The most in-demand tech jobs for 2021 — 9 most in demand IT specialists
Companies are scrambling to adapt to a tight IT specialists job market, and they’re doing whatever they can to attract top tech talent.
According to a recent LinkedIn study of U.S. members, expertise in mobile infrastructure and data security is the most sought-after skillset among employers today. That matches up with what Robert Half Technology predicts will be the most in-demand tech jobs across America by 2021.
For some that means getting a head start in filling this year’s most in-demand roles, which range from data-focused positions such as data scientist or machine learning engineer to security-related positions such as software security engineer or information security specialist.
“Technology has permeated every industry, and nearly any job today involves some element of technology,” said John Reed, senior executive director for Robert Half Technology. “Tech professionals are in high demand to build these initiatives, which is why it’s critical that companies identify top talent to help them navigate the digital transformation journey.”
Below are the 10 most in-demand tech jobs for this year and an overview of what each role entails.
- Computer and Network Technician
- Computer Information Specialist
- PC Technician
- PC Support Specialist
- Network Support Specialist
- Tech Support Specialist
- Cloud Network Engineer
- Fundamentals of Computer and Network Technician
- Fundamentals of Computer Information Specialist
Computer and Network Technicians install, configure, troubleshoot, repair and perform preventative maintenance on computer hardware. They also set up network systems, including local area networks, wide area networks and intranets.
Computer Information Specialists collect data about the business practices in an organization to help increase productivity and efficiency. They also solve problems using computer software and implement new technologies to help the company run more smoothly.
PC Technicians service and repair PCs and other peripherals, such as printers and scanners. They also configure and install operating systems, software applications and system upgrades. PC support specialists provide technical help and support for end-users.
Network Support Specialists install, configure, operate and maintain network infrastructure such as routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers and proxy servers. They also monitor networks for potential security breaches, viruses and other problems.
Tech Support Specialists provide technical support for end-users through phone, email or online. They troubleshoot and handle support requests for software applications, hardware equipment and customer-specific applications.
Cloud Network Engineers design and configure cloud computing networks. Cloud networking requires planning, design and configuration of network infrastructure to accommodate a rapidly expanding cloud. It also requires monitoring and maintaining network hardware and software, as well as responding to system failures and other issues.
Some positions may require additional certification or experience.
“The role of a senior software security engineer is to design and implement security features in their company’s products,” said Mark Bowles, senior vice president for Robert Half Technology. “A security engineer’s expertise is frequently in demand because they’re responsible for building the products that their companies will sell in the marketplace.”
These professionals ensure the quality and authenticity of software products across various industries by ensuring proper encryption, security protocols and other protective measures are in place against outside threats. They also analyze current data practices to identify loopholes or improper implementations that can lead to cyberattacks.
As cyberattacks and data breaches continue to increase in frequency, companies are staffing up their security teams with highly skilled professionals.
“Companies are bolstering efforts to protect themselves from advanced persistent threats,” said Bowles. “Security engineers are required for this critical role because they know the most about ensuring that software is devoid of vulnerabilities.”
As a data scientist, you solve complex analytical problems to help businesses make smarter decisions using AI and machine learning algorithms. You also collaborate with other members of the IT team to build big-picture data solutions that can grow and scale with the company as it expands.
Did you know that Asher College offers an IT Degree which can be earned in as little as 4 months?
Take the first step towards becoming an IT professional.
This is your chance to break into one of today’s most lucrative and high-demand industries. Studies show that it is predicted there will be more than 120,000 open tech jobs by 2022.
The trend is clear. There are great opportunities for those who have the expertise to work in this field.
Asher College is where you can start on the path to achieving your goals. We offer a variety of IT training courses which provide students with the skills they need to succeed as an IT professional.
Whether you are looking for a new or better job in the industry, or you want to start an exciting new career, we have the program that is right for you.