Top 9 healthcare IT jobs and who’s hiring

Health IT professionals blend technology and healthcare to improve patient care and outcomes. They often ensure proper data storage, support telehealth services, and implement and maintain electronic health information systems. This IT career in the healthcare industry has an array of advantages, including job security, attractive salaries, and the opportunity to positively impact patients' well-being.

The healthcare tech industry requires a combination of education and skills to unlock the door. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the top healthcare IT jobs, the education and skills needed to succeed, and how much money you could earn.

1. Software engineer

As a software engineer, you'll use programming languages to design, develop, and maintain software systems, including mobile and web applications. When it comes to salary, many earn over $100,000 per year.

Most employers prefer a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field for this role. It gives you a solid foundation to build on, but it's not always a strict requirement.

To thrive in this role, you'll need:

Excellent communication
Mastery of programming languages like Python or JavaScript
A knack for databases and SQL

If you love technology, enjoy solving problems, and get a kick out of creating innovative software solutions with the potential to work from home, software engineering might be your perfect match.

2. Business analyst

Business analysts are the detectives of the business world, analyzing data to drive company decision-making. Salaries tend to be around $90,000 per year, depending on industry and experience. For instance, a business analyst working for a large healthcare enterprise could potentially earn more than someone in a smaller company.

Business analyst positions typically require a bachelor's degree in business administration, economics, or finance. Specialized certifications in business analysis methodologies can also boost your chances of landing a role.

Key skills include:

Strong analytical abilities
Communication
Problem-solving
Data analysis and visualization

So, if you enjoy investigating business challenges, have a knack for data analysis, and can communicate effectively, a career as a business analyst might just be your cup of tea!

3. Business intelligence developer

These problem-solving heroes analyze business challenges through data integration, predictive analytics, and reporting to provide companies with valuable solutions. They can also earn a nice salary of about $94,000 per year.

While a formal education (such as a computer science degree) can be beneficial, companies also value practical experience. And while this may not be an entry-level role, you can certainly start building your skills and experience in the field with the following:

SQL proficiency
Data modeling
Analytical thinking
Attention to detail
Strong presentation skills

These skills and the ability to provide strategic insights will make you wel-equipped for success as a business intelligence developer.

4. Healthcare systems administrator

A healthcare systems administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization’s computer systems and networks, such as for a clinic or health center. As such, you may collaborate with pharmacists, registered nurses, medical assistants, and other professionals working in healthcare services to:

Ensure the smooth operation of IT infrastructure
Troubleshoot technical issues
Implement security measures

With this career, you have the potential to earn an impressive annual salary of around $80,000 per year. A high school diploma may suffice for entry-level positions, though many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field.

Here are some of the skills and experience needed:

Proficiency in operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux)
Knowledge of network protocols and infrastructure
Hardware troubleshooting
System configuration and maintenance

If you like working with technology and solving technical challenges, a career as a systems administrator might be a great fit for you.

5. IT project manager

This role is responsible for overseeing and managing an organization's technology projects. From implementing new medical records software to building websites, they keep things on track and ensure everything runs smoothly.

The average salary for an IT project manager often exceeds $159,000 per year, so you know it requires serious skills. As for education and experience, you'll need a bachelor's degree in computer or information science.

To stand out as a job seeker, a master's degree in computer science or obtaining a project management certification can give you that extra edge.

Here are the skills and experience that will come in handy for this role:

Excellent interpersonal skills
Leadership
Proficiency in project management methodologies, tools, and software
Knowledge of technology and IT infrastructure
Risk management

6. Compliance healthcare consultant

Compliance healthcare consultants are the champions of regulatory adherence and industry standards for healthcare organizations. They collaborate with providers, clinicians, and legal experts to evaluate needs, craft programs, and train staff.

Salary can vary depending on whether the role is a full-time or part-time position, experience level, and organization size. On average, you could bring in around $77,987 annually.

This role typically requires a bachelor's degree in healthcare management or a related field. Certification in healthcare compliance can further boost your credentials and help you stand out.

Here are some key skills and experience necessary to excel as a compliance healthcare consultant:

Understanding of healthcare regulations, such as HIPAA, Medicare, and Medicaid
Problem-solving
Exceptional communication
Familiarity with compliance software

7. AI model trainer

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a hot topic lately, and it’s transforming the healthcare industry. It now plays a vital role in tasks like analyzing medical images, alerting doctors to abnormal patient vital signs, and even assisting surgical technologists in procedures.

As an AI model trainer, your main job is fine-tuning and optimizing those AI models. You'll dive into massive datasets and implement machine learning algorithms to ensure the models operate smoothly. You’ll likely collaborate with healthcare professionals, team members, and stakeholders. As for compensation, AI model trainers earn around $95,517 per year.

To pursue a career as an AI model trainer, you'll typically need:

A bachelor's degree in computer science
A master's degree in computer science (preferred)
Previous experience in healthcare IT (preferred)

In addition to a solid educational background, the following skills are essential for success in this role:

Proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, or MATLAB
Understanding of machine learning
Critical thinking
Communication

Combining the right education, skills, and experience allows you to embark on a rewarding career as an AI model trainer in the dynamic healthcare field.

8. HIPAA compliance analyst

A HIPAA analyst collaborates with IT teams to ensure healthcare organizations comply with HIPAA regulations. They assess systems, conduct risk assessments, implement data security measures, and monitor compliance through audits.

When it comes to education and experience, the requirements can vary by organization. In general, a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, informatics, or a related field is preferred. Relevant certifications or specialized training in HIPAA compliance can also make you highly eligible for entry-level positions.

The average salary hovers around $71,000 per year. Keep in mind, though, that this number may vary by organization size.

Here are some essential skills required for this role:

Understanding of HIPAA regulations and requirements
Knowledge of healthcare information systems and IT infrastructure
Ability to conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies
Communication
Attention to detail

9. IT specialist

The role of an IT specialist is pretty diverse. It covers everything from entry-level positions providing basic computer support to more advanced roles, like those of information research scientists.

The role of a healthcare IT specialist involves responsibilities like:

Implementing and maintaining healthcare information systems in a medical center
Managing electronic health records (EHR) systems
Providing technical services to healthcare staff

IT salaries can vary from a median of around $61,000 to upward of $100,000 on the high end. A high school diploma is usually sufficient for entry-level positions, but pursuing IT certifications to enhance your qualifications is a smart move.

For more advanced positions, employers tend to look for candidates with a bachelor's degree in computer science and a few years of experience under their belt.

To excel as an IT specialist, you'll need the following skills:

Technical proficiency
Problem-solving
Communication
Customer service

Which companies have open healthcare IT jobs on Handshake?

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Take the first step toward your dream career in healthcare IT today!

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Top 9 healthcare IT jobs and who’s hiring