The use of computers forms the basis of several of the best tech careers of the 21st century. Whether it’s through programming languages, software, operating systems, or artificial intelligence, computers have established themselves to be the most important element of the tech world. If you are curious about jobs that use computers, keep reading.
This article will describe what a computer is and outline the demand that exists for jobs involving computers. We’ll also give you some pointers to get you started in a tech career and inform you of the different career options available.
What Are Computers?
Computers are electronic devices that communicate using binary code. Computers use software to complete a wide range of logical operations and technical tasks. As the first digital computers were introduced nearly 100 years ago, they have gone through many transformations. The main parts of a computer consist of circuit boards, RAM, graphic processor units (GPUs), central processor units (CPUs), and hard drives.
In today’s job market, computers are essential for professionals working with data storage, data processing, software engineering, software development, user experience and user interface design, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and digital marketing. In fact, computers and smart devices provide the backbone to almost every industry.
Are Computers in High Demand?
Yes, computers are in high demand because they are the main components of virtually every business in operation. According to an International Data Corporation report on PC demand, 83.6 million PCs were shipped in the second quarter of 2021. The report noted that the demand for desktop computers increased as component shortages caused the supply of notebooks to dwindle.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook rate for computer and information research scientists is projected to grow by 22 percent between 2020 to 2030. This growth is also prevalent across jobs in software development and network security.
Types of Computers Jobs
The types of jobs that use computers can be found in the design, software, analytics, and administration fields. Read below to find the several types of computer professions you can venture into with strong software and programming skills.
Computer Programming Jobs
Programming wouldn’t be possible without computers. Computer programming jobs can be found in software development, system administration, software development, and network security. You should think about learning popular programming languages along with computer science-related skills to get ahead in these industries.
Programming languages such as Python, Java, Scala, JavaScript, C#, and C++ are the essential languages to learn. If you can master these languages, you’ll always be able to find work in the information technology, healthcare, education, and cyber security sectors.
User Experience Design Jobs
Digital designers, including graphic designers, user experience designers, and product designers also fall under the umbrella of computer-related jobs. Professionals in these fields use computers for front end design, applications, customer service experiences, and visual design projects.
Along with design skills, these professionals also need to know how to use specific sets of software, work with information architecture, and possess digital content management skills.
Data Science Jobs
Data science is a rapidly growing sector that provides critical market knowledge to a wide range of lucrative industries. Computers handle all tasks related to data science, including storing data and running algorithms to predict market trends.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning are two technologies used in data science that completely rely on computers to operate. Learning computing and data science skills will open up endless career possibilities for you. You could become a business intelligence analyst, systems analyst, artificial intelligence engineer, or machine learning engineer.
How to Establish a Career in Computers
If you want to establish a career in the computer and information technology industry, read our step-by-step guide to kickstart your tech career. Be aware that there are many jobs that use computers, all of which have specific skills and education requirements.
- Master General Computer Skills. The first step to establishing a career in computers is to master basic to advanced general computer skills. You should learn to seamlessly navigate through popular digital technologies, software, operating systems, and online communication tools.
- Take Courses in Computer Science or a Relevant Field. You’ll need an education to succeed in this field. Depending on the job you’re seeking, you may want to earn a bachelor’s degree, enroll in an online tech course, or enroll in a specialized bootcamp.
- Get Professional Certifications. Competition in computer-based job markets has increased as we become more tech-dependent as a society. To stand out in the candidate pool, it’s vital to add sought-after professional certifications to your portfolio.
- Land an Internship or Find Freelance Work. Build up your tech portfolio by getting an internship or finding freelance jobs relevant to your profession.
- Apply for Your Dream Computer Job. This step requires you to perform research on different companies and job roles. Remember to customize the contents of your job application to meet the company and industry standards.
The 15 Best Jobs That Use Computers
Below are the top 15 jobs that use computers in 2022. You can use our step-by-step guide to penetrate these computer-based professions and build a lucrative tech career.
| Job Title | Average Salary | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial Intelligence Engineer | $164,769 | 22% |
| Machine Learning Engineer | $130,530 | 22%* |
| Data Scientist | $119,413 | 22%* |
| Information Security Analyst | $99,944 | 33% |
| Cyber Security Analyst | $99,815 | 33%* |
| Software Engineer | $99,729 | 22%* |
| Information Systems Manager | $90,937 | 11% |
| Software Developer | $86,523 | 22% |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | $85,274 | 25% |
| Web Developers | $75,073 | 13% |
| Digital Marketing Manager | $71,914 | 10% |
| Network Administrator | $69,182 | 5% |
| Data Analyst | $67,294 | 25%* |
| Animators | $62,591 | 16% |
| Graphic Designer | $48,283 | 3% |
*All job outlook statistics have been sourced from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What Careers Use Computers? An In-Depth List
Artificial Intelligence Engineer
Artificial intelligence (AI) engineers are responsible for building AI-enabled software and applications. They are responsible for designing AI applications that mimic human behavior to solve complex issues.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine learning engineers are AI professionals who develop predictive modeling software by designing automated AI-enabled systems. They engage in software engineering, data analytics, AI algorithm research, and computer information acquisition system design tasks.
Data Scientist
Data scientists are research and analytics professionals who process and transform complex datasets into valuable insights for an organization. Computer systems and databases store, process, and maintain these datasets. To be successful, data scientists need computing and analytical skills and must be proficient in SQL, Python, and data modeling.
Information Systems Manager
Information systems managers are supervisors in charge of an organization’s overall information technology department. They are IT all-rounders who need in-depth computer skills in network administration, hardware maintenance, software testing, and system security. They are responsible for the efficient operation of all computer systems within a company.
Cyber Security Analyst
Cyber security analysts are security professionals responsible for safeguarding the cyber space infrastructure of an organization. Similar to information security analysts, they also perform security tests, develop software solutions, and conduct system maintenance. To be successful in this profession you will need to master computer science, IT system security, and cyber programming subjects.
Software Engineer
Much like a software developer, software engineers are responsible for designing and maintaining software applications for a company. To succeed as a software engineer, you’ll need an in-depth understanding of operations systems, software development, and programming languages.
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts use software such as firewalls to secure a company’s network. They may test and diagnose networks and fix any security issues they find. A main requisite of the job is preventing cyber attacks and mitigating damage if a cyber attack does occur.
Software Developer
A software developer designs, builds, and maintains proprietary software for companies. They might create programs strictly to be used by their company or develop software as a product that can be publicly sold.
Business Intelligence Analyst
A business intelligence analyst typically uses data science to help improve the operations of a business. This is a data science job that requires you to work with computers and databases that process, store, analyze, evaluate, and visualize valuable big data.
Web Developers
Web developers are similar to software developers as they build the backend and front end of web pages. You will need to master coding languages, visual design, and website maintenance for this position.
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Digital Marketing Manager
Digital marketing managers supervise online marketing campaigns, SEO strategies, and the use of customer relationship management (CRM) software. This digital profession requires advanced computer skills, as well as social media and online marketing knowledge.
Network Administrator
Network administrators are software and hardware maintenance professionals who perform regular system troubleshooting to implement efficient tech solutions. Your primary task is to make sure the organization’s network is constantly running and help avoid any hindrance in daily operations.
Data Analyst
A data analyst processes data by transforming large data sets into digestible visual presentations for companies. Data analysts must be skilled in database management, data visualization, data mining, market research analytics, and statistical analytics. Data analysts should also be familiar with programming languages like SQL, Python, and MATLAB.
Animators
Animators create 2D and 3D animated pictures and motion graphics for videos. You will work with popular computer graphics software, including Adobe Illustration, Blender, Autodesk Maya, and Adobe Character Animation.
Graphic Designer
Graphic designers use different software to create visuals for various platforms. They handle everything from print and digital marketing materials to company logos and website design. Mastering design software is an essential skill for graphic designers.
Should You Get a Job in Computers?
You should get a job in computers if you want to build a lucrative career that is filled with growth potential. The best fields to delve into include data science, software engineering, web development, and user experience design.
Jobs That Use Computers FAQ
Data science, artificial intelligence, software engineering, graphic design, digital marketing, web development, and user experience design are some of the industries that offer jobs that use computers.
You need to master top programming languages, operating systems, and software programming skills to get a job that uses computers. However, know that the demand for specific computing skills will vary depending on your profession and industry.
Top computer-based jobs include web developers, software engineers, database administrators, information security analysts, network administrators, and computer research scientists.
Yes, data science professionals need to have a wide range of computer skills and be proficient in SQL, Python, database management, and statistical analytics.
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