The Top 9 IT Jobs In-Demand for 2025

As we move into 2025, businesses are prioritizing hiring for roles such as software engineers, software developers, and end-user support specialists. There’s also a growing demand for professionals with expertise in cloud computing, database management, and systems engineering, according to Robert Half Technology’s 2025 IT Salary Report.

After a year of disruption in the tech industry—particularly the continued rise of AI in enterprise applications—executive hiring priorities are shifting toward future-focused roles. However, with only 35% of professionals actively job hunting (down from 49% last year) it’s no surprise that 90% of IT hiring managers are struggling to find the skilled talent they need.

To bridge this gap, more technology leaders (60%) are turning to contract professionals to address their specific skill requirements. This trend is especially prominent for roles in AI and machine learning, security and compliance, and software and application development.

So, here’s a look at 9 IT jobs projected to be in high demand for 2025, along with the key skills and experience to prioritize when hiring and the competitive salary ranges to attract top talent—ranked by average pay.

At a Glance: Top 9 IT Jobs In-Demand for 2025

(25th percentile: new to the type of role, still acquiring relevant skills)

(50th percentile: average experience, has most of the necessary skills)

(75th percentile: above average experience, has all needed skills)

• Data Engineer
  • 25th Percentile: $125,750
  • 50th Percentile: $154,000
  • 75th Percentile: $179,500

• Senior Software Engineer
  • 25th Percentile: $121,250
  • 50th Percentile: $147,500
  • 75th Percentile: $177,250

• Software Developer
  • 25th Percentile: $106,500
  • 50th Percentile: $130,750
  • 75th Percentile: $153,000

• Network/Cloud Architect
  • 25th Percentile: $108,250
  • 50th Percentile: $129,750
  • 75th Percentile: $152,000

• Systems Engineer
  • 25th Percentile: $97,750
  • 50th Percentile: $119,250
  • 75th Percentile: $148,500

• Developer/Programmer Analyst
  • 25th Percentile: $94,750
  • 50th Percentile: $120,500
  • 75th Percentile: $142,500

• Senior Consultant
  • 25th Percentile: $96,750
  • 50th Percentile: $116,000
  • 75th Percentile: $136,250

• Systems Administrator
  • 25th Percentile: $78,750
  • 50th Percentile: $96,250
  • 75th Percentile: $115,500

• Desktop Support Analyst
  • 25th Percentile: $55,000
  • 50th Percentile: $66,500
  • 75th Percentile: $77,250

1. Data Engineer

Data engineers design, build, and maintain the tools and software needed to process and analyze large datasets. They make sure these systems are scalable, reliable, and secure, making them essential for managing data across an organization.

What to Look For

– Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, IT, engineering, or mathematics; master’s degrees may be required for senior roles.

– Experience: Proficiency in data processing, software development, database management, and cloud-based systems.

– Certifications: AWS Certified Data Analytics, Cloudera Data Platform Generalist, or Google Professional Data Engineer.

Key Skills

– Multicloud computing, data visualization, machine learning, and AI

– Proficiency in Python, Ruby, Apache Spark, and Rust

– Knowledge of automation, scripting, and enterprise architecture

2. Senior Software Engineer

Software engineers design and develop software programs and applications to meet business needs. This role requires strong collaboration and communication skills, as well as the ability to thrive in a team environment. Software engineers produce well-documented, organized source code and work closely with quality assurance teams to ensure thorough testing of the software.

What to Look For

– Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field is typically required.

– Certifications: Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP), Certified Software Engineer (CSE), or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).

Key Skills

– Proficiency in programming languages such as C#, C++, and Java

– Experience with the .NET Framework

– Ability to collaborate with teams for hardware and software integration testing

– Strong skills in creating clear, detailed documentation for software specifications

3. Software Developer

Software developers focus on creating programs for internal use or mobile devices, while systems software developers design software for external clients or consumers. As companies continue to embrace digital transformation, the demand for skilled software developers is strong to support the creation of internal and external software systems.

What to Look For

– Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is commonly required. Some roles may accept a two-year technical degree paired with extensive practical experience.

– Certifications: AWS Certified Developer Associate, Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP), Certified Scrum Developer (CSD), or Google Cloud Professional Developer.

Key Skills

– Proficiency in designing, creating, testing, programming, and updating software

– Ability to understand and translate end-user needs and requirements

– Experience in coding, testing, debugging, and modifying applications

– Strong communication skills for collaborating with analysts, engineers, and QA testers

4. Network/Cloud Architect

Network/cloud engineers manage an organization’s network and cloud infrastructure, develop and implement cloud-based applications, and handle the migration of existing applications to the cloud. They are skilled in debugging cloud stacks, securing applications, and creating scalable cloud solutions. Their role also involves network security, troubleshooting, and expertise in platforms like AWS, Azure, GCP, and CI/CD systems.

What to Look For

– Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is typically required.

– Experience: At least three years of experience in cloud computing, including strong technical and analytical skills.

– Certifications: AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, Google Cloud Professional, and Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals.

Key Skills

– Expertise in identifying and implementing optimal cloud and network solutions

– Knowledge of cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and GCP

– Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, and R

– Familiarity with DevOps, APIs, and web services

– Strong communication, collaboration, and client management skills

5. Systems Engineer

Systems engineers design, integrate, and manage complex systems throughout their lifecycle. Their work spans large-scale software platforms, web applications, cloud infrastructure, and beyond, requiring a broad skill set to oversee an organization’s hardware, software, and services effectively.

What to Look For

– Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is often required, though specific requirements may vary by role or company.

– Experience: At least five years of experience working with an organization’s hardware and software systems.

– Certifications: Certified Systems Engineer Professional (CSEP), Certified Enterprise Architect (CEA), Expert Systems Engineering Professional (ESEP), or Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE).

Key Skills

– Strong project planning and organizational abilities

– Technical expertise in developing, maintaining, and supporting infrastructure, hardware, and system software

– Proficiency in installing, maintaining, and supporting enterprise systems, as well as providing user support

• Advanced knowledge of security, problem-solving, scripting, programming, networking, and cloud computing

6. Developer/Programmer Analyst

Developer/programmer analysts analyze business needs to design, develop, test, and maintain software applications. They use data analysis to make sure technical solutions align with business objectives.

What to Look For

– Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, IT, software engineering, or a related field such as mathematics or engineering is typically required.

– Experience: Proficiency in analyzing business application requirements, writing and testing code, debugging software, and designing technical solutions.

– Certifications: AWS Certified Developer, Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate, Java SE Programmer, or C Programming Certificate.

Key Skills

– Expertise in database management and programming

– Strong analytical skills to translate findings into effective technical solutions

– Experience with web frameworks, cloud technologies, DevOps, and system integration

– Proficiency in project management, communication, and ensuring security and compliance

7. Senior Consultant

Senior consultants guide teams, initiatives, and projects, often involving multiple departments and stakeholders. They facilitate communication, define project scopes, identify deliverables, and regularly update senior leadership on progress.

What to Look For

– Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, management, or an IT-related discipline is typically required.

– Experience: At least four years of experience leading complex team initiatives, with a strong understanding of technology and the IT services industry.

– Certifications: Certifications vary based on the consultant’s area of expertise.

Key Skills

– Strong project management skills, including planning, executing deliverables, and identifying risks

– Excellent communication and collaboration skills to update senior leadership on project progress

– Leadership ability to mentor and coach teams, ensuring projects stay efficient, on-time, and within budget

– Cross-departmental coordination to meet delivery deadlines

8. Systems Administrator

Systems administrators manage an organization’s hardware and software systems, with responsibilities that vary depending on the organization’s size. Their duties include installing, patching, and upgrading operating systems, troubleshooting hardware and software issues, and configuring system software.

What to Look For

– Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is typically preferred. Some employers may accept an associate’s degree or technical training certification.

– Certifications: Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA), Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), or Sun Certified Systems Administrator (SCSA).

Key Skills

– Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities

– Technical expertise in configuring, optimizing, monitoring, and upgrading operating systems and servers

– Experience in installing operating system software, applying patches and upgrades, and resolving hardware, software, and networking issues

9. Desktop Support Analyst

Desktop support analysts are responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting desktop hardware, software applications, network systems, and other IT infrastructure. This customer-facing role requires strong problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and a strong knack for providing support for both internal and external users.

What to Look For

– Education: A bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field is often required, though extensive work experience may substitute for formal education in some cases.

– Experience: At least five years of experience installing and supporting enterprise hardware and software.

– Certifications: HDI Desktop Support Technician, HDI Support Center Analyst, CompTIA certifications, Microsoft Certified IT Professional, and Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator.

Key Skills

– Technical expertise in hardware, operating systems, software applications, networking, and system security

– Strong soft skills, including problem-solving, communication, customer service, and collaboration

– Proven experience in IT support roles, troubleshooting diverse hardware and software issues, and managing ticketing systems

Build Your Future with CTT’s Computer Training School

As technology continues to develop, the demand for skilled IT professionals shows no signs of slowing down. Businesses are looking to fill roles that focus on innovation, efficiency, and security to stay competitive. From data engineers to desktop support analysts, these in-demand roles show just how important it is to keep up with the right skills, certifications, and experience in the tech industry.

If you’re ready to take your career further or explore opportunities in IT, CTT computer training school offers a range of online education courses and programs designed to help you succeed. Get started today.