20 Highest-Paying Computer Science Jobs

Computer Science jobs are undoubtedly the most sought-after positions right now. It’s no surprise they offer the highest pay in every other engineering field. As a result of their demand, we often get asked to highlight the highest-paying computer science jobs for our readers. So, our experts put together a lot of time behind market research and curated this list outlining the highest-paying computer jobs you can apply for. Stay with us throughout this guide to find more information about each position.

Highest Paying Computer Science Jobs

Below, we’re outlining the 20 most paid computer science-related jobs. Go over them one at a time and apply for the positions you think you’re adept at.

1. Big Data Engineer

As per our research, the highest paying computer science jobs this year will be rewarded to the Big Data Engineers. As industries become increasingly dependent on user data, companies are always looking for skillful people who can help them gain insights into the customer’s mind. If you want to see yourself working as a big data engineer in a reputed enterprise, make sure you have the in-depth fundamental knowledge required for such positions.

Requirements for this job

• High-level proficiency in various Hadoop stacks(MapReduce, HDFS, SPARK, Hive) is a must.
• Requires in-depth knowledge of Big Data querying tools like Pig and Impala.
• Need to have a prior understanding of Big Data ML tools like Mahout, SparkML, or H2O.
• Should have a detailed understanding of Lambda Architecture, its benefits, and its drawbacks.
• You also need to be familiar with NoSQL databases such as HBase, Cassandra, or MongoDB.

2. Data Scientist

It should not come as a surprise to see data scientists on top of the corporate food chain. As with big data engineers, skillful data scientists are always in demand, and enterprises are ready to spend big bucks behind them. As data continues to fuel business growth, data scientists will continue to enjoy one of the highest-paying computer science jobs this year. Start applying immediately if you think you have got the necessary skills for such a position.

Requirements for this job

• A good understanding of data analytics, statistics, and machine learning is a must.
• Need to be familiar with R, Python, and their respective data-focused frameworks.
• Should have a quick eye for catching patterns in massive, scattered data sets.
• Have to be a critical thinker and need to possess good adapting skills.
• Thorough knowledge of Multivariable Calculus and Linear Algebra is often elemental.

3. Information Systems Security Manager

Security is arguably the most sensitive aspect of modern tech-oriented businesses. Corporations are always looking for highly skilled information security systems managers to ensure their business and user data remain safe. So if you are on the lookout for computer science jobs this new year, keep this position on your shortlist. Moreover, this job offers a long list of lucrative perks for the right person.

Requirements for this job

• Proficiency in computer architecture and networking is a must.
• Should be equipped with a major security certification like CISSP or CEH.
• Prior experience is usually required for such positions.
• It should be efficient in multiple programming paradigms and languages alike.
• Need to be able to curate professional security strategies and measurements.

4. Data Architect

As you know, data is the fuel behind modern-day corporate growth. However, the nature of data is that it’s scattered and redundant in nature. Enterprises can not use such scattered data and need them to be properly organized. And they are willing to spend big bucks behind you if you’re up to the task. As a Data Architect, you’ll also coordinate the company databases and ensure your data’s security.

Requirements for this job

• Need to be proficient in practical statistics and common modeling algorithms.
• Should be able to find and recognize patterns in big datasets rapidly.
• A Data Architect must possess knowledge of both conventional and unorthodox database system designs.
• Communication skill is essential for one of these highest-paying computer jobs.

5. Data Security Analyst

As much as a blessing organized data is, so is the opposite of corrupted data. Organizations spend colossal money annually to ensure the safety of their precious data. So, if security and exploits trigger your excitement, we suggest you try to grab a Data Security Analyst position. You will mainly filter your data so that it’s out of reach from malicious attackers.

Requirements for this job

• Mastery of computer security is a must.
• Should be proficient in data mining and organizing techniques.
• Requires deep knowledge of various data modeling paradigms and algorithms.
• Should be a critical thinker.

6. Applications Architect

It is arguably one of the highest-paying computer science jobs available right now. As an Applications Architect, you’ll design the corporate application layouts’ ins and outs. Developers will build every final product based on your structure. So, if creating new and intuitive computer solutions is something you’re adept at, we recommend you pursue a position as an Application Architect, one of the highest-paying computer jobs this year.

Requirements for this job

• You need to have a great understanding of computer architecture and fundamentals.
• Should be well aware of various software design principles and approaches.
• Need to have knowledge of the front end, backend, middleware, interfaces, and every other application element.
• Should be able to measure the drawbacks of each design and trade-off accordingly.

7. Data Manager

In the real world, data is usually scattered and often tends to overwhelm business people. That’s why corporations spend a heck of a lot of money behind Data Managers on managing their rapidly increasing data. It’s one of the highest-paying computer science jobs, and as data continues to fuel enterprise growth, it’s likely to grow further. As a Data Manager, you need to manage corporate data as well as business databases fluently.

Requirements for this job

• You should be able to find patterns in big datasets rapidly.
• Thorough knowledge of various databases and schemas is a must.
• You need to ensure the organized data is sound and secure.
• Should be proficient in translating business requirements into real-world database schemas.
• The ability to work under a tight business schedule is a must.

8. Software Engineer

Unsurprisingly, software engineering accounts for one of the highest-paying computer science jobs worldwide. This position entitles you to design and develop corporate software solutions for organizations around the world. It’s one of the highest-paying computer jobs you can apply for after obtaining a CS degree. This position allows lucrative perks as well as social security. You need to possess fundamental computer knowledge before applying for such a job.

Requirements for this job

• A Bachelor’s degree is a must before applying for a Software Engineer position.
• You should possess great analytical skills to be considered for this position.
• Teamwork and communication skills are essential for such positions.
• Sound familiarity with various database systems is a must.
• Should be proficient in software testing and debugging.

9. Mobile Applications Developer

Mobile applications drive the modern world. Since the inception of smartphones, mobile apps have become the most significant focus of enterprises. This is the reason Mobile Applications Developers enjoy one of the highest-paying computer science jobs. As a Mobile Applications Developer, you will be developing mainly Android or iPhone apps for consumers worldwide.

Requirements for this job

• Need to possess great networking and architectural skills.
• Should be familiar with commonly used smartphone application frameworks like Android Studio.
• Should be able to develop both native and hybrid mobile applications alike.
• Need to be proficient in languages like Java, C#, Swift, and other commonly used tools.
• Should be able to adapt and migrate to newer tech stacks fast.

10. Network Security Administrator

Corporations need to ensure the security of their networks is in able hands. This is why they are willing to spend big bucks on capable Network Security Administrators. We highly encourage you to pursue this position if you have prior knowledge and experience in network administration and security. It’s not only one of the highest-paying computer science jobs but also offers a challenge to all security enthusiasts.

Requirements for this job

• A detailed understanding of networks and computer architecture is a must.
• Should be able to find and patch potential security threats rapidly.
• Need to be familiar with common exploitation techniques and vulnerabilities beforehand.
• Should have the ability to work around the clock.
• Should possess a widely accepted security certification.

11. Computer Systems Analysts

This position entitles you to manage the Systems requirements of enterprises according to their corporate requirements. As a Computer Systems Analyst, you’ll mainly coordinate the design and maintenance of the workstations as needed by the Software Engineers and programmers. You’ll also have the responsibility of customizing systems based on specific criteria.

Requirements for this job

• A Bachelor’s degree is just the bare minimum for such computer science jobs.
• Should be able to anticipate company requirements and act accordingly.
• Need to be ready to embrace high-level corporate pressure.
• Prior experience is often asked for such positions.
• A Master’s degree in Business Administration is helpful for this position.

12. Systems Security Administrator

Systems security is crucial to maintaining the integrity of enterprises. It’s no surprise a Systems Security Administrator position is among the highest-paying computer science jobs you can get your hands on. With this job, you’ll have the responsibility of managing the security aspects of corporate systems. Although a seemingly normal position, this is one of the highest-paying computer jobs that guarantee great job security.

Requirements for this job

• A valid certification is often required for such positions.
• Should possess a fundamental knowledge of computer architecture and networking.
• Need to have critical thinking abilities.
• Should be familiar with common penetration testing frameworks like Metasploit, w3af, and BeEF.
• Need to be able to detect potential intrusion targets very fast.

13. IT Auditor

The primary reason organizations hire IT Auditors is to improve their internal processes. It’s one of the best computer science jobs that offers both mobility and job satisfaction. As an Auditor, you’ll mainly identify and summarize your corporation’s audit findings to external stakeholders and executive bodies. You should have a practically keen eye for even the smallest details to grab such a prestigious position.

Requirements for this job

• IT Auditors need to be focused and must possess critical thinking abilities.
• You should be able to prioritize jobs according to your busy corporate schedule.
• Excellent interpersonal skill is mandatory for catering to influence corporate bodies.
• Should be able to identify and outline mandatory IT issues properly.
• Need to develop practical solutions for potential IT problems.

14. Ethical Hacker

One of the most prestigious and highest-paying computer science jobs you can get after graduation is an Ethical Hacker. This position requires you to hack and breach corporate networks and systems with due permission, of course. This is a dream position for security enthusiasts and is among the highest-paying computer jobs you can get your hands on this new year.

Requirements for this job

• Should be proficient in fundamental computer networking and architectural concepts.
• Must be able to tackle new hurdles and problems according to company objectives.
• Need to be adept at utilizing both conventional and unorthodox security tools and utilities.
• Professional, industry-accepted certification is often asked for this position.
• Should possess a detailed understanding of various computer malware.

15. Computer Programmers

Computer programmers undoubtedly enjoy one of the highest-paying computer science jobs in the industry. For programming logic circuits to embedded devices, enterprises require Computer Programmers for a wide array of tasks. As a computer programmer, you might need to work on varying projects and possess every necessary skill to accomplish them successfully. It is one of the most prestigious and highest-paying computer jobs you can apply for right now.

Requirements for this job

• You need to know different programming paradigms, like structured, object-oriented, and functional programming.
• Should have proper knowledge of common programming languages like C, C++, Java, and Python.
• It would be best to understand fundamental data structures like lists, queues, stacks, and trees.
• Should be familiar with common testing frameworks like Selenium, Robot, and ATF.

16. Blockchain Developer

Blockchain technology has taken the world by storm these last couple of years. As a result, industries are investing heavily in developing their business solution with this platform. As a result, Blockchain Devs are enjoying one of the highest-paying computer science jobs. So, if you want to grab this prestigious position at a renowned company, start honing your blockchain skills right today.

Requirements for this job

• Need to have a detailed understanding of blockchain technology and best practices.
• Should have proficient research skills required for the outline of a given problem and its solution.
• Need to have a good understanding of various system architecture and their implementation.
• Should be proficient in languages like Go, C++, Solidity, and Rust.
• Need to have detailed knowledge of Ethereum.

17. Database Administrator

If managing complex database systems is something you’re adept at, a Database Administrator position can be the best job for you. And on top of it, you’ll also be enjoying one of the highest-paying computer science jobs in the industry. Database Administrators play a central role in developing and managing almost every enterprise solution, and their pay skill is gradually increased based on individual performance.

Requirements for this job

• Knowledge of different databases like SQL databases(MySQL, PostgreSQL), NoSQL databases(MongoDB), and caching databases(Redis) is a must.
• Have to be proficient in designing effective database schemas according to the project.
• Thorough knowledge of SQL (Structured Query Language) is a must.
• Should be able to secure database solutions from potential intruders and data breaches.

18. Computer Hardware Engineer

Computer Hardware Engineers enjoy one of the most honorable and highest-paying computer jobs in the industry. As a hardware engineer, your primary task will be designing and developing the hardware aspects of your corporation’s systems. You’ll often be tasked with tending legacy hardware and keeping them alive. If the hardware is something you’re interested in, this job can suit you really well. Moreover, this position entitles you to a very high pay scale also.

Requirements for this job

• University education is mandatory for such a position.
• You will be required to design and develop architectural solutions.
• Need to have very low-level knowledge of digital circuits and embedded systems.
• Good communication skill is important for this job.
• Should possess a great understanding of peripheral devices.

19. Web Developer

We live in the age of the internet, and newer web technologies are taking our lives to a newer experience each day. As a Web Developer, you’ll be tasked with building the various web components of a web app or solution. A thorough understanding of various web technologies like Rest APIs, Distributed servers, and Databases is mandatory for such computer jobs.

Requirements for this job

• Understanding various web technologies like Server, Client, and Socket Programming is a must.
• Need to be adept at web programming languages such as Java, HTML, JavaScript, and Python.
• Knowledge of commonly used web frameworks such as Express, Laravel, and Django is mandatory.
• Should be able to embrace newer technologies as required by the organization.

20. Network Engineer

Network engineers oversee corporate networks’ planning, implementation, and overseeing.  If you’re professionally adept at networking, we highly encourage you to apply for such a position. As a network engineer at a renowned organization, you’ll not only enjoy a massive pay scale but also have job security.

Requirements for this job

• Need to be highly proficient in computer networking.
• Should possess not only theoretical knowledge but also practical experience.
• Good communication skill is mandatory for such a position.
• A professionally accepted certification in networking, like the CISCO certification, is very helpful.
• Should have great problem-solving and analytical knowledge.

Ending Thoughts

The tech industry is always on the rise, and demand for highly skilled CS grads will rise in the upcoming years. However, as much as the robustness of this industry, so is the competition. To make sure you can grab one of the highest-paying computer science jobs this year, we suggest you hone your skills first.

Take a professional certification exam and try to obtain a handsome grade. Make sure your resume stands out among hundreds of others so you can get one of the highest-paying computer jobs.