Getting a Job in Tech in Bakersfield in 2024: The Complete Guide

Bakersfield's tech scene is heating up, with the industry becoming a key player in the city's economy. Recent data shows the tech sector in Bakersfield is set to grow by 12% in 2024, beating the national average of 7%.

This growth is fueled by a budding startup ecosystem, big tech companies expanding, and more investment in digital infrastructure. Working in tech here has its perks - the average tech salary is $85,000, which is 40% higher than the overall median income.

Plus, Bakersfield offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to tech hubs like San Francisco or LA, with housing costs 30% below the California average.

The city's job market is diverse, with opportunities in healthcare, education, and professional services alongside tech.

For those looking to break into the industry, coding bootcamps in Bakersfield can be a great starting point.

With its mix of job growth, affordable living, and 270 days of sunshine a year, Bakersfield is becoming a sweet spot for tech professionals who want good pay and a nice life balance.

This guide will dive into Bakersfield's growing tech scene, showing you how to get your foot in the door, what jobs are hot right now, and how to crush it in 2024 and beyond.

Bakersfield is shaping up to be a serious contender in California's tech scene, offering some pretty sweet perks for anyone looking to make it in the industry.

The city's tech landscape is on fire, with a 15% jump in tech jobs last year and an expected 20% growth by 2025. What's really cool is how Bakersfield's tech ecosystem is evolving, with a mix of established companies and fresh startups.

You've got places like Alpha Technologies, B.I.S. Technologies, and Cloud Ten Labs leading the charge.

The city's also becoming a hotspot for tech events, with over 50 planned for 2024, including the quarterly Bakersfield Tech Summit and monthly Women in Tech meetups. These gatherings are perfect for networking and staying on top of the latest trends. The Bakersfield Tech Alliance is killing it too, aiming to double its 500+ members by year-end.

• Affordability of Bakersfield: Bakersfield is way more affordable than other Cali tech hubs. We're talking median home prices around $350,000 compared to San Francisco's eye-watering $1.3 million. That means you can actually have a life outside of work without going broke.
• Thriving Local Startups: Local startups like Bitwise Industries are thriving, recently securing $80 million in funding. They're all about tapping into local talent and have already upskilled over 10,000 people in the past decade. This focus on community development is creating a ton of opportunities for tech newbies and pros alike.
• Upcoming Developments: Another exciting development is the major development planned for Southeast Bakersfield in 2024, which could bring even more tech opportunities to the area.

With its growing tech scene, strong community vibe, and killer cost of living, Bakersfield is seriously worth considering for your tech career in 2024.

It's not just about saving money - it's about being part of a tech community that's on the rise and making a real impact.

Breaking into tech in Bakersfield in 2024 is more accessible than ever, with a variety of pathways to choose from. The city is actively building career and STEM awareness for tomorrow's workforce through events like the Kern County Career & STEM Expo.

This free event, held at the Career Technical Education Center, connects students with local employers, showcasing the diverse opportunities available right here in Bakersfield.

For those looking to kickstart their tech journey, Bakersfield College offers apprenticeship programs in fields like Data Analysis and Help Desk Support, providing hands-on experience alongside formal education.

These programs often waive enrollment fees, making them an affordable option for many. The Kern County Superintendent of Schools is also working on building career pathways for students, starting as early as middle school.

This initiative aims to prepare students for the local job market, potentially leading to associate degrees upon high school graduation.

For those seeking intensive training, coding bootcamps like Nucamp offer flexible, cost-effective programs in web development and cybersecurity.

Additionally, organizations like Garden Pathways provide training opportunities that can lead to multiple certifications, enhancing job prospects in various industries.

With the tech sector growing rapidly, focusing on in-demand skills like Python, JavaScript, and cloud computing remains crucial.

By combining formal education, practical skills, and local industry knowledge, aspiring tech professionals in Bakersfield can position themselves for success in 2024 and beyond.

Bakersfield's tech scene is on fire in 2024, with tons of opportunities for IT pros. The Information Technology sector in Kern County is set to grow by 11.2% between 2020 and 2030, which is pretty sweet.

Let's break down the hottest IT fields right now:

• Cybersecurity: This field is blowing up with a 31% job growth rate. Local businesses are all about protecting their digital stuff.
• Data Science and Analytics: The Bureau of Labor Statistics says this field will grow 36% by 2031. Bakersfield's oil industry is driving big demand here.
• Cloud Computing: As more businesses move to the cloud, the need for cloud experts is skyrocketing.
• Software Development: Always a solid choice, with a 25% growth rate expected by 2031.
• AI and Machine Learning: These fields are getting huge, with a 40% growth rate predicted by 2030.

Now, here's the cool part - the average IT salary in Bakersfield is $119,650 per year.

That's way higher than I thought! Plus, Bakersfield's cost of living is lower than big tech hubs, so you can actually enjoy your money.

Some of the best entry-level IT jobs include computer support specialist, database administrator, and information security analyst.

These roles are perfect for getting your foot in the door.

If you're looking to switch from a non-tech job, don't worry. Bakersfield's tech job market is pretty welcoming to career changers.

You might want to check out coding bootcamps or online courses to skill up quickly.

The city's also got some cool initiatives like the Bakersfield Youth Jobs Program, which offers paid internships and fellowships for young people aged 16 to 30.

It's a great way to get some real-world experience.

Bottom line: If you're into tech, Bakersfield in 2024 is the place to be. With high salaries, growing job opportunities, and a lower cost of living, you can build a solid career and actually have a life outside of work.

It's pretty much a win-win situation.

Bakersfield's tech scene is leveling up in 2024, with some seriously cool jobs taking center stage. Machine Learning Engineers are crushing it, needing skills in AI, programming, and problem-solving.

They're joined by Cybersecurity Engineers, who are basically the superheroes of the digital world, protecting us from online threats. Data Scientists and Engineers are also in high demand, crunching numbers and finding insights that businesses can't get enough of.

Software Developers are still going strong, with their ability to build amazing apps and programs. And don't forget about Cloud Engineers, who are making sure everything runs smoothly in the digital stratosphere.

Here's a quick rundown of the hottest tech jobs in Bakersfield for 2024:

1. Machine Learning Engineer: Skilled in AI, programming, and problem-solving.
2. Cybersecurity Engineer: Protects against online threats.
3. Data Scientist/Engineer: Crunches numbers to find insights.
4. Software Developer: Builds amazing apps and programs.
5. Cloud Engineer: Ensures smooth operation of cloud systems.

These roles are offering some sweet salaries and tons of room to grow.

Check out some of the big players hiring in Bakersfield:

• Global CTI: Looking for cybersecurity and cloud experts
• ProSoft Technology: Hunting for software developers and data engineers
• Stria: Seeking machine learning specialists for document processing

The tech job scene in Bakersfield is getting a boost from startups and up-and-coming tech companies too.

According to recent data, the average salaries for tech roles in Bakersfield are looking pretty good:

Job Title	Average Salary
Machine Learning Engineer	$140,000
Cybersecurity Engineer	$140,000
Data Scientist	$150,000
Software Developer	$106,000
Cloud Engineer	$130,000

Michael Davis, a recruiter at CharTec, one of Bakersfield's top tech companies, says: "The tech scene here is on fire. We're seeing a huge demand for skilled pros across all areas of tech, and the chances to level up your career are insane."

This matches up with the local job market data, showing a 20% increase in tech job postings for Bakersfield compared to last year. For anyone looking to break into tech or take their career to the next level, Bakersfield is offering a killer combo of competitive pay, room to grow, and a way more affordable lifestyle than you'd find in San Francisco or LA. With the right skills and hustle, tech pros in Bakersfield can expect to find some awesome opportunities and a community that's all about pushing the boundaries of what's possible with technology.

Networking is key in the tech world, and Bakersfield's growing tech scene is no different. A recent survey showed that 78% of local tech pros got their jobs through networking.

That's huge! If you're looking to break into or level up in Bakersfield's tech sector, there are tons of ways to connect both face-to-face and online.

Local events are where it's at.

In 2024, Bakersfield is hosting over 50 tech events, which is 25% more than last year. Don't miss out on the Bakersfield Tech Summit, Kern County Innovation Fair, and Central Valley CodeCamp.

These aren't just for meeting potential bosses and coworkers; they're goldmines for learning what's hot in the industry. Plus, people who go to these events are 40% more likely to land job interviews within six months.

That's a pretty sweet deal!

If you're more into online networking, Bakersfield's got you covered. The "Bakersfield Tech Connect" group on LinkedIn has over 5,000 members and is buzzing with activity.

There's also the "Kern County Developers" Slack channel where you can chat in real-time and spot job openings - they post about 15 new opportunities every week.

Want to make the most of your networking? Try these tips:

• Hit up at least one local tech event each month: Make a point to attend and engage at least one event monthly.
• Join and actually talk in online tech communities: Participate actively and contribute to discussions.
• Follow and interact with Bakersfield tech companies on social media: Stay updated and engage with their posts.
• Volunteer for tech projects in the community: Get involved and offer your skills to local projects.

As job market trends indicate, networking is crucial for landing tech roles.

The demand for network technicians, for example, is projected to grow 5% from 2018 to 2028. To stay competitive, it's essential to craft a personal brand narrative and maintain your network consistently.

Remember, in Bakersfield's close-knit tech community, your next big break could be just a conversation away.

Don't shy away from making local connections. With the city's tech scene on the rise and a strong community vibe, building solid professional relationships could lead to some seriously cool career moves in 2024 and beyond.

As the key benefits of technology in the workplace continue to evolve, staying connected is more important than ever for your career growth.

Switching to tech at 40+ in Bakersfield isn't just possible - it's becoming a smart move. The city's tech scene is booming with opportunities for career changers.

One success story shows how someone with a business degree became a network engineer in under 2 years, proving it's never too late to make the switch.

Bakersfield's tech companies are all about diversity, valuing both fresh grads and experienced professionals. The Kern County Career Services has seen a huge jump in older attendees at their tech workshops, and Bakersfield College's adult tech courses are filling up fast.

Local tech meetups for the over-40 crowd are growing like crazy, showing there's a real community for older tech newbies.

Employers here are loving what mature professionals bring to the table - life experience, solid communication skills, and leadership abilities that come with time.

Plus, older employees tend to stick around longer, which is a big win for companies. The "Tech Mentorship Bakersfield" program is doing amazing things, connecting career switchers with tech pros who can show them the ropes.

The "Bakersfield Tech Career Fair" now has a special section just for older job seekers, which has led to way more job placements.

Career change success stories from various fields show that it's totally doable to pivot into tech, even if your background is in something completely different.

Local tech leaders are all about this trend, saying that the mix of industry knowledge and excitement for new tech that older hires bring is super valuable. So if you're thinking about jumping into tech in Bakersfield, don't let your age hold you back.

The city's tech scene is ready and waiting for what you've got to offer. With all the support and opportunities available, it's clear that success stories of career switchers aren't just exceptions - they're becoming the norm in Bakersfield's tech world.

Crafting a standout resume for tech jobs in Bakersfield is crucial in 2024. Tech resumes should be simple, easy to read, and error-free.

Focus on quantifying the impact of your past work or projects and highlight a few key skills you've mastered rather than listing everything you've ever touched.

When applying, tailor your resume to each job, incorporating the specific skills required. This approach beats sending out generic applications en masse.

• Resume Format: Keep it clean and professional. Include an up-to-date contact section at the top with a professional email address. List your experience and education relevant to the position, starting with the most recent. If you have work gaps, briefly explain them between job entries. An objective statement at the top of your resume is key, answering questions about the type of job you want, how it aligns with your career path, and what skills you bring to the company.
• Interview Preparation: Go beyond technical knowledge. Research the company and its role in Bakersfield's tech scene. Practice explaining complex concepts simply and prepare examples of problem-solving. Familiarize yourself with local tech trends. During the interview, demonstrate both your technical expertise and understanding of how your role would contribute to Bakersfield's tech ecosystem. Remember, successful candidates often show a blend of technical skills andlocal industry knowledge.
• Cover Letter: To stand out further, consider including a well-crafted cover letter that outlines your interest in the specific position and summarizes your qualifications. This extra effort can make a significant difference in catching a potential employer's attention in Bakersfield's competitive tech job market.

In Bakersfield's tech scene, staying on top of your game through continuous learning is a must. It's not just about getting a degree and calling it quits – it's about constantly leveling up your skills.

Bakersfield College offers CompTIA certifications, which are globally recognized and can seriously boost your IT career prospects.

But it's not just about formal education. Upskilling and continuous learning are crucial in the tech industry, where things change at lightning speed.

Whether it's AI, blockchain, or quantum computing, there's always something new to learn. According to a Pew Research study, 73% of US adults consider themselves lifelong learners, and in tech, that number is probably even higher.

The cool thing is, technology itself is making learning easier and more accessible.

Online platforms, virtual classrooms, and even VR are changing how we pick up new skills. For Bakersfield tech pros, this means you can learn cutting-edge stuff without leaving your room.

Local tech employers are all about candidates who keep their skills fresh. Popular certs like CompTIA A+, AWS Certified Solutions Architect, and CISSP can bump up your salary by 15-35%.

But it's not just about the money – it's about staying relevant in a field that's always changing. As Christopher Thompson from Bakersfield Tech Innovations points out, those who commit to learning are the ones who really make it big.

So, whether you're just starting out or you've been in the game for a while, embracing lifelong learning is your ticket to staying ahead in Bakersfield's tech world.

It's all about adapting, growing, and being ready for whatever new tech comes our way.

As we wrap up our guide to "Getting a Job in Tech in Bakersfield in 2024," let's highlight the key points and give you a boost for your tech career journey. Bakersfield's tech scene is on the rise, and it's an exciting time to jump in.

The city offers a unique blend of opportunities and affordability that's hard to beat. Tech hiring rates are high, and tech workers are in great demand, despite some layoffs in 2023.

Here's why Bakersfield is a smart choice for tech professionals in 2024:

1. Growing job market: Diverse opportunities in system support, cybersecurity, full stack development, data science, and cloud computing
2. Competitive salaries: Tech salaries often surpass the city's median income
3. Lower cost of living: More bang for your buck compared to other California tech hubs
4. Strong community: Regular tech meetups and networking events

For those looking to break into Bakersfield's tech scene, consider these tips:

• Skill up: Pursue relevant certifications and bootcamps, like those offered by Nucamp's coding bootcamps in Bakersfield
• Network: Attend local tech events and leverage online platforms
• Tailor your resume: Customize for each application to stand out
• Embrace continuous learning: Stay updated with the latest tech trends

Bakersfield's tech job market is evolving, with promising sectors including:

Sector	Trend
Cybersecurity	High demand
Data Science	Growing rapidly
Software Development	Steady growth

It's never too late to start your tech career in Bakersfield.

The city's tech community welcomes professionals from all backgrounds. In fact, many successful tech professionals in Bakersfield are career changers. Switching from a non-tech background to a tech job in Bakersfield is totally doable with the right approach and resources. Remember to make use of local resources like the Bakersfield College Career Services and explore programs offered by the Regional Occupational Center (ROC) for hands-on tech training.

Stay persistent, keep learning, and embrace the supportive Bakersfield tech community. With these strategies and the city's growing opportunities, you're set for an awesome tech career in 2024 and beyond!