Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Amarillo in 2025

The tech scene in Amarillo is absolutely crushing it in 2025! According to recent market data, the tech sector is growing at an impressive 27% rate with over 437 IT-related jobs currently available.

The average tech salary has reached $85,000, with entry-level positions starting at $42,500 - not bad for getting your foot in the door! What's really exciting is that senior tech positions can earn up to $185,745, especially in software development and cloud architecture.

The local job market is super active with a low 2.5% unemployment rate, and companies are specifically looking for skills in cloud computing, AI engineering, and cybersecurity.

Major employers are offering competitive packages, and the cost of living is 14% below the national average, which means your tech salary goes even further.

The combination of rapid industry growth, numerous job openings, and solid entry-level opportunities makes Amarillo a perfect launch pad for anyone looking to start their tech career.

Plus, with the upcoming tech job fairs in early 2025, there's never been a better time to jump into tech in Amarillo!

As a fresh graduate looking at tech career opportunities in 2025, I'm excited to break down how we ranked these awesome jobs in Amarillo.

The methodology is pretty straightforward - we focused on three main things that actually matter to someone starting their career. First, the latest salary data shows AI Architects making over $200k, while even entry-level cybersecurity roles are pulling in six figures due to a massive talent shortage.

Speaking of shortages, job demand is super intense right now, with 61% of hiring managers planning to expand their teams, especially in cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity.

What's cool is that companies are now more flexible about experience requirements - they care more about skills than years on the job.

The education scene at Amarillo College is seriously impressive.

Their tech programs are totally in sync with what employers want, especially in hot areas like AI research and machine learning.

The best part? You don't need to spend forever in school - many students are landing great jobs right after completing focused programs. Local tech companies are actively partnering with the college, offering real-world projects and internships that often turn into full-time positions.

When ranking these jobs, we looked at how each role connects with Amarillo's growing tech scene.

The city's becoming a legit tech hub, with companies specifically looking for talent in cloud architecture, cybersecurity, and AI development. What's really interesting is how local employers are competing with remote work opportunities, pushing salaries higher and offering better perks to keep talent in Amarillo.

This mix of local opportunity and competitive compensation makes these tech roles seriously worth considering for anyone starting their career.

In 2025, Cloud Architects are leading the tech industry in Amarillo with impressive salaries hitting $201,572 annually, making it the highest-paying tech position in the region.

These professionals are the masterminds behind designing and managing cloud infrastructure, ensuring everything runs smoothly as companies move their operations to the cloud.

They're basically the architects of the digital future, creating strategies that help businesses work smarter and faster.

The role demands a mix of technical expertise and leadership skills, including deep knowledge of cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.

What makes this job even more interesting is how it combines technical know-how with business strategy. Cloud Architects need to understand both the tech side and the business side, making sure everything works together perfectly while keeping costs under control.

The most successful Cloud Architects master these essential skills:

• Designing scalable cloud solutions that grow with the company
• Managing security and compliance, which is super important in 2025
• Working with different programming languages to achieve flexibility
• Understanding complex network infrastructures thoroughly
• Leading teams and communicating effectively with stakeholders

The career outlook is seriously bright for Cloud Architects in Amarillo, especially with major tech companies expanding their operations here.

The combination of Amarillo's growing tech scene and lower cost of living (14% below national average) makes it an attractive spot for tech professionals. With more companies investing in cloud technology every day, Cloud Architects can expect their skills to stay in high demand, with opportunities for career growth and even higher earnings in the future.

Machine Learning Engineers in Amarillo are shaping the future of AI technology, with salaries ranging from $89,759 to $107,349 and an average base of $98,257, according to recent salary data.

These tech innovators design, build, and deploy machine learning models that power everything from predictive analytics to autonomous systems. Working closely with data scientists and software developers, MLEs are responsible for creating algorithms that enable machines to learn from data and adapt over time.

Their core responsibilities include data preparation, model building, and deployment of AI solutions across various industries.

The role demands expertise in programming languages like Python and Java, plus strong mathematics and statistics skills.

In Amarillo's growing tech scene, Machine Learning Engineers are particularly valued for their ability to transform businesses through AI integration.

Local tech sector growth shows a 27% increase in opportunities, with AI and Machine Learning Engineers earning competitive salaries around $133,538.

Key industries employing MLEs include healthcare, finance, and manufacturing, where they develop solutions for process automation and data analysis. The demand for these professionals continues to rise as more companies recognize the value of AI-driven decision-making.

Successful MLEs combine technical expertise with problem-solving skills, creating innovative solutions that drive business growth while staying current with rapidly evolving AI technologies.

In 2025, Data Scientists in Amarillo are seriously crushing it in the tech scene. According to recent industry reports, these digital detectives earn a median salary of $108,020, with those in scientific research pulling in up to $126,430 annually.

Their daily grind involves way more than just number-crunching - they're the masterminds behind machine learning models, statistical analysis, and turning messy data into crystal-clear insights.

A typical day includes exploring datasets, building predictive models, and using tools like Python and R to solve complex problems.

They're basically the tech world's problem solvers, working with everything from customer behavior patterns to market trends.

What makes this role super interesting is how it combines technical skills with creative thinking.

Data Scientists help companies make smarter decisions by analyzing massive amounts of information - like how Chick-fil-A uses 3D cameras and edge computing to keep their food fresh.

They're not just sitting behind screens all day; they're constantly collaborating with different teams, explaining complex findings in ways everyone can understand, and staying up-to-date with the latest tech trends.

The career path is looking super bright in Amarillo, with entry-level positions starting around $90,000 and experienced pros making well over $150,000.

Plus, there's tons of room to grow into roles like Lead Data Scientist or Chief Data Officer. The best part? The field keeps evolving with new technologies, so there's always something cool to learn.

For anyone interested in tech who loves solving puzzles and working with cutting-edge tools, this career is seriously worth checking out.

Software Engineers are the creative force behind today's tech revolution, crafting everything from mobile apps to complex cloud systems. According to Forrester's 2025 predictions, developers spend about 24% of their time coding, with the rest focused on design, testing, and collaboration.

In Amarillo, these professionals are especially valued for developing tech solutions for local healthcare and agriculture sectors. The field is seriously competitive - Forbes reports companies are averaging 300 open software engineer positions each, with a 12% increase in job postings year-over-year.

The pay is impressive too - Software Engineers in Amarillo can expect to earn between $110,000 to $135,000 annually, which is pretty amazing considering the national average is $104,828 plus bonuses.

What makes this role even cooler is the variety - you could work on front-end development creating awesome user interfaces, tackle back-end systems, or dive into specialized areas like AI and machine learning.

The job security is solid too, with a projected 17% growth from 2023 to 2033. Whether you're building sleek mobile apps or programming smart agricultural systems, Software Engineers are essential to keeping Amarillo's tech scene moving forward.

Best part? You can often work remotely and have flexible hours, making it perfect for maintaining a balanced lifestyle while earning great money.

Network Security Engineers are seriously in demand right now, with an average salary hitting $128,441 in 2025, and even entry-level positions starting at $90,421.

According to recent cybersecurity research, organizations are doubling down on network security to combat evolving cyber threats, especially in environments where traditional endpoint security isn't possible.

These professionals are the frontline defenders against cybercriminals who are getting more creative with their attacks.

The role requires sharp technical skills and constant adaptation to new threats.

Key responsibilities include managing system backups, implementing security blueprints, maintaining firewalls, and controlling data access.

What's super interesting is how AI is changing the game - Network Security Engineers now need to understand both defensive and offensive AI applications in security.

They're using AI-powered tools to detect threats faster while staying ahead of AI-enhanced attacks.

Looking ahead to 2025, the field is shifting towards zero-trust security models and cloud security optimization.

With the rise of remote work, these professionals are crucial in protecting distributed networks and ensuring data privacy across various platforms. Companies are investing heavily in cybersecurity talent, recognizing that strong network security isn't just about protection - it's about maintaining customer trust and business continuity.

The role requires certifications like CISSP or CEH, plus programming skills in languages like Python and Java. For anyone interested in tech and security, this career path offers both exciting challenges and serious growth potential.

The cybersecurity landscape in 2025 is intense, with ransomware attacks spiking by 41% in 2022 and healthcare breaches costing a staggering $10.1 million per incident.

Cybersecurity Engineers are the digital warriors who protect organizations from these escalating threats. With major employers in Amarillo expanding their security teams, these professionals are more crucial than ever.

According to recent industry analysis, 93% of employees knowingly increase cybersecurity risks, while 74% of security breaches involve human error.

This reality makes the role of Cybersecurity Engineers particularly vital as they design and implement robust defense systems. Their key responsibilities include:

• Enforcing security policies: Creating and enforcing security policies and protocols to protect data and systems efficiently.
• Intrusion protection: Installing firewalls and intrusion detection systems to prevent unauthorized access and threats.
• Incident management: Managing incident response and crisis situations to ensure swift recovery and minimal damage.

In Amarillo, Cybersecurity Engineers are seeing their value skyrocket, with salaries averaging $130,000 annually.

The field's growth is driven by emerging threats like AI-powered attacks and sophisticated phishing schemes.

The shift to remote work has expanded the attack surface, creating more opportunities for these professionals. Local educational institutions are stepping up, offering specialized programs that combine hands-on experience with cutting-edge security practices.

The field demands constant learning, as technologies evolve and threats become more sophisticated. With cybercrime projected to cost organizations trillions by 2025, Cybersecurity Engineers are absolutely essential for protecting digital assets and maintaining business continuity.

Their expertise in implementing Zero Trust Architecture and managing AI-driven security tools makes them invaluable in today's hyper-connected world.

In 2025, DevOps Engineers are the tech heroes bridging the gap between software development and IT operations.

They're crushing it with automation tools and processes, making software deployment faster and more reliable than ever before. The average salary range for DevOps Engineers in Amarillo has reached $110,000-$140,000 annually, with entry-level positions starting around $72,845.

DevOps teams are revolutionizing software delivery through shared responsibility and collaborative approaches.

Their toolkit includes Docker, Jenkins, and Kubernetes, which they use to build seamless CI/CD pipelines and automate everything they can get their hands on.

The DevOps scene is transforming rapidly, and the roadmap for aspiring DevOps Engineers now includes essential skills like cloud computing, containerization, and infrastructure as code.

Key responsibilities range from implementing security measures to monitoring system performance and managing cloud services. With Amarillo's tech sector growing at 15% and major projects creating over 1,000 new tech jobs, DevOps Engineers are becoming more crucial than ever.

The role combines technical expertise with problem-solving skills, making it perfect for those who love both coding and improving processes. Knowledge of Python, Linux, and cloud platforms like AWS or Azure is essential, while experience with automation and monitoring tools can fast-track career growth.

The future of DevOps in Amarillo looks incredibly promising. As companies continue to prioritize digital transformation, the demand for skilled DevOps Engineers keeps growing. The role is becoming more sophisticated with the integration of AI and ML tools, while security and compliance remain top priorities. With the city's cost of living at 14% below the national average and tech salaries projected to rise by 7% annually, Amarillo is becoming a sweet spot for DevOps professionals looking to build their careers in a thriving tech ecosystem.

As an Information Security Analyst in 2025, I get to be like a digital detective, protecting organizations from cyber threats.

The work is seriously intense - we're constantly analyzing data to spot system weaknesses before the bad guys can exploit them. According to recent stats, the average salary for this role in Amarillo is $84,045, with potential to earn more based on experience and certifications.

What's really cool about this job is that you're basically a guardian of the digital realm, using cutting-edge tools to keep organizations safe.

The field is absolutely booming right now - 3.5 million cybersecurity positions are expected to be unfilled by the end of the year.

That's huge! My daily routine includes testing for vulnerabilities, responding to security incidents, and making sure everything stays locked down tight. It's not just about playing defense - we're actively hunting for threats and staying ahead of potential attacks.

The best part? Every day brings new challenges, and you're constantly learning as technology evolves. Plus, you get to work with some seriously advanced tools and help protect people's sensitive information.

It's pretty rewarding knowing you're making a real difference in keeping organizations secure.

As a Penetration Tester, you get to be the good guy who hacks systems to protect them.

It's honestly one of the coolest jobs in cybersecurity - we're talking about professionals who conduct authorized cyberattacks to find weak spots before real hackers do.

The best part? The average salary ranges from $90,000 to $120,000, with experienced testers making over $150,000 annually.

That's some serious cash for helping companies stay secure! The role is super hands-on, requiring sharp problem-solving skills and creative thinking to outsmart potential attackers.

According to recent industry data, the demand is growing like crazy, with a 31% projected growth rate through 2029.

That's way faster than most other tech jobs!

Daily responsibilities include:

• Running security tests using specialized tools and techniques. It's about actively testing systems to identify vulnerabilities.
• Finding and documenting system vulnerabilities. The focus is on thorough research and documentation.
• Creating detailed reports on security gaps. These reports are vital for understanding and addressing risks.
• Recommending fixes to strengthen security. Offering solutions to fix the identified vulnerabilities.

In Amarillo's tech scene, major companies are actively seeking pen testers as cyber threats become more sophisticated.

The role requires solid coding skills in languages like Python and JavaScript, plus a deep understanding of network protocols and security frameworks. What makes this career path really exciting is that you're always learning - new threats emerge constantly, and staying ahead of malicious hackers means keeping up with the latest attack methods and defense strategies.

Whether you're working remotely or on-site, each day brings new challenges and opportunities to protect critical systems and data. If you're interested in cybersecurity and love solving complex problems, becoming a pen tester could be your perfect career match.

AI Research Scientists are seriously changing the game in 2025, pushing the boundaries of what's possible with artificial intelligence. According to recent industry reports, the demand for AI research scientists is expected to grow 20% by 2033, making it one of the most exciting career paths in tech.

These professionals aren't just writing code - they're planning experiments, developing breakthrough algorithms, and creating solutions that transform industries.

In Amarillo's growing tech scene, AI Research Scientists can earn between $150,000 to $180,000 annually, with experienced professionals commanding even higher salaries.

The role requires some serious skills - from mastering complex AI concepts to staying current with evolving tools like OpenAI's models and Google's Gemini.

The coolest part about being an AI Research Scientist is getting to work on problems that actually matter.

Recent breakthroughs show AI researchers making huge strides in fields like drug discovery, climate modeling, and quantum computing.

In Amarillo, they're working with healthcare providers to improve patient care, helping financial institutions detect fraud, and partnering with manufacturing companies to optimize operations.

The job isn't just about the technical stuff - you need to be good at explaining complex ideas to different teams and turning research into real-world applications.

For anyone interested in this field, getting a strong foundation in Python, machine learning, and data structures is essential. With major projects like the CVMR Minerals Refinery creating over 1,000 tech jobs in Amarillo, the opportunities for AI researchers are only going to grow.

Need a tech career in Amarillo? The future's looking seriously bright in 2025! Machine learning and AI skills are absolutely crushing it right now, with local companies competing hard for talent.

The best part? You don't need a traditional four-year degree to break in. Continuous learning through bootcamps and certifications is the way to go - they're faster and totally focused on what employers actually want.

Nucamp's bootcamps are perfect for this, offering flexible payment plans starting at $458 for Web Development Fundamentals, all the way up to comprehensive Full Stack programs.

Want to stand out? Regular skill updates are absolutely essential.

The tech scene here is moving super fast, especially in cybersecurity and cloud computing. Nucamp's got scholarships for different groups - from Women in Tech to High School grads - making it easier to get started.

Local tech meetups and the Amarillo Tech Accelerator are amazing for networking and getting real experience. I'm honestly excited about how Amarillo's tech community is growing - there's never been a better time to jump in and start building your future in tech!