IT Jobs 2016: Biggest Salary Increases

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The tech industry has been going strong, and that is expected to continue for next year as IT unemployment shrinks even further, salaries inch higher, and increased technology initiatives create exciting career opportunities.

Along with the traditional upgrades and migration projects that were always a staple of IT, businesses are investing in new capabilities and expanding tech beyond the IT department at a rapid rate, making technology pros -- and networking pros in particular -- indispensable.

That demand means IT practitioners can look forward to higher pay. In fact, a recent report from Robert Half Technology found that starting salaries for the tech positions it tracks will increase an average of 5.3% in 2016.

Experienced tech professionals in hot areas such as security, big data and mobility may find it easy to find a higher paying position, especially in industries like financial services, healthcare, managed services, telecommunications and hospitality. And because these burgeoning technologies all put a greater load on the network, technologists in networking roles are benefiting as well.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics agrees, predicting employment of computer network architects to grow 15 percent from 2012 to 2022, outpacing the average for all occupations. The Bureau cites the growth and maintenance of wireless and mobile networks as well as the expansion of healthcare information technology as major factors leading to increased opportunities.

In the following slides, we count down the job titles in the networking field that will enjoy the biggest increases, according to Robert Half's 2016 Salary Guide. Of course, geographic location, industry, and other factors may play a large part in actual pay. If you'd like to see the salary range for your specific title in your area, check out Robert Half's interactive salary calculator.

(Image: Cimmerian/iStockphoto)