CNNmoney.com released its top 20 jobs based on research provided by Money Magazine and Salary.com. Three of the jobs are IT-related. Here they are and why they rated “top job” status:

Information Technology Generalist–According to the report, this position is “the gateway to more advanced IT jobs.” It seemed strange to me that something would qualify as a top job if it’s purpose is to be a transition into a different job, but the report takes in factors such as salary and job growth potential. For example, IT generalist scored very high on job growth potential but only rated a C+ in the Fulfilling and Challenging section. The median pay for this position is listed as


Performs information systems administrative procedures and maintains documentation that covers two or more functional areas including data control, applications training, data coordination and scheduling, data security administration, etc. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Typically reports to a supervisor.
Engineer I–With a mean base salary of $53,600, this position has a 10-year Job Growth rate of 15%. It was rated a B in the Fulfilling and Challenging category.

The career description for Engineer I is:

Responsible for design, development, implementation, and analysis of technical products and systems. Performs engineering design evaluations. May develop a range of products. Recommends alterations to development and design to improve quality of products and/or procedures. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.

Network Administrator–Graded B for Fulfilling and Challenging, this job is ranked higher because of the whopping growth rate of 38%. The career description for Network Adminstrator, according to salary.com is:

Sets up, configures, and supports internal and/or external networks. Develops and maintains all systems, applications, security, and network configurations. Troubleshoots network performance issues and creates and maintains a disaster recovery plan. Recommends upgrades, patches, and new applications and equipment. Provides technical support and guidance to users. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.

(In case you’re planning a drastic career change from IT, the two top jobs are Project Brank Manager and Staff Nurse.) Here’s the whole report.