Tech Career Options For People Without A Tech Background

Do you want to venture into tech but don't know where to begin? The best time to venture into tech is now.

The Landscape

Tech has changed a lot. When the author ventured into tech in 2008 during high school, there was less noise in the field and it was easier to identify the roles people in IT or Computer Science would end up having. Today, the space is crowded and fast-moving, which makes it overwhelming for beginners as new technologies and job titles keep emerging.

Create a Systemic Pipeline

If you want to break into tech, start by creating a clear path and sticking with it, while leaving a little room to adjust. It’s easy to get distracted by every new tool, role, or trend.

• Forge a path with the help of a mentor or someone more experienced.
• Block out the noise and avoid constantly switching directions.
• Don’t feel discouraged when you see others doing better than you.

Above all, don’t skip fundamentals. Many modern tech professionals lack strong foundations—don’t become that person. Move step by step.

Tech Isn't Always Technical

Tech is no longer only for deeply technical people. There are many non-technical or semi-technical roles that still place you firmly in the tech industry. You can become a non-technical tech person.

Here are some accessible options:

1. Product Manager

A Product Manager (PM):

• Identifies customer needs and business objectives.
• Defines what success looks like for a product or feature.
• Works closely with engineering and design teams.
• Rallies the team to turn a product vision into reality.

Average salary: about $127,860/year (Glassdoor).

2. Product Designer (UI/UX Engineer)

If you’re creative and enjoy visuals and experiences, Product Designers / UI/UX Designers might be a great fit.

They:

• Design the look and feel of software applications.
• Decide on colors, spacing, layout, and overall user experience.
• Ask questions like:
• Why do we need this color?
• How will this feature impact a user’s ability to use our product?

Average salary: about $80,259/year.

3. Technical Writer

If you love writing, Technical Writing combines communication with technology.

Technical writers:

• Document a company’s technical solutions and services.
• Create API documentation, user manuals, and how-to guides.
• Don’t need to be deeply technical, but should be comfortable learning how products work.

Average salary: about $67,671/year.

4. Tech Recruiter

Every tech company needs people who can find and attract talent.

Tech Recruiters:

• Search for, vet, and bring in candidates for technical roles.
• Often come from an HR or people-focused background.
• Need an eye for tech talent and a basic understanding of tech roles.

Average salary: about $76,224/year.

5. IT Support

IT Support is one of the most accessible entry points into tech.

Internal IT teams typically handle:

• Software licensing and installations.
• Hardware setup and management.
• Troubleshooting technical issues.
• Security basics and IT policies.
• General day-to-day tech support for employees.

Average salary: about $49,449/year.

These roles are just a few of the many career options that can help you enter tech without a traditional background. With a clear path, focus on fundamentals, and consistency, you can build a strong tech career. More roles and guidance will follow in part two of this series.

This post was originally published on Medium.