U.S. Department of Labor Technology Career Update

In a competitive job market, maximizing the potential of your education could hinge on a question of numbers: How many workers might be hired in a given field?


Since crystal balls aren't exactly what one might call reliable, the U.S. Department of Labor has done some projecting of its own when it comes to employment outlook.

Here's a closer look at two of the fastest growing Technology occupations, in terms of numbers hired, through 2016.

1. Networks systems and data communications analysts perform a number of tasks in relation to data communications systems, like the Internet, including designing, analyzing, testing, and assessing systems and their performance. Analysts might also supervise computer programmers and work as specialists who handle the interfacing of computers and communications equipment.

How Fast Is It Growing? This is considered the leading occupation in terms of the percentage of growth in jobs. In large part, this is due to the increasing use of computers and information technology. The rise from 262,000 employees in 2006 to 402,000 in 2016 represents a 53.4 percent increase over that span - that's 140,000 new jobs

How Do I Get Started? Many jobs require a bachelor's degree, although some might only require a two-year degree in computer science or an information technology-related field.

Salary: $73,800 a year

2. Computer software engineers rely on their knowledge of computer science and mathematical analysis to develop, design, test, and evaluate the software and systems that operate our computers. Their tasks are evolving quickly and reflect the ever-changing landscape of computer technology. Computer games, word processing, and operating systems are among their areas of expertise.

How Fast Is It Growing? A 44.6 percent increase in jobs from 2006-2016 puts computer software engineers near the top of the growth scale. This growth will be the result of businesses and other organizations embracing and integrating new technologies and seeking to maximize the efficiency of their computer systems.

How Do I Get Started? The prospects are very good for job applicants with at least a bachelor's degree in software engineering or computer science and with some work experience.

Salary: $87,900 a year

Associates Degree Careers

When most of us think of post-secondary education, our first thoughts are about four-year degree programs where we can earn a bachelor's degree. We may even be thinking about a master's degree, which involves an even greater time investment.

Many people overlook associate degree programs -- which generally involve two years of classes -- when they consider their options. But there are a surprising number of options for graduates with associate degrees.

Marc Scheer is the author of "No Sucker Left Behind: Avoiding the Great College Rip-Off." He believes that pursuing an associate degree can be a very wise choice.


"Associate degrees tend to be great investments because they cost less than four-year programs," Scheer notes. "Graduates can transfer to four-year programs afterwards if necessary."

Most importantly, with four-year programs at major universities carrying a six-figure price tag, Scheer believes associate degrees are a valuable test run.

"Since many college students drop out before graduating, these degrees allow them to try out college at a low cost. If they then drop out, they'll have incurred much lower debt."

Hot jobs forassociate degree  graduates

If you're interested in a particular job, the Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes an occupational guide that outlines occupations with an associate degree requirement.

Desktop publisher

This job combines writing, formatting and graphic design. Many schools offer associate degrees in graphics arts and design that translates into transferrable skills for this job.

Salary: An graduate working in this position could expect a median salary of around $34,459

Computer support specialist

Computer support specialists help computer users troubleshoot any technical issues they might have with their computer system. Since most organizations, in all industries, use computers these days, support specialists can work almost anywhere.

Salary: A computer support specialist can earn an average salary of $45,719 per year.

Technology Job Market Report

The economy is acting strangely, to put it lightly, and the only certainty anyone has regarding the job market is that things will fluctuate. If you're searching for a job during these fickle times, all you want is a little guidance. Although having a job is good, having a job that pays well is even better.

Regardless of the economy's state, people want to work in a job where they grow and will be compensated accordingly. The past is a good indicator of where the future might take certain industries and salaries.

In an effort to help you find a job with a salary that could continue to increase, here's a list of industries that have seen continuous wage increases over the last three years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Under each industry are jobs that constitute a substantial portion of that field's work force, accompanied by their mean annual salaries.

Wireless telecommunications services
1. Computer support specialists
Salary: $45,300*

2. Computer systems analysts
Salary: $75,890

3. Network systems and data communications analysts
Salary: $70,760

Computer and software stores
4. Computer, automated teller and office machine repairers
Salary: $34,330

5. Customer service representatives How to Land a Top-Paying Customer Service Representative Job: Your Complete Guide to Opportunities, Resumes and Cover Letters, Interviews, Salaries, Promotions, ... What to Expect From Recruiters and More!
Salary: $28,930