Top 20 Highest Paid IT Jobs in India for Freshers & Experienced [A Complete Guide]

India’s IT sector is booming, and the demand for skilled professionals is very high. As one of the largest global tech hubs, India plays a major role in digitally transforming businesses worldwide.

The rapid growth in software development, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and other tech advancements has created many opportunities for both freshers and experienced IT professionals. 

According to the Times of India, experts predict a 15-20% growth in job opportunities across various industries within the IT sector.

So, if you are just starting your career or you are an experienced professional looking for a level up, the Indian IT Industry has many opportunities for you. 

In this article, we will discuss the top 20 highest-paying IT jobs in India that offer competitive salaries and exciting growth opportunities.

Keep reading to know more!

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Top 20 Highest-paid IT Jobs in India for Freshers & Experienced

India’s IT sector offers some of the highest-paying jobs across various specializations, with salaries depending on experience, skills, location, and the technology in focus. 

Top roles include:

• Data scientists
• Cloud engineers
• AI specialists
• Cybersecurity experts

Below is a list of the top 15 highest-paying IT jobs in India for freshers and experienced:

Job Role	Salary for Freshers (INR/annum)	Salary for Experienced (INR/annum)
Software Developer/Engineer	INR 5L	INR 16L
Data Analyst/Scientist	INR 7L	INR 20L
Cloud Engineer	INR 5L	INR 13L
Full Stack Developer	INR 4L	INR 13L
AI Engineer	INR 8L	INR 13.5L
Cybersecurity Analyst/Expert	INR 7L	INR 12.4L
DevOps Engineer	INR 6L	INR 15L
Web Developer (Frontend/Backend)	INR 2.7LL	INR 7L
Mobile App Developer	INR 5L	INR 9L
Big Data Engineer	INR 6L	INR 14L
UI/UX Designer	INR 4L	INR 9L
Blockchain Developer	INR 5L	INR 10L
Technical Support Engineer	INR 6L	INR 12L
Network Engineer	INR 3L	INR 11L
Information Security Analyst	INR 4L	INR 14.6L
Database Administrator (DBA)	INR 6L	INR 13L
Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)	INR 10L	INR 21L
Machine Learning Engineer	INR 8L	INR 16.6L
Cloud Architect	INR 4L	INR 21L
Solutions Architect	INR 12L	INR 28L

Source: Glassdoor

Note: The salaries mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on the employer and individual's experience.

Let’s further discuss each of the aforementioned high-paying IT jobs in-depth. Read along as we delve into key responsibilities and qualifications for each job  role:

20. Software Developer/Engineer

A Software Developer/Engineer is responsible for designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary of a Software Developer in India is approximately INR 8L.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyzing user requirements and translating them into software specifications
• Writing clean, efficient, and maintainable code in various programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, C++)
• Conducting software testing and debugging to ensure functionality and performance
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams, including product managers and designers, to deliver high-quality software
• Documenting the development process, code changes, and software specifications for future reference

Software Developers generally take around 2-5 years of experience to get into the position of Software Engineer. Gaining a deeper understanding of software architecture, design patterns, and system design can help to grow up in this field.

The qualifications required to become a Software Developer/ Engineer are mentioned below:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field
Skills	Proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, C++) Strong understanding of software development methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum) Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git)

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19. Web Developer (Frontend/Backend)

The person who is responsible for building and maintaining the web applications and websites are the Web Developers. The average annual salary of Web Developers in India is approximately INR 5.3L.

Key Responsibilities:

• Designing and implementing user interfaces using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
• Ensuring a responsive and visually appealing design across various devices
• Collaborating with UX/UI designers to enhance user experience
• Optimizing web applications for maximum speed and scalability
• Debugging and troubleshooting user interface issues

Here are the Backend Developer Duties:

• Developing server-side applications and APIs using languages like Node.js, Python, or Ruby
• Managing database interactions and server-side logic
• Ensuring data security and integrity through proper backend practices
• Collaborating with frontend developers to integrate user-facing elements
• Monitoring and maintaining server health and performance

Qualifications required to become a Web Developers include:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Web Development, or a related field
Skills	Proficiency in frontend languages (e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript) for Frontend Developers. Strong knowledge of backend languages (e.g., Node.js, Python, Ruby) for Backend Developers. Familiarity with frameworks (e.g., React, Angular for Frontend; Express, Django for Backend).

18. Network Engineer

They are responsible for designing, implementing, and managing an organization’s network infrastructure. A Network Engineer's average annual salary in India is approximately INR 5L.

Key Responsibilities:

• Setting up and configuring network hardware such as routers, switches, and firewalls
• Monitoring network performance and troubleshooting connectivity issues
• Ensuring network security through proper configurations and protocols
• Collaborating with IT teams to design network architecture and implement improvements
• Maintaining documentation of network configurations, diagrams, and procedures

To become a successful Network Engineer you need certain skills and qualifications mentioned below:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field Relevant certifications (e.g., Cisco Certified Network Associate - CCNA, CompTIA Network+)
Skills	Proficiency in networking protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP) Experience with network monitoring tools and techniques

17. Technical Support Engineer

A Technical Support Engineer is responsible for assisting customers and clients with technical issues related to software, hardware, and systems. A Technical Support Engineer in India can earn approximately INR 6L per annum.

Key Responsibilities:

• Providing troubleshooting assistance and resolving technical problems for users
• Diagnosing hardware and software issues and implementing solutions
• Documenting support requests and maintaining detailed records of issues and resolutions
• Collaborating with development teams to report and resolve bugs and system errors
• Educating users on product features and best practices to optimize performance

For freshers, it takes around 2-4 years of hands-on experience in technical support to progress to a Senior Technical Support Engineer role. 

Qualifications required to become a Technical Support Engineer include:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Information Security, Computer Science, or a related field
Skills	Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills Proficiency in customer support tools and ticketing systems

16. Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst is responsible for protecting an organization’s computer systems and networks from cyber threats. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary of an Information Security Analyst in India is approximately INR 8L.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitoring network traffic for suspicious activity and security breaches
• Conducting security assessments and vulnerability analyses
• Implementing security measures, such as firewalls and encryption
• Responding to and investigating security incidents and breaches

Here are the qualifications required to become an Information Security Analyst:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Information Security, Computer Science, or a related field
Skills	Proficiency in security tools (e.g., SIEM, IDS/IPS)

15. Cybersecurity Analyst/Expert

A Cybersecurity Analyst is responsible for protecting an organization’s digital assets from cyber threats. Cybersecurity experts go beyond analysis by designing and leading complex security strategies. A Cybersecurity Analyst's average annual salary in India is approximately INR 6.5L.

Cybersecurity Experts are involved in these tasks:

• Developing and overseeing security policies and incident response plans
• Conducting penetration tests and advanced threat analysis
• Leading teams in securing large-scale enterprise systems
• Advising on compliance with regulations and industry standards

It generally takes a Cybersecurity Analyst around 3-7 years of experience to grow into a Cybersecurity Expert role.

With some experience, you also need certain qualifications to step into this field:

Jobs	Qualifications Required	Skills Required
Cybersecurity Analyst	Bachelor’s degree in Information Security, Computer Science, or a related field.	Proficiency in using security tools (e.g., SIEM, firewalls, IDS/IPS). Knowledge of network protocols and operating systems security
Cybersecurity Expert	Master’s degree in Cybersecurity or equivalent experience. Advanced certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM)	Deep knowledge of encryption, cryptography, and incident response. Expertise in penetration testing and ethical hacking

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14. Cloud Engineer

A Cloud Engineer is responsible for designing, managing, and optimizing cloud-based infrastructure for organizations.  In India, the average annual revenue of a Cloud Engineer is approximately INR 8L.

Key Responsibilities:

• Building and maintaining cloud environments on platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud
• Managing cloud resources and optimizing performance, security, and cost
• Implementing security protocols and backup solutions
• Automating cloud deployment processes and ensuring system reliability
• Collaborating with development teams to ensure seamless integration with cloud services

Here are the qualifications required to become a Cloud Engineer:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field Relevant certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Azure Administrator)
Skills	Expertise in cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) Proficiency in automation and infrastructure as code (e.g., Terraform, Ansible)

Sign up for our Cloud Engineer Bootcamp course to Master the Cloud and lead as an Expert Cloud Engineer

13. UI/UX Designer

These designers are generally responsible for creating visually appealing and user-friendly interfaces that enhance the overall experience of a product. The average annual salary of a UI/UX Designer in India is approximately INR 6L.

Key Responsibilities:

• Designing layouts
• Wireframes, and prototypes
• Conducting user research
• Ensuring that the design meets user needs and business goals

They focus on both the aesthetic (UI) and functional (UX) aspects of the user interface, striving to improve usability and accessibility.

Skills required to become a UI/UX designer include:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Interaction Design, or a related field
Skills	Proficiency in design tools (e.g., Adobe XD, Figma, Sketch)

Enroll in our UI/UX design course now to tighten up your grip on UI/UX Design!

12. Mobile App Developer

They are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining mobile applications for platforms such as iOS and Android. A Mobile App Developer in India can generally earn around INR 6.2L annually.

Their duties include:

• Writing clean and efficient code
• Testing and debugging applications
• Ensuring that apps provide a smooth user experience.

A professional who has just joined the position of mobile app developer needs experience of around 3-4 years to become a senior in this field.

To become a successful mobile app developer you need certain skills and qualifications mentioned below:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field Specialization in AI/ML or related certifications
Skills	Proficiency in mobile development frameworks (e.g., React Native, Flutter) Strong knowledge of mobile UI/UX design principles Expertise in programming languages (e.g., Swift, Kotlin, Java)

11. Full Stack Developer

A Full Stack Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining both the front-end and back-end of web applications. 

Key Responsibilities:

• working with databases, servers, system architecture, and user interface design
• managing the complete software development life cycle, from coding and testing to deployment and troubleshooting
• ensuring that applications run smoothly across all platforms.

For freshers, it typically takes around 3-5 years of experience working on diverse projects to become a Senior Full Stack Developer. The average annual salary of a full-stack developer in India is approximately INR 6.5L.

The qualifications required for Full-Stack Developer are:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field Specialization in AI/ML or related certifications
Skills	Proficiency in front-end languages (e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript) Expertise in back-end languages (e.g., Node.js, Python, Ruby)

To elevate your skills and become a top-notch web developer, Enroll in our Web Developer Course at upGrad today!

 

 

10. Big Data Engineer

A Big Data Engineer is responsible for designing, building, and managing large-scale data processing systems that handle vast amounts of data.  According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary of a Big Data Engineer in India is around INR 9L.

Key Responsibilities:

• Creating data pipelines
• Optimizing data storage
• Working with big data technologies like Hadoop and Spark to ensure efficient data handling. 

They also ensure data quality, security, and scalability across various platforms.

For freshers, it usually takes around 3-5 years of hands-on experience with big data technologies, data architecture, and large projects to progress to a senior Big Data Engineer role.

Here are the qualifications required for Big Data Engineer:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. Certifications in big data technologies or cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, GCP)
Skills	Proficiency in big data tools and frameworks (e.g., Hadoop, Spark) Expertise in SQL and NoSQL databases Strong programming skills in Python, Java, or Scala

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9. AI Engineer

An AI Engineer is responsible for developing and implementing artificial intelligence models and algorithms that help machines mimic human intelligence. They can earn around an average salary of INR 7.25L annually in India.

Key Responsibilities:

• Building machine learning models
• Working with neural networks
• Natural language processing
• Computer vision systems

For freshers, it takes about 3-6 years of experience working in AI development and related projects to become a senior AI Engineer. 

The qualifications required for an AI Engineer are:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field Specialization in AI/ML or related certifications
Skills	Strong programming skills (e.g., Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch) Expertise in machine learning algorithms and techniques

Unlock your potential in AI, enroll in our AI Course at UpGrad today

 

8. Blockchain Developer 

They are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining decentralized applications and blockchain systems. A blockchain developer's average annual salary in India is approximately INR 6.5L.

Key Responsibilities:

• Creating smart contracts
• Managing peer-to-peer networks
• Ensuring security in blockchain solutions

They also work on integrating blockchain technology with existing systems. For freshers, it can take around 3-5 years of experience in blockchain development to progress to a senior role. 

Here are the qualifications required for a Blockchain Developer:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. Relevant certifications in blockchain technologies
Skills	Proficiency in blockchain platforms (e.g., Ethereum, Hyperledger) Understanding of cryptography and security principles

Also Read: Blockchain free online course with certification

7. DevOps Engineer

Freshers can begin their careers as DevOps Engineers, who work to streamline and automate the software development and deployment process. They fill the gap between development and operations, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration. 

With experience of around 2-4 years in software development or IT operations, they can advance to more senior roles in DevOps. Generally, the DevOps Engineer's average salary in India is around INR 8L per annum.

Here are the qualifications required for a DevOps Engineer:

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. Relevant certifications (e.g., AWS Certified DevOps Engineer, Docker Certified Associate)
Skills	Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash). Experience with CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI)

6. Database Administrator (DBA)

Database Administrators are responsible for managing and organizing data using database management systems. They ensure that data is accessible, secure, and organized for efficient use in business applications.

Key Responsibilities:

• Install, configure, and maintain database systems.
• Ensure data security, backup, and disaster recovery protocols are in place.
• Optimize database performance through regular monitoring and tuning.

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field
Skills	Proficiency in SQL Database management systems Backup and recovery techniques knowledge of data security protocols

5. Data Analyst/Scientist

Freshers can start their careers as Data Analysts, where they collect, process, and analyze data to help organizations make informed decisions. Data Analysts use statistical techniques and tools to identify trends, patterns, and insights.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collecting, cleaning, and preprocessing data.
• Performing statistical analysis to identify trends and patterns.
• Building and validating predictive models using machine learning algorithms.
• Communicating insights and recommendations through visualizations and reports.

According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary of a Data Scientist in India is approximately INR 14L, whereas for a Data Analyst, the average annual salary is around INR 6.5L.

With experience, they can shift into Data Scientist roles, which involve developing algorithms and predictive models. Data Scientists generally require around 3-5 years of experience in data-related roles to qualify for this position. 

The qualifications and skills required to become a Data Analyst/Scientist are mentioned below:

Job Role	Qualifications Required	Skills Required
Data Analyst	Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Science) Familiarity with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)	Proficiency in Excel and SQL Basic understanding of programming (e.g., Python, R)
Data Scientist	Master's degree in Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Science)	Advanced programming skills (Python, R, etc.) Experience with machine learning algorithms

Enroll in our Data Analysis Courses to enhance your analytical skills 

4. Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers develop and deploy algorithms that enable systems to learn from data. They work closely with data scientists to implement machine learning models that improve over time with exposure to more data.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop machine learning models for predictive analysis.
• Test and validate models, optimizing them for better accuracy.
• Collaborate with data scientists and engineers to implement data pipelines.

Qualification Required:	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, or related fields
Skills	Proficiency in machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch); strong knowledge of Python, algorithms, and statistics

3. Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)

Site Reliability Engineers are responsible for ensuring the reliability, availability, and performance of an organization’s IT infrastructure. They manage system uptime and automate operational tasks to improve efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain reliable and scalable systems for production environments.
• Monitor system performance and implement proactive solutions to minimize downtime.
• Automate operational tasks to increase efficiency and reliability.

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
Skills	Expertise in system monitoring tools (e.g., Prometheus, Grafana) scripting (e.g., Python, Bash) cloud platforms (AWS, GCP) automation tools

2. Cloud Architect

Cloud Architects design and manage an organization’s cloud infrastructure, ensuring it meets scalability, security, and cost efficiency. They guide the migration of services to the cloud and optimize cloud resources.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and implement cloud infrastructure architectures.
• Lead cloud migration and ensure optimal cloud resource usage.
• Maintain and improve security, scalability, and performance of cloud systems.

Qualification Required	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field
Skills	Proficiency in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) Strong knowledge of virtualization, and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) networking protocols

1. Solutions Architect

Solutions Architects design and implement complex IT solutions by evaluating and selecting the appropriate technologies. They bridge the gap between business requirements and technical solutions. They play a crucial role in defining the architecture of software systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design scalable and reliable solutions tailored to business needs.
• Collaborate with various teams to ensure seamless implementation.
• Evaluate and select the appropriate technologies for systems and projects.

Qualifications	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field
Skills	Expertise in architecture frameworks (e.g., TOGAF, Zachman); cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure); and system integration techniques

Top Recruiters for IT in India?

India's IT sector is diverse, encompassing IT services, product-based companies, fintech, e-commerce, and telecommunications, all of which are actively hiring to meet rising demand for technology solutions. 

Sachin Alug, CEO of NLB Services, notes that the Indian economy is projected to grow by 7% in FY25, with the IT industry expecting an 8-10% increase in hiring which highlights the need for skilled professionals in the field.

The most demanding sectors of the IT industry in India are:

• IT Services: Provide technology services and solutions like software development and consulting.
• Product-Based Companies: Focus on creating software products and seek specialized development skills.
• Fintech: Combine finance and technology to create payment and banking solutions.
• E-commerce: Emphasize online retail, requiring skills in web development and data analysis.
• Telecommunications: Offer communication services, needing IT professionals for network management.

Here are the top 10 recruiters of IT professionals in India:

Company Name	Sector
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)	IT Services
Infosys	IT Services
Wipro	IT Services
HCL Technologies	IT Services
Cognizant Technology Solutions	IT Services
Tech Mahindra	IT Services
Accenture	IT Services
Amazon	E-commerce
Flipkart	E-commerce
Paytm	Fintech

Where to Look for Good IT Jobs?

Finding high-paying jobs in the IT sector requires knowing where to search. Many companies and platforms are known for offering competitive salaries to attract top talent. 

Here are some of the best places to look for lucrative IT job opportunities:

• Company Websites: Check the career pages of top tech companies, such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Apple, which often list high-paying positions.
• Job Portals: Utilize job search websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor to find listings for well-paid IT roles.
• Recruitment Agencies: Work with specialized recruitment agencies that focus on IT positions to gain access to exclusive job opportunities.
• Networking Events: Attend tech meetups, conferences, and industry events to connect with potential employers and learn about high-paying openings.
• Freelancing Platforms: Explore freelancing websites such as Upwork and Toptal, where high-skilled professionals can command top rates for their services.

How can upGrad help you?

Given the rapid advancements and continuously evolving nature of IT jobs, this field certainly requires you to adopt a learning and adapting approach to establish a strong foothold in the industry.

And if you’re a fresher looking to enter this industry, then too you must be agile and adopt an adaptable approach to your field and role. Pursuing additional courses alongside your study or work can greatly benefit you in securing a lucrative job. 

 Explore our different courses:

• Online AI and ML Programs
• Online Software Development Courses
• Online Data Science Courses

Also explore our range of Free Tech Courses!

Conclusion

This article is aimed at giving you an insight into the top highest paying IT jobs in India. With a deeper understanding of the various roles, responsibilities, and qualifications, you can accordingly get started with your IT career advancement journey.

With India’s IT sector offering incredible opportunities for both freshers and experienced professionals, you can also seek in-demand roles in \ AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data science. 

This rapidly growing industry is continuously looking to recruit skilled professionals. You can assess your skills and interests, and make way to your dream role.

Interested in advancing your IT career? Consider booking a counseling session with upGrad. Our experts can help you identify the skills you need and enhance your expertise in today’s IT market.