Want to kick start your career in tech in 2026, but not sure which area fits you best?
Well good news!
In this guide I'm going to give you 3 ways to figure out the best option for you, as well as resources for you to learn and get hired ASAP.
So let's break them down:
Option #1. Take our tech career path quiz
If you can’t be bothered to read this guide, you can take our tech career path quiz instead. Simply click the link below:
Want a career in tech but not sure what to do?
- Find the perfect career path for you based on your experience and goals
- Get a personalized step-by-step roadmap to follow
- Go from zero to hired in your dream career
- 👇 Take our free, 2-minute quiz to make it happen
You answer some basic questions and it'll recommend the best job for you, based on your choices. Then you can follow the roadmaps it recommends to get started, pick up the skills, and get hired.
Easy right?
Option #2. Follow our 'Get hired in tech ASAP' guide
We've done all the research for the most popular careers, with the best job opportunities and the highest salaries so you don't have to. Based on our research, this is the best option if you want to get hired fast as a complete beginner.
Estimated time frame to learn all the skills and apply for roles is 5 months or less, and starting salary for this role is around $89,000 going up to around $129,000 after a few years or higher.
Option #3. Learn the best tech career for you, and choose for yourself
Otherwise, you can keep reading this guide and I’ll help you decide what the best role is for you, as well as answer some of the most common questions that you probably have.
Still here?
Alright, let's get into it.
Figure out the kind of lifestyle you want first
Before we break down the different tech career options, we need to get clear on something that most people don't think about, which is “What do you want your life to look like when you have this new career?”
Why ask this?
Well, I bet you've never really given it much thought, but the beauty of a new career, (especially in tech), is you can figure out what you want your dream life to be like, and then look for the roles that fit it best.
For example
Do you want to work remotely so you can work from anywhere in the world?
What about working asynchronously (different hours to other people in the company) so you get to choose the hours you work? Work around your kids etc or hobbies
Maybe you only want to do a 4-day week?
Or perhaps you’re happiest with structure and an office environment?
Maybe you want a blend of both?
Or perhaps you want a set daily routine, or a constant change each day?
All of these things can have a huge impact on your quality of life, so keep them in mind as you decide, as not every role will fit this.
You're starting a new career so you might as well pick the best one right!?
So with that out of the way, let's get into each of the roles, how they work, what they do, and who they suit best!
Option #1. Web Development
Do you enjoy tweaking recipes to make them better? Or perhaps you often find yourself devising more efficient ways to complete household chores or work tasks?
If so then you might enjoy web and software development!
Developers are the builders of the internet, designing and constructing websites, software, and apps, that are both visually pleasing and functionally effective.
They collaborate closely with UX/UI designers to help bring their designs to life and ensure they function as intended:
The designer mocks up what the site, software, or app should look like based on the project or what the client wants
Then the developer builds it so it's not just an image but a working end product
Pretty cool right?
Without getting too technical, its worth also understanding that there are 3 core types of developer:
Front-end devs work on the 'front facing' parts of the build i.e the buttons and things that people interact with
Back-end devs build all the stuff behind the scenes that make the things happen when people click those buttons
While Full-stack devs have the skills to do both front and back
Full-stack isn't actually as difficult as it sounds, as you can learn certain programming languages that let you use the same language on the front and back-end.
Its definitely more to learn, but it also pays a lot more, and it’s why we recommend all new web developers become full-stack developers (even if you mainly want to work on frontend or backend), simply because you'll then be better in either role.
Speaking of money...
Lifestyle, Salary and Benefits as a Full-Stack Developer
As of January 2026, the current average salary for a Full-Stack Web Developer on ZipRecruiter is $123,262, going up to as high as $178k in California where the largest tech companies are:
Bear in mind that this is just looking at one website and the jobs they have available. These numbers will vary based on factors like geographical location, industry, company size, and individual skills and experience.
Remember also that while salary is an essential factor in choosing a career, it's also crucial to consider your interest and enjoyment in the work, the work-life balance, and the potential for growth and learning.
So, aside from the financial compensation, web development also offers other benefits that tie into those lifestyle choices we mentioned earlier:
The field is always evolving, offering possibilities to continually learn about new tools and technologies
The flexibility in terms of working remotely or freelancing can be another major benefit, providing the possibility to create a work schedule that fits your needs
Its also one of the fastest paths into tech
Essential Skills and Education needed to become a Full-Stack Developer
So what do you need to learn to become a Full-Stack Web Dev?
Well, without getting into too much detail here:
You need to have a solid understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, as well as possibly using frameworks such as React or Angular for the front end work
Then on the back-end, you need to learn languages like Python, Java, and SQL. However, chances are also high they'll learn how to use a framework like Node.js as that works similar to JavaScript. This way it's not a huge learning curve
However, if you decide to specialize in app development, then you might use another language like Flutter or Dart that work with Android and Apple
If this sounds like the career for you (and spoiler alert, it's one of the fastest to get hired in) then check out our complete full-stack Web Developer career path below or read this guide.
Become a Fullstack Web Developer
13 milestones 9 courses
Step-by-step roadmap where you'll learn to code and build a portfolio.
Curated curriculum of courses, workshops, challenges, projects, and action items.
Become a Fullstack Web Developer from scratch and actually get hired.
Earn on average per year:
$115,887
US salary data collected from Indeed, LinkedIn, and Web3.career 2026.
This roadmap will teach you everything you need to know, in the correct order, so you get hired ASAP.
I'm a little biased towards this one as this is where my expertise is and how I switched to a career in tech after working for many years in the travel industry. I'll be one of your main instructors if you decide to choose this career path 😉.
Later on if you want to further specialize in mobile app design, you can also check out this roadmap:
Become a Mobile Developer
13 milestones 8 courses
Step-by-step roadmap where you'll learn to code and build a portfolio.
Curated curriculum of courses, workshops, challenges, projects, and action items.
Become a Mobile Developer from scratch and actually get hired.
Earn on average per year:
$109,976
US salary data collected from Indeed, LinkedIn, and Web3.career 2026.
Option #2. UI and UX Design
Do you ever geek out when you're on a website or an app, and everything just flows really easily. Simply because you can figure out exactly how everything works without even thinking about it?
Likewise, does it really frustrate you when you're using a streaming platform and you have to click through 12 steps just to do a search, and all the images are a mess?
If so, then a role in design might be perfect for you!
Design within the tech industry is much more than just making things look good. It's about creating user interfaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, intuitive, and accessible.
In its simplest form, a tech designer's role (most commonly known as a Product Designer or UX/UI designer) involves creating the interfaces through which users interact with software, applications, or websites. Whether it's the layout of a website or the navigation menu on an app, designers are the ones who establish how these platforms look and function.
Lifestyle, Salary, and Benefits of being a UI/UX Designer
Again, as of January 2026, the current average salary for a UI/UX Designer on ZipRecruiter is $106,000 with some roles in California paying $171k:
Not bad, but what about the lifestyle?
Like all jobs, it can depend on the company. Designers in startups and tech companies, where product iterations are frequent are pretty fast-paced. However, if you work in larger corporations then you can expect a more balanced and stable work schedule.
As for location, the ability to work remotely is a common perk in design roles, providing the flexibility to shape your workday around your life, rather than the other way around, meaning you can also be async.
Essential Skills and Education needed to become a UI/UX Designer
The skills required for a tech design role typically include a blend of technical and soft skills.
You'll need:
Mastery of design tools like Sketch, Adobe XD, or Figma is crucial, as well as knowledge in wireframing and prototyping, user research, and understanding of accessibility principles
In terms of soft skills, a sharp eye for detail, empathy to understand user needs, and strong communication skills to present your designs effectively are essential
If this sounds like the career for you and you're itching to flex your creative muscles, then check out our complete UI/UX Designer career path with the link below or read this guide.
Become a UI/UX Designer
12 milestones 7 courses
Step-by-step roadmap where you'll learn to code and build a portfolio.
Curated curriculum of courses, workshops, challenges, projects, and action items.
Become a UI/UX Designer from scratch and actually get hired.
Earn on average per year:
$109,533
US salary data collected from Indeed, LinkedIn, and Web3.career 2026.
Again, the roadmap will teach you everything you need to know, in the correct order, as well as provide all the training so you can get hired ASAP.
Option #3. Game Design Development
If you've always been mesmerized by the immersive worlds of video games, then learning how to make them might just be the best career path for you!
Game design (aka game development) encompasses both artistic and technical aspects, blending coding and design, along with strategy and psychology.
As with all areas in tech, the specific tasks will depend on your role and where you focus:
Level Designers create the virtual landscape where the game takes place, from map designs to placement of obstacles, enemies, or power-ups. It's like being an architect and urban planner for a virtual world
Character Designers are responsible for creating and designing the characters that populate the game world. This often involves drawing and animating characters, defining their abilities, and sometimes even their backstories
Gameplay Designers balance the rules and mechanics that govern how the game is played. They're responsible for creating a fun, engaging, and accessible experience for players
While Storyline Writers create the narrative that drives the game. This includes writing dialogue, creating plotlines, and ensuring the story integrates seamlessly with gameplay
Lifestyle, Salary, and Benefits of a Game Developer
The current average salary on ZipRecruiter for a Game Developer is $108,471, going up to as high as $180,000 in California:
Pretty good right!?
But what about the work and benefits?
Well I wont lie, the lifestyle of a game designer can be dynamic and fast-paced, especially when working towards a game release and you do hear nightmares at some companies. However, for most companies the work is structured, with clear milestones and deliverables to meet.
Plus, many game design roles are remote-friendly, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere, or even get paid to play and test the games!
Essential Skills and Education needed to become a Game Developer
Depending on which part you get involved in, game design requires a mix of creative, technical, and storytelling skills.
For the actual asset creation and design, knowledge of game design principles and game mechanics is essential, as well as technical skills, such as programming and using game design software like Unity or Unreal Engine
Just like with every other tech career on this list, while a relevant degree in game design or a related field can be helpful, what matters is your portfolio and demonstrable skills.
If this seems like a career for you, check out the roadmap below:
Become a Game Developer
10 milestones 8 courses
Step-by-step roadmap where you'll learn to code and build a portfolio.
Curated curriculum of courses, workshops, challenges, projects, and action items.
Become a Game Developer from scratch and actually get hired.
Earn on average per year:
$99,039
US salary data collected from Indeed, LinkedIn, and Web3.career 2026.
Just like with our other roadmaps, this will show you the right things to learn in the right order, so you can skill up and get hired ASAP.
Option #4. Cybersecurity
Are you the person your family or friends turn to when their computer has a virus, or their email is acting weird. Perhaps because you have a natural interest in solving these kinds of problems?
If so then a career in cybersecurity could be the perfect fit for you!
Cybersecurity professionals are the guardians of the digital world, protecting systems and data from threats and malicious attacks
However, unlike the media's often dramatic portrayal, cybersecurity isn't just about sitting in dark rooms and anonymous hackers. It's a multi-faceted field with a variety of roles that combine problem-solving, technical skills, and a relentless curiosity to protect digital assets from threats.
The primary role of course is to protect systems, networks, and data from digital attacks. These vary but the end goal is usually to access, change, steal, destroy sensitive information, disrupt normal business processes, or scam users into revealing personal or financial information.
Because of this, cybersecurity also has several specializations:
Security Analysts are the detectives of the cybersecurity world. They constantly monitor their organization's networks for security breaches and investigate when a violation occurs
Ethical Hackers and Pen Testers (also known as white-hat hackers), are the good guys dressed in attacker’s clothing. They use their hacking skills for good, to try and hack customers systems so they can find and fix security vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them
Cryptographers focus on developing secure algorithms, ciphers, and security systems to encrypt sensitive information. This role is crucial in a world where data privacy is becoming increasingly important
While Security Architects design, build, and oversee the implementation of network and computer security for an organization. They are like the master builders of cybersecurity, ensuring a well-structured and secure architecture
Lifestyle, Salary, and Benefits of a Cybersecurity professional
The current average salary for a cybersecurity professional is $132,962, going as high as $186,000 in California:
As for the actual lifestyle in the job, the majority of cybersecurity roles tend to be dynamic and fast-paced, given the rapid evolution of technology and its associated threats. (You need to be quick to respond to issues etc).
However, roles like security architects can provide a more stable and structured environment, because they focus on preventive measures and long-term security solutions. And since most cybersecurity tasks are conducted online, these roles often offer the flexibility for remote work.
It should also be noted that its very easy to pick up freelance work in cybersecurity, and their are specific industries tailored to this, such as bug bounties.
Basically, companies will list potential issues with their app, site or software. Then they will pay ethical hackers a set fee if they can figure them out, or even just find issues not listed.
These can pay around 5 figures each or higher!
Essential Skills and Education needed to become a Cybersecurity Professional
As you might have guessed, the cybersecurity field requires a strong foundation in IT skills, as well as:
Familiarity with firewalls, encryption protocols, SIEM Systems, and other networking protocols is crucial
Understanding programming languages like Python can also be beneficial, especially for roles like ethical hacking (a lot of the tools used require Python knowledge)
Staying up to date on the impact of AI in cybersecurity is vital
And regular security certifications are recommended, to both prove you are up to date with new issues and give peace of mind to clients
Finally, critical thinking and problem-solving skills are core to cybersecurity roles. The ability to foresee potential risks and think like a black-hat hacker is a great asset
Just like with other roles on this list, formal education in computer science or a related field can provide a good starting point. However, the majority of cybersecurity professionals either start with IT roles and transition into cybersecurity with specialized certifications and practical experience, or they start in the role from scratch.
If this sounds like a career for you and you're keen on some digital cops and robbers, then check out our complete Cybersecurity career path here or read this guide for an indepth look.
Become a Ethical Hacker
16 milestones 12 courses
Step-by-step roadmap where you'll learn to code and build a portfolio.
Curated curriculum of courses, workshops, challenges, projects, and action items.
Become a Ethical Hacker from scratch and actually get hired.
Earn on average per year:
$126,653
US salary data collected from Indeed, LinkedIn, and Web3.career 2026.
Again, this will teach you the exact steps in the right order so you can become a cybersecurity professional, or continue on to be an ethical hacker.
Option #5. Machine Learning and AI
If you're someone who enjoys strategic games, predicting outcomes based on past behavior, or if you're fascinated by the idea of teaching machines to mimic human intelligence, then a career in Machine Learning and AI might be for you!
Technically these are separate fields in tech, but they have a lot of overlap in terms of how they work and what you have to learn to use them, so let’s cover them together for simplicity.
Here's the mile high difference between the 'core' roles:
Machine Learning Engineers build and manage machine learning models that 'learn' from data patterns to make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed to do so
AI Engineers build AI models that mimic 'human' intelligence, thanks to machine learning algorithms and deep learning neural networks
Then we have a 3rd role that works directly with models called Prompt Engineers. These are a relatively new role brought about by large language models (LLMs) like OpenAI's GPT series of LLMs. Their focus is on designing prompts that guide AI models to produce useful and safe responses
In simple terms, they make sure the tool works better so you can get better results from it. But they still need to understand how models work so that they can get those results which is why it's included here:
Lifestyle, Salary, and Benefits of an AI, Machine Learning, or Prompt Engineer
All 3 roles pay very well, and can vary depending on the company and your other skills:
The average salary for a Machine Learning Engineer (or AI Engineer) is $128,769 going as high as $193,000 in California:
(Editor's note: That being said, that's just for this one job hosting website. When we aggregated across multiple platforms we saw an average of $195,000).
While the average salary for a Prompt Engineer is $97,940 going as high as $200,000 in California:
As for the lifestyle and benefits, its fairly similar to other tech roles.
Because they're all emerging industries, each of them are very fast paced, so you'll definitely always be learning something new. However, they will often offer remote or hybrid work options.
Essential Skills and Education needed to become an AI, Machine Learning, or Prompt Engineer
Like I said before, there's a lot of overlap in these fields.
Technical skills required in Machine Learning and AI Engineering comprise programming (Python, in particular), statistics, data modeling, and algorithm design
Knowledge of machine learning frameworks such as Tensorflow or PyTorch is also crucial
Soft skills important for this field include problem-solving, analytical thinking, attention to detail, and continuous learning
Depending on the industry, you may need to know these also in Prompt Engineering, as well as RAG for optimization
In terms of education, while a degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field can be beneficial, it’s not needed to get hired.
Check out our complete Machine Learning and AI career path here (includes Prompt Engineering:
Become a AI & Machine Learning Engineer
17 milestones 12 courses
Step-by-step roadmap where you'll learn to code and build a portfolio.
Curated curriculum of courses, workshops, challenges, projects, and action items.
Become a AI & Machine Learning Engineer from scratch and actually get hired.
Earn on average per year:
$195,425
US salary data collected from Indeed, LinkedIn, and Web3.career 2026.
Option #6. Business and Data Analytics
If you're intrigued by numbers and patterns, and enjoy making data-driven predictions, then Data Analysis and Analytics could be the perfect tech career path for you.
Business and data analysts (as well as other roles under the same umbrella), use a variety of statistical techniques to collect, process, and interpret data that businesses can use to improve their operations.
They work with large sets of raw data, clean it, organize it, and use it to answer business-related questions.
Here's a high-level look into some of the roles within this field:
Business Analysts primarily focus on understanding business needs and translating them into data-driven solutions. For example, they might analyze sales data to identify trends and suggest strategies to boost revenue
Data Analysts work more directly with data, cleaning, analyzing, and visualizing it to produce understandable insights that can inform decision-making processes. They might, for instance, analyze user behavior data to help a product team enhance a product's user experience
Data Scientists take it a step further by using complex machine learning algorithms to analyze and interpret complex data sets. They can predict future trends and behaviors, providing businesses with a strategic advantage
Data Engineers, on the other hand, design, build and manage the data infrastructure. They ensure that data is correctly received, transformed, stored, and retrieved for other roles to perform their analyses
(Check out this guide if you want to go deeper into the differences between common data roles here).
Lifestyle, Salary, and Benefits of being a Data Analyst, Engineer or Scientist
The average salary for a Data Analyst is $82,640, going as high as $136,500 in California
The average salary for a Data Engineer is $129,716 going as high as $177,500 in California
The average salary for a Data Scientist is $122,738 going as high as $195,000 in California
As for the lifestyle, data analytics roles are typically more structured and stable than other tech roles, thanks to regular hours and a consistent flow of similar types of tasks.
Also, the ability to work remotely is a common feature in this field. This flexibility, combined with a high demand for these roles, makes it a compelling option. Especially if you like learning the numbers behind how everything works!
Essential Skills and Education need to work in Data Analysis
Business and data analysts need strong analytical skills and a good understanding of statistical techniques
They also need proficiency in tools like SQL for database querying, Excel for spreadsheet analysis, and Python for more advanced statistical analysis is also crucial
Being able to visualize data in a comprehensible manner is another essential skill, so familiarity with tools like Tableau or PowerBI can be beneficial
And finally, the ability to communicate your findings effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders is equally important, so soft skills are a must
Once again, while a degree in a related field can be helpful, practical skills and experience are what employers really care about.
If a career in unlocking insights behind the numbers, or making predictions with ML models sounds good to you, then check out our Data-related career paths:
Become a Data Engineer
12 milestones 9 courses
Step-by-step roadmap where you'll learn to code and build a portfolio.
Curated curriculum of courses, workshops, challenges, projects, and action items.
Become a Data Engineer from scratch and actually get hired.
Earn on average per year:
$178,769
US salary data collected from Indeed, LinkedIn, and Web3.career 2026.
Option #7. Web3 and Blockchain
Do you find yourself intrigued by economics, digital currencies, the idea of decentralization, and the future of how the internet works?
If so, then the field of Web3 and Blockchain could be a perfect fit for you.
Most people when they think of blockchain, think of cryptocurrency which is a shame. Yes crypto is important, but it's the technology behind how this works that's even more interesting.
In fact, it's so groundbreaking, it’s being termed as the 3rd version of the internet or ‘Web3’:
Web1 refers to the early stages of the internet, where users could merely browse content and had little to no interaction
Then came Web2, the era of social networks, user-generated content, and data collection, which is where we currently stand
Now, we are transitioning to Web3, aiming to create a decentralized internet where users regain control over their data
It’s still early days and who knows where it could all go but it's incredibly interesting.
Anyways, there are a few key roles in this field:
Blockchain Developers are the architects of the blockchain universe. They create blockchains, which are essentially decentralized databases that record transactions. The blockchain technology powers cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, and it's also used in various other sectors like finance, supply chain, healthcare, and more
Smart Contract Developers work specifically with smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts with the agreement directly written into code. A popular language for writing smart contracts is Solidity, which is used in the Ethereum blockchain
DApp Developers focus on creating decentralized applications (DApps) that run on a P2P network of computers rather than a single computer. DApps are a staple in the Web3 world, as they offer a more secure and robust platform for users to interact with each other directly
Don’t worry about trying to understand all that just yet. For now, just know it's trying to be the future of the internet (or maybe it won't... time will tell).
If you want to be a part of that potential, this could be the career for you.
Lifestyle, Salary, and Benefits of a Blockchain Developer
The current average salary for a Blockchain Developer is $111,845, going as high as $166,500:
As for the lifestyle, the Web3 and Blockchain space is incredibly entrepreneurial and innovative. It's also a relatively new field, which means it's continuously evolving, with new projects, opportunities, and challenges emerging all the time, so you'll always be learning.
Although there are currently fewer companies in this space compared to more established tech sectors, the demand for experts in this niche is on the rise, so you can be classified as an ‘experienced’ Solidity dev in just a few years.
And like most tech roles, it offers the flexibility to work remotely - a feature that many blockchain companies take advantage of to hire the best talent from around the globe. In fact, a lot of them have a ‘remote first’ approach.
Essential Skills and Education needed to become a Blockchain Developer
Getting into Web3 and Blockchain requires:
A solid understanding of the principles of decentralization, cryptography, smart contracts, and distributed ledger technology
Proficiency in programming languages like JavaScript, Python, or C++ coupled with a knowledge of Solidity for Ethereum-based projects is also a must
Soft skills, like problem-solving, critical thinking, and an insatiable curiosity to stay updated in this fast-evolving field, are important
If the concept of digital currencies, smart contracts, and decentralized applications (DApps) excites you, then check out our complete Blockchain Developer career path below.
Become a Blockchain Developer
13 milestones 7 courses
Step-by-step roadmap where you'll learn to code and build a portfolio.
Curated curriculum of courses, workshops, challenges, projects, and action items.
Become a Blockchain Developer from scratch and actually get hired.
Earn on average per year:
$167,893
US salary data collected from Indeed, LinkedIn, and Web3.career 2026.
Option #8. DevOps
If you're someone who likes to automate tasks to save time (like using smart home devices to control your household appliances), then you might find a career in DevOps appealing:
DevOps engineers are responsible for overseeing both the development and the IT infrastructure of a company.
Their role is to facilitate communication between the traditionally siloed development and IT operations teams (Dev and Ops) and ensure the efficient deployment, operation, and monitoring of the software.
In simple terms, if you're a DevOps engineer, you're sort of like a translator between two foreign language speakers (the developers and the IT staff). You ensure they understand each other and work together smoothly, to get the project completed.
If you’re the person who made sure the group project got over the line and was still sane afterward, then this is definitely a great career option for you.
Lifestyle, Salary and Benefits of a DevOps Engineer
The current average salary for a DevOps Engineer is $125,908, going as high as $179,000:
When it comes to lifestyle, DevOps careers can be quite dynamic and fast-paced. The tech industry is constantly advancing, meaning you'll often be learning and adapting to new tools and practices.
For example
A lot of devices have moved to the cloud in recent years, so being proficient in this also is a key skill.
However, DevOps also offers some sense of structure, especially when working in larger organizations with established DevOps cultures. Being at the intersection of several teams (such as development, IT operations, and quality assurance), these roles offer ample opportunities for collaboration and continuous learning.
Remote work is also common in DevOps, making it possible to enjoy a flexible and location-independent lifestyle. (Easier to be remote and communicate with multiple teams than all be on location).
Additional benefits common in this role include professional development opportunities, comprehensive health benefits, and work flexibility.
Essential Skills and Education needed to become a DevOps Engineer
The skills required for a DevOps role include:
Programming knowledge (like Python or Java), as well as Linux and Bash
Although not technically a cloud role, experience with cloud platforms (like AWS or Google Cloud), and understanding of Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools such as Terraform or Ansible are required
Practical knowledge of databases and SQL, networking, and cybersecurity is also beneficial
Soft skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and effective communication also play a crucial role in this field. Your entire goal is to improve communication, so you need to be good at yourself!
Monitoring infrastructure and application performance is a critical DevOps skill. DevOps dashboards provide real-time technical insights, helping teams track metrics like uptime, error rates, and deployment success. On the other hand, CIO dashboards translate these technical metrics into business insights, allowing executives to assess ROI, optimize costs, and align IT performance with strategic goals
Most professionals in DevOps roles have a degree in computer science or a related field, but again, it’s not needed as self-taught professionals with the required skill set are welcomed in the industry.
If the thought of planning and organizing gives you that dopamine, then check out our step-by-step DevOps Engineer career path here or read this guide for a deep dive.
Become a DevOps Engineer
17 milestones 14 courses
Step-by-step roadmap where you'll learn to code and build a portfolio.
Curated curriculum of courses, workshops, challenges, projects, and action items.
Become a DevOps Engineer from scratch and actually get hired.
Earn on average per year:
$141,226
US salary data collected from Indeed, LinkedIn, and Web3.career 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
By now you should have an idea of what career you want, but possibly have some final niggling questions, so let's cover them.
Isn't AI replacing all the tech jobs? Is it still worth getting a career in tech?
No, AI wont steal your job, and yes, it's definitely still worth learning to code.
Without going into too much detail (that guide covers it all), AI tools are simply allowing people to automate and streamline their work, while also helping them to improve their output.
And that's where the threat is. It's not the tools stealing your job - it's the people who can use these tools also that will be in higher demand.
The tools can only do a rough approximation and help with coding (or other tasks), but it still needs a human element to make sure it works, and to think outside of the box. That's why we're so focused on teaching people how to use AI tools alongside their career paths here.
Am I too old to get into tech?
Nope!
We shared this before, but some people learn in their 80s, and you can literally learn to do this in 5-12 months, and change the rest of your entire life.
Sure, it's extra work now to learn and get started, but just take a second to do the math on the impact it could have for you.
In your 60s? Even if you have 5 years left at work, the change in salary for those 5 years could be hugely different. (Not to mention but working from home on a laptop is so much easier to do, and can push back your retirement if you wanted to).
In your 40s? 10-20 years of work in tech would be absolutely life changing. A $100,000 a year job would be $2 million dollars!
That's not even taking into account how many promotions and pay rises you will get in that time. Get to an L5 position and that can be $250,000+ a year.
In your 30s? It might seem like this is something you wished you picked up as a kid, but the reality is, that it's never too late. The only real loss is if you stayed in the same place for the next 20-30 years, on the same salary.
Don’t I need a Computer Science degree to get a job in tech?
Nope! Tech is a unique environment in that 99% of companies don’t care about degrees - they just care that you can do the work.
Sure, there are exceptions for certain roles, especially very senior ones, but in terms of first breaking into tech and get started, it's absolutely not required. Instead, all you need to do is the learn the skills needed to do the job and be able to prove that you can do them.
If you do this, you can get hired in a tech role in the next 4-12 months.
I won't sugarcoat it though. It's easier said than done. If it were super easy, then everyone would do it and then these careers wouldn't pay as well as they do. To land a career in tech, you'll have to put in a lot of work but simply working hard doesn't guarantee anything either.
You need to work hard on the right things. Which is what our career paths and courses have provided to 1,000s of people who have been hired at places like Amazon, Tesla, Google, NVIDA, NASA, and more, so don’t let this stop you.
As long as you learn the right things, you can start working towards your new career by the end of this guide - with no degree or $100,000+ in debt required!
So which will you choose?
Picking a brand new career can definitely be overwhelming, but hopefully this guide has helped you understand the main tech roles a little better and help you decide which one could be the best fit for you.
Feel free to read through this guide a few times before you decide, and remember, there's no right or wrong choice - only what aligns best with your life goals and interests.
Leverage your natural interests and skills, and remember that every step in your journey counts towards your overall growth and success in the tech world.
And if you still not sure, give our tech career path quiz a go. It'll help you narrow it down in just a few questions:
Want a career in tech but not sure what to do?
- Find the perfect career path for you based on your experience and goals
- Get a personalized step-by-step roadmap to follow
- Go from zero to hired in your dream career
- 👇 Take our free, 2-minute quiz to make it happen
P.S.
Throughout this guide, I’ve shared multiple links to different career paths and courses that you can follow to get started right now.
What you might not know is that all of these are included in a single Zero To Mastery membership. This means that if you decide to become a member of Zero To Mastery, you'll have instant access to every course and career path in our library.
So you can start one career path, and if you don’t like it, jump across to a different one!
Or you can follow them through to get hired in your new tech career, and then skill up even further to more senior and higher-paying roles (just like fellow ZTM alumni Hiren has by getting hired in a Senior role at NVIDIA after a number of years in the industry).
The best part is that when you join, you'll have access to our private Discord community, where you can ask questions and get answers from each course instructor, other students, and working professionals in your desired career.
So what are you waiting for?
Check out any of our courses and career paths now via the links above.
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