Are you great at math, technology, and analytical thinking? Then you might want to consider a career in Electronic Data Processing (EDP) services. But before you make the jump, you’ll want to know, “Are EDP services a good career path? What are the best paying jobs in EDP services?”
I’m here to answer all those questions for you. This way, you’ll know if EDP services are a good career decision for YOU, as well as see where you fit best. So let’s get to it!
Read More: 5 Entry-Level IT Jobs With No Experience (and Without a Degree)
What Are EDP Services?
EDP services typically involve electronic technology to process, store, and manage data. In turn, this provides businesses with solutions for tasks like data entry, data analysis, and database management.
Here’s how Jen Morris from WikiJob puts it:
The EDP services industry revolves around managing and optimizing electronic data using technology. Its main goal is to streamline how organizations handle information, making it easier to collect, store, retrieve, and process data effectively.
This is how the Indeed editorial team describes the industry:
When you work in this field, you might use electronic devices to gather data points from various sources. You might also oversee the use of computers, calculators, or servers to store the data and perform analyses. EDP systems typically process large volumes of similar data by performing simple and repetitive functions.
Is EDP Services a Good Career Path?
Quick answer: Yes! As the world is becoming more digitalized, the need for Electronic Data Processing services is growing rapidly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the jobs related to EDP are expected to grow more than 11 times the average rate.
Besides that, here are other reasons why it’s a good idea to choose a career path within the EDP services:
- It has a high-paying salary. Due to high demand and the need for specific skills, EDP professionals usually earn good salaries and appealing compensation packages. You can make 6-figures within this career field.
- Many jobs are available. From data scientists to desktop support technicians, you can find jobs available in EDP services that fit your skillset and ambitions.
- Entry is accessible. Sure, you’ll need lots of skills and experience to get into the higher-paying EDP service jobs. But there are also a lot of entry-level jobs that can get you started.
- Offers continuous learning and growth. If you’re looking for a job that allows you to always learn and grow, this is one great path to take. The EDP industry is highly dynamic, meaning you’ll be exposed to new technologies and challenges every step of the way.
- It is fulfilling work. You get to solve real-world problems by using your natural abilities and improving these skills over your career. For example, you could study patient data to create better ways of providing healthcare.
The 25 Best Paying Jobs in EDP Services
If you’re interested in the industry, here are 25 of the highest paying jobs in EDP services (ranked from highest to lowest paid job):
- Data Scientist
- Computer Network Architect
- Software Engineer
- Data Architect
- Database Engineer
- Programmer/Software Developer
- Network Engineer
- Information Security Analyst
- Network Manager
- IT Security Specialist
- Systems Analyst
- Systems Administrator
- Web Developer
- Network Administrator
- Database Administrator
- Compliance and Regulation Officer
- Quality Assurance Tester
- Technical Support Specialist
- Business Process Analyst
- Technology Upgrades Coordinator
- Librarian
- Desktop Support Technician
- Trainer and Documentation Specialist
- Help Desk Analyst
- Computer Technician
1. Data scientist
Average annual salary: $149,398
If we’re talking about EDP services, the data scientist is probably one of the highest job sectors. No doubt, it’s one of the best paying jobs in EDP services, too. These scientists use programming, statistics, and business logic to analyze information. They employ machine-learning algorithms, spot trends, create predictive models, and find important data sources.
2. Computer Network Architect
Average annual salary: $140,164
Computer network architects are in high demand (the growth in job roles is expected to grow 3.5% more between 2022 and 2032). Because this job needs specialized skills, you’re sure to earn a lot – I’m talking 6 figures! Now, as a computer network architect, you’ll be the one to actually design a network system. You’ll need to make it strong and efficient, as well as meet the organization’s needs and help its operations.
3. Software Engineer
Average annual salary: $135,784
Another one of the job roles within the 6-figure earnings is a software engineer. These are the ones that create digital systems for businesses. They talk to clients to grasp their software requirements, design applications, suggest suitable system upgrades, and work together with developers.
4. Data Architect
Average annual salary: $132,087
A data architect assists an organization in gathering, storing, and securing its information. They may design database structures, assess existing databases for enhancements, and set standards for managing databases.
5. Database Engineer
Average annual salary: $127,463
A database engineer is different from a data architect in that they manage systems that store and organize lots of information. If you go for this job role, you’ll supervise user access, make database adjustments for easy use, and ensure the security of sensitive information. A database engineer is always closely involved in anything that has to do with data management.
6. Programmer/Software Developer
Average annual salary: $111,845
A programmer/software developer is one of the high-paying job opportunities with lots of career growth (The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says that the average growth rate of software development increased by 25% from 2022 to 2023). As a programmer or software developer, you’ll write, test, and maintain computer programs and applications. To do this, you’ll use programming languages to make personalized solutions that fit the organization’s data processing needs.
7. Network Engineer
Average annual salary: $99,887
Want a crucial role in EDP services? Network engineers manage systems of connected computers in an organization. They specialize in common networks, like phones and intranet or extranet systems. Of course, you’ll also do other tasks, such as handling firewalls, setting up routers, fixing issues, and planning updates.
8. Information Security Analyst
Average annual salary: $96,652
An information security analyst, also known as a cybersecurity analyst, keeps computer systems and networks safe from threats. Besides that, they also watch for and identify possible breaches. What’s more, they must place measures to protect sensitive data.
9. Network Manager
Average annual salary: $90,687
As a network manager, you will handle the setup and control of computer networks. You’re vital to a company as you’re the one who makes sure data moves smoothly, the network is secure, and any problems with connections or performance are addressed and fixed perfectly.
10. IT Security Specialist
Average annual salary: $85,386
This is very similar to an information security analyst. As an IT security specialist, you’ll defend an organization’s data from cybersecurity threats and the like. Moreover, you’ll need to test firewalls, watch over employees’ online activities, and create client security rules based on the organization’s existing systems.
11. Systems Analyst
Average annual salary: $83,520
One of the lower-ranked, best-paying jobs in EDP services is a systems analyst. Here, you’ll connect business needs with technological solutions. You’ll play a crucial role in understanding what information the organization needs, analyzing current systems, and creating solutions to improve data processing.
12. Systems Administrator
Average annual salary: $82,865
A systems administrator is another high-paying job within EDP services. If you choose this EDP services sector, you’ll see yourself managing and maintaining a company’s computers and networks. Your duties include fixing network problems, updating equipment, offering technical support, and creating data backups.
13. Web Developer
Average annual salary: $81,148
A web developer is sort of like the wizard behind websites. They write code for the front and back parts, making sure everything works smoothly. They check what the company needs, use testing tools, and listen to what users say to fix things up.
14. Network Administrator
Average annual salary: $77,881
If you’re looking for job opportunities in EDP services, you might want to consider network administrators. The job title includes overseeing and keeping company computer networks running. Some specific jobs you’ll do is set up networks, fix connection problems, and make sure the network is secure.
15. Database Administrator
Average annual salary: $77,430
If you’re looking for job openings as a database administrator, know that you’ll be dealing with designing, implementing, and looking after databases. You have to make sure data is stored, retrieved, and managed efficiently. You’ll also handle tasks like securing databases, managing backups, and ensuring data integrity.
16. Compliance and Regulation Officer
Average annual salary: $73,798
Let’s say you have a knack for laws and Electronic Data Processing (EDP). The perfect job for you is a compliance and regulation officer. Here, you’ll make sure that the organization’s data processing follows legal and regulatory rules. What did I say about EDP services having diverse career paths?
17. Quality Assurance Tester
Average annual salary: $70,859
A quality assurance tester sets and keeps up standards, especially in software production. They write code for automated tests, jot down the results, and look at what users say to make sure everything’s top-notch.
18. Technical Support Specialist
Average annual salary: $60,770
Say you’re looking for entry-level, best-paying jobs within the EDP services. One job role you can consider is a technical support specialist. This specific job role requires skills in identifying and fixing technical problems in data processing systems. You’ll also need to know how to assist users, troubleshoot issues, and ensure electronic systems work smoothly.
19. Business Process Analyst
Average annual salary: $60,443
As a business process analyst, you’ll work to optimize a company’s operations. Your job roles will include creating new ways of doing business, making current processes more efficient, and giving reports to top management.
20. Technology Upgrades Coordinator
Average annual salary: $59,391
As an entry-level technology upgrades coordinator, you’ll help with upgrading existing systems with new technology. If you’re not entry-level anymore, you’ll be the one to lead these upgrades. Furthermore, you’ll have to stay updated on the latest improvements in hardware and software and make sure to integrate them for better performance.
21. Librarian
Average annual salary: $58,596
I know what you’re thinking, “WHAT?!? A librarian?” However, in the context of EDP services, a librarian is someone knowledgeable about information science – so much so that they can organize lots of digital and physical information. They handle books, guide support staff, keep library databases in order, and assist people in finding the info they need for research.
22. Desktop Support Technician
Average annual salary: $54,530
Here’s another entry-level job that pays well. A desktop support tech is like the superhero of an organization’s computer world! They handle the hardware and software by adding new programs, making sure everything stays updated, fixing tech hiccups, and jotting down how-to guides for support. They’re the go-to folks for keeping the tech side running smoothly.
23. Trainer and Documentation Specialist
Average annual salary: $53,727
Do your skills match more for training? Then consider being a trainer and documentation specialist. These guys (or girls) teach people how to use new systems and technologies. They also make manuals and guides to help users understand and use data processing systems.
24. Help Desk Analyst
Average annual salary: $48,603
As the name implies, you’re there to help. You’ll help employees and customers with tech support. You first listen to their issues, guide them through solutions, and, if needed, direct them to other departments for extra help.
25. Computer Technician
Average annual salary: $25,544
If you’re just getting started in EDP services, you can begin as a computer technician. Your main goal is to help company employees with computers and networks. You’ll also set up new computer systems, update security software, fix hardware issues, and provide any technical help.
Final Words
Are you interested in a career in EDP services? You’ll be happy to know that EDP services encompass a wide range of fields (it’s an industry with lots of benefits, too). So go ahead and check out the 25 best paying jobs in EDP services and see which one suits your skills and career goals.
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