10 of the Most In-Demand IT Jobs in 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic brought an economic downturn and a drastic rise in the number of unemployed workers. Toward the end of March, organizations across the country began shutting their offices down and transitioning to remote work while trying to prepare for the downstream effects of a global pandemic. Despite the downturn, many tech roles not only remained relevant but their demand increased. We’ve compiled some of the most relevant information technology careers list based on Q2. Here are 10 of the most in-demand IT jobs in 2020 and the best tech jobs for the future.
COVID-19 and Hiring Tech
Dice recently released their Q2 Tech Job Report that analyzes the continuing impact of the pandemic on tech hiring. The data presented in the report indicates that Q2 showed steady growth for emerging tech hubs and infrastructure-related occupations. Companies across industries are in a better position to engage in long-term planning, with a clear need for technology professionals.
Dice’s analysis of most in-demand IT jobs between May and June shows that software developer postings increased by 25%, systems engineers increased by 24%, and application developers increased by 31%.
Get prepared and know the best tech jobs for the future. Here are the top 10 IT jobs in Q2 based on job posting volume:
- Data Engineer
- Computer Support Specialist
- Application Support Engineer
- Application Developer
- Senior Java Developer
- Graphic Designer
- IT Project Manager
- Computer Programmer
- Program Manager
- Cyber Security Engineer
1. Data Engineer
One of the best tech jobs for the future are data engineers. Data Engineers obtain raw data and transform it into a separate format that others use to be analyzed and thus understood. They obtain the data by supporting, generating, and examining data infrastructures. In addition, these engineers collaborate with data scientists. They have the responsibility of developing solutions so that scientists can proceed with their daily tasks.
2. Computer Support Specialist
One of the most in-demand IT jobs in 2020 is also a computer support specialist. A support technician has the responsibility of supporting both internal and external users’ computer issues. Furthermore, they must anticipate and prevent potential issues from occurring. Computer support specialists configure PC hardware for successful network connection and operation. Plus, they respond to user service requests.
Computer support techs help install, assemble and configure computers, monitors, and peripherals such as printers, scanners, and related hardware. They troubleshoot problems with computer systems, including hardware, software, e-mail, network, and peripheral equipment.
Additionally, they make repairs and corrections where required. Lastly, they assist in the development and implementation of procedures and work practices for identifying, reporting, repairing, and inspecting computer equipment for repair needs and/or deficiencies.
3. Application Support Engineer
As an application support engineer, an IT professional provides technical support to software within a particular industry. Their responsibilities can be broad and differ from role to role landing them as one of the best tech jobs for the future. Many responsibilities consist of database management and front-end programming. However, duties vary depending on the company’s role in their given industry.
Application support engineers either work with an IT team or have a role within one. They must hold a vast knowledge of technical skills to succeed. Furthermore, these engineers can have an in-house role due to the increased reliance on technology. You may also find them working for agencies and different clients as some of the most in-demand IT jobs.
4. Applications Developer
This position is responsible for assisting current and ongoing software development efforts by identifying, defining and modeling the application requirements. Applications developers assist with developing policies, procedures, and support mechanisms to be used across all development functions.
They do so for the purpose of maintenance, enhancement, and debugging. These developers work closely with the quality assurance team, architects and PMO, as well as the internal IT customer and offshore Development team.
In addition, they work with management to identify and implement effective process control systems to support the development, validation, and ongoing maintenance of products and the creation of services. Applications developers maintain an integral part of the Application Development team by updating, repairing, modifying, and expanding existing software and applications on programs.
5. Senior Java Developer
A Java developer has the responsibility of designing, developing, and implementing core and web-based Java applications. These support many business requirements. Following the approved life cycle methodologies, they create design documents and performs program coding and testing. In addition, when technical issues arise, they resolve them through debugging, research, and investigation. As one of the most in-demand IT jobs in 2020, they write Java as well as SQL stored procedures.
Senior Java developers collaborate with business partners and development team members to achieve business results. They analyze business requirements and provide feedback to the business on development projects. Lastly, they build Java programs, batch jobs, and related SQL stored procedures that are consistent with the objective of stated development and business goals.
6. Graphic Designer
Graphic designers create and design aesthetic visuals using computer software to communicate various messages to consumers. They develop and organize the design and layout for websites, social media, advertisements, reports and much more. These graphic artists use art and combine it with technology to convey messages related to the business. Graphic designers continue to land some of the best tech jobs for the future.
Furthermore, they use a variety of design software such as InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and many more. Specific or combinations of platforms used depends on the role.
Not only do graphic designers work with visuals such as photos, illustrations, and shapes, they also work with text. Graphic designers create and maintain logos and brand identities of companies. This consists of creating designs that apply certain color schemes and fonts that communicate a company’s brand. Furthermore, they organize layouts and pages on print and digital platforms such as brochures and websites. Many graphic designers collaborate with content writers to determine consistent messaging.
7. IT Project Manager
An IT project manager oversees both large and complex projects and provides leadership to existing PMO and contractor base. They also manage the day-to-day aspects of multiple projects. Many of their responsibilities include overseeing the project coordinator and PM’s working on client engagements. Furthermore, they review all high-level deliverables across projects in the PMO and implement engagement reviews and QA procedures to ensure successful project completion. Lastly, they minimize the risk across all projects assigned and may analyze financial data to maximize revenue.
8. Computer Programmer
Computer Programmers use programming languages to write the code the contributes to computer software. Their overall responsibilities include developing a program’s workflow and testing its functionality while documenting issues and successful implementation. Almost all industries need computer programmers, so it’s no surprise they are one of the most in-demand IT jobs in 2020. Platforms that use programmers range from mobile applications, software, databases, and more.
This job can bridge into other roles due to the relevant skills that can apply to many tech fields. Other jobs that use these skills are roles from senior computer programmers, database administrators, to chief technology officers.
Many computer programmers hold a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, computer science, or a related field. However, if candidates hold certain certifications and show relevant knowledge in the field, employees can still hire those without degrees. Programming languages computer programmers should understand include C++, Java, Python, and others depending on the role’s requirements.
9. Program Manager
IT project managers and program managers have similar roles. Like a project manager, a program manager coordinates, oversees, and manages the programs in an organization. Many fields and industries have program managers or IT project managers to help stay on task and meet deliverables.
10. Cybersecurity Engineer
Cybersecurity continues to be a vital industry and some of the best tech jobs for the future. A cybersecurity engineer implements infrastructure to protect an organization. They do this by researching, developing, documenting, and supporting the security infrastructure. Their main purpose is to lead the protection of all IT assets. These engineers typically work with stakeholders and IT management to create security strategies.
Cybersecurity engineers analyze security systems and applications. In addition, they recommend, implement, and modify security measures. For new and existing users, they create and maintain security awareness programs, policies, and procedures. Furthermore, they implement access controls using their knowledge of AD, profiles, resources and class structures.
Many times, cybersecurity engineers hold a degree in cybersecurity, IT, or a related field. However, employers will consider relevant experience and certifications in lieu of a degree. Any certifications such as MCITP, MCES, CISSP, CISA, or CCNA are very relevant. Many of these engineers have experience with firewalls, upgrades, monitoring, troubleshooting, and managing an enterprise anti-virus solution. Lastly, they have experience with formal penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and scripting including VBScript, PowerShell, Python, etc.
Long-Term Planning
When the pandemic hit, companies had to scale back their immediate hiring and shift their focus to from product development to infrastructure and systems and security. Now as we enter the second half of 2020, the demand for technology professionals continues to grow and employers are in a better position to now engage in long-term planning. Developers, engineers, and programmers are some of the most in-demand IT jobs due to companies needing help maintaining current tech stacks and building new products.
Tech Positions Available
At IT Resources, we focus on information technology professionals. Our industry experience and market knowledge let us pair the most talented IT professionals to the best tech jobs for the future. As Florida expands, so do our connections in the market for highly skilled technology professionals. Through continual communication with IT professionals in the local workforce, we can provide your company with the talent you require. Contact us or visit our open tech positions today to learn more about the positions we fill and how we can help you find the top talent you need.