Highest Paying Jobs in India 2026 – Roles and Average Salary
In the booming world of business, understanding the career paths that offer the highest salaries and growth potential is essential for long-term success. Whether you’re an experienced professional planning to change or a recent graduate exploring opportunities, knowing the highest paying jobs in India can help you make a confident, well-informed decision.
In this article, we explore new opportunities for the highest paying jobs in India 2026, covering what each role involves, the essential skills required, and how you can prepare to land one. With these top salary jobs in India, you will have the opportunity to stay stable, develop professionally, and earn an impressive salary. Let’s start!
List of Highest Paying Jobs in India
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer,
- Data Scientist
- Cloud Architect
- Blockchain Developer
- DevOps Engineer
- Full Stack Developer
- Data Engineer
- AI Strategist
- Business Analyst
- Engineering Manager
- IT Systems Manager
- Software Architect
- Product Designer
- UI/UX Designer
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Advanced Data Analytics Certification Program
- Comprehensive training on Excel, Power BI, SQL & Python
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- Get certified by Analytics Training Hub
- Live interactive classes led by industry veterans
Let’s discuss some of the top high-paying jobs in India in detail.
1. Artificial intelligence (AI) engineer
Artificial intelligence is going to hold the leading position in the job market in 2026. AI engineers design and build intelligent systems that can learn, adapt, and improve automatically. They understand business challenges and develop AI-driven solutions that make use of advanced ML algorithms and data models.
AI engineers are developing and testing models. These models accurately give outcomes and make informed decisions as they develop and implement algorithms that can make sense of data. For AI systems to be successfully designed and implemented, they must work well with a range of stakeholders, including software developers, data scientists, and business executives.
- Average Salary in India: ₹8–16 LPA
- Key Skills: Python, TensorFlow, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, NLP
Top companies that are hiring AI engineers include: Amazon, Google, Oracle, Deloitte, and. IBM.
Preparing for your next AI Engineer interview?
We’ve got you covered!. Check out this guide on Top AI Interview Questions and Answers to help you to crack your next job interview.
2. Machine Learning Engineer
ML is a branch of artificial intelligence that has gained tremendous traction across industries. One of the highest salaried jobs in India, Machine Learning Engineers create algorithms that help systems learn automatically.
They perform statistical analyses and develop ML programs with data pipelines, model training, and optimization for real-world predictions. This role requires strong programming and analytical skills.
- The average annual salary of ML engineers in India: ₹7–15 LPA
- Key Skills: Python, R, Data Modelling, ML Frameworks
Top companies that are hiring ML engineers include Microsoft, Bosch, Zycus, and Accenture
If you want to become a Machine Learning Engineer. Check out this Mcq on Best ML Interview Questions and answers to help you ace your next job interview.
3. Data Scientist
Data scientists are the next highest paying job in India. Data scientists are professionals. Who collect and transform raw data into actionable insights using statistical techniques and AI models. They play a critical role in helping companies make data-driven decisions and strategies for business growth. Those who have a strong background in computer science, programming, mathematics, statistics, and analytics can pursue a successful career as a data scientist in India.
- Average Salary in India: ₹12–28 LPA
- Key Skills: Python, SQL, Power BI, Machine Learning, Statistics
Top Companies Hiring Data Scientists in India: IBM, Flipkart, Deloitte, Mu Sigma, Amazon
4. Cloud Architect
A cloud architect designs and implements cloud-based systems for companies. Collaborating with stakeholders is key to comprehending business needs, identifying technical solutions, and building an appropriate cloud architecture.
Cloud architects enable businesses to migrate, deploy, and optimise systems on cloud platforms like AWS and Azure. A cloud architect must be able to communicate effectively, provide guidance, and possess the technical knowledge to lead a team of developers and engineers toward a shared technical objective. They should be able to communicate clearly with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Average salary range for Cloud Architect: ₹15–30 LPA
- Key Skills: AWS, Azure, DevOps, Cloud Security, Docker, Kubernetes
Top Companies that are Hiring for Cloud Architects: Amazon Web Services, SAP, Oracle, Wipro, Infosys
5. Blockchain Developer
Blockchain technology is redefining things such as currency transactions, internet connectivity, data security, and data handling. Both in the private and public sectors, blockchain developers build secure, decentralised systems for financial transactions, smart contracts, and supply chain solutions. Engineers or IT professionals with a strong background in computer science, mathematics, or statistics may become blockchain developers. These are the best jobs in India.
- Average Salary: ₹10–24 LPA
- Key Skills: Solidity, Smart Contracts, Ethereum, Cryptography, DApps
Top companies hiring for these high-paying jobs in India include: Tech Mahindra, CoinDCX, Auxesis, Infosys, Accenture, Capgemini, and Hitachi.
6. DevOps Engineer
A DevOps engineer works closely with IT teams and software engineers to develop and deploy software faster. They ensure faster code deployment, system reliability, and automation—making them key players in modern tech-driven enterprises.
- Average Salary: ₹8–20 LPA
- Key Skills: Jenkins, Docker, Ansible, Kubernetes, CI/CD, Linux
Top employers hiring for this role include: Amazon, Zycus, SAP, Capgemini, Comcast, and Google, among others.
7. Full Stack Developer
A full-stack developer works on both the front-end and back-end of software and websites. Their ability to manage complete development cycles makes them essential for startups and tech companies.
- Average Salary of a full stack developer in India: ₹8–18 LPA
- Key Skills: JavaScript, React, Node.js, MongoDB, HTML/CSS
Top businesses hiring talent for this high-paying job in India include Infosys, Zoho, Wipro, Dell, IBM, Siemens, and BNY Mellon.
8. Data Engineer
Next highest paying jobs in India on the list are data engineers, who is designing, constructing, and maintaining an organisation’s data infrastructure. They ensure that data is reliable, accessible, and efficiently processed for real-time insights.
A data engineer constructs and manages data pipelines, data warehouses, and other data systems with the help of various tools and technologies. Additionally, they work closely with other members of the data team.
- Average Salary of Data Engineer: ₹6–18 LPA
- Key Skills: SQL, Hadoop, Spark, Python, ETL Tools.
Top employers hiring for this role include Deloitte, Google, Accenture, Comcast, Oracle,TCS, and, Bosch, among others.
Related Program: Data Engineering Master’s Program ✍️📊
9. AI Strategist
AI Strategists are among the newest and highest-paying job roles in India. They play a vital role in helping businesses integrate artificial intelligence into their long-term strategies. These professionals design and implement AI frameworks that align with company objectives and drive sustainable business growth. A successful AI strategist must combine expertise in machine learning technologies with an in-depth understanding of business strategies.
The work they do includes ensuring that AI is implemented ethically, managing risk, and helping cross-departmental teams optimise AI-driven processes. As businesses increasingly turn to AI for competitive advantage, the need for AI strategists continues to grow.
- Average Salary: ₹15–28 LPA
- Key Skills: Data Strategy, AI Tools, Business Analytics, Automation Planning
Top Companies Hiring: IBM, Deloitte, PwC, Zycus, Cognizant
10. Business Analyst
Business analysts are among the highest-paid jobs in India. Who’s analyzing the company’s processes, systems, and operating models is a crucial component of determining its performance. They can improve business performance and help businesses make better decisions. Business analyst is a highly demanding career in India, with high salaries in the job market.
- Average Salary of Business Analyst in India: ₹8–16 LPA
- Key Skills: SQL, Power BI, Excel, Requirement Analysis, Documentation
Top Companies Who’s Hiring Data Analysts in India: Zycus, Microsoft, Citi, Accenture, IBM, Capgemini, Cognizant
Related Program: Business Analytics Master’s Program ✍️📊
11. Engineering Manager
Engineering Manager in the company manages projects and engineering teams. They supervise a group of engineers, establish project goals and objectives, and make sure projects are completed within budget and on time.
A good engineering manager must not only be a skilled engineer but also a strong communicator and effective leader. A project manager must be able to lead and inspire a team, communicate clearly with all stakeholders, and oversee a project’s budget and deadline.
- Average Salary: ₹18–35 LPA
- Key Skills: Team Management, Software Architecture, Leadership, Agile
Top employers hiring for an engineering manager position in India include Apple, Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Bosch, Flipkart, Accenture, IBM, Intel Corporation, and others.
12. IT Systems Manager
IT Systems Managers oversee the planning, implementation, and maintenance of an organization’s information technology infrastructure. They ensure that all IT operations run smoothly and meet the company’s technical and business needs.
In this role, they manage teams of network administrators, system administrators, and support technicians. Their primary focus is to maintain system security, monitor performance, and ensure that all IT systems operate efficiently and reliably.
- Average Salary: ₹10–22 LPA
- Key Skills: IT Infrastructure, Networking, Cloud, Security, Troubleshooting
Top Companies Hiring for this role: IBM, Infosys, Dell, HCL Tech, SAP, among others.
13. Software Architect
On the list, the next high paying jobs in India are a software architect, who plans and directs the creation of software systems, including their framework and technical foundation. By collaborating with key players, they develop the software system architecture to meet business requirements, as well as establish technical solutions. They make key decisions on frameworks, coding standards, and system integration.
- Average Salary: ₹16–35 LPA
- Key Skills: Java, Microservices, System Design, API Development, Cloud
Top companies are hiring for the highest paying jobs in India, including: Oracle, Amazon, Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, Accenture, Meta, SAP, among others.
14. Product Designer
A product designer shapes the design, appearance, and functionality of products, balancing creativity with practical design solutions. An experienced designer’s responsibilities are conducting research, sketching ideas, creating prototypes, and refining designs to ensure the final product is both usable and visually attractive. As part of the design process, the product designer works closely with engineers and product managers to align business objectives with technical feasibility.
In this role, you must have a solid understanding of design principles, user experience, and problem-solving techniques. User-centric design continues to drive product success, so product designers remain highly valued for their ability to create products that stand out among their competitors.
- Average Salary: ₹9–18 LPA
- Key Skills: Design Thinking, Prototyping, Figma, Adobe XD, User Research
Top companies are hiring, including: Swiggy, Zomato, Adobe, Paytm, Ola
15. UI/UX Designer
UI/UX designers are next on the list of best jobs in India! An experienced (UI/UX) designer creates engaging and seamless user experiences for digital products. Researching user needs, developing wireframes, and prototyping ensure a user-friendly, intuitive design. They work closely with developers and product teams to enhance user engagement and satisfaction.
An understanding of user behaviour and design principles is imperative to UI/UX designers today, when user experience can make or break a product’s success. Businesses prioritise user-centric design to enhance customer loyalty and satisfaction in an increasingly digital world, which drives the demand for skilled UI/UX designers.
- Average Salary of UI/UX Designer in India: ₹7–15 LPA
- Key Skills: Wireframing, Interaction Design, Figma, Usability Testing
Top Companies Hiring: Zoho, Flipkart, IBM, Google, Deloitte.
Learn: Advanced Certification in UI/UX Design Course with Generative AI ✍️📊
Best high-paying jobs for freshers
Finding the right job is one of the biggest challenges you face when entering the workforce. In reality, there are a lot of opportunities available, but you must decide which one is best suited to your particular needs. Here are a few of the most lucrative jobs that are available to fresh graduates:
Machine Learning Engineer
Data Analyst
Cloud Engineer
Software Engineer
Full Stack Developer
Cybersecurity Analyst
Become a Data Analyst & AI Professional
Advanced Data Analytics Certification Program
- Comprehensive training on Excel, Power BI, SQL & Python
- Hands-on projects with real-world business data
- Mentorship from experienced analytics professionals
Professional Training in Generative AI & Business Intelligence
- Master AI tools for business automation and data insights
- Get certified by Analytics Training Hub
- Live interactive classes led by industry veterans
Conclusion
Become an expert in AI, data science, cloud computing, and other emerging technologies. These in-demand skills can unlock access to some of the highest-paying jobs in India, offering both career growth and financial freedom.
Hi, I’m Anil Dhawan, a data analytics mentor & corporate trainer. Provide industry-driven programs and hands-on bootcamps designed to help students and professionals master real-world tools and technologies. Whether you aim to become a data analyst, AI engineer, Power BI expert or cloud architect, our training will empower you to stand out in this competitive job market with a high salary.
