Top 10 Coding Careers [Updated for 2023]

You might have already heard about the abundant job opportunities those who have coding skills get. If you were somehow suspicious about this claim, we don’t blame you. Many people get hyped up over everything, and that’s why it’s best to take things with a grain of salt.

However, in this case, getting all excited over coding skills might not be exaggerated as you’ll have tens of coding careers you can choose from that require coding. Thanks to the rise in the digital era, there is a constant rise in coding jobs, which has led to a significant increase in the demand for coding skills. The benefits of coding encompass not only the ability to create innovative solutions but also the promise of a remarkably high salary, fantastic career opportunities, and global exposure.

Now, let’s take a closer look at what you can do with your coding skills.

The data were taken from BLS, Indeed, and Glassdoor.

1. Video Game Developer

Video games are one of the most used technology applications. People of all ages turn to video games to relax and interact with each other in an alternate universe where they get to be superheroes, soldiers, tennis players, basketball players, etc.

Behind all these attractive games, there is somebody that develops them from scratch. That somebody is a video game developer.

What does a video game developer do?

Behind the compelling aspect of video games stand millions of lines of codes that develop every part of the game. Like anything else, video games start with a concept, and it’s the video game developer’s responsibility to bring that concept to life. The video game developer is responsible for the content and the environment of the games. They create characters, maps, scenarios, methods of winning and losing the game, and music for the games—all through the lines of code they write.

Up until the final draft, the game changes multiple times. That’s why game designers continuously have to recheck and rewrite thousands of lines of code.

How much does a video game developer make?

There isn’t a specific number that can encompass the salary of a video game developer. The earning of a game developer depends on numerous factors. The company they work for, the platforms they’re developing for, and their position (individual contributor or leadership role). However, the video game developer’s salary ranges from $50,000 for entry-level positions to $100,000 for senior positions.

2. User Experience Designer

User experience (UX) design is a job that mostly focuses on improving the interaction between human users and products and services. All this to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. So, the UX designer works to design delightful, useful, and easy-to-use products.

What does a UX designer do?

Now that we established what UX design is, we can focus on a UX designer’s job. A UX designer wears multiple hats in this position—user research, information architect, content strategist, interaction designer, and UI designer.

A UX designer works with the promise of creating technological products that are usable, accessible, and enjoyable for people. They should always consider the consumer’s needs, what’s best for them, and the overall user experience. While simultaneously making sure that the product or the service fits the business.

The projects in which UX designers work range from designing mobile applications, websites to designing AR and VR devices.

How much does a UX designer make?

The salary of a UX designer is quite impressive (even at entry-level). It ranges from $75,000 to  $110,000. The more time you spend working in this field, the higher on the ladder you’ll be, and the more you’ll earn.

3. Information Assurance Analyst

There are many analyst positions in the IT field, and their job descriptions involve security and risk assessment. They work on identifying the risks associated with hardware and software systems to ensure the safety of both customers and the company.

What does an information assurance analyst do?

Typically, those that hold this job position are security experts or former hackers who understand how both white and black hacking works. The tasks of an information assurance analyst are determined by the current attacks. They have to make sure that they’re updating the systems and look for future developments of other new systems.

Among other things, an information assurance analyst monitors hardware and software for unusual activity, creates systems to prevent cyber attacks, reports the security concerns up the chain, analyzes security systems for needed updates, and other responsibilities.

How much does an information assurance analyst make?

Depending on several factors like education, experience, certifications, and skills, the average salary of an information assurance analyst ranges from $62,042 to $81,944.

4. Mobile Application Developer

We all know that currently, there are millions of apps available for people to use on their phones. They range from educational apps, music, gaming, lifestyle, utility, business, and many others. All those apps haven’t been created by themselves; there are people behind the scenes that work to bring them to use.  Those people are application developers.

What does a mobile application developer do?

Mobile app developers are experts in designing and writing computer programs for smartphones and other devices. They are given information on what the consumer needs, and then they start designing and creating an application that will meet their needs. Once the app is finished, they work on application upgrades that are released to the public time after time.

Mobile application developers are divided into Android and IOS developers, operating systems that operate in numerous numbers of smartphones. They write programs using coding languages like C, C++, Java, and Python.

How much does a mobile application developer make?

The average salary for a mobile application developer in the U.S. is $123,278.

5. Software Quality Assurance Manager

When new software is designed and developed, it’s the software quality assurance manager’s responsibility to oversee the quality control by building and testing protocols and managing the engineers working on it.

What does a software QA manager do?

Software QA managers juggle many tasks daily. They conduct software tests, document software issues, improve business processes and systems, build websites, negotiate contracts with vendors, and evaluate the requirements and costs a new project takes while also making sure everything is going according to plan.

How much does a software QA manager make?

In the U.S., software QA managers averagely earn $128,319. However, the salary falls between $114,920 and $143,283.

6. Data Scientist

Data science was named the sexiest job of the 21-st century. But what exactly does a data scientist do that makes their job sexy, and how is their job different from that of a statistician?

What does a data scientist do?

Data scientists’ only job is to work with data. They do multiple things with those data. Thanks to them, they help businesses make informed and critical decisions. They have various tasks all related to the data, such as data collection, their transfer into a more appropriate format for the analysis to take place, creating frameworks to collect data, creating tools to automate the collection process, analyzing data for useful information, creating reports for business uses and correlating similar data to find actionable results.

How much does a data scientist make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average data scientist’s salary is $100,560.

7. Machine Learning Engineer

Have you ever wondered how CAPTCHAS works or how websites like Amazon and others know which products to suggest when shopping? Machine learning engineering is the secret sauce. Ever since artificial intelligence became a more important part of our lives, the role of machine learning engineers has increased. Technically, a machine learning engineer is a computer programmer whose job is to create programs that enable machines to take actions without being directed to perform the tasks.

What does a machine learning engineer do?

A machine learning engineer’s job is to provide systems with algorithms useful to get information without being coded. It’s their duty to write the code that brings data into computers and help them make predictions of outcomes based on data. They also manage the data and programs.

How much does a machine learning engineer make?

A machine learning engineer in the U.S., on average, earns $114,121. However, the salary could fall somewhere between $78,000 and $150,000.

8. Database Developer

Any program or application that works with data needs a database to store them. That’s where the expertise of database developers comes in.

What does a database developer do?

Data developers design, build, test, implement, and maintain new and existing databases. They also create management methods that will make access to the information stored in the databases more efficient.

How much does a database developer make?

The average salary of a database developer is $73,506. However, the salary ranges from $57,000 to $96,000.

9. Backend Developer

This coding career typically involves the development and maintenance of the software that runs on the server of a website. Backend developers ensure that the application, server, and database are all in working order. They determine what happens when someone interacts with a web page.

What does a backend developer do?

A backend developer is usually responsible for the way how data is collected and stored when someone enters it on a web page. In addition, they determine what happens when someone interacts with particular elements of the site. But backend developers aren’t directly involved in creating visual elements on a web page.

How much does a backend developer make?

The median salary for a backend developer is $115,478 a year in the United States and a $4,000 cash bonus per year, according to indeed.com.

10. Cyber Security Engineer

As companies continuously develop their digital presence, the need for cyber security engineers rises. These professionals must have excellent coding skills, a keen eye for detail, and stay up-to-date on the latest in the field of cyber security.

What does a cyber security engineer do?

Cyber security engineers monitor a system and identify any vulnerabilities or threats that could lead to harm. They are responsible for protecting data and systems against unauthorized parties. Cyber security engineers also create policies and programs to protect data and prevent any security breaches.

How much does a cyber security engineer make?

According to ZipRecruiter, the median salary for a cybersecurity engineer is almost $121,000 per year. Junior cybersecurity engineers usually earn around $53,000, and senior engineers can earn up to $185,000 per year.

What Coding Jobs Pay the Most?

While salaries in the coding field vary, most jobs offer substantial paychecks. Here are the highest-paying coding jobs.

Computer and information systems manager’s salary

Computer and information systems managers are among the highest-paid coding professionals in the technology field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the role saw an average annual pay of $151,150 in 2020, with the lowest 10 percent still earning around $90,430. Furthermore, the profession is currently projected to see 10 percent employment growth by 2029 — much faster than the average for all jobs in the field.

Software engineer’s salary

According to the BLS, software engineering employment is projected to grow by 22% nationally by 2029—which is much faster than average for all industry occupations. The BLS also cites an influx of mobile applications as a primary contributor to this growth, which complements the industry’s 2020 average salary of $110,140.

Data scientist’s salary

According to the BLS, data scientists in the U.S. make a median salary of $126,830. BLS also reports a 15% employment growth for the broader computer and information research industry (including data scientists) by 2029, which is 11% higher than the projected national average for all industry occupations.

Full stack developer’s salary

The BLS reports a 2020 average salary of $77,200 for all web developers and digital designers (including full stack developers), but compensation can vary depending on location and a candidate’s prior industry experience.

Computer systems analyst’s salary

Computer systems analyst employment is expected to grow by 7% by 2029 — much faster than the national average for all occupations. Broadly, this growth is projected, in part, due to an increased cross-industry reliance on IT professionals. For now, the field has enjoyed an average salary of $93,730 per year.

Product manager

The marketing management industry saw a national average wage of $142,170 in 2020. In the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, Georgia Metro area, product managers made slightly less at $132,550. The industry is expected to see a 7% employment increase by 2029.

Why Everyone Should Learn To Code

Learning to code offers many advantages accessible to all, irrespective of formal education. Online resources make coding attainable with flexible schedules. Acquiring this skill enhances job prospects and standing out in a competitive market and opens doors to software development, diverse tech-related roles, and freelancing opportunities.

Beyond employment, coding boosts efficiency, confidence, and problem-solving abilities while fostering a deep understanding of technology. Collaboration in coding projects cultivates interpersonal skills crucial in any profession. The versatile benefits of coding extend far beyond computer science, which is why everyone should learn to code. 

So, if you ever had doubts about whether your programming skills would prove useful in the job market, we’re confirming that there is a guaranteed career future for those who know how to code. As you can see, many jobs involve coding, and you have the option to choose whichever appeals to you most. At least, this is how we see it. What about you?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the most popular programming languages to learn?

The most popular programming languages to learn include Python, JavaScript, Java, C#, Ruby, Swift, and C++.

Is coding a good career?

A coding career can be a good choice for many people, as it offers a range of job opportunities, competitive salaries, and the chance to work on innovative projects. However, it’s essential to consider your interests and aptitude for problem-solving and logical thinking.

How long does it take to learn coding?

The time it takes to learn to code varies widely based on your goals and dedication. Basic proficiency might take a few months while becoming proficient enough for a job could take a year or more.

How hard is it to learn coding?

The difficulty of learning coding depends on your background, learning style, and the complexity of the programming languages and concepts you’re tackling. Some find it challenging, while others adapt quickly.

Can I get a coding job without a degree?

Yes, you can get a coding job without a degree. Many employers value skills and experience more than formal education, so building a solid portfolio and demonstrating your abilities through projects can effectively secure a job. 

How much can I expect to earn in a coding career?

In a coding career, earning potential can vary significantly based on experience and skill level. If you’re starting with 0 to 1 year of experience, you might expect an average salary of around $55,374. As you gain more proficiency and accumulate up to 3 years of experience, your earning potential could increase to $58,360. Reaching the 6-year mark in your coding journey could see your salary rise to about $62,615, reflecting the value of your growing expertise. 

However, the real leap in earnings often comes with extensive experience, as those who have been coding for 10 years or more might command a substantial average salary of $80k or more. It’s important to note that these figures can be influenced by factors such as the industry you’re working in, the specific technologies you’re skilled with, and the demand for your expertise.

Which field of coding pays the most?

Fields like machine learning, data science, and artificial intelligence pay the most within the coding industry due to their specialized nature and high demand.

Can I work remotely in a coding career?

Yes, many coding jobs offer the flexibility to work remotely, especially in today’s digital age, where remote work has become more common.

What are the best ways to stay updated in this rapidly evolving field of coding?

To stay updated in the coding field, follow industry blogs, participate in coding communities, attend conferences, take online courses, and engage with platforms like GitHub and Stack Overflow.

How can I get a job in coding with no experience?

To get a coding job without experience, focus on building a solid portfolio of projects showcasing your skills. Consider internships, freelance work, or contributing to open-source projects to gain experience.

Are coding careers only for those good at math?

Coding careers are not exclusively for those that are good at math. While math skills can benefit certain areas like data science or algorithm development, many coding roles focus more on problem-solving and logic than advanced mathematics.

How do I start a career in coding?

To start a career in coding, begin by choosing a programming language, learning the basics through online tutorials and courses, and practicing by building projects. As you progress, specialize in a particular field or technology to enhance your career prospects.