IT Job Description: Roles, Requirements, and Outlook
Learn what to expect in an IT job description, including job requirements, the future outlook for jobs in IT, salary expectations, and growth potential.
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Information technology (IT) is one of the world's fastest-growing industries and offers various opportunities for advancement and high-paying jobs. Skilled IT workers find work in nearly every industry, giving you the option to pursue a position in an industry you’re most interested in. Understanding the different roles and qualifications within IT can help you plan your next steps to find a position that suits you.
In this article, you'll explore fourteen different IT careers along with the skills and certifications that can help you join them. Afterward, if you're interested in building foundational IT skills, consider enrolling in either Google's IT Support Professional Certificate.
What is an IT job?
An IT job can range from an IT support specialist, project manager, or software designer. Positions in this field cover a broad variety of roles that can vary depending on the company. An IT position generally involves managing and storing data using computers, software, databases, networks, and servers. As an IT professional, you may write programs, maintain networks, analyze systems, and provide technical support.
Read more: 10 Entry-Level IT Jobs and What You Can Do to Get Hired
IT jobs: career outlook
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that IT jobs are expected to grow by 23 percent between 2022 and 2023, adding over 377,500 new jobs a year throughout the decade [2]. The average median salary for IT workers in 2022 was $97,430. If you're considering a career in IT, now may be an ideal time to start working toward one.
professional certificate
Google IT Support
Get on the fast track to a career in IT. In this certificate program, you’ll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Security Management, Malware Protection, Cyber Attacks, Hardening, Network Security, Data Security, Wireless Networks, Cryptography, Network Administration, Cybersecurity, Authentications, Information Systems Security, Threat Modeling, Security Awareness, Security Controls, Encryption, Application Security, Firewall, Wireless Security, Information Assurance, Computer Security Awareness Training, Network Infrastructure, Backup, Virtualization, Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP), Windows Servers, Disaster Recovery, Directory Service, Systems Administration, Data Storage, User Accounts, Servers, Active Directory, Linux Administration, Lightweight Directory Access Protocols, Server Administration, Cloud Infrastructure, Cloud Computing, IT Infrastructure, OSI Models, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Computer Networking, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Architecture, TCP/IP, Network Protocols, Network Model, Ipv4, Routing Protocols, Domain Name System (DNS), Troubleshooting, Network Troubleshooting, Information Technology, Software Systems, Operating Systems, Technical Communication, Software Installation, Customer Support, Technical Support, Computer Hardware, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Binary Code, Technical Documentation, Hardware Troubleshooting, Command-Line Interface, Technical Support and Services, Linux File Systems, File Systems, Remote Access Systems, OS Process Management, File Management, Linux Commands, Identity and Access Management, Authorization (Computing), Powershell, Desktop Support, Package and Software Management, System Monitoring, Windows PowerShell
14 IT roles and salaries
When you think about information technology roles, you may envision role-based technician positions, like software developer, coder, and website administrator. However, positions in the industry include much more. The list below shows that IT job titles are as varied as the types of jobs available in the industry.
*Note: The salary information below was sourced from Glassdoor in March 2024. Figures represent base salary and average annual additional pay. Additional pay may include commissions, bonuses, or profit-sharing.
1. Applications engineer
Average annual salary (US): $121,335
An applications engineer builds software architecture, optimizes existing systems, and supports clients using their programs.
2. Computer programmer
Average annual salary (US): $91,255
A computer programmer writes, tests, and modifies code used by computers to operate software and complete specific tasks.
3. Computer scientist
Average annual salary (US): $153,146
A computer scientist may take on various roles; they apply theory to develop computer systems, build databases, work with programming languages, and more.
4. Data quality manager
Average annual salary (US): $124,419
Data quality managers work with every department in a company to efficiently recognize gaps in data quality and maintain the correct and accurate use of data.
5. Data scientist
Average annual salary (US): $120,588
A data scientist develops predictive models to identify trends in data and forecast different business outcomes.
professional certificate
Google Advanced Data Analytics
Learn in-demand skills like statistical analysis, Python, regression models, and machine learning in less than 6 months.
4.7
Advanced level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Predictive Modelling, Data Analysis, Data Ethics, Descriptive Statistics, Data Manipulation, Data Storytelling, Regression Analysis, Probability & Statistics, Jupyter Notebook, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Tableau Software, Machine Learning, Kaggle, Sampling (Statistics), Exploratory Data Analysis, Data Science, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Probability Distribution, Feature Engineering, Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA), Data Visualization, Statistical Analysis, Regression Models, Python Programming, Data Visualization Software, Executive Summaries, Technical Interview Preparation, Effective Communication, regression modeling, Cross-Functional Team Dynamics, Project Management, Sharing Insights With Stakeholders, Effective Written Communication, Asking Effective Questions, Using Comments to Enhance Code Readability, Coding, Stack Overflow
6. IT coordinator
Average annual salary (US): $67,534
An IT coordinator maintains the technology used by a company. They may need to troubleshoot errors, manage servers, build databases, and purchase equipment.
professional certificate
Google IT Automation with Python
Learn in-demand skills like Python, Git, and IT automation to advance your career
4.7
Advanced level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Cloud Services, GitHub, Bash (Scripting Language), Computer Programming, Version Control, Git (Version Control System), Troubleshooting & Debugging, Using Version Control, Configuration Management, Scripting, Automation, Restful API, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), Puppet (Configuration Management Tool), Debugging, Cloud Computing, Python Programming, Continuous Monitoring, Finding the Root Cause of a Problem, Performance Testing, Performance Tuning, Application Performance Management, Network Performance Management, Understanding Errors, Technical Communication, Problem Management, System Support, Improving Software Performance, Technical Support, Incident Management, Virtual Machines, Managing Scarce Resources, System Monitoring, Network Troubleshooting, Advanced Troubleshooting, Capacity Management, Technical Documentation, Kubernetes, Load Balancing, System Configuration, Using Puppet, CI/CD, Automation at Scale, Scalability, Containerization, Basic Monitoring & Alerting, DevOps, Docker (Software), Cloud Infrastructure, IT Automation, Creating and Translating Media Files, Web Services, Email Security, Data Import/Export, Interacting with Web Services, Serialization, Building a Solution, JSON, Application Programming Interface (API), Command-Line Interface, Shell Script, Test Automation, Operating Systems, OS Process Management, File Management, Setting up your Development Environment, Linux Commands, Development Environment, Automating System Administration Tasks with Python, Unix Commands, Testing in Python, Regular Expression (REGEX), Unix Shell, Scripting Languages, Bash Scripting, Unix, Continuous Integration, Reverting Changes, Remote Access Systems, Software Configuration Management, Creating Pull Requests, Issue Tracking, Interacting with GitHub, Code Review, Using Git, Version Control Systems, Software Development Tools, Algorithms, Basic Python Syntax, Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), Data Structures, Fundamental Programming Concepts, Basic Python Data Structures
7. IT director
Average annual salary (US): $165,786
An IT director manages a company’s IT professionals and technical operations, and may also track how they work to increase efficiency and minimize risk.
8. IT security specialist
Average annual salary (US): $109,558
IT security specialists protect confidential information by monitoring anti-virus protection systems, encrypting data, and creating firewalls.
professional certificate
Google Cybersecurity
Get on the fast track to a career in cybersecurity. In this certificate program, you'll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Network Security, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools, Linux, Cloud Computing, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Python Programming, SQL, Packet Analyzer, Cloud Networks, Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), Network Architecture, Security Hardening, resume and portfolio preparation, escalation, Job preparedness, stakeholder communication, integrity and discretion, NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), Information Security (INFOSEC), Cybersecurity, Historical Attacks, Ethics in cybersecurity, PEP 8 style guide, Coding, Computer Programming, Incident Response Playbooks, Security Audits, NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF), threat analysis, Cryptography, vulnerability assessment, asset classification, Authentication, Command line interface (CLI), Bash
9. Network engineer
Average annual salary (US): $101,388
Network engineers design infrastructure systems and improve existing network systems within a company.
10. Quality assurance tester
Average annual salary (US): $64,501
A quality assurance tester attempts to identify gaps or errors in software by conducting manual and automated tests to simulate different scenarios on the software.
11. Software engineer
Average annual salary (US): $114,692
Software engineers create computer systems and design applications to meet specific needs or solve real-world problems.
12. Support specialist
Average annual salary (US): $59,177
A support specialist works alongside administrative and technical support to resolve customer concerns directly or refer them to the appropriate department.
13. User experience designer
Average annual salary (US): $97,319
A user experience designer helps developers create programs and websites that are accessible for people and easy to use.
professional certificate
Google UX Design
Get on the fast track to a career in UX design. In this certificate program, you’ll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
User Experience, Wireframe, User Experience Design (UXD), Prototype, UX Research, User Experience (UX), Figma, mockup, Usability Testing, UX design jobs
14. Web administrator
Average annual salary (US): $65,309
A web administrator manages the company website to optimize its performance and increase its online visibility.
Job duties and responsibilities of IT professionals
The key job duties of IT professionals typically include creating new computer systems, networks, and applications or finding software errors through troubleshooting. Many of them can be involved in various tasks depending on their roles and the company's needs.
As an IT worker, you can expect to work with computer-based information systems, software, and hardware, typically by designing, developing, and managing them. Everyday responsibilities can include:
Identifying technical problems
Deploying the appropriate IT solutions to solve problems
Designing computer-based systems or programs
Identifying user needs with technology
General skills to build for IT job roles
Beyond having technical skills, such as programming, IT professionals and employers look for workplace skills like communication since technical skills are learnable through hands-on work. Having a balanced set of both types of skills can make you an attractive applicant for IT roles. Here are some technical and workplace skills to consider building as you prepare for a career in IT.
Technical skills
Computer literacy: As an IT professional, you’ll spend a lot of time using computers, so understanding how to operate it and its basic functions is necessary.
Coding: Many IT roles require coding knowledge in various programming languages, depending on your specific role. You may help code or develop new software and applications for your company.
Application development: Having experience with application development can help you to understand the back-end of the software you’re using. You may find this helpful in creating new software or applications and monitoring computer systems.
specialization
Python for Everybody
Learn to Program and Analyze Data with Python. Develop programs to gather, clean, analyze, and visualize data.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 2 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Databases, Algorithms, Data Management, Data Analysis, Computer Programming, Programming Principles, Problem Solving, Computer Networking, SQL, Theoretical Computer Science, Critical Thinking, Xml, Database (DBMS), Json, Web Development, Software Engineering, Data Structures, Computer Programming Tools, Data Visualization, HTML and CSS, Python Programming, Python Syntax And Semantics, Basic Programming Language, Sqlite, Tuple, Data Structure, Web Scraping
Workplace skills
Analytical: Analytical skills like critical thinking can help you identify and solve technology-related issues. For example, you may need to assess the status and identify computer system and application errors.
Communication: You’ll communicate with various teams within your organization as an IT professional. This includes explaining technical concepts in a way that others can understand.
Organization: In an IT role, you’ll be tasked with multiple duties or projects at once, making organization a critical skill for success. With proper organization, your efficiency and productivity at work will drastically increase.
Problem-solving: Troubleshooting problems with the technology systems in your company can be difficult and confusing, so having advanced problem-solving techniques can lead you to be an effective team member.
Time management: IT professionals often have time-sensitive tasks with hard deadlines. It’s crucial to prioritize your time, designate tasks when needed, and complete projects correctly by their deadlines.
IT education requirements
Many IT jobs require that you have an associate or bachelor's degree. You can attain a degree in various fields to qualify for IT roles, such as information technology, computer science, or computer engineering. Some common courses you’ll take to help prepare you for an IT career include statistics, calculus, data networking, and information security. Some employers also accept relevant experience and certifications in lieu of a college degree.
To better position yourself to reach senior-level positions, you can choose to pursue a master’s degree in any relevant field of study. While hands-on experience in the IT field will help you to become an attractive candidate for higher-level IT roles, an advanced degree can be an essential asset to prove your expertise and dedication to your work.
Certifications for IT jobs
Pursuing specific certifications that are related to your specialization field to further your education and prove your expertise. Some senior-level positions may also require certain certifications.
Depending on the certification you want to earn, you typically need to have on-the-job experience. Here are some common IT certifications:
1. Certified Data Professional (CDP)
This certification demonstrates your level of expertise in core concepts about data management and information systems.
To earn this certification: Pass two exams, and then you can opt to take an additional exam to specialize in data management. Options include data administration, data integration or modeling, and business analytics.
2. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
The CISA certification is a top choice for IT professionals whose primary role involves auditing or system security.
To earn the certification: Pass an exam that covers various topics, such as IT management, operations of information systems, and auditing information systems, and provide proof of in-field work experience.
3. Certified information systems security professional (CISSP)
If you've been working in a systems security role with experience in areas like security management and operations, software development security, and asset security. In that case, you may consider pursuing the CISSP certification.
To earn the certification: You must pass an exam of the eight domains outlined in the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge and provide documentation of at least five years of paid work experience to qualify.
specialization
Certified in Cybersecurity
Advance Your IT Career with Cybersecurity Skills. Gain Flexibility with Self-Paced Learning
4.7
Beginner level
Average time: 1 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Risk Management, Network Security, Leadership and Management, security principles, Cybersecurity, administrative controls, Logical Controls, Physical Controls, Threat, Cyberattacks, Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, Computer Security Incident Management, security, Risk, Information Assurance, governance, Data Security, Cryptography, Asset
4. Cisco certified network associate (CCNA Security)
Cisco is one of the world's leading technology companies, and the CCNA certification can help you prepare to manage and utilize its networks. Certificate holders work in various IT roles, from help desk technicians to network administrators.
To earn the certification: You must pass an exam that covers network and security fundamentals, automation, IP services, and programmability.
specialization
Cybersecurity Operations Fundamentals
Launch Your Career in Cybersecurity Operations. Learn the basic skills required to become an entry-level cybersecurity operations analyst in a Security Operations Center (SOC).
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 3 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Cyber, Network Security, Security Operations Center (SOC), Information Security (INFOSEC), Cybersecurity
5. CompTIA security+
The CompTIA Security+ exam will test you on the core principles necessary for various cybersecurity-related roles.
To earn this certification: Pass the exam that focuses on core security functions, including how to evaluate, monitor, and improve IT security protocols, stay in compliance with regulations, and handle security incidents when they arise.
Read more: Are Certifications Worth It? When to Get Certified in Your IT Career
specialization
Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification
Prepare for CompTIA A+ Core 1 & 2 certifications. Explore Core 1 and Core 2 elements, which will provide basic IT knowledge and skills and prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification.
4.6
Intermediate level
Average time: 1 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Network Security, Operating Systems, Practice Exam, Hardware Troubleshooting, CompTIA A+, security, Technical Support, Mobile Devices, IT Troubleshooting, Certification Test, Exam Practice, Troubleshooting (Problem Solving), Motherboard and Storage Components, Network Troubleshooting, Laptop and Mobile Components, Printer Components and Settings
6. Project management professional
If you’re interested in pursuing management roles in IT, this certification may help boost your odds of qualifying for these positions. Earning this certification helps demonstrate your knowledge of project management principles and helps authenticate your leadership skills in project management approaches like Agile and Waterfall. You have to pass one exam to earn this certification.
Build IT skills on Coursera
If you're interested in building job-relevant IT skills, consider enrolling in Google's IT Support Professional Certificate, where you'll learn to perform day-to-day IT support tasks like computer assembly, wireless networking, installing programs, and customer service. Upon completion, you'll earn a Professional Certificate from Google and be prepared to take the CompTIA A+ exams.
professional certificate
Google IT Support
Get on the fast track to a career in IT. In this certificate program, you’ll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Security Management, Malware Protection, Cyber Attacks, Hardening, Network Security, Data Security, Wireless Networks, Cryptography, Network Administration, Cybersecurity, Authentications, Information Systems Security, Threat Modeling, Security Awareness, Security Controls, Encryption, Application Security, Firewall, Wireless Security, Information Assurance, Computer Security Awareness Training, Network Infrastructure, Backup, Virtualization, Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP), Windows Servers, Disaster Recovery, Directory Service, Systems Administration, Data Storage, User Accounts, Servers, Active Directory, Linux Administration, Lightweight Directory Access Protocols, Server Administration, Cloud Infrastructure, Cloud Computing, IT Infrastructure, OSI Models, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Computer Networking, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Architecture, TCP/IP, Network Protocols, Network Model, Ipv4, Routing Protocols, Domain Name System (DNS), Troubleshooting, Network Troubleshooting, Information Technology, Software Systems, Operating Systems, Technical Communication, Software Installation, Customer Support, Technical Support, Computer Hardware, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Binary Code, Technical Documentation, Hardware Troubleshooting, Command-Line Interface, Technical Support and Services, Linux File Systems, File Systems, Remote Access Systems, OS Process Management, File Management, Linux Commands, Identity and Access Management, Authorization (Computing), Powershell, Desktop Support, Package and Software Management, System Monitoring, Windows PowerShell
Article sources
Lightcast. "2023 Stanford AI Index Report, https://lightcast.io/resources/blog/demand-for-ai-skills-continues-climbing." Accessed September 16, 2024.
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