Technology is an industry on the rise in BC, so now’s a great time to look into the opportunities available. If you’re not sure what opportunities exist, start by considering one of these five exciting technology careers that are in demand in BC and then be sure to check out WorkBC’s Blueprint Builder to find your fit.
1. Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers
Looking for a job that pays well and allows you to combine creativity and analytics? Consider a career as a computer programmer or interactive media developer. The pay is high, with WorkBC listing the average annual salary between $66,000 and $95,000. Industries with the highest need for computer programmers include healthcare, justice and telecommunications. If you're an interactive media developer, you could find yourself working in the computer game or film industries. Between 2014 and 2024, there will be an estimated 6,200 job openings for computer programmers and interactive media developers, making this a great time to consider this opportunity.
2. Computer and Information Systems Managers
With a projected 3,400 job openings between 2014 and 2024 and an average salary between $95,000 and $125,000, computer and information systems management is a fantastic job opportunity for technology specialists. In this role, you'll be planning and directing the information systems departments within a company, while managing tech projects and developing policies. Most jobs are in the professional, scientific and technical services, but there are also jobs in finance, public administration and retail industries.
3. Web Designers and Developers
Virtually every company has an internal or external website, which means they need web designers and developers to create and maintain them. Web designer and developer jobs are incredibly flexible; you can work for an organization in the private or public sector, a computer software development firm or you could be self-employed and take on contracts for many clients. The average provincial salary for a web designer or developer is $44,000 to $53,000, but as this area is in growing demand, expect to see this number rise in the years ahead.
4. Software Engineers
Do your friends use words like "creative," "innovative" and "analytical" to describe you? Do you have a solid understanding of mathematics and science? Do you like solving complex problems? If you answered "yes" to all these questions, you should look into a career as a software engineer. With an average salary between $66,000 and $95,000, you'll get to create and maintain all sorts of software and technological applications for employers and clients.
5. Information Systems Analysts and Consultants
If you like problem solving, a career as an information systems analyst or consultant might be perfect for you. With an average annual salary between $66,000 and $95,000, information systems analysts help companies and organizations make sure their information systems work the way they're supposed to. Information systems analysts can work from a computer lab at an office or from home, depending on the needs of the employer. There's also the possibility of being self-employed and taking on clients who need help with their information systems.
Now that you know some of the top technology jobs in BC, check out WorkBC's Blueprint Builder to take advantage of the myriad of opportunities that await you in this industry. There's never been a better time to find your fit!
Photos: Pressmaster / Shutterstock, Luis Llerena, Luis Llerena, Jacob Lund / Shutterstock
