Hidden Career Paths in the Tech Industry

When you think of the technology industry, you may envision Steve Jobs inventing cutting-edge digital gadgets in his basement or Bill Gates working on the first successful PC operating system in a garage. Those pioneering geniuses created the foundation for today’s world of digital technology. But they don’t represent the typical tech worker in the current workforce. And the technologies they worked on were mere springboards for a vast array of jobs that keep the digital world humming.

The tech industry requires a vast army of specialists with unique skills to handle the ever-growing complexity of systems, networks, and computers that comprise the modern information technology infrastructure. These women and men are people like you who have learned capabilities that may go unsung but are vital to their company’s digital systems. 

We’ll discuss a representative sampling of the invaluable but little-known jobs that are essential and in high demand in today’s tech job market. What’s more, these jobs all lend themselves to remote work environments, meaning you could do any one of these jobs from your home or anywhere that you have an internet connection. Let’s take a peek under the covers and explore these hidden opportunities.

Security Specialist

A Security Specialist is a key player in any organization that uses technology to store or transmit sensitive information. They are responsible for ensuring the security and integrity of computer systems and networks, as well as protecting against unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyber attacks. They accomplish this by implementing security measures such as firewalls, encryption, and access controls, as well as monitoring systems for signs of intrusion or suspicious activity.

The job market for Security Specialists is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, as businesses continue to rely more heavily on technology to store and process their data. The average salary for a Security Specialist is around $102,600 per year, although this can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and industry. With experience and further education, Security Specialists can move up to higher-level roles such as Security Manager or Chief Information Security Officer. 

DevOps Engineer

DevOps Engineers are tech professionals who specialize in merging software development with operations. Their primary goal is to make the software development process more efficient by automating tasks, integrating tools and technologies, and streamlining deployment processes. They ensure that software releases are dependable, stable, and secure, and are responsible for fixing any issues that arise in the production environment.

The demand for DevOps Engineers is rapidly increasing as more and more companies migrate to cloud-based infrastructure and adopt agile software development methodologies. The average salary for a DevOps Engineer is around $101,700 per year, although the pay scale may change based on factors such as work experience, geographic location, and industry. DevOps Engineers can advance to higher-level roles like DevOps Manager or Cloud Architect or choose to specialize in a specific area, such as automation or security.

Windows Network Engineer

As companies continue to depend on technology to conduct their daily operations, the role of a Windows Network Engineer is becoming increasingly essential. These professionals are responsible for constructing, installing, and managing computer networks that operate on Windows-based operating systems, ensuring that they operate smoothly, securely, and efficiently. They must also troubleshoot issues that arise in the network and ensure that new technologies and upgrades are introduced in a timely and effective manner.

On average, a Windows Network Engineer can eary $80,600 per year, with geographic and industry variations impacting that figure. Windows Network Engineers can advance their careers by pursuing further education and experience, which could lead to higher-level positions such as Network Architect or Systems Administrator. Specializing in areas such as cybersecurity or network automation is also a possibility for those interested in a more focused career path.

Help Desk Engineer

A Help Desk Engineer, also known as a Technical Support Representative, provides technical assistance and support to customers and end-users who have issues with software, hardware, or other computer-related equipment.

The role of Help Desk Engineer is a great career on its own. Many people become experts in the skills of Help Desk Engineering and enjoy helping computer end users resolve problems and get the most from their computer systems. This role, however, can also be a gateway to other careers in the tech industry. Many Help Desk Engineers expand their skills in network engineering and become Windows Network Engineers. Others learn the ins and outs of coding and become Java Developers. Still others grasp the concepts and technologies of software deployment and management and find their niche as DevOps Engineers. Help Desk Engineers earn an average salary of $63,000 per year. 

Final Thoughts:

The tech industry is rife with hidden career paths that offer stable employment, high salaries, and engaging opportunities for advancement. From Security Specialists to Help Desk Engineers, each of these jobs plays a crucial role in keeping the digital world functioning smoothly. With the increasing demand for technology in every aspect of our lives, the demand for tech workers is also growing, making this an excellent time to start a career in the industry.
At RemoteMode, you can learn the skills required to launch your career in technology. You can prepare yourself for these or a dozen other jobs right from your own home at your own pace. Whether you are a recent graduate, a stay-at-home parent, or simply looking for a change of career, RemoteMode can help you achieve your goals. Take the first step today and start your journey towards a successful remote tech career by contacting a RemoteMode career counselor.