6 High-Paying Jobs for Women in Tech, Data, and Digital Marketing

India is one of the world’s most populous countries. But in recent years, it has seen a noticeable decline in women’s participation in the workforce. According to statistics from the World Bank and the International Labor Organization, in 2021, women made up just 19 percent of the formal labor force, down significantly from more than 40 percent in the early 1990s.

This decline is driven by factors such as social norms, lack of flexible employment opportunities and insufficient support for skills development.

GENDER INEQUALITY IN THE WORKPLACE

According to the What Women Feel Report 2024 by upGrad Harappa, women professionals excel in revenue-generating roles like sales, but are often left out of business decision-making. Despite their achievements, women are often excluded from key investment decisions and P&L mandates. This disparity is evident in the leadership ranks of India Inc, where men hold 65 percent of departmental leadership positions compared to just 29 percent held by women.

Industry reports reveal that only 28 percent (according to McKinsey and Co., Women in the Workplace 2023) of leadership positions worldwide are held by women, indicating continued underrepresentation of women despite diversity and inclusion efforts.

This gender imbalance not only hinders women’s professional development, but also prevents organisations from harnessing the diverse perspectives and talents that are key to fostering innovation and sustainability.

INDIA IS WITNESSING SKILL RENOVATION

Interestingly, the numbers suggest that we are heading towards a new frontier. The Indian skilling ecosystem has created a powerful engine and revolutionized access to online learning and workforce development, making it much more accessible, affordable and feasible for anyone aspiring to acquire new skill sets without having to leave their jobs. Even among women professionals, learning new skills while continuing to earn has become popular. Mid-career professionals and even senior leaders are using this opportunity to enhance their employability or return to work after motherhood or a career break.

Drawing on comprehensive industry data, Shreyasi Singh, President, Capability, Brand & Delivery, upGrad Enterprise, has identified several fast-growing, high-paying jobs in technology, data, and digital marketing that women should seriously consider upskilling in 2024:

1. Data Scientist

Data Scientists analyze large sets of structured and unstructured data to identify patterns and use machine learning algorithms to solve complex problems and predict trends. This role involves statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and data visualization. Requires proficiency in programming languages ​​such as Python or R, expertise in machine learning and statistics, and strong analytical skills.

Average salary in India: 9.5 LPA
Highest salary in India: 26 LPA

2. Cloud Solutions Architect

Focuses on designing a cloud computing strategy, including cloud adoption plans, cloud application design, and cloud management and monitoring. Requires a deep understanding of cloud service providers such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, strong architectural principles, and experience in IT operations.

Average salary in India:

Highest salary in India: 16 LPA
Average Salary in India: 45 LPA

3. UX/UI Designer:

It involves improving the user experience and interface design of products and applications, making them more intuitive and user-friendly. Knowledge of design software such as Sketch or Adobe XD is very important to become a user experience designer with a strong portfolio demonstrating design thinking and user testing.

Average salary in India: 5.4 LPA
Highest salary in India: 14 LPA

4. Cybersecurity Analyst

Protects systems, networks and data from cyberattacks. Analyzes security breaches and remediates security weaknesses. The role requires a good knowledge of security protocols, skills in using security software, understanding hacking and preventative measures against potential threats.

Average salary in India: 6.4 LPA
Highest salary in India: 18 LPA

5. The Role of the Content Strategy Director

Oversees content strategy and development across multiple platforms to ensure brand consistency and engagement. Leads the content team and collaborates with the marketing and design teams. This position requires strong leadership skills, excellent communication and organizational skills, and a deep understanding of content optimization and digital marketing trends.

Average salary in India: 7.6 LPA
Highest salary in India: 30 LPA

6. Performance Marketing

Focuses on driving brand engagement and conversions through digital channels. Leverages data analytics to optimize marketing campaigns and improve ROI. Strong knowledge of digital marketing tools and platforms, data analysis, and strategic planning skills will help build a strong career in this role.

Average salary in India: 5.4 LPA
Highest salary in India: 26 LPA

These roles not only offer financial benefits, but also open up opportunities for ongoing learning and development in their fields. They also see steady growth in corporate hiring, making them ideal for women interested in technology who want to reenter the workforce or advance their careers.