4 exciting jobs in the tech industry

Given that the technology sector is expansive, and innovation in this field continues every day, it should come as no surprise that job opportunities for qualified candidates in this industry are abundant. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2014 companies in the tech industry were responsible for employing up to 12 percent of the working U.S. population, which equates to roughly 17 million people. And in addition to being plentiful, careers in the technology sector typically offer room for considerable professional growth and, in many cases, highly lucrative compensation.

If you are a professional or recent graduate with a background in the sciences, technology, engineering, or mathematics and are looking for information on new and exciting career paths that you could pursue across this vast and booming industry, look no further. Review the following guide to four exciting tech jobs below:

1. Computer systems administrator

Professionals in this field essentially work to ensure that an organization's information technology infrastructure is in working order, U.S. News & World Report explained. This means fixing any problems that occur as soon as possible, making sure that computer servers are in good health, training colleagues on complicated IT issues and so on.

You should apply for this position if you have extensive knowledge of the intricacies of IT management and at least a bachelor's degree in a related subject such as computer science. In many cases a master's degree is also required, given the complexity of the role. In terms of personal qualities, you should be able to work fast and under pressure: Issues with IT occur frequently, often on a daily basis, and sometimes the problems will be critical.

In terms of salary, if you secure a role as a computer systems administrator, you can expect to be rewarded handsomely. U.S. News & World Report detailed that the average national salary for this role stands at a little under $75,800 per year, while more experienced professionals can expect to command salaries in excess of $100,000 annually.

2. Mobile developer

If you're smartphone obsessed and have a knack for innovation and design, a job as a mobile developer could be ideal for you. According to a Business Insider analysis of a Glassdoor survey of the 25 Best Jobs for 2015, professionals in this field essentially develop, design and write the code for smartphone apps and other computer programs that are smartphone compatible.

"Here locally, Pittsburgh's transformation into an up-and-coming tech market is driving demand for Mobile Developers," says Mike Reckner, Recruiting Manager for Beacon Hill's Technologies Division in Pittsburgh. "We have a mix of large tech companies and new startups that are establishing a presence in the area. Top talent from prestigious nearby institutions (University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University) makes this an attractive area for those incoming companies."

Necessary qualifications for a mobile developer, wiseGEEK explained, include proficiency with many aspects of IT software development, and crucially programming languages. Many employers will also require applicants to have a bachelor's degree in computer science or computer programming. Business Insider reported that the average salary for a professional in this field stands at almost $80,000 per annum.

To qualify, you will need experience in the field and will need to be adept at writing code. The source elaborated that, given that this is a creative position, prospective employers may also ask to see examples of your past design work.

3. Web developer

Many web developers will be tasked with working with creative teams and clients to build a captivating design and brand for the website and ensuring that the page is accessible and easy to navigate. Specifically, front-end development requires proficiency with code such as HTML and Javascript, Udacity explained. Web developers, especially those trained in back-end development, may also work on the behind scenes functions of the website, including the database and server.

Salaries for talented web developers can be lucrative. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the average yearly salary - nationwide -currently stands at almost $71,000, although salaries closer to $120, 000 per year are by no means uncommon.

4. Data analyst

Data analysts are tasked with making sense of large pools of data-based information. As the Houston Chronicle explained, they will then utilize the information to compile reports and presentations about their findings, and also to build solutions to any problems.

This job requires several key skills: proficiency with various analytics platforms, a mathematical mind, and an ease with presentations, public speaking and more general communication. In terms of qualifications, a bachelor's degree in statistics, mathematics or computer science is usually needed.

The job site search Glassdoor reported that data analysts can earn up to $90, 000 a year, with six figure salaries for more experienced professionals in larger organizations.