IT & Technology Careers
Want to be a part of the UK’s fastest-growing industry? A career in IT and technology offer many possibilities, serious job security and the chance to shape the digital world around you.
Behind every app you use, every online purchase you make and every secure login, there's an IT professional behind it making it happen. The best part about it? There is so much opportunity for you to do the same.
Let's explore the IT industry and how you can get involved. Or skip ahead:
What are IT jobs actually like?
The IT industry is a lot more creative and varied than you might think.
You could find yourself designing the latest popular smartphone app, helping businesses secure their data and IT systems or even developing software. As an IT professional, you’ll collaborate with various teams, solve problems and make a real difference in the workplace. You won’t be locked away in a basement somewhere coding, we promise.
The tasks you get up to completely depend on which path you take, but you can expect to get on with some of the following:
Writing code using languages like Python, JavaScript or C++
Meeting with clients monitoring network traffic
Setting up security tools like firewalls and antiviruses
Creating visualisations and reports
Using tools like GitHub to track changes in code
In general, the company was amazing to work at. Everyone in the office was very welcoming and happy to help at any opportunity which created a great atmosphere. Everyone communicated with each other and made sure everyone was involved, including the interns Data Science Analyst, Expedia Group
Are IT jobs in demand?
Yes! As the tech industry grows, so does the demand for skilled experts in the industry. There’s a massive shortage of people with digital skills in the UK at the moment, which is actually great for your career prospects.
380,000 jobs could be lost if employers don’t find the right people to fill them. So companies are heavy on the hunt for young talent to train. The types of jobs employers are looking to fill include:
Cyber security
Artificial intelligence and machine learning
Data analysis
DevOps engineers
UX/UI designers
Network and systems admins.
The types of skills that are also sought after include:
Python programming
Cloud computing (like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure)
Agile methodology.
The great part is that once you’re in, you’re in. IT is a pretty solid career that offers lots of job security. So how can you get a job in the IT industry? Read on to explore.
How do I get a job in IT and technology?
There are so many routes to a successful career in IT and technology. Work experience when you’re young will give you all the skills and experience you need to land a job. The best part is that there’s a route tailored just for you, depending on where you’re at on your education journey.
Click to find out more about each path:
Computer Science Apprenticeships
Computer scientists deal with a lot, from designing softwares to developing and delivering them. Read our comprehensive guide on Computer Science apprenticeships to learn how to get started.
Computer Science Internships
As technology continues to advance, more job opportunities arise. So what exactly is computer science and how can you get involved?
Cyber Security Apprenticeships
Cyber security is huge and with the ISC2 reporting a current skills gap, there’s loads of opportunity to join the industry. How? Through an apprenticeship! You could become a network engineer setting up firewalls, work in threat intelligence protecting government data, or specialise in ethical hacking - straight out of school.
Cyber Security Internships
Ready to protect the digital world? Cyber security internships give you hands-on experience defending organisations from real threats while building skills employers need, all while earning a salary.
Data Science Internships
If you're interested in tech and curious about how data shapes the world around us, a data science internship could be your perfect gateway into one of the UK's fastest-growing industries.
IT Apprenticeships
Technology is one of the most exciting careers going. It’s fast-paced, ever-growing, and there are many opportunities to get involved. From artificial intelligence (AI) to virtual reality, cyber security to software, employers are constantly looking for talented tech enthusiasts just like yourself.
Prior to my placement I had no coding knowledge, so that has been a massive learning curve to now being able to comfortably code in SQL on multiple different platforms. The placement has also enhanced my presenting, excel storytelling and data visualisation skills. Be yourself! I do a Geography Degree and was worried that I would need to oversell/change as I don't have any data science background but that made no difference! Data and Analytics Industrial Placement, Lloyds Banking Group
Who are the top employers in IT?
From tech giants to local startups, companies everywhere are actively hunting for young talent like you to join their teams. Here are some of the top employers in IT right now:
I’d definitely recommend the RNLI. I feel proud knowing my work helps save lives at sea. The supportive team and manager create a positive environment, and I genuinely enjoy coming to work each day. Digital Coordinator Apprentice
How much can I earn in an IT career?
IT pays really well. And can do very early on in your career.
If you’re at the work experience level, you could earn anywhere between £15,000 and £26,000 per year depending on where you’re at on that journey.
As a graduate software developer, you could earn between £30,000 and £75,000. If it’s a career in cybersecurity you’re looking for, you could earn anywhere between £25,000 and £90,000.
There is so much potential to earn more as you become more experienced in your role.
What kinds of careers can you do in IT?
The world of IT is HUGE and there really is something for everyone. Here are some of the main IT careers you could work and specialise in:
Love problem-solving? You could work as a Cyber security specialist, systems analyst, or DevOps engineer
If you're creative: UX/UI designer, web developer, or game developer
Enjoy working as part of a team? Think about a career as an IT consultant, project manager, or technical trainer
If you're analytical: Data scientist, business analyst, or software tester
Or if you really enjoy building, you could become a Software developer, app creator, or network engineer
Ready to discover where work experience in IT and technology can take you? Click below to get started.
Apply for IT & Technology roles
AI & Data Level 3 Apprenticeship - Kawasaki Precision Engineering
at QA Limited
- Level 3 Apprenticeship
- Up to £22,000 per annum
- Plymouth
Digital Transformation Degree Apprenticeship - Gardner Aerospace
at QA Limited
- Degree Apprenticeship
- £25,000 - £26,000 per annum
- Derby
First Response Higher Apprenticeship - Harper Macleod
at QA Limited
- Higher Level Apprenticeship
- £22,932
- Glasgow
ICT Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship - Bromsgrove District and Redditch Borough Councils
at QA Limited
- Level 3 Apprenticeship
- £14,526.20
- Redditch
