There’s no denying that our world has become awash in internet-connected devices, from smartphones and laptops to smart home appliances. Integrating devices with sensors, software, and other technologies allows these devices to communicate with each other and the people using them for various purposes.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a complex and sometimes ambiguous topic. However, there are myriad opportunities for those interested in contributing to this growing field of work. Some of the industries that will benefit from IoT tech are agriculture, manufacturing, health care, and consumer electronics, to name a few.
Below are some emerging career opportunities in the IoT world worth exploring if you’re interested in contributing to this field of work.
1. Data Analyst
Because there’s a massive amount of data regarding IoT devices, someone needs to sort through those sets and make sense of it all. Data analyst careers are highly sought after, and businesses across the globe are always looking for professionals capable of working with data.
Individuals familiar with drawing conclusions from data and working with statistics-based languages like R and SAS would be valuable assets to businesses. Those interested in being data analysts can make themselves more marketable by understanding Python and Panda.
Also read: Best 10 Amazing and Powerful Data Modeling Tools You Should Know
2. IoT/Software Developer
Without IoT developers, there would be no IoT. Developers create applications that allow connected devices to function correctly. IoT and software development heavily rely on application programming interfaces (APIs) in their day-to-day work.
Whether it’s Java or C++, having a solid background in computer science is a must. As more companies integrate NetSuite into their operations, hiring administrators to manage the software will be more necessary. The role has become increasingly profitable, as the salary for a NetSuite Administrator has increased by 6.2% in the past four years.
IoT developers focus their efforts on creating software that is then used to support the function of IoT devices. They use algorithms to analyze data and work within data warehouses to manage large sets of data. Software development as a field is expected to grow 22% in the coming years.
3. Cybersecurity Professional
It’s challenging to try and safeguard IoT devices from malicious cyberattacks and would-be hackers, but cybersecurity professionals are hired for this very reason. As more devices become a part of our interconnected world, the risks of cybersecurity attacks will increase exponentially.
Security is a significant concern facing businesses across all industries, and hiring cybersecurity experts to help mitigate the ongoing risks of cybersecurity threats will be necessary.
Cybersecurity professionals must constantly research and evaluate potential threats to keep the network secure and ensure devices are operating correctly.
4. 3D Printing Engineer
Combining 3D printing with IoT technology has the potential to make smart devices more efficient as if they weren’t highly efficient already!
3D printing as an industry has grown in the past few years, and there’s no sign of it slowing down. As both IoT and 3D printing applications emerge, engineers will be in high demand. Engineers will be able to develop and create new IoT devices by using 3D printing technology.
3D printing engineers will help various industries improve their operational efficiency, especially in manufacturing and consumer electronics.
5. Grid Modernization Engineer
The original electricity grid that our country operates on is antiquated, and efforts are being made to modernize the grid for improved functionality. Professionals in the energy market with a background in IoT technology will be highly sought after during this transition period to an advanced grid.
Using the latest IoT technology to help modernize the grid will be necessary as a grid modernization engineer. Imagine all of the technology that consumes energy daily — integrating street lights, traffic signals, and more will help make processes easier for the average person.
6. Test Engineer
Once IoT products have been fabricated, it’s essential to test out their functionality and ensure they’re working the way they should. Being a test engineer requires knowledge of IoT processes to validate that they’re in working order.
Engineers would be responsible for testing the usability, security, connectivity, compatibility, and overall performance of new IoT devices. Because IoT devices are growing in number and scale, engineers will play a crucial role in their development.
7. Wearable Technology Developer
The number of wearable devices is expected to grow to over 1 billion by 2022, and developers will be in high demand to help reach that estimate. Small sensors are becoming more common, which means the rise in wearable devices will need a workforce to support their development.
Designing wearable devices that are both functional and fashionable is a challenge developer should expect to face. However, it can be quite a rewarding career for those interested in IoT tech.
8. Cloud Computing Specialist
Evidence suggests that the development of IoT technologies will also require improvements to traditional cloud computing software. One issue that faces cloud computing now is latency.
Because IoT technologies communicate across devices seamlessly, it’s a viable solution to the current latency challenges facing major tech players like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.
Also read: What Are Everything You Need To Know About IoT in 2021 and Beyond
9. IoT Solutions Engineer
As more IoT tech is implemented into standard business applications, providing solutions to customers will be essential. If a business feels overwhelmed with its IoT options, IoT solutions engineers can intervene, assess their needs, and offer feasible solutions to their everyday problems.
Because IoT tech brings so much value to businesses, finding appropriate solutions will be the next step after implementation. Being able to collaborate with others is a vital skill to have when looking to become an IoT solutions engineer.
10. IoT Architect
Last but certainly not least is the IoT architect. IoT architects are responsible for planning, developing, and deploying IoT solutions. Creating a sustainable and suitable architecture for IoT tech will be critical in the future.
Potential IoT architects will need a mix of business acumen, technical expertise, and delivery skills. The various responsibilities range from designing an end-to-end architecture to building viable IoT solutions.
Because of the rapid and exponential growth of IoT tech, even more, career opportunities will emerge. Anyone interested in a potential career in IoT should consider their education options, whether it’s a degree in computer science or data analysis. Earning a relevant degree could determine your ability to gain a job in the growing workforce.
IoT Specialists Are a Hot Commodity
IoT specialists with extensive experience and knowledge of the ins and outs of IoT will be needed soon. Businesses should be willing to hire specialists to improve their operational efficiency and solve common business problems.
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