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North Far North Careers

Looking for a career in the North Far North region of California? We can help you find a career that's right for you—and the education you need to get there. Get started on your new career path today!

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Information and Communication Technologies – Digital Media

Information and Communication Technologies and Digital Media (ICT-DM) are essential to the success of businesses across all industries, enabling them to connect with customers and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy. As technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) become more integrated into daily life and work, the demand for computer literacy, digital skills, and cybersecurity expertise is increasing. Cybersecurity alone in the US is projected to more than double by 2032 to an over $500 billion industry, making it one of the fastest-growing fields in the ICT sector.

To support equitable access to technology and digital careers, California is investing $6 billion to expand broadband infrastructure in an effort to close the digital divide and ensure rural and low-income communities can participate fully in the digital economy. This investment is particularly impactful in the North Far North region, where rural populations stand to benefit from greater connectivity and opportunity.

Students who pursue careers in ICT across the region will not only gain in-demand, future-ready skills, but will also have the chance to shape how technology is used to solve real-world challenges—from cybersecurity and digital communication to AI applications and beyond. With creative, high-paying, and flexible career paths, ICT is an ideal field for students eager to innovate, make an impact, and stay ahead of the curve.

Browse Programs

View data from the:

Region
Download North Sector Profile
50,419
2024 Jobs
+3%
2024–2029 Projected Change
41.13/hr.
2024 Avg. Entry Level Wage

Top jobs that Require Community College Credentials

How much will I make per hour?

What can I train for? Job openings per year Entry-level Median Experienced Programs
Computer User Support Specialists 906 $36.80 $48.86 $57.16 View programs
Software Developers 507 $54.69 $67.44 $82.41 View programs
Computer Occupations, All Other 255 $34.72 $50.99 $68.11 View programs
Computer Systems Analysts 225 $46.33 $58.26 $64.14 View programs
Graphic Designers 144 $23.08 $33.62 $45.08 View programs
Photographers 109 $17.24 $25.23 $46.74 View programs
Network and Computer Systems Administrators 96 $41.46 $48.90 $62.08 View programs
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers 64 $37.79 $51.52 $64.85 View programs
Computer Network Support Specialists 63 $31.34 $40.93 $50.73 View programs
Web and Digital Interface Designers 54 $27.16 $43.30 $65.52 View programs
Computer Network Architects 52 $48.94 $63.31 $78.50 View programs
Computer Programmers 43 $35.47 $48.75 $64.25 View programs
Audio and Video Technicians 41 $20.88 $26.32 $36.84 View programs
Web Developers 27 $25.74 $45.79 $68.17 View programs
Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys 16 $21.75 $31.30 $50.77 View programs

Computer User Support Specialists

Job openings per year:

906

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $36.80/hr.
  • Median: $48.86/hr.
  • Experienced: $57.16/hr.

View programs

Software Developers

Job openings per year:

507

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $54.69/hr.
  • Median: $67.44/hr.
  • Experienced: $82.41/hr.

View programs

Computer Occupations, All Other

Job openings per year:

255

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $34.72/hr.
  • Median: $50.99/hr.
  • Experienced: $68.11/hr.

View programs

Computer Systems Analysts

Job openings per year:

225

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $46.33/hr.
  • Median: $58.26/hr.
  • Experienced: $64.14/hr.

View programs

Graphic Designers

Job openings per year:

144

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $23.08/hr.
  • Median: $33.62/hr.
  • Experienced: $45.08/hr.

View programs

Photographers

Job openings per year:

109

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $17.24/hr.
  • Median: $25.23/hr.
  • Experienced: $46.74/hr.

View programs

Network and Computer Systems Administrators

Job openings per year:

96

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $41.46/hr.
  • Median: $48.90/hr.
  • Experienced: $62.08/hr.

View programs

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers

Job openings per year:

64

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $37.79/hr.
  • Median: $51.52/hr.
  • Experienced: $64.85/hr.

View programs

Computer Network Support Specialists

Job openings per year:

63

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $31.34/hr.
  • Median: $40.93/hr.
  • Experienced: $50.73/hr.

View programs

Web and Digital Interface Designers

Job openings per year:

54

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $27.16/hr.
  • Median: $43.30/hr.
  • Experienced: $65.52/hr.

View programs

Computer Network Architects

Job openings per year:

52

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $48.94/hr.
  • Median: $63.31/hr.
  • Experienced: $78.50/hr.

View programs

Computer Programmers

Job openings per year:

43

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $35.47/hr.
  • Median: $48.75/hr.
  • Experienced: $64.25/hr.

View programs

Audio and Video Technicians

Job openings per year:

41

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $20.88/hr.
  • Median: $26.32/hr.
  • Experienced: $36.84/hr.

View programs

Web Developers

Job openings per year:

27

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $25.74/hr.
  • Median: $45.79/hr.
  • Experienced: $68.17/hr.

View programs

Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys

Job openings per year:

16

How much will I make?

  • Entry-level: $21.75/hr.
  • Median: $31.30/hr.
  • Experienced: $50.77/hr.

View programs

Top Employers & Skills

Employers

  • Accenture
  • State of California
  • Lumen Technologies
  • GovCIO
  • Cognizant Technology Solutions
  • Deloitte
  • Ford
  • Canonical Group
  • PricewaterhouseCoopers
  • Adventist Health
  • Sutter Health
  • Apple
  • Northrop Grumman
  • Cardinal Health
  • CVS Health
  • University of California, Davis
  • Cribl
  • Marriott International
  • Confluent
  • Intel

Specialized skills

  • Computer Science
  • Project Management
  • Automation
  • Agile Methodology
  • Workflow Management
  • Scalability
  • Software Development
  • Application Programming Interface (API)
  • Business Requirements
  • Technical Support

Technology & software skills

  • SQL (Programming Language)
  • Python (Programming Language)
  • AWS (Amazon Web Services)
  • Microsoft Office (Access, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word)
  • Application Programming Interface (API)
  • Operating Systems (Apple IOS, Linux, Windows)
  • JavaScript (Programming Language)
  • JIRA
  • Kubernetes
  • Git (Version Control System)

Employability skills

  • Communication
  • Management
  • Troubleshooting (Problem Solving)
  • Leadership
  • Operations
  • Information Technology
  • Customer Service
  • Planning
  • Research
  • Writing

Sources: Lightcast 2025.3; QCEW, non-QCEW, Self-Employed. Compiled by the North/Far North Center of Excellence for Labor Market Research. State Economic Blueprint – California Jobs First, February 2025. https://jobsfirst.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/Economic-Blueprint.pdf.

Computer User Support Specialists

Provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.

Sample of reported job titles:

Computer Specialist, Computer Support Specialist, Computer Technician, Desktop Support Technician, Help Desk Analyst, Help Desk Technician, Information Technology Specialist (IT Specialist), Support Specialist, Technical Support Specialist

Tasks:

  • Answer user inquiries regarding computer software or hardware operation to resolve problems.
  • Oversee the daily performance of computer systems.
  • Read technical manuals, confer with users, or conduct computer diagnostics to investigate and resolve problems or to provide technical assistance and support.
  • Set up equipment for employee use, performing or ensuring proper installation of cables, operating systems, or appropriate software.
  • Develop training materials and procedures, or train users in the proper use of hardware or software.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Monitor computer system performance to ensure proper operation.
  • Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
  • Install computer hardware.
  • Read documents to gather technical information.
  • Resolve computer software problems.

Work Context:

  • Electronic Mail – 100% responded “Every day”
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled – 95% responded “Every day”
  • Face-to-Face Discussions – 88% responded “Every day”
  • Coordinate or Lead Others – 11% responded “Important”
  • Frequency of Decision Making – 13% responded “Once a month or more but not every week”
View more information on this job

Software Developers

Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.

Sample of reported job titles:

Application Developer, Application Integration Engineer, Developer, Infrastructure Engineer, Network Engineer, Software Architect, Software Developer, Software Development Engineer, Software Engineer, Systems Engineer

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Analyze project data to determine specifications or requirements.
  • Modify software programs to improve performance.
  • Supervise information technology personnel.
  • Apply mathematical principles or statistical approaches to solve problems in scientific or applied fields.
  • Assess database performance.
View more information on this job

Computer Occupations, All Other

All computer occupations not listed separately.

View more information on this job

Computer Systems Analysts

Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.

Sample of reported job titles:

Applications Analyst, Business Systems Analyst, Computer Analyst, Computer Systems Analyst, Computer Systems Consultant, Information Systems Analyst (ISA), Information Technology Analyst (IT Analyst), System Analyst, Systems Analyst

Tasks:

  • Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
  • Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.
  • Expand or modify system to serve new purposes or improve work flow.
  • Use the computer in the analysis and solution of business problems, such as development of integrated production and inventory control and cost analysis systems.
  • Consult with management to ensure agreement on system principles.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Troubleshoot issues with computer applications or systems.
  • Provide technical support for software maintenance or use.
  • Coordinate software or hardware installation.
  • Monitor computer system performance to ensure proper operation.
  • Test software performance.

Work Context:

  • Electronic Mail – 100% responded “Every day”
  • Telephone – 79% responded “Every day”
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled – 93% responded “Every day”
  • Structured versus Unstructured Work – 65% responded “A lot of freedom”
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate – 54% responded “Extremely important”
View more information on this job

Graphic Designers

Design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.

Sample of reported job titles:

Artist, Designer, Graphic Artist, Graphic Designer, Online Producer, Production Artist, Publications Designer

Tasks:

  • Determine size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, and select style and size of type.
  • Confer with clients to discuss and determine layout design.
  • Create designs, concepts, and sample layouts, based on knowledge of layout principles and esthetic design concepts.
  • Develop graphics and layouts for product illustrations, company logos, and Web sites.
  • Use computer software to generate new images.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Design layout of art or product exhibits, displays, or promotional materials.
  • Collaborate with others to develop or refine designs.
  • Review art or design materials.
  • Design layouts for print publications.
  • Create computer-generated graphics or animation.

Work Context:

  • Electronic Mail – 90% responded “Every day”
  • Spend Time Sitting – 79% responded “Continually or almost continually”
  • Time Pressure – 70% responded “Every day”
  • Telephone – 53% responded “Every day”
  • Work With Work Group or Team – 67% responded “Extremely important”
View more information on this job

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers

Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.

Sample of reported job titles:

Automation Tester, Information Technology Analyst (IT Analyst), Quality Assurance Analyst (QA Analyst), Quality Assurance Engineer (QA Engineer), Quality Engineer, Software Quality Assurance Analyst (SQA Analyst), Software Quality Assurance Engineer (SQA Engineer), Software Quality Engineer, Software Test Engineer, Test Engineer

Tasks:

  • Identify, analyze, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content.
  • Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers.
  • Develop testing programs that address areas such as database impacts, software scenarios, regression testing, negative testing, error or bug retests, or usability.
  • Design test plans, scenarios, scripts, or procedures.
  • Document test procedures to ensure replicability and compliance with standards.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Document operational activities.
  • Analyze data to identify or resolve operational problems.
  • Troubleshoot issues with computer applications or systems.
  • Compile technical information or documentation.
  • Report maintenance or equipment problems to appropriate personnel.
View more information on this job

Computer Network Support Specialists

Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.

Sample of reported job titles:

Computer Network Specialist, IT Consultant (Information Technology Consultant), Network Specialist, Network Support Specialist, Network Technical Analyst, Network Technician, Personal Computer Network Analyst, Systems Specialist

Tasks:

  • Back up network data.
  • Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.
  • Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.
  • Identify the causes of networking problems, using diagnostic testing software and equipment.
  • Document network support activities.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Create electronic data backup to prevent loss of information.
  • Implement security measures for computer or information systems.
  • Analyze security of systems, network, or data.
  • Resolve computer network problems.
  • Document network-related activities or tasks.

Work Context:

  • Electronic Mail – 94% responded “Every day”
  • Telephone – 93% responded “Every day”
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled – 84% responded “Every day”
  • Face-to-Face Discussions – 80% responded “Every day”
  • Contact With Others – 79% responded “Constant contact with others”
View more information on this job

Web and Digital Interface Designers

Design digital user interfaces or websites. Develop and test layouts, interfaces, functionality, and navigation menus to ensure compatibility and usability across browsers or devices. May use web framework applications as well as client-side code and processes. May evaluate web design following web and accessibility standards, and may analyze web use metrics and optimize websites for marketability and search engine ranking. May design and test interfaces that facilitate the human-computer interaction and maximize the usability of digital devices, websites, and software with a focus on aesthetics and design. May create graphics used in websites and manage website content and links.

Sample of reported job titles:

Technology Applications Engineer, Web Architect, Web Design Specialist, Web Designer, Web Developer, Webmaster

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Design websites or web applications.
  • Develop specifications or procedures for website development or maintenance.
  • Update website content.
  • Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
  • Conduct research to gain information about products or processes.
View more information on this job

Computer Programmers

Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.

Sample of reported job titles:

Analyst Programmer, Application Programmer Analyst, Computer Programmer, Computer Programmer Analyst, Internet Programmer, Java Developer, Programmer, Programmer Analyst, Web Applications Programmer, Web Programmer

Tasks:

  • Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.
  • Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.
  • Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.
  • Write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages to handle specific jobs such as tracking inventory, storing or retrieving data, or controlling other equipment.
  • Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Modify software programs to improve performance.
  • Write computer programming code.
  • Test software performance.
  • Resolve computer software problems.
  • Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
View more information on this job

Audio and Video Technicians

Set up, maintain, and dismantle audio and video equipment, such as microphones, sound speakers, connecting wires and cables, sound and mixing boards, video cameras, video monitors and servers, and related electronic equipment for live or recorded events, such as concerts, meetings, conventions, presentations, podcasts, news conferences, and sporting events.

Sample of reported job titles:

Audio Technician, Audio Visual Specialist (AV Specialist), AV Tech (Audio Visual Technician), Media Technician, Operations Technician, Stagehand, Video Technician

Tasks:

  • Notify supervisors when major equipment repairs are needed.
  • Diagnose and resolve media system problems.
  • Direct and coordinate activities of assistants and other personnel during production.
  • Compress, digitize, duplicate, and store audio and video data.
  • Install, adjust, and operate electronic equipment to record, edit, and transmit radio and television programs, motion pictures, video conferencing, or multimedia presentations.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Notify others of equipment problems.
  • Maintain recording or broadcasting equipment.
  • Maintain records, documents, or other files.
  • Convert data among multiple digital or analog formats.
  • Coordinate activities of production personnel.

Work Context:

  • Face-to-Face Discussions – 89% responded “Every day”
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled – 90% responded “Every day”
  • Coordinate or Lead Others – 74% responded “Extremely important”
  • Work With Work Group or Team – 76% responded “Extremely important”
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate – 65% responded “Extremely important”
View more information on this job

Web Developers

Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.

Sample of reported job titles:

Technology Applications Engineer, Web Architect, Web Design Specialist, Web Designer, Web Developer, Webmaster

Tasks:

  • Write supporting code for Web applications or Web sites.
  • Design, build, or maintain Web sites, using authoring or scripting languages, content creation tools, management tools, and digital media.
  • Back up files from Web sites to local directories for instant recovery in case of problems.
  • Select programming languages, design tools, or applications.
  • Evaluate code to ensure that it is valid, is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers, devices, or operating systems.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Design websites or web applications.
  • Write computer programming code.
  • Update website content.
  • Create electronic data backup to prevent loss of information.
  • Test software performance.
View more information on this job

Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys

Speak or read from scripted materials, such as news reports or commercial messages, on radio, television, or other communications media. May play and queue music, announce artist or title of performance, identify station, or interview guests.

Sample of reported job titles:

Anchor, Announcer, DJ (Disc Jockey), Host, Morning Show Host, News Anchor, Radio Announcer, Television News Anchor (TV News Anchor)

Tasks:

  • Operate control consoles.
  • Record commercials for later broadcast.
  • Announce musical selections, station breaks, commercials, or public service information, and accept requests from listening audience.
  • Study background information to prepare for programs or interviews.
  • Read news flashes to inform audiences of important events.

Detailed Work Activities:

  • Operate control consoles for sound, lighting or video.
  • Perform for recordings.
  • Inform viewers, listeners, or audiences.
  • Gather information for news stories.
  • Report news to the public.
View more information on this job

The North region encompasses seven counties (El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, Sutter, Yolo, Yuba).

The Far North region encompasses 15 counties (Butte, Colusa, Del Norte, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Lassen, Mendocino, Modoc, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Tehama, Trinity).

Specialized skills are specific to the occupation, or group of occupations, and represent job-specific competencies.

Technical skills refer to the specific software and technology regularly encountered on the job.

Employability skills (sometimes referred to as “common skills”) are foundational skills that cross occupations and industries. Many common skills, like, communication and team work, are also considered soft skills.

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