It Pays to Be a Geek

DAILY DOT COM - (CNN) – If you think computer science isn’t the coolest major, think again.  These days, it pays to be a geek.

Some of the coolest jobs around are at tech companies like Facebook and Google, and that means so-called nerds are getting rock start treatment.

“We’re enjoying a true technology revolution, and techies who can lead that effort by creating and managing great software can write their own tickets,” says Tony Lee, publisher of CareerCast.com.  “Software engineers are the rock starts of today’s working world, and even computer systems analysts and web developers can claim some of that recognition, since the demand for IT pros is so deep.”

A new report from CareerCast.com lists the best technology jobs in America.  Software engineers grab the top spot; the average salary is about $90,000.

But it’s not just about the money.  The study says working conditions are better than ever.  Many tech companies offer cool perks like free food and video games at the office.  Also helping, hiring is through the roof. 

The second and third best tech jobs are also computer science positions, with salaries nearing $80,000.  And here’s the deal: the number of undergrads earning computer science degrees has dropped over the last decade.  Recruiters are flooding college campuses looking for smart, tech-savvy students, but can’t find enough to meet their needs.

So for anyone looking to get into these fields, demand is high.  Bottom line: it might be time to do that math homework. 

To see the full study click here.