The e-commerce industry is experiencing an extraordinary surge, reshaping the global job market. The rise of e-commerce giants and the increasing preference for online shopping among global consumers are bringing in new demand for skilled e-commerce professionals.
A 2024 Shopify report projects that the e-commerce market will reach $7.96 trillion by 2027, significantly higher than in 2021. This represents a rapid average annual growth rate, highlighting the industry’s impressive expansion and key role in today’s economy.
With this comes diverse roles that highlight various skills and interests, ranging from technology and logistics to marketing and customer service. This means that there are many careers in e-commerce to choose from. Below, you’ll learn about eight types of e-commerce careers that you can explore.
1. Web Developer
A website is the basis of most online stores and businesses — without it, e-commerce as we know it wouldn’t exist. Web developers play a critical role in the e-commerce ecosystem by creating and maintaining websites that are easy to navigate but also visually appealing to consumers. They ensure that online stores are responsive and capable of seamlessly handling high-traffic volumes and transactions.
To do this, a web developer must have a solid grasp of coding languages such as JavaScript, CSS, and HTML. They must also stay updated with the latest trends and tech in web development to create secure, efficient, and scalable e-commerce platforms. They also collaborate closely with designers, content creators, and marketers to ensure that the website aligns with the brand’s goals and provides an excellent experience.
The career outlook for web developers is promising, with a reported 20 percent job market growth expected between 2022 and 2032, resulting in more than one million new job openings. Job seekers can expect to enjoy high average annual salaries, with some roles like computer and information systems managers earning more than $160,000.
2. Software Engineer
Another crucial role in e-commerce is the software engineer, who develops and maintains the various complex software systems businesses use to manage operations and transactions. Their day-to-day role involves designing, testing, and implementing software to power digital stores to ensure everything from inventory and payment management runs smoothly.
This role also relies heavily on strong technical skills in programming languages like Python or C++. Additionally, software engineers often work on integrating various systems, enhancing security features, and optimizing performance to provide a seamless user experience.
With a computer science degree, you’ll learn the fundamental principles necessary to excel. Moreover, the career outlook for software engineers is very favorable and projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.
3. Data Analyst
The growing reliance on data-driven decision-making in e-commerce means the demand for skilled data analysts is consistently rising. The demand for data analysts is expected to surge, resulting in a 30 percent to 35 percent increase in jobs by 2027. This is no surprise as online businesses continue to harness big data to drive sales and guide strategies. Leveraging this expertise means data analysts can expect competitive salaries and continued career growth.
As a data analyst, you’ll review vast amounts of data to gather customer behaviors, identify market trends, and find key insights that inform business decisions. Additionally, proficiency in SQL, Excel, and R and experience in data visualization software are essential. Strong problem-solving skills are essential for converting data into useful insights and effectively conveying them to non-technical stakeholders using clear visual aids.
4. Information Security Analyst
Protecting digital commerce is a top priority for every business, meaning an information security analyst is yet another critical player. This need for information security analysts is growing, fueled by the escalating number and complexity of cyberattacks such as ransomware and data breaches. These professionals specialize in safeguarding customer data, preventing attacks, and ensuring that e-commerce platforms remain secure and trustworthy for users.
This role requires a solid understanding of topics like network safety, data protection, and risk management. It also means being adept at detecting vulnerabilities, devising plans to reduce risks, and quickly handling security issues. This can look like implementing encryption measures, performing security audits, and staying current with compliance regulations.
5. User Experience (UX) Designer
User experience (UX) designers are the quality assurance experts of e-commerce websites. They are tasked with creating user-friendly interfaces that enhance the shopping experience. They are tasked with creating user-friendly, visually appealing websites that facilitate seamless product browsing, selection, and purchasing. With user needs and preferences at the forefront of their minds, UX designers create wireframes and prototypes to test and refine the website’s functionality.
UX requires technical skills and a solid grasp of user behavior and design principles. This includes studying user interactions, identifying pain points, and improving usability. By applying principles like simplicity, consistency, and accessibility, UX designers create engaging interfaces that boost sales and loyalty. This often involves close collaboration with web developers, marketers, and product managers to ensure the design aligns with business goals.
6. Digital Marketing Specialist
Digital marketing specialists are jacks of all trades, working to drive sales through various online channels. Their role is to develop and execute marketing strategies that create brand awareness, attract potential customers, and bring in more sales. To do this, they leverage various digital platforms to meet their customers on the channels where they spend the most time.
Within digital marketing, there are several areas of expertise, each contributing uniquely to the overall marketing strategy:
- Search engine optimization (SEO): SEO specialists optimize websites and content to help e-commerce websites rank higher in search results, driving organic traffic.
- Social media advertising: Social media specialists create and manage ad campaigns to reach specific demographics, engage customers, and promote products, enhancing the brand’s social media presence.
- Email marketing: Email marketers create and manage campaigns to update customers on products, promos, and news. This highly targeted form of marketing helps keep customers coming back and can drive sales.
Additionally, digital marketing specialists work with data analysts to gather and analyze customer data, track campaign performance, and refine strategies.
7. Supply Chain Manager
Supply chain managers are critical to the internal and external success of e-commerce businesses. This role encompasses a wide range of activities, starting with the meticulous process of sourcing high-quality raw materials, managing inventory levels, and coordinating transportation logistics to ensure timely deliveries.
Since this role is so varied, supply chain managers need diverse skills. Knowing the ins and outs of logistics and inventory management is crucial because it helps streamline how products move and are stored. Additionally, having data analysis skills is ideal for optimizing supply chain processes. By looking at data on things like inventory levels, supplier performance, and delivery times, supply chain managers can make smart decisions to better productivity and cut costs.
Technology is also essential in modern supply chain management, providing tools that improve visibility and coordination. Advanced software helps manage real-time inventory, forecast demand, and track shipments. Additionally, technology supports sustainability in e-commerce by optimizing routes and processes and even reducing packaging waste.
8. Customer Service Representative
Customer service representatives are on the frontlines of e-commerce businesses. As the main touchpoint for customers, they manage customer inquiries, resolve issues, and offer support during the buying journey. Their role is pivotal in ensuring customers have a positive experience with the brand and building a rapport.
In this position, you must possess excellent communication skills to effectively listen to customer concerns and convey information professionally across various channels. Strong problem-solving skills are crucial for promptly pinpointing and resolving issues. Additionally, comprehensive product knowledge is essential for providing accurate information and assisting customers with informed purchasing decisions.
Obtaining a Career in E-commerce
With so many pockets of specialization within the e-commerce industry, there are many reasons to pursue a Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS). An MSCS program focuses on developing advanced technical competencies, including programming, data analysis, and cybersecurity, while providing a foundation in business principles. This combination is crucial for understanding the technological underpinnings of e-commerce platforms and the strategic considerations necessary for business success.
With an MSCS degree, any of these career paths can become a reality. Whether you’re interested in web development or customer service, a strong computer science foundation can open doors to various opportunities within the growing e-commerce industry.