Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Boulder in 2025
Last Updated: January 3rd 2025
Too Long; Didn't Read:
By 2025, Boulder is a booming tech hub boasting an average tech salary of $102,215 and a 20% wage premium over the national average. The city sees an 18% growth rate, driven by significant ventures in cloud computing and quantum tech. Leading tech roles include Cloud Architects earning $170,000, Data Scientists, and Machine Learning Engineers making over $140,000 annually. With top-tier employers like Google and innovative companies expanding here, the 207,000 square feet Terra Boulder development further boosts opportunities for tech professionals focused on AI, machine learning, and cloud engineering.
Boulder's tech scene in 2025 is absolutely crushing it with an average tech salary of $102,215 and a projected growth rate of 18% over the next three years. Major players like Google, IBM, and Microsoft are expanding their operations, while innovative startups like Stream and Atom Computing are making waves in cloud computing and quantum tech.
The city's tech talent workforce grew by 12.6% from 2018-2023, adding 14,420 new jobs, and that momentum isn't slowing down. What makes Boulder stand out is that 68% of positions offer remote or hybrid options, perfect for maintaining that work-life balance.
The University of Colorado Boulder keeps pumping out tech talent, with enrollment in tech programs up 40% since 2023. The best part? The cost of living here is way better than other tech hubs - rent only takes up 19.6% of your salary compared to 34.2% in New York.
Plus, Denver's tech scene just ranked #8 in North America, making the whole region super attractive for anyone looking to break into tech.
Whether you're into AI, cybersecurity, or software development, Boulder's got opportunities that are seriously next level.
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Ranking High-Paying Tech Jobs
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in Tech Industries
- Data Scientist in the Boulder's Growing Tech Economy
- Software Engineer: Backbone of Boulder's Tech Innovations
- IT Manager Leading Tech Teams to Success
- Product Manager Driving Technological Products
- Cloud Engineer Building Boulder's Digital Infrastructure
- Cybersecurity Analyst: Protecting Online Assets
- Machine Learning Engineer in AI-Driven Boulder
- UX/UI Designer Creating User-Centric Digital Experiences
- Conclusion: The Future of High-Paying Tech Jobs in Boulder
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Methodology for Ranking High-Paying Tech Jobs
(Up)In Boulder's tech scene, the salary game is seriously impressive right now. Cloud Architects are pulling in around $170,000 annually, while Data Scientists and Machine Learning Engineers are banking over $140,000 and $150,000 respectively.
These numbers are actually 20% higher than the national average, which is pretty wild. Our ranking methodology dives deep into real salary data, growth trends, and expansion plans from major players in the area.
The tech sector here is growing 18% faster than other cities, with companies like Flatirons, MojoTech, and Exadel leading the charge.
The tech scene is expected to keep growing at 11% through 2033.
For real success in these roles, you need to be solid in Python, Java, and cloud computing, plus having specialized skills in AI and machine learning definitely gives you an edge.
When looking at job potential, we checked out everything from entry-level to senior positions - like how graduate software engineers can start at $140,000-$155,000.
The Terra Boulder development is adding 207,000 square feet of new tech space, which means even more opportunities are coming. The best part? Companies here are actively expanding their teams and offering competitive packages to attract top talent.
- Salary Insight: Cloud Architects earn around $170,000 annually, showing a 20% increase over the national average.
- Job Growth: Boulder's tech sector is expanding 18% faster compared to other cities, with expected further growth of 11% through 2033.
- Skillset Requirements: Mastery in Python, Java, and cloud computing is crucial, along with specialized AI and machine learning skills.
- Development Opportunities: Terra Boulder is introducing 207,000 square feet of new tech space eager for top talent.
Leading companies, including Flatirons, MojoTech, and Exadel, are at the forefront.
To successfully seize opportunities in Boulder, consider bolstering your expertise in key programming languages and emerging tech fields. Robert Garcia, Sarah White, and Patricia Miller are just a few of the top talents making significant impacts in Boulder's tech landscape.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in Tech Industries
(Up)The role of Chief Executive Officer in Boulder's tech scene is seriously exciting right now. According to recent industry data, major players like Google, Microsoft, and Twitter have transformed Boulder into a legit tech powerhouse, pulling in a massive $17 billion in venture capital over the last five years.
CEOs here aren't just wearing suits and attending meetings - they're actively shaping the future of technology while working in some of the coolest office spaces around, complete with gaming lounges and creative workspaces.
The average CEO salary in tech is looking pretty sweet at $192,260, but many Boulder tech companies are offering way more when you factor in equity, bonuses, and comprehensive benefits packages.
What's really interesting is how the role is changing - modern tech CEOs need to be super comfortable with data analytics, AI implementation, and making quick decisions in a fast-moving industry.
It's not just about running the company anymore; it's about staying ahead of the curve with emerging technologies.
The best part about being a CEO in Boulder's tech scene is the incredible balance between professional growth and quality of life.
With 89 tech roles per 1,000 residents and rent taking up only 17% of tech salaries, it's a place where you can actually afford to live while building something amazing.
The combination of an active social scene, stunning outdoor activities, and a thriving professional community makes Boulder an ideal spot for ambitious tech leaders who want to make their mark while maintaining a real life outside of work.
The CEO of Nucamp, Ludo Fourrage, is among those shaping this vibrant landscape.
Data Scientist in the Boulder's Growing Tech Economy
(Up)In Boulder's 2025 tech scene, Data Scientists are earning between $98,000 to $182,000, making it one of the most rewarding career paths.
The role combines statistical analysis, machine learning, and problem-solving skills to transform complex data into actionable insights. The position is evolving - it's not just about crunching numbers anymore.
Data Scientists now work on everything from predictive models to anomaly detection, and the demand is growing fast. The hottest skills in 2025 include data strategy, data ethics, and AI systems architecture, with professionals earning premium pay rates of 18-22% above base salary for these specialized abilities.
Local tech companies are seriously investing in data science talent, offering amazing growth opportunities and competitive benefits. Boulder's tech sector is growing 18% faster than the national average, and companies like Flatirons and MojoTech are leading the charge.
Industry projections show that Data Scientist roles will expand by 73,100 jobs between 2023 and 2033, making it one of the most stable career choices.
To succeed in this field, you'll need to master Python programming, statistical analysis, and machine learning - but the payoff is totally worth it. The Terra Boulder development is adding 207,000 square feet of modern tech space, creating even more opportunities for aspiring Data Scientists to make their mark in this thriving tech hub.
Software Engineer: Backbone of Boulder's Tech Innovations
(Up)In Boulder's thriving tech scene, Software Engineers are making serious waves in 2025. Entry-level positions are starting at $80,000, with experienced engineers pulling in over $150,000 annually.
The role demands strong skills in cloud platforms and the ability to handle complex technical challenges. Boulder tech salaries are running about 20% higher than the national average, making it an awesome spot for anyone looking to maximize their earning potential.
The skills game is intense - 85% of companies are hunting for Full Stack Development expertise, with Python, React.js, and Node.js being must-have skills.
Companies like Flatirons, MojoTech, and Exadel are actively recruiting, and with the new Terra Boulder development adding 207,000 square feet of modern tech space, the opportunities are just getting started.
Major players like Northrop Grumman are offering solid entry paths for fresh graduates, with comprehensive benefits and growth potential.
The market is expected to grow 11% through 2033, which means job security is pretty much guaranteed. Plus, Boulder's perfect mix of outdoor lifestyle and innovation culture makes it an incredible place to kickstart a tech career.
Companies are competing hard for talent, offering sweet perks like flexible schedules, learning opportunities, and the chance to work on cutting-edge projects.
If you're looking to make it big in tech, Boulder's where it's at right now.
IT Manager Leading Tech Teams to Success
(Up)In 2025, IT Managers need diverse skills spanning technical knowledge, strategic planning, and leadership to thrive in Boulder's tech scene.
These professionals are the backbone of modern organizations, orchestrating technology systems and ensuring business goals align with tech capabilities. Their responsibilities include managing IT staff, overseeing budgets, and implementing innovative solutions that drive company growth.
According to industry data, IT Manager salaries now range from $73,000 to $210,000, making it one of the most financially rewarding tech careers in Boulder.
The role demands a perfect mix of technical expertise and people skills.
Change management abilities are essential, particularly when leading cloud transformations and AI/ML initiatives.
IT Managers in Boulder's top companies focus on cybersecurity, cloud engineering, and artificial intelligence, while maintaining strong team collaboration and communication.
Benefits typically include competitive health insurance, retirement plans with matching, and flexible work options that support work-life balance.
Boulder's expanding tech ecosystem, powered by established tech giants and innovative startups, drives continuous demand for IT Managers.
The role's projected 12% growth over the next five years reflects the city's digital transformation journey. Key growth areas include cybersecurity implementation, cloud infrastructure management, and AI integration projects.
As companies increasingly rely on technology for competitive advantage, IT Managers become essential leaders in steering organizational success through technical innovation and team development.
Product Manager Driving Technological Products
(Up)Product Management roles in Boulder are pretty exciting right now - over 2,000 positions are currently open across different tech companies.
I'm seriously impressed by what these roles involve. Product Managers are basically the masterminds behind tech products, working with different teams to create stuff people actually want to use.
Companies like Splunk are doing cutting-edge work in machine learning and AI, making this role even more interesting.
The pay is honestly amazing - Product Managers here typically earn between $115,000 to $165,000 per year, plus there's usually stock options and bonuses that can bump that up by another 20%.
Not bad at all for making decisions about tomorrow's tech!
Looking at the job market, companies in Boulder are searching for Product Managers who get both the technical side and the business angle.
You've got to understand what users want, work with engineers, and make sure the product actually succeeds in the market. What's really cool is that this isn't just about managing existing products - it's about creating new ones that could change how people live and work.
The skills they're looking for include understanding agile development, being good at communication, and keeping up with what's new in tech. With more startups and tech companies moving to Boulder, there's going to be even more opportunities in the next few years.
Cloud Engineer Building Boulder's Digital Infrastructure
(Up)In 2025, Boulder's cloud engineering scene is absolutely crushing it, with a growth rate that's 18% faster than the national average. As a Cloud Engineer, you get to be the mastermind behind designing and managing cloud infrastructure, making sure everything runs smoothly and securely.
The best part? The pay is seriously impressive - cloud architects in Boulder are pulling in around $170,000 annually, way above the national average. That's pretty sweet for someone who loves working with cutting-edge tech!
The job market here is on fire, especially with big players setting up shop.
Major companies are actively recruiting for roles in Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud Platform development.
What's really cool is that most positions offer flexible work arrangements, perfect for maintaining that work-life balance we all want. You'll need to know your stuff though - expertise in cloud security, container orchestration with Docker and Kubernetes, and solid coding skills are must-haves.
Want to level up your career? Leading tech companies are offering emerging talent programs specifically for cloud engineers, with starting salaries ranging from $105,995 to $157,740.
The focus is heavily on practical experience with things like infrastructure as code, CI/CD pipelines, and automated testing. If you're thinking about jumping into cloud engineering, now's literally the perfect time - Boulder's tech companies are investing heavily in cloud infrastructure, and they're looking for fresh talent to drive innovation forward.
Cybersecurity Analyst: Protecting Online Assets
(Up)As a Cybersecurity Analyst in Boulder's thriving tech scene, your mission is to protect organizations from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. According to recent market analysis, the average salary for cybersecurity professionals in Boulder has reached $141,053, with top performers earning up to $178,899.
The demand is intense - only 83% of available positions are currently filled, creating amazing opportunities for newcomers to the field.
- Technical Skills: Solid technical skills in cloud security, risk management, and incident response are required for the job.
- Entry-Level Opportunities: Entry-level positions focus on monitoring systems, analyzing security logs, and assisting with incident response.
- Major Employers: Major employers like Google, IBM, and Oracle offer extensive training programs, while local companies like LogRhythm and Red Canary provide opportunities to work with cutting-edge security tools.
- Work Flexibility: About 68% of positions offer remote or hybrid work options, giving you flexibility in how and where you work.
Looking ahead, career prospects are excellent with a projected growth rate of 32% by 2032.
Boulder's tech sector generates over $3.2 billion in economic impact annually, and cybersecurity plays a crucial role in protecting these assets. The University of Colorado Boulder has seen a 40% increase in cybersecurity program enrollment since 2023, showing just how many people are catching on to this career path.
With the zero-trust security market expected to reach $95.22 billion by 2030, there's never been a better time to jump into cybersecurity.
Machine Learning Engineer in AI-Driven Boulder
(Up)In Boulder's tech scene of 2025, Machine Learning Engineers are crushing it, creating next-level AI systems that are changing the game. These engineers don't just write code - they're building intelligent systems that drive automation and create real business value across multiple industries.
The salary situation is pretty sweet too, with Machine Learning Engineers in Boulder pulling in an average of $160,000 annually, making it one of the most financially rewarding tech careers in the area.
What's even better is that these advanced algorithms can spot patterns that traditional methods might miss, which is exactly why companies are so eager to hire ML talent.
The daily life of a Machine Learning Engineer in Boulder is super interesting.
They spend their time designing ML systems, implementing algorithms, and managing research processes to meet company goals.
It's not just about coding - they're working on everything from image recognition to natural language processing, often collaborating with data scientists and software engineers to build complete solutions.
The coolest part? They get to work with cutting-edge tools like TensorFlow and PyTorch while solving real-world problems.
What makes this career path seriously awesome is how it combines creative problem-solving with technical skills.
Machine Learning Engineers are basically the architects of artificial intelligence, building systems that can learn and adapt on their own. With Boulder's tech community growing faster than ever, and more companies investing in AI, the opportunities are everywhere.
Whether you're into self-driving cars, healthcare innovations, or creating smarter apps, there's a chance to make a real impact while working with some of the most advanced tech out there.
UX/UI Designer Creating User-Centric Digital Experiences
(Up)As a UX/UI Designer in Boulder's tech scene in 2025, you can expect to make some serious money while creating amazing digital experiences. Recent salary data shows that UI/UX designers in Colorado earn an average of $104,466 annually, with entry-level positions starting at $90,000.
The pay gets even better with experience - top UX designers in Boulder can earn up to $150,000.
The job market is super active, with positions available at both startups and major tech companies. To crush it in this field, you need skills in design software like Adobe XD, Sketch, and Figma, plus a solid grasp of user research and wireframing.
What's really cool is that design-led companies are seeing higher revenue, according to McKinsey, which means more opportunities for designers who can create user-friendly digital products.
If you're thinking about getting into UX/UI design, now's the perfect time - Boulder's tech scene is growing fast, and companies are actively looking for fresh talent who can bring new perspectives to their digital products.
The key to landing these opportunities? Build a killer portfolio that shows off your problem-solving skills and stay on top of the latest design trends through workshops and bootcamps.
With Boulder's tech ecosystem expanding and more companies prioritizing user experience, there's never been a better time to jump into this field.
Conclusion: The Future of High-Paying Tech Jobs in Boulder
(Up)Boulder's tech scene is absolutely crushing it! According to recent market data, tech professionals here are making 20% more than the national average, with Cloud Architects pulling in a sweet $170,000 annually.
The job market is seriously heating up, and companies are literally fighting over talented people. Boulder's cybersecurity sector is especially hot, with an average salary of $141,053 and top earners hitting nearly $180K. What's super cool is that 68% of these positions offer remote or hybrid work - perfect for maintaining that work-life balance we all want! Major players like Google, IBM, and Microsoft are expanding their presence here, and with the new Terra Boulder development adding 207,000 square feet of modern tech space, there's room for everyone.
Local economists predict steady growth through 2025, with more jobs than available workers, which means competitive salaries and amazing benefits.
The best part? You don't need decades of experience - companies are actively seeking fresh talent and offering solid training programs. Whether you're into AI, cybersecurity, or full-stack development, Boulder's tech scene is seriously the place to be!
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What is the average tech salary in Boulder in 2025?
The average tech salary in Boulder in 2025 is $102,215, which is 20% higher than the national average.
Which tech fields in Boulder offer the highest-paying jobs?
Cloud Architects are among the highest-paid in Boulder, earning around $170,000 annually. Other lucrative fields include Data Science and Machine Learning Engineering, with salaries over $140,000 and $150,000 respectively.
How does the cost of living in Boulder compare to other tech hubs?
The cost of living in Boulder is more favorable compared to other tech hubs, with rent taking up only 19.6% of an average salary compared to 34.2% in New York.
What are the key skill requirements for tech jobs in Boulder?
Key skills for tech jobs in Boulder include mastery in Python, Java, and cloud computing, along with specialized skills in AI and machine learning.
What are the anticipated growth trends for Boulder's tech sector?
Boulder's tech sector is experiencing an 18% faster expansion compared to other cities, with a projected growth of 11% through 2033. The Terra Boulder development is also adding 207,000 square feet of new tech space, enhancing growth opportunities.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.