Flexible Tech Careers For Career Changers That Pay Well

Flexible Tech Careers For Career Changers That Pay Well

Oct 19, 2023

Embarking on a journey toward a fulfilling career while maintaining a balanced life is a modern-day problem. With its stringent hours, the traditional work landscape often eclipses the other facets of life, leaving many yearning for a breath of flexibility. However, as we sail further into the digital age, the stiff structures of the old are gradually morphing into more fluid work arrangements. This change is notably prominent in the tech industry, where flexibility isn’t merely a perk but an ingrained culture.

As the thoughts of a career switch flutter through your mind, the tech field emerges as a hopeful frontier. Transitioning to a tech career isn’t about hopping onto a contemporary bandwagon but embracing a trajectory that values the essence of flexible schedules. The tech realm beckons with the allure of roles that break free from the traditional 9-to-5 mold, offering flexibility that resonates with your life’s rhythm. It’s about stepping into positions where the work hours are as dynamic as the tech innovations you’d be involved in.

The narrative of flexibility in tech careers isn’t far-fetched. Remote working and flexible hours are transitioning the work culture from a rigid hourly model to a results-driven framework, where your value is tethered to your output rather than the hours logged in. It’s about the autonomy to sculpt your time that aligns with your life’s priorities, whether it’s family, further education, or a side hustle.

Let’s unearth how a career pivot to tech could be your gateway to a more flexible and harmonized life. We’ll navigate various tech careers known for their flexible schedules. As you perch on the brink of a career change, the tech sector extends an invitation to a realm where your career harmoniously coexists with your life rather than overshadowing it.

Flexible Tech Careers For Career Changers That Pay Well

The Appeal of Tech Industry for Career Switchers

The tech industry is a magnet for career switchers due to its enticing attributes: job flexibility, remote work opportunities, high demand, and competitive salaries. Let’s delve into these attributes to understand the allure of tech careers for those contemplating a career change.

Job Flexibility

The tech industry is synonymous with flexibility. The digital nature of tech jobs enables a level of autonomy and flexibility that is hard to find in many other sectors. Flexibility has become a given in the tech job market, with a notable percentage of tech workers enjoying working remotely full-time or part-time. According to a study by McKinsey and Company, 52% of people in “computer/mathematical” fields can work from home five days a week. An additional 37% can spend part of their week working remotely1. The tech industry’s flexibility also extends to work hours, allowing employees to have a better handle on their work-life balance, a feature desirable to the younger workforce and recent graduates.

Remote Work Opportunities

The provision for remote work is not just a temporary arrangement but a longstanding feature in the tech realm. Nearly two-thirds of IT employees reported that the inability to work remotely is a job deal-breaker. The pandemic has further solidified remote work as a viable and often preferred work arrangement, expanding the geographical boundaries of job opportunities. The tech industry’s inclination towards remote work addresses the quest for flexibility. It opens doors to global opportunities and diverse work environments.

High Demand and Competitive Salaries

The demand for tech skills is ever-rising, making the tech industry a lucrative field for career switchers. The correlation between the demand for tech skills and compensation is quite pronounced, with salary premiums being one way for companies to attract top talent4. The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 15% growth in computer and information technology occupations, fueled by this high demand, which, in turn, prompts employers to offer competitive salaries to attract skilled applicants. The median annual wage for tech workers stood at $97,430 in 2021, with positions like DevOps engineers and product managers among the highest-paying jobs.

The tech industry’s robust demand has also spurred a notable salary increase, with engineering managers, for instance, seeing a significant 10% increase in salaries in 2023 compared to the end of 2022. This sector’s growth is poised to continue, with a projected growth rate of 5.4% in 2023, further solidifying its position as a high-paying and high-demand field.

The tech industry’s dynamic nature, coupled with the potential for high earnings and the privilege of flexible work arrangements, makes it a compelling choice for career switchers. As you contemplate this transition, the prospect of a flourishing career alongside a well-balanced life is a lofty dream and a tangible reality within the tech realm.

Tech Project Manager

Embarking on a role as a Tech Project Manager (TPM) means stepping into a position of leadership and coordination within a technology-driven environment. Here’s a deeper look into what this role entails, its flexibility, and the financial prospects it holds:

Role and Responsibilities

As a Tech Project Manager, you’re at the helm of tech-related projects within an organization, ensuring they sail smoothly from conception to completion. Your responsibilities encompass:

  • Project Planning: Crafting a detailed project plan that outlines the scope, objectives, and timelines.
  • Execution and Monitoring: Leading the project team, ensuring project goals are met, monitoring progress, and making adjustments as necessary.
  • Budget Management: Overseeing the project budget to ensure expenses stay within the allocated funds.

Flexibility and Work-life Integration Possibilities

The tech industry’s digitally innate nature lends itself to flexible work arrangements. This perk extends to the role of a Tech Project Manager. The capacity for remote work, flexible hours, and the use of Agile methodologies, which foster a collaborative and flexible work environment, are traits that are becoming increasingly prevalent in this role. This flexibility allows for better work-life integration, enabling you to mold your work schedule around your life’s other essential facets.

Average Salary and Job Outlook

Financially, stepping into a Tech Project Manager role can be rewarding. As of 2023, the average salary for a Technology Project Manager is approximately $93,940, with the potential to earn upwards depending on experience, education, and the specific industry you’re in. The job outlook is promising, too, with a projected growth rate of 11% from 2020 to 2030 for computer and information systems managers. This category includes Tech Project Managers. This growth is propelled by the increasing need for tech expertise in the evolving digital economy and the critical role that project managers play in enhancing communication, reducing inefficiencies, and ultimately saving companies money.

Computer Programmer

The role of a Computer Programmer transcends merely writing code; it’s about creating the digital skeleton on which various applications function. Here’s a detailed overview of what embarking on a career path as a Computer Programmer entails:

Coding, Testing, and Troubleshooting

At the core, Computer Programmers are code craftsmen. They:

  • Write, test, and troubleshoot code that powers software applications.
  • Work alongside software developers and engineers, forming a larger team focused on building functional, error-free software.
  • Engage in bug finding, error elimination, and problem-solving to ensure the software runs smoothly.

Remote and Flexible Work Opportunities

The digital nature of programming work lends itself well to remote and flexible work arrangements. The tech industry has been at the forefront of remote work, and programmers have been among the first to embrace this work model. Key points include:

  • Remote coding jobs are known for offering excellent work-life balance, flexibility, and competitive pay.
  • A recent report shows that 59% of employers offer flexible working hours to support remote engineers.
  • The trend towards remote working in programming jobs continues to rise, with over half of such jobs being remote as of the end of 2020.

Median Annual Salary and Job Outlook

Financial stability is a significant factor when considering a career switch. Computer Programmers earn a competitive salary, with the median annual wage being $97,800 as of May 2022. However, it’s crucial to note the projected decline of 11% in employment from 2022 to 2032 for computer programmers attributed to various factors, including outsourcing coding jobs. Despite this decline, an average of 6,700 job openings are projected each year over the decade, ensuring that skilled programmers will continue to have job opportunities.

Data Analyst

Unveiling the sphere of data analytics reveals a haven of opportunities for individuals keen on switching to a tech career. Here’s an exploration of the role, the flexibility it offers, and the earning potential that comes along:

Analyzing Data for Actionable Insights

  • Data Analysts play a crucial role in converting complex datasets into understandable insights that drive informed decision-making within organizations.
  • They collect, organize, and interpret data to identify trends, patterns, and insights that solve business problems, regardless of their industry.

Suitability for Individuals with a Finance Background

  • Due to the overlap in required skills such as statistical analysis and data interpretation, individuals with a finance background often find a smooth transition into data analytics.

Job Flexibility and Earning Potential

  • The flexibility in work schedules, especially with the growing remote work trend, makes data analytics a desirable field for career switchers.
  • Entry-level Data Analysts can earn between $50,000 to $70,000 annually. As they gain experience, the earnings rise from $70,000 to $100,000 for mid-level analysts. Senior-level analysts with a wealth of experience can earn between $100,000 and $150,000, depending on their expertise and the company they work for.
  • The earning potential is further bolstered by a projected increase of 21% in the average base salary for data analysts from 2023 to 2028, indicating a prosperous future for individuals in this field.
  • Data Analysts with 2 to 4 years of experience earn an average of $98,682, escalating to $112,593 for those with 5 to 7 years of experience and $138,031 for those with eight or more years of experience.

The harmonious blend of job flexibility, lucrative earnings, and the critical role Data Analysts play in modern business landscapes make this career path a compelling option for individuals considering a career change to tech.

Developer

As you venture into the expansive development realm, you’ll find many roles awaiting, each with its unique flavor of challenges and rewards. Here’s a dive into the multifaceted world of developers, the flexibility in work schedules, and the earning potential that this career path offers:

Creating and Maintaining Software Applications

  • Developers are the architects of the digital world, creating and maintaining software applications that power everything from mobile phones to enterprise-level systems.

Variety of Roles and Flexibility in Work Schedules

  • The development realm spans various roles, including Web Developers, Cloud Developers, and Full-Stack Developers, each with responsibilities and expertise.
  • Web development jobs, for instance, are expected to grow 23% from 2021 to 2031, surpassing the average growth rate across all careers.
  • Small businesses and global corporations’ increasing need for user-friendly and effective online tools propels the demand for web developers.

Earning Potential and Job Outlook

  • The earning potential in the development domain is quite lucrative. US cloud Developers earn an average salary of $112,368 per year, influenced by factors like education, experience, and location.
  • Full-Stack Development also offers attractive earnings, with salaries ranging from around $75,729 for Full-stack WordPress developers to $114,502 for Full-stack JavaScript developers.
  • The software development industry, in general, is known for its lucrative salaries and strong job growth, making it a promising field for career switchers.

Diving into a career in development offers a canvas for creativity and problem-solving. It presents a realm filled with opportunities for growth, flexibility, and substantial earnings.

Data Scientist

As the digital age advances, the role of data scientists becomes increasingly critical in helping organizations make sense of vast amounts of data, uncovering insights that drive strategic decisions. Here’s a glimpse into the dynamic world of data science, the flexibility it offers, and the financial rewards awaiting:

Managing and Analyzing Big Data

  • Data Scientists are at the helm of managing and analyzing large and complex datasets, transforming them into actionable insights that can significantly impact an organization’s strategy and operations.

High Demand and Flexible Work Schedules

  • The demand for data scientists is surging, with a projected growth of 28% to 36% in employment from 2021 to 2031, creating more than 10,000 new jobs annually. This high demand stems from the need for data science skills across various industries and sectors, making it a high-demand field.
  • The flexibility in work schedules is a notable perk for data scientists. A survey highlighted that 72% of respondents prefer to work entirely from home if given the choice, revealing a significant inclination towards remote work among professionals in this field.

Competitive Salaries and Job Outlook

  • The earning potential for data scientists is quite enticing. As of May 2022, the median annual wage stood at $103,500. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a robust growth of 35% in employment from 2022 to 2032, with about 17,700 job openings projected each year, on average, over the decade.
  • Salaries vary significantly based on experience, education, and specialization. For instance, the median salary in 2021 was $108,660, but data scientists with more experience or specialized skills can earn substantially more.
  • The average annual salary for data scientists is around $152,279, with those working from home earning an average of $127,128 annually. The earning potential escalates further for senior roles, and those with a Ph.D. may find higher-paying opportunities, especially in senior data scientist roles.
  • Interestingly, the demand for data scientists has increased salaries, especially for experienced individuals and first-level managers. The median base salary for top-level data science managers is $250,000 and $160,000 for experienced individual contributors, showing a promising financial outlook for those venturing into data science.

The realm of data science offers a promising career trajectory. It provides the flexibility and financial rewards that many career switchers seek. The ability to work remotely, coupled with competitive salaries and a high demand for expertise, makes a career in data science a compelling choice for those looking to dive into the tech industry.

Digital Transformation Specialist

Embarking on a journey as a Digital Transformation Specialist opens up a realm where technology intertwines with business strategies to create a digital metamorphosis. Here’s a peek into the role, the flexibility it offers, and the enticing earning potential:

Integrating Digital Technologies in Business Operations

  • Digital Transformation Specialists are pivotal in steering organizations toward a digital frontier. They lead the charge in integrating digital technologies into all facets of business, enhancing operational efficiency, customer engagement, and competitive advantage.

Technical and Managerial Skills Required

  • This role requires a blend of technical acumen and managerial prowess, making it a unique position that caters to those with both technological and leadership inclinations.

Job Flexibility and Earning Potential

  • The digital transformation landscape is expanding rapidly as more businesses grasp the importance of adapting to digital technologies, creating a demand for specialists in this field.
  • According to Salary.com, Digital Transformation Specialists earn an average salary of $71,808 per year in the United States, with the higher end of the salary spectrum reaching $82,203.
  • Glassdoor estimates the total pay for Digital Transformation roles at around $181,474 per year in the United States area, with an average salary of $136,707 annually, showcasing a lucrative earning potential in this field.

The burgeoning demand for digital transformation expertise and the opportunity to play a critical role in steering organizations towards a digital future makes this career path a compelling choice for those poised for a career switch into the tech realm.

Transitioning into a Tech Career

Switching to a tech-centric career can be a thrilling yet challenging adventure. It’s a path laden with the promise of innovation and lucrative prospects. Yet, it requires a blend of preparation, upskilling, and resilience. Here’s a roadmap to ease the transition:

Acquiring Necessary Skills and Certifications

  • Self-Study: Dive into the vast reservoir of online resources. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer many courses tailored for self-driven learners.
  • Bootcamps: Enroll in bootcamps for an intensive, focused training regimen designed to equip you with the requisite skills in a relatively short timeframe.
  • University/College Courses: The traditional route still holds value. Engage in formal education to gain a comprehensive understanding of tech topics, albeit this could be time-consuming and expensive.
  • Certifications: Opt for certifications from reputable organizations. They validate your skills and enhance your marketability to prospective employers.

Networking and Building a Portfolio

  • Networking: Forge connections by attending industry meetups, joining online communities, or participating in hackathons. Networking can unlock doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and lasting professional relationships.
  • Portfolio Building: Showcase your prowess through a well-curated portfolio. Whether it’s a web application you’ve developed or a data analysis project you’ve spearheaded, let your portfolio echo your capabilities to potential employers.

Overcoming Challenges Associated with Career Switching

  • New Skill Acquisition: Embrace the challenge of building a new set of skills. It might feel like starting anew, but every step forward is a stride toward your tech career goal.
  • Pacing and Patience: Switching to a tech career might demand sacrifices, like acclimating to a change of pace or even a temporary pay cut. Stay persistent, set specific, actionable goals, and bravely traverse each hurdle.

Transitioning into a tech career is bold and filled with hurdles and triumphs. Yet, with the right mindset, continuous learning, and a supportive network, the digital realm is just within your grasp.

Conclusion

As we traverse the spectrum of tech careers, the allure of flexible schedules and the promise of a balanced lifestyle resonate profoundly. Whether it’s the ability to work remotely, dictate your work hours, or revel in a lucrative and thriving sector, the tech industry unfolds a horizon of opportunities.

Navigating the realm of career switching can be an expedition laden with both exhilaration and apprehensions. Whether you find yourself nestled in the scenic neighborhood of Del Mar in San Diego or dwelling amidst the energetic vibes of Pacific Beach, the journey towards a tech career is within your grasp. We understand the myriad considerations that accompany such a pivotal decision. That’s why we’re here to help every step of the way.

Embark on a new chapter of your career journey with insightful guidance tailored to your unique aspirations. Schedule a quick chat with our Career Mentors, and we’ll steer you towards a decision that harmonizes with your lifestyle and career ambitions. Your venture into the tech domain is a choice away, and we’re committed to making that transition as seamless and rewarding as possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions you may have. If you are interested in receiving updates on our future cohorts please join our waitlist!

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Can I work while attending LEARN academy?

We have had students hold part-time jobs while attending the coding bootcamps at LEARN academy. They tell us that it’s not too bad if your work is on the weekend, but working more than one night per week is really tough. It is tough but possible.


What is the class schedule?

LEARN academy’s 4 month bootcamp is Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.


What do you mean by "full-time"?

LEARN academy’s full-time course is Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Students spend the first 12 weeks working in the online classroom and the final 4 weeks in their remote programming internship.


What is the background of the typical LEARN Student?

There isn’t really a typical student at LEARN academy. Most have not taken computer science classes in college, although some have. Some have not gone to college at all, but many have undergraduate degrees in something other than computer science. Past graduates have been in the entertainment industry, waitresses, massage therapists, in the military, and just about anything else you can think of.

Can I call you or drop by to talk?

Absolutely! We love chatting with potential partners and students. It is always best to make an appointment first so we can make sure someone is available to answer your questions. You can email us hello@learnacademyorg.


Is there any required prep work?

Students who are accepted and enrolled in the 4 month bootcamp are required to attend and participate in a workshop, called Jumpstart, offered by LEARN academy prior to the first day of the program. These workshops are free for students and included in the price of the tuition for the bootcamp. LEARN academy offers multiple workshops leading up to the start of class that students can sign up for.


I don't live in San Diego, can I still apply?

Yes! LEARN academy’s live-remote courses allow students to take our courses from just about anywhere in the United States. However, we are not able to support International students at this time.


How long should my application be?

One of the things we look for in an application is – did we get to know you? It’s almost impossible for us to get to know a candidate if each of the essay answers is only two sentences long. It doesn’t need to be a novel, but before you submit, check to make sure your personality is coming out in your writing.


How old do I have to be to attend LEARN academy?

Code school students must be 18 years old by the date of the first class as we are not legally able to accommodate minors.


What does the application process look like at LEARN academy?

Once you have submitted your application, the team at LEARN academy will review it and be in touch within a week of your submission date. If we feel it is a good fit we will ask you in for an interview. It is an informal interview. A chance for us to get to know you and for you to ask any questions you might have about the coding course. We know that it is vital to your success to find the course that is best for you and your learning needs. We use the interview to find out if we are the best fit for you! If at that point we both agree that it is a good fit we will invite you to secure a seat in the class of your choice.


Can I call you or drop by to talk?

Absolutely! We love chatting with potential partners and students. It is always best to make an appointment first so we can make sure someone is available to answer your questions. You can email us hello@learnacademyorg.


Is there any required prep work?

Students who are accepted and enrolled in the 4 month bootcamp are required to attend and participate in a workshop, called Jumpstart, offered by LEARN academy prior to the first day of the program. These workshops are free for students and included in the price of the tuition for the bootcamp. LEARN academy offers multiple workshops leading up to the start of class that students can sign up for.


I don't live in San Diego, can I still apply?

Yes! LEARN academy’s live-remote courses allow students to take our courses from just about anywhere in the United States. However, we are not able to support International students at this time.


How long should my application be?

One of the things we look for in an application is – did we get to know you? It’s almost impossible for us to get to know a candidate if each of the essay answers is only two sentences long. It doesn’t need to be a novel, but before you submit, check to make sure your personality is coming out in your writing.


Can I work while attending LEARN academy?

We have had students hold part-time jobs while attending the coding bootcamps at LEARN academy. They tell us that it’s not too bad if your work is on the weekend, but working more than one night per week is really tough. It is tough but possible.


What is the class schedule?

LEARN academy’s 4 month bootcamp is Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.


What do you mean by "full-time"?

LEARN academy’s full-time course is Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Students spend the first 12 weeks working in the online classroom and the final 4 weeks in their remote programming internship.


What is the background of the typical LEARN Student?

There isn’t really a typical student at LEARN academy. Most have not taken computer science classes in college, although some have. Some have not gone to college at all, but many have undergraduate degrees in something other than computer science. Past graduates have been in the entertainment industry, waitresses, massage therapists, in the military, and just about anything else you can think of.

Can I call you or drop by to talk?

Absolutely! We love chatting with potential partners and students. It is always best to make an appointment first so we can make sure someone is available to answer your questions. You can email us hello@learnacademyorg.


Is there any required prep work?

Students who are accepted and enrolled in the 4 month bootcamp are required to attend and participate in a workshop, called Jumpstart, offered by LEARN academy prior to the first day of the program. These workshops are free for students and included in the price of the tuition for the bootcamp. LEARN academy offers multiple workshops leading up to the start of class that students can sign up for.


I don't live in San Diego, can I still apply?

Yes! LEARN academy’s live-remote courses allow students to take our courses from just about anywhere in the United States. However, we are not able to support International students at this time.


How long should my application be?

One of the things we look for in an application is – did we get to know you? It’s almost impossible for us to get to know a candidate if each of the essay answers is only two sentences long. It doesn’t need to be a novel, but before you submit, check to make sure your personality is coming out in your writing.


How old do I have to be to attend LEARN academy?

Code school students must be 18 years old by the date of the first class as we are not legally able to accommodate minors.


What does the application process look like at LEARN academy?

Once you have submitted your application, the team at LEARN academy will review it and be in touch within a week of your submission date. If we feel it is a good fit we will ask you in for an interview. It is an informal interview. A chance for us to get to know you and for you to ask any questions you might have about the coding course. We know that it is vital to your success to find the course that is best for you and your learning needs. We use the interview to find out if we are the best fit for you! If at that point we both agree that it is a good fit we will invite you to secure a seat in the class of your choice.


Still have questions?