According to Indeed’s latest report from 2024, about 7 in 10 workers admitted their openness to new opportunities. At the same time, when people check out prospective employers, part of the main concerns for 74% of workers is how much they could get paid. There is no doubt that everyone wants to earn more than they currently do.
However, the highest-paying jobs often require skills that are out of the reach of many candidates, especially because they have not sufficiently applied themselves to those skills. If you find yourself in this category, there is plenty of room for growth if you are willing to learn as much as possible about the digital skills that are reshaping how we work today.
And when we say ‘digital skill’, we don’t mean just knowing how to use software. The skills that pay more are not merely about technical competence; they are mostly geared towards tackling big problems, such as using AI to break new ground across industries.
In any case, what skills are employers looking to pay top dollar for right now? Let’s dive in.
1. AI/ML Engineering
Since ChatGPT hit the scene, we’ve been inundated by talk about AI and machine learning. So many industries have been looking into how to adopt AI innovations in their operations and services. In many cases, companies are looking for engineers who can build these systems from the ground up.
This is where AI and ML engineers come in. Notably, companies are expected to pour over $632 billion into AI by 2028. So, you can be certain that there’s an abundance of opportunities in this field. As an AI/ML engineer, you can make $120,000 to $180,000 in a year, and there are specializations that can take you even further.
2. Blockchain/Web3
If the predictions are correct, web3 is the next iteration of the internet. And that’s a huge deal. The idea here is to make the internet more decentralized and to put users back in control, and this is what drives innovations like blockchain technology, cryptocurrency, DeFi, and so on. But the tech buried in the details of all these is quite complex, and this immediately puts many people off.
However, if you’ve already got some coding experience, you could start by picking up Solidity (that’s for Ethereum) or Rust (for Solana). Building a few decentralized apps would enable you to present a good portfolio so your resume can truly stand out. Once you have the expertise and experience, you can be looking at as much as $150,000+ per year.
3. Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity has become a massive business concern, with hackers expected to cause over $10 trillion in damages annually by 2025. This stark reality has turned cybersecurity experts into some of the most sought-after professionals in tech. The field is multiplying – the government expects we’ll need a third more cybersecurity analysts within the next decade.
With such high demand, these roles command impressive salaries, typically between $80,000 and $200,000+, making it an attractive career path for those with the right skills. Essential skills to gain proficiency in cybersecurity include cloud security architecture, zero trust implementation, incident response, threat detection, compliance management, and more.
4. Data Privacy Engineering
Data privacy engineering has emerged as its own specialty in response to growing worries about how companies handle personal information. These specialists design systems that safeguard user data while navigating complex privacy laws like Europe’s GDPR and California’s CCPA. It’s a relatively new field that bridges the gap between traditional software engineering and privacy protection.
As you must know, companies today collect massive amounts of user data, and failing to protect it adequately can result in severe financial penalties. That’s why data privacy engineers command high salaries, typically between $120,000 and $180,000. It’s an ideal career for those who want to combine technical skills with ethical impact.
5. DevOps/Platform Engineering
DevOps engineers bridge the gap between writing software and getting it up and running, making sure development and operations teams work together seamlessly. Platform engineers go a step beyond, creating the infrastructure that supports the whole development process. Big tech companies rely on both roles to keep their complex systems moving efficiently.
These roles pay well for good reason – DevOps engineers usually make $100,000 to $170,000, and platform engineers often earn even more. Their work involves running cloud systems, setting up automatic software deployment, and using tools like Docker and Kubernetes to keep everything running smoothly.
6. Digital Marketing
These days, companies are spending big on digital marketing to grow their business – everything from online ads to social media and content. If you’re skilled at helping brands stand out online and connect with customers, you can earn upwards of $100,000 in this field.
The key to standing out in digital marketing is finding your specialty. You might focus on SEO and SEM to boost website traffic, become an expert at social media, or use data to show what marketing campaigns actually work. Since digital marketing needs both creative and analytical minds, you can build your career around whichever skills you’re best at.
7. E-Commerce Management
Online shopping has transformed retail, creating huge demand for e-commerce expertise. E-commerce managers play a key role in this digital marketplace – they improve how customers shop online, boost sales, and keep online stores running smoothly.
Working with major platforms like Shopify and Magento, plus knowing how to showcase products online and manage customer relationships, can open doors to well-paying jobs. E-commerce managers typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000, with the exact salary depending on the company’s size and what the role involves.
8. Full-Stack Development
Full-stack developers handle both front-end and back-end web development, making them valuable all-rounders in tech teams. While they can work across the entire development stack, having a core specialty – whether it’s front-end interfaces or back-end systems – helps set them apart in their careers.
Many developers choose to specialize in React for building interactive interfaces, while others focus on Node.js for robust backend systems. Getting involved in open-source projects helps showcase your abilities and build a strong portfolio. Companies value full-stack developers highly – most earn between $90,000 and $150,000 given their broad technical expertise.
9. Product Management
Product managers guide digital products from idea to reality, making sure they meet both business goals and technical requirements. They’re the strategic thinkers who turn business plans into actual products that development teams can build. In major tech cities, seasoned product managers typically earn over $120,000 given their crucial role in shaping a product’s success.
To succeed as a product manager, you’ll need solid market research abilities, a good grasp of strategic frameworks, and strong UX design skills. Getting involved with other product managers through meetups and workshops helps you learn the ropes and build connections in the field.
10. Video Production/Editing
Video has become the dominant form of online content, driven by YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram’s massive reach. To make it as a video producer or editor, you’ll need to master storytelling, script development, and sophisticated editing skills. Highlighting your creative approach and technical abilities in a strong portfolio will help you stand out in this competitive field.
Video pros can earn substantial incomes, with full-time positions paying $80,000+ for skilled storytellers. Freelancers typically charge between $50 and $150 per hour. Those with advanced skills in areas like 3D animation or virtual production can command even higher rates due to growing industry demand.
Insights, Tips, and Resources
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