security, or business systems.
Pick one credential or project path. Use a certification, portfolio project, or volunteer build to prove the skill.
Show practical work. Put screenshots, GitHub links, case notes, or project summaries where employers can see them.

For a related Working Nomads article, read how to demonstrate added value as a remote employee when you need clarity before you decide your next step.

What to Read Next

Read tips for learning computer programming from home if you want a related next step on career growth.
Use how to succeed in the remote hiring process for stronger interviews when you need more context before your next decision.