The careers of the future are here!
Get ready with this A-Z of technology careers guide
How many pieces of technology do you interact with daily?
You might say the necessities like your phone and laptop, a TV or even a car. In reality, almost everything you interact with involves a piece of technology, even when it can be hard to think about how.
This A-Z of technology careers lists just some of the jobs where people directly use technology in their work day.
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A – AI ethics specialist
AI ethics specialists focus on the ethical implications of AI models and especially how they are trained. Their work involves creating guidelines, assessing the risks of models and advising organisations on best practices to prevent bias and misuse of AI.
CAREERS WITH TECH ROLE: Meet AI ethicist, Dr Ludovic Dutoit
B – Biotechnologist
Biotechnologists can use technologies like CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) and gene editing techniques to change genetic material. This could involve enhancing crop resistance to pests, developing gene therapies for genetic disorders, or creating new medical treatments.
C – Cyber security analyst
Cybersecurity analysts using AI-driven threat detection are responsible for protecting an organisation’s information systems from cyber threats. They use advanced AI tools to monitor network traffic, identify potential security breaches, and respond to incidents.
You can check out more about this career in the Cyber Security Analyst Job Kit!
D – Data scientist
Data scientists using machine learning and AI analyse large datasets to uncover patterns, trends, and insights to help their company or project. They also develop algorithms and predictive models to solve complex problems that may arise with the data they use. They use A LOT of coding in their day-to-day lives.
CAREERS WITH TECH ROLE: Meet data scientist, Kanu Agarwal
E – E-learning specialist
Some kids don’t actually get to attend school in person, being from a travelling family or maybe a homeschooled kid. E-learning Developers make interactive and engaging content online for kids to complete as schoolwork, especially in STEM subjects.
F – Food scientist
Everyone needs food! Food scientists work to make sure that the basic building blocks of every meal are safe to eat and nutritious. This can involve using technology that looks for pathogens in food, the molecular structure of ingredients and even large sets of data to interpret food trends.
G – Green energy engineer
Green energy engineers design and implement renewable energy systems, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. They work on projects to increase energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and promote sustainable energy sources.
CAREERS WITH TECH ROLE: Meet alternative energy engineer, Doha Goreishi
H – Human-computer interaction designer
Human-computer interaction (HCI) designers focus on creating intuitive and user-friendly interfaces for software and hardware systems. They study how users interact with technology and design interfaces that enhance user experience. Their work involves user research, prototyping, usability testing, and collaborating with developers to implement design solutions.
I – IT consultant
Have you tried turning it off and on again? IT consultants can help organisations transition to cloud-based systems and optimise their IT infrastructure. They assess current systems, recommend cloud solutions, and assist with implementation and migration. Their role includes ensuring data security, improving scalability, and providing ongoing support and training.
J – Journalist
Journalists using data journalism tools analyse and visualise data to tell compelling stories. They gather data from various sources and use tools like spreadsheets, databases, and visualisation software to create informative graphics and reports. Their work helps to uncover trends, provide context, and enhance storytelling.
K – Kinetic engineer
Kinetic engineers working with wearable technology design and develop devices that monitor and enhance physical activity and health. They create sensors and algorithms to track movements, vital signs, and other biometric data. Their work involves prototyping, testing, and refining wearable devices to ensure accuracy, comfort, and usability.
L – Lab technician
Lab technicians maintain automated laboratory equipment to conduct experiments and analyse samples. They work in fields such as medical diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science. Their role includes preparing samples, running automated tests, interpreting results, and ensuring equipment is functioning correctly.
M – Medical imaging specialist
Medical imaging specialists using AI for diagnostics enhance the accuracy and efficiency of imaging techniques like MRI, CT scans, and X-rays. They develop and apply AI algorithms to analyse medical images, detect abnormalities, and assist radiologists in diagnosing conditions. Their work improves diagnostic speed and accuracy, leading to better patient outcomes.
N – Neurotechnology specialist
Neurotechnology specialists develop and apply technologies that interact with the nervous system to treat neurological disorders, enhance brain function, or facilitate brain-computer interfaces. They work on devices like neurostimulators, brain implants, and neuroprosthetics. Their role involves research, development, clinical testing, and collaboration with healthcare professionals.
O – Occupational health specialist
Occupational health specialists using ergonomic technology focus on improving workplace safety and comfort. They analyse work environments and design ergonomic solutions to prevent injuries and enhance productivity. Their work involves conducting assessments, recommending equipment and practices, and implementing ergonomic interventions using advanced tools and software.
P – Precision agriculture specialist
Precision agriculture specialists use technology to optimise farming practices and improve crop yields. They employ GPS, sensors, drones, and data analytics to monitor soil conditions, track crop health, and manage resources efficiently. Their goal is to increase agricultural productivity while minimising environmental impact and resource use.
Q – Quantum computing researcher
Quantum computing researchers study and develop quantum computers, which use the principles of quantum mechanics to perform complex calculations much faster than traditional computers. They work on designing quantum algorithms, building quantum hardware, and exploring applications in fields like cryptography, material science, and artificial intelligence.
R – Robotic process automation (RPA) developer
RPA developers create and implement software robots to automate repetitive and rule-based tasks within organisations. They design workflows, configure automation tools, and test and deploy bots to streamline processes like data entry, transaction processing, and customer service. Their work helps businesses improve efficiency and reduce operational costs.
S – Software engineer
A software engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software applications and systems. They use programming languages and tools to create software solutions, collaborate with other developers and stakeholders, and ensure that the software meets user requirements and performs efficiently.
T – Transportation planner
Transportation planners using smart traffic systems design and manage transportation networks to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. They use data from sensors, cameras, and GPS to analyse traffic patterns, develop optimisation strategies, and implement technologies like adaptive traffic signals and real-time traffic management systems.
U – UX researcher
UX researchers can use eye-tracking technology to study how users interact with digital interfaces to improve usability and design. They conduct experiments to track users’ eye movements and analyse how they navigate and engage with websites, apps, and other digital products. Their insights help designers create more intuitive and user-friendly interfaces.
CAREERS WITH TECH: Meet UX designer, Sophie Gardner
V – Voice user interface (VUI) designer
VUI designers create user interfaces that rely on voice commands. They design and optimise voice interactions for devices like smart speakers, virtual assistants, and speech recognition systems to ensure a natural and intuitive user experience.
W – Wi-Fi engineer
An Australian creation… Wi-Fi engineers focus specifically on designing, deploying, and maintaining Wi-Fi networks. They ensure that wireless networks provide reliable coverage, high performance, and security for users.
X – XR developer
Finally! In the A-Z of technology careers we don’t have to use x-rays or x-ray technicians…
XR developers work on creating experiences that blend physical and digital environments using augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) technologies. They develop applications for entertainment, education, healthcare, and industrial training, focusing on immersive and interactive user experiences.
Y – Youtuber (video editing and analytics)
Looking for a bigger platform for what you have to say? YouTubers create and publish content, leveraging video editing software to produce videos on various topics, edit the footage to enhance quality and use analytics to track performance, understand viewer preferences, and optimise content strategy.
Z – Zero emissions vehicle technician
Zero emissions vehicle technicians specialise in the maintenance and repair of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. They work on electric drivetrains, battery systems, fuel cells, and charging infrastructure. Their role involves diagnosing issues, performing repairs, and ensuring these environmentally friendly vehicles operate efficiently and reliably.
Keen for some more tech career ideas?
Check out our latest edition of Careers with STEM: Technology!
This A-Z of technology careers originally appeared in the Careers with STEM: Technology 2024 issue.
Did you love our A-Z of technology careers?
Be sure to check out the rest of our A-Z series:
- The A-Z of STEM careers
- The A-Z of health jobs
- The A-Z of medical jobs
- The A-Z of VET
- The A-Z of getting a job
- The A-Z of Open Day
- The A-Z of STEM degrees
- The A-Z of uni electives
- The A-Z of space careers
- The A-Z of careers in AI
- The A-Z of renewable careers
- The A-Z of maths careers
