What Are the Average Salaries for Information Technology Jobs?
The field of information technology offers a wide variety of careers to those interested in working with computers and information systems. Read on to find out about some of these careers and the average salaries they offer.
Information Technology Jobs Overview
The average salaries for information technology (IT) professionals vary widely by specialty. There are various positions in the field, including specialists, administrators, managers and analysts. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that the average salary among all computing-related occupations was $91,480 as of 2018, though some professionals earn considerably more or less.
Important Facts About These Careers
| Computer Support Specialist | Network Administrator | Systems Analyst | Systems Manager | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Job Outlook (2016-2026) | 11% growth | 6% growth | 9% growth | 12% growth |
| Median Salary (2018) | $53,470 | $82,050 | $88,740 | $142,530 |
| Required Education | Associate's or bachelor's degree; postsecondary classes may suffice | Bachelor's degree; some employers may accept a postsecondary certificate | Bachelor's degree; an MBA may be preferred by employers | Bachelor's degree; a graduate degree may be required by some employers |
| Key Skills | Ability to solve problems and to speak, write, and listen well | Ability to multitask, communicate, and solve problems | Ability to communicate, analyze information, and think creatively | Ability to organize, make decisions, and lead others |
| Similar Occupations | Customer service representative, computer network architect | Computer hardware engineer, computer programmer | Information security analyst, management analyst | Database administrator, top executive |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Computer Support Specialist
These computer professionals offer telephone or e-mail assistance to in-house computer users who are experiencing technical problems. If further help is needed, you might be required to help resolve the issue in person. This will likely involve diagnosing the issue and following step-by-step procedures to get individual computers or entire networks up and running smoothly.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that, as of 2018, the average salary for computer support specialists was $57,950 per year (www.bls.gov). More specifically, the average annual earnings for computer user specialists came to $55,050, while network specialists earned an average of $68,050 per year.
Network Administrator
As a network administrator, you're in charge of overseeing the computer networks and systems of your employer. When computer systems need to be installed, you'll develop and implement a design that meets the needs of the user. Once this design is completed, you will install the network and ensure that it is operating properly. If any problems arise, you will be responsible for troubleshooting the issue.
The average annual income for a network administrator was $87,070 in 2018, according to the BLS. It was reported that Maryland was the top paying state for this occupation, with an annual mean wage of $108,190. District of Columbia and New Jersey were also among the top paying states with annual mean wages of $99,920 and $99,070, respectively.
Systems Analyst
Organizations need systems analysts to help develop and improve the performance of their software and hardware. In this position, you may also be required to manage existing resources and figure out how best to implement them to ensure maximum efficiency. Employers usually assign systems analysts to work with a specific branch of the company, such as financial services, accounting, engineering, or business marketing.
The BLS reported that the average annual wage for computer systems analysts was $93,610 in 2018. Those who were in the lowest ten percent of earners for this position made $54,360 or less, while those in the top ten percent made $142,220 or more.
The District of Columbia, Virginia, and New Jersey were among the top paying states for computer system analysts, according to the BLS, with average salaries of $102,290 or more.
Computer and Information Systems Manager
As you oversee a team of information technology workers, you'll ensure that your company's computer resources are being used efficiently. It will be your responsibility to direct and coordinate computer projects so as to meet established goals on behalf of your organization. In addition, you will focus on improving existing networks and computer systems and ensuring that your company is utilizing the latest technologies.
The average salary for computer and information systems managers was $152,860 in 2018. California, New York and Delaware were among the top paying states for this occupation, with average annual wages of roughly $169,720 or more.