Tech Job Pros and Cons: What’s a Career in Tech Actually Like?

Technology is constantly advancing, and today, it’s a crucial partner to almost every other industry, including healthcare, retail, and education. For anyone considering a career change or a fresh start, working in tech places you in one of the fastest-growing, in-demand fields, filled with numerous opportunities. 

But is tech a good career path for you? In this article, we weigh up tech job pros and cons, and gain valuable advice on joining the industry from Rebecca McCormick, Emanate Technology’s Principal Consultant for Data, Analytics, and AI. Read on to discover what it’s really like to work in this industry, and how you can use your existing skills and experience to take an exciting new career path.

Benefits of joining the tech industry

Transitioning to a new industry or starting a new career can be daunting. But if you’re looking for a sign to consider the tech industry, there’s plenty to feel excited about. These are just a handful of the benefits you can expect when you pursue a tech career in Australia.

You’ll join a booming industry 

The tech market in Australia has grown by 80% in the past five years, so your expertise will be in high demand. “The current technology market is the strongest I’ve seen in the past two years,” Rebecca says. “Many organisations are investing heavily in digital transformation, data, and AI initiatives, and we’re seeing a noticeable increase in both contract and permanent hiring activity, particularly in Melbourne.” 

You’ll get a global community of peers

“As cliché as it may sound, your network truly is your net worth,” Rebecca says. This invaluable community is yours to join once you enter the industry. Stay engaged through coffee meetups, conferences, and networking events, or join online forums to share ideas and learn from others. “The connections you build can open doors to new opportunities and keep you inspired to keep growing.”

You’ll do meaningful work

All industries rely on technology, and almost every person in the world does too. You’ll get satisfaction knowing you’re doing innovative, impactful work. “Working in tech means being part of something dynamic and meaningful,” Rebecca says. “You’re not only solving complex problems but also contributing to solutions that make a genuine difference in people’s lives.”

You’ll access better salary and benefits

According to the Tech Council of Australia, people in the tech industry (including technical and non-technical roles) earn roughly 64% more per week than the rest of the workforce.  So, many tech jobs are among some of the highest-paid in the Australian economy. Plus, since many tech roles are hybrid or remote, they offer greater work-life balance. 

What to consider before joining tech

Want to make a move into the IT industry job market? Although it’s full of opportunities, weighing the pros and cons of working in tech also means considering potential downsides. Here are a few things to consider before taking the leap into a new career.

You must commit to continuous learning

You can’t stand still when you work in tech. It requires you to continually update your skills, learn new tools, and stay connected with others in the industry. “It’s easy to be left behind,” Rebecca says. “I recommend pursuing certifications, expanding your knowledge in emerging technologies like AI, data, cloud computing, and cyber security, and staying curious about new trends.”

You’re usually customer-facing

People often assume that working in tech means sitting alone at a computer all day. However, many others rely on your expertise, and you’ll usually provide technical support and services to employees, clients, and customers. Some in the industry find that this also occurs outside of work, as they become the unofficial (and unpaid) tech expert for family and friends.

You can feel stressed 

In tech, you’re working to tight deadlines, collaborating on important projects, and solving all kinds of problems for clients and customers. So, expect high levels of stress in your day-to-day life. To manage it and take care of your mental health, you really need to prioritise your own wellbeing outside of work.

Possible pathways in the IT industry job market

As an industry with technical and non-technical roles available, you don’t always need direct experience to get into a tech career. According to Rebecca, the skills and insights you already have are a valuable asset. “Many tech companies look for people who bring a unique perspective and can bridge the gap between technology and real-world application,” she says. 

Here are a few options for entry-level to senior roles in the tech market in Australia that allow you to leverage your existing skill set or interests.

Support Desk

As the first point of contact for individuals seeking technical assistance with hardware, software, and network issues, your problem-solving and customer service skills will be invaluable in a Support Desk role. All you need is a basic understanding of helpdesk software and troubleshooting; once you gain some experience, you’ll get opportunities to explore other roles within IT.

Junior Software Engineer

These entry-level roles typically require an undergraduate degree in software engineering or a related field, such as computer science. However, they’re the starting point to many more rewarding careers in the IT industry. You’ll write and test code, assist with developing software features, and fix bugs, all in a standard day.

Data Analyst

Have a natural affinity for statistics and maths? With supporting qualifications at the Certificate level, you can use your existing critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management skills to succeed as a Data Analyst.

Change Manager

Guiding organisations through change is especially valuable in the tech industry, where change occurs frequently—and usually with significant impact. For existing Change Managers working in other sectors, your stakeholder engagement, communication, governance, and leadership skills can transfer to IT and tech.

Project Manager

As an experienced Project Manager, you already have everything required to succeed in this role in the IT industry. Your organisational and communication skills, coupled with commercial acumen and contract management experience, will help you lead large-scale IT projects, oversee governance, and deliver results on time.

Whether you’re transitioning from a different industry or starting from step one, there are so many opportunities in tech to explore, and we’re always here to support. 

Take the next step today

Weighed up the tech job pros and cons and feel ready to make a move? As experts in tech recruitment, Emanate can help you identify the skills and experience you have that our clients are looking for. Get in touch with our team to discuss the possibilities.