High tech heaven found in Flash

The Miami Herald has had a series of articles about occupations considered 'hot jobs'. No marketing anything (manager, director, vice president) was on the list, but the list did contain 'Interactive Developer.'

An Interactive Developer, as defined by the newspaper, helps companies market themselves on the web. The skill set includes Flash, PhotoShop, Illustrator 'as well as web design'. College degree is preferred but not required. Pay range is from $55K to $75K for starters. $80K to $130K on the high end.

The tough economy has been somewhat of a benefit for this industry. Companies are spending less overall but spending more digitally.

The same skill set, I believe is crucial for today's marketing manager/directors. I don't think it's enough to hand off interactive projects to an outside agency or interactive developer. You need to know enough to give them the specs, know enough to tweak, know enough to make the work fit for your goals.

The more PhotoShop, Illustrator, Flash learned the better job you can do.

And it doesn't hurt to have skills that are in demand with increased job security or less unemployed time in this daunting economy.

Hmmm, the salary ranges might be useful in negotiations. One friend, who shall remain nameless but will recognize her situation, has been tying down the details for a new job. Salary is still up in the air. I hope you can use this for discussion fodder.