Discovering the Full Spectrum of Tech Careers 

When most people think about tech careers, roles like software engineer or data scientist often come to mind. But the tech industry is far more expansive—and full of opportunity—than many realize. From behind-the-scenes roles in cybersecurity to creative paths in UX design, a wide range of non-traditional tech careers are driving innovation and offering meaningful, well-paying work. 

You might be looking to pivot, upskill, or simply explore new directions; these underrated roles can be a game-changer. They often require a mix of transferable skills, accessible certifications, and a fresh perspective, rather than a computer science degree. Ready to rethink what a tech career can look like? Let’s dive in. 

5 Underrated Tech Careers 

These tech roles might not grab headlines, but they’re powering the digital world behind the scenes. Each offers a unique path into tech, competitive salaries, and opportunities for long-term growth.  

Note: All salaries listed below were taken from PayScale.com. 

1. SEO Manager 

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Managers help websites show up in search results, often before users even know what they’re looking for. Their role blends content strategy with technical know-how to improve site structure, monitor performance, and drive organic traffic. In short, they make sure people can find you online. 

• Average Salary: $78,830 

• How to Get There: No degree required. Try Google SEO certification, HubSpot’s free courses, or Moz Academy to get started. 

• Why It’s Underrated: Often mistaken for just “marketing,” SEO today is a technical field involving data analytics, coding basics, and web infrastructure, making it a hidden gem in the world of tech careers. 

2. Project Manager (IT) 

IT Project Managers oversee the strategy, timelines, and collaboration that keep tech projects moving forward, things like launching a new app or rolling out internal systems. They serve as the bridge between cross-functional teams, turning big ideas into executed plans. 

• Average Salary: $96,623 

• How to Get There: A bachelor’s degree helps, but a PMP (Project Management Professional) or Scrum certification can boost your credibility. Communication, leadership, and organizational skills are key. 

• Why It’s Underrated: Because they don’t code, project managers are often overlooked in tech—but no successful product ships without them. 

3. DevOps Engineer 

DevOps Engineers make software development faster, safer, and more scalable. They build the infrastructure that helps developers deploy code quickly and reliably, using automation, cloud tools, and continuous integration practices. Their work minimizes downtime and maximizes agility. 

• Average Salary: $110,367 

• How to Get There: Start with Linux, Git, and Docker. Certifications from AWS or Google Cloud are great next steps. Some start with a systems admin or software engineering background. 

• Why It’s Underrated: It’s deeply technical but less visible—DevOps doesn’t build the product; it builds the system that builds the product. 

4. UI/UX Designer 

User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) Designers ensure that digital products aren’t just functional, but intuitive, accessible, and beautiful. They design how websites, apps, and platforms look and feel, keeping users at the center of the process. 

• Average Salary: $81,250 

• How to Get There: No CS degree required! Start with a UX bootcamp or platforms like Coursera and Interaction Design Foundation. Learn tools like Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch. 

• Why It’s Underrated: UI/UX is often dismissed as “just design,” but these roles require psychology, data interpretation, and front-end collaboration—plus, they directly influence user retention and revenue. 

5. Cybersecurity Analyst 

With cyber threats growing daily, Cybersecurity Analysts are the guardians of digital systems. They monitor networks, respond to breaches, and proactively identify vulnerabilities to keep organizations and users safe. 

• Average Salary: $82,554 

• How to Get There: Start with CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. Many roles are open to those with associate degrees or equivalent experience. There’s also a growing push to diversify cybersecurity talent pipelines. 

• Why It’s Underrated: Seen as intimidating or highly specialized, cybersecurity is actually a fast-growing, approachable field with strong job security and mission-driven work. 

Why These Roles Matter (100–150 words) 

Tech’s future isn’t shaped by coders alone; it relies on a wide range of professionals working behind the scenes. Roles like SEO Manager, DevOps Engineer, and Cybersecurity Analyst are vital to innovation, safety, and scale. 

These careers offer strong job security, real growth potential, and meaningful impact. They also open new doors for those in tech to lead, solve problems, and drive change in ways that aren’t always visible, but are always essential. Remember: there’s a place for your skills beyond traditional paths. And it might be more rewarding than you imagined. 

Make Your Move 

We hope you feel inspired to take the next step, or to support someone else who’s ready to grow in tech. The industry needs your voice, your vision, and your leadership. 

At AnitaB.org, we’re committed to helping our community not just survive in tech, but thrive. Support more impartial, sustainable pathways into tech careers by donating today.