We’ve all heard that tech is an exciting industry to be a part of, but what is it really like? We asked the Human Resources team to share some insights on what it is really like to work in tech, and here’s what they said!
What tech roles are like?
“To me, it feels a lot like a high end (well-funded) research lab. We routinely read and discuss research papers and actually apply their findings in our technology to “shift the business” and make lives better for our users. This is so cool!” – Operations Manager
“Having the opportunity to innovate and to try and test new things is really good and to see results in real time is very exciting. Being able to provide useful and engaging products and services to our users is very rewarding.” – Senior Digital Analyst
“Even though I don’t code, I always enjoy learning about technical concepts and tools while listening to the engineers updates and company presentations. It keeps my brain stimulated. But because we are a for profit business, unlike universities, we need to stay closely in touch with real users’ needs (we can’t just experiment for the sake of curiosity to come up with “solutions waiting for their problems”) and I keep advocating for this in my new team (more UX research, more granular usage data, implement process to regularly collate customer support feedback and pass it to product).” – Operations Manager
“I threw out my pen and notebook. We do everything on the computer. I write my notes in Google docs and use Trello to manage my to-do list.” – Marketing
“The only constant is change. The team are always looking for the latest way to do things and adapting to changes in technology.” – Marketing
People in tech
“It’s been really fun and exciting for me. It’s a highly collaborative environment and being challenged to think of new and different ways to solve problems is great. Everyone is really supportive. It’s a true team environment and we learn a lot from each other.” – Senior Digital Analyst
“There are lots of technically minded, brilliant people in the team. If there is a problem that needs solving, there is plenty of support to find the answers.” – Marketing
“People are more fun and actually have hobbies! Also they are less toxic / ego-centric and actually enjoy collaboration.” – Product Manager
“I would say we truly have best people from all over the world, and I personally LOVE this diversity and learning from my colleagues about other countries, their traditions and customs.” – Operations Manager
The tech perks
“The rumours are true. In a big tech company, we get to work in a brand-new office with amazing facilities… and a lolly bar!” – Marketing
“I find that the “workations” [being able to extend vacation time by working and holidaying at the same time] are the best! I believe a change of a background actually boosts your creative thinking.” – Product Manager
“I love the flexibility. In tech, working from home is more common and I love it (although the big tech offices are very nice and have a lot of entertainment too).” – Product Manager
“I also appreciate this workplace flexibility which is a prerequisite for fostering diffuse mode of thinking necessary for creativity and successful problem solving.” – Operations Manager
What does it mean to work in tech?
“Working in tech” generally refers to having a job or career in technology.
The tech industry is vast and constantly evolving, and many companies operate at the intersection of multiple sectors, incorporating technology into their products and services. Some companies that would be considered “tech” are:
- Software Development Companies
- Technology Hardware Manufacturers
- IT Services and Consulting Firms
- E-commerce and Internet Companies
- Telecommunications Companies
- Internet of Things (IoT) Companies
- Biotechnology and Health Tech Companies
- Financial Technology (Fintech) Companies
- Gaming and Entertainment Companies
- Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Companies
Tech allows us to solve complex problems, automate tasks, and connect people from all corners of the globe. It’s like a language that bridges the gap between humans and machines, enabling us to interact with technology in meaningful and intuitive ways.
What’s even more exciting is that tech keeps evolving at an astonishing pace. New technologies emerge, like self-driving cars, smart homes, and wearable devices, transforming the way we live, work, and play. It’s a constantly changing landscape where innovation knows no bounds.
Working in tech means being at the forefront of this technological revolution. It’s a field that attracts creative minds, problem solvers, and those who are curious about what the future holds. Whether you’re passionate about coding, designing, or exploring cutting-edge concepts, there’s a place for you in tech.
What jobs do you get in tech?
In the tech industry, there is a wide range of job opportunities available. Here are some common jobs you can find in tech:
- Software Developer/Engineer: Designs, develops, and maintains software applications using programming languages and frameworks.
- Web Developer: Builds and maintains websites, focusing on front-end (user interface) or back-end (server-side) development.
- Data Scientist: Analyses and interprets complex data sets, applies statistical models, and develops algorithms to extract insights and support decision-making.
- Systems Administrator: Manages and maintains computer systems, servers, and networks, ensuring their smooth operation and security.
- Network Engineer: Designs, implements, and manages computer networks, including wired and wireless infrastructure.
- Database Administrator: Designs, implements, and maintains databases, ensuring data integrity, security, and efficient performance.
- UX/UI Designer: Creates user-centric designs for software applications and websites, focusing on user experience and interface aesthetics.
- IT Project Manager: Oversees the planning, execution, and successful delivery of tech projects, coordinating resources and managing timelines.
- Cybersecurity Analyst: Protects computer systems and networks from security threats, detects and responds to incidents, and implements security measures.
- Data Analyst: Collects, cleans, and analyses data to derive insights, create reports, and support business decision-making.
- AI/Machine Learning Engineer: Develops and implements machine learning algorithms and models to enable artificial intelligence capabilities.
- IT Consultant: Provides expert advice and guidance on technology strategies, infrastructure, and software solutions to organisations.
- Quality Assurance/Test Engineer: Conducts testing and quality assurance procedures to ensure software applications and systems meet requirements and function correctly.
- IT Support Specialist: Provides technical support and troubleshooting assistance to users, resolving hardware and software issues.
- Product Manager: Oversees the development and launch of tech products, defining product strategy, conducting market research, and collaborating with development teams.
Non-technical roles in tech
In addition to technical roles, tech companies often have a variety of non-tech positions that are crucial to their overall functioning. Here are some examples of non-tech roles you can find in tech companies:
- Sales and Business Development: These professionals focus on generating new business opportunities, building relationships with clients, and driving sales of tech products or services.
- Marketing and Communications: This team handles marketing strategies, advertising campaigns, social media management, content creation, and public relations to promote the company’s products and brand.
- Human Resources (HR): HR professionals in tech companies handle recruitment, employee onboarding, talent management, training and development, and ensuring a positive work culture.
- Finance and Accounting: These roles involve financial planning, budgeting, managing accounts payable and receivable, financial analysis, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations.
- Project Management: Project managers oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of tech projects, ensuring they meet deadlines, budgetary constraints, and client requirements.
- Operations and Logistics: These roles focus on optimising internal processes, managing supply chains, coordinating logistics, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations of the company.
- Legal and Compliance: Legal professionals handle contracts, intellectual property rights, data privacy, and regulatory compliance, ensuring the company operates within legal boundaries.
- Customer Support: Customer support representatives provide assistance, troubleshoot issues, and offer solutions to customers who have questions or encounter problems with tech products or services.
- Administration and Office Management: These roles involve managing administrative tasks, organising events, coordinating travel arrangements, and maintaining a well-functioning office environment.
- Strategy and Business Analytics: Professionals in these roles analyse market trends, conduct competitive research, and provide strategic insights to support decision-making and business growth.
- Project Coordination: Project coordinators assist project managers in organising and coordinating project-related activities, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration among team members.
- Product Management: Product managers are responsible for defining product strategy, conducting market research, gathering customer feedback, and overseeing the development and launch of tech products.