Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Charleston in 2024

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 4th 2024

Charleston skyline with tech job icons representing top-paid positions in 2024

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Charleston's tech job market is booming, with tech roles projected to increase by 21% in 2024. Top-paying positions include Software Engineer, Data Scientist ($112,000), and Cloud Solutions Architect ($128,418). The rising demand is fueled by a thriving tech ecosystem. The average tech salary in Charleston was $86,710 in 2022, substantially above the national average.

Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.

Charleston is straight-up blowing up as a tech hub lately! By 2024, the number of tech jobs in the area is projected to skyrocket by 21%, according to reports.

The average tech salary in Charleston was already a solid $86,710 back in 2022, way higher than the national average. Safe to say, if you're looking to cash in on some prime tech gigs, Charleston is where it's at.

But what are the real money-makers in Charleston's tech scene for 2024? According to a study by Robert Half Technology, the top-paying roles are Software Engineer at $118,500, Data Scientist at $126,700, and DevOps Engineer at $122,800.

Talk about some serious bread! And with Charleston's tech ecosystem flourishing thanks to business-friendly policies and a growing talent pool, these high salaries are sure to keep attracting the cream of the crop to the region.

Charleston is also becoming a hub for life sciences companies.

According to reports, the city saw a 67% increase in life sciences establishments between 2018 and 2022, the fastest growth among major metro areas. And with top players like the Charleston Digital Corridor supporting innovation and growth, the future looks bright for tech careers in Charleston.

Table of Contents

  • Methodology for Ranking the Best Paid Tech Jobs
  • 1. Software Engineer
  • 2. Data Scientist
  • 3. DevOps Engineer
  • 4. Product Manager
  • 5. Cybersecurity Analyst
  • 6. Cloud Solutions Architect
  • 7. Mobile Application Developer
  • 8. IT Project Manager
  • 9. Business Intelligence Analyst
  • 10. UX/UI Designer
  • Conclusion and Future Trends in Charleston's Tech Job Market
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology for Ranking the Best Paid Tech Jobs

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To figure out the top 10 best-paid tech jobs in Charleston for 2024, we dug deep into data from a ton of legit sources. We're talking industry reports, salary databases, and job listings – all to make sure our ranking is on point.

Key places we checked out included the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook, PayScale, Glassdoor, Indeed Salaries, LinkedIn Jobs, Dice, CompTIA, and Engine Insights.

Our main priorities were average salary, job demand, and growth potential.

Jobs with higher average paychecks in Charleston, based on multiple sources, scored major points. But we also considered how many openings there were and the projected growth rates to see which roles were in high demand and had a solid future.

By blending all this data together, we could objectively pinpoint the most lucrative and promising tech careers in Charleston for 2024.

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1. Software Engineer

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Software Engineering is where it's at if you want to stack some serious cash in Charleston come 2024.

We're talking top dog in the best-paid tech gigs. These coding wizards are the masterminds behind every dope app and program you can't live without. From dreaming up fresh ideas to making that code sing, they do it all.

Our research says the average Software Engineer in Charleston could be raking in a cool $123,600 annually by 2024.

That's some major bank! To land one of these sweet gigs, you gotta have the skills to pay the bills. We're talking coding languages like Java, Python, and C++ on lockdown.

Knowing your way around Agile development, algorithms, and data structures is key too. Employers want you to be a problem-solving machine with killer communication skills.

With Charleston's tech scene blowing up, the demand for Software Engineers is about to go off the charts in 2024.

Job openings are popping up left and right, from startups to major corps. To snag one of these roles, you'll need a solid bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering.

But that's just the start – employers want to see you've got the hands-on experience to back it up. Once you're in, the sky's the limit with opportunities to level up as a Lead Engineer, Architect, or even a CTO down the line.

2. Data Scientist

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Charleston, are y'all ready for the hottest tech job taking over in 2024? I'm talking about data scientists - these brainiacs are raking in some serious cash! According to that Glassdoor report, we're looking at an average salary of $112,000.

Not too shabby, right? But what exactly do these data whizzes do?

  • Big Data Handling: They collect and process mountains of data (we're talking terabytes here, folks)
  • Complex Modeling: Build complex statistical models and machine learning algorithms that make sense of all that chaos
  • Data Visualization: Turn those findings into slick visualizations and reports that even the bigwigs can understand
  • Continuous Optimization: Constantly searching for ways to optimize and improve data-driven solutions (because why settle for good when you can have great?)

To hack it as a data scientist in Charleston, you gotta be a master of programming languages like Python and R, know your way around machine learning techniques, databases, and data viz tools.

Oh, and let's not forget those problem-solving skills - you'll need 'em to tackle those complex data challenges. Most employers will expect you to have a bachelor's or master's degree in a quantitative field like computer science, stats, or math.

The job outlook for data scientists in Charleston is absolutely insane.

The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce predicts a 28% growth in employment opportunities for data scientists and mathematical science occupations between 2020 and 2030.

That's way higher than the national average, folks! So if you've got the skills, Charleston is the place to be for a killer career in data science.

"As data becomes the driving force behind innovation, data scientists will play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the future of businesses across sectors." - Michael Chui, Partner at McKinsey Global Institute

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

3. DevOps Engineer

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Let me tell you about DevOps Engineers in Charleston - they're like the superheroes of the tech world, making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

In 2024, these coding ninjas will be bridging the gap between software development and IT operations, and companies are going to be fighting over them like crazy.

Imagine being able to streamline and automate the entire process of creating, testing, and deploying software applications.

That's what DevOps Engineers do, and they're getting paid big bucks for it. We're talking an average salary of $112,000 per year in Charleston.

To land one of these sweet gigs, you've got to have some serious skills - coding in Python, Go, or Ruby, mastering tools like Ansible, Terraform, and Docker, and being a pro at cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP.

But it's not just about the tech skills, you've got to be a team player too.

DevOps Engineers are all about collaboration, breaking down those walls between development and operations teams. They're the ones making sure everyone's on the same page, and that things get done efficiently without any hiccups.

With companies racing to deliver software faster than ever, these DevOps wizards are in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says employment for DevOps Engineers is expected to grow by 20% from 2021 to 2031, way faster than most other jobs.

If you're looking for a career that's challenging, well-paid, and always keeping you on your toes, DevOps Engineering in Charleston might be the move.

Just be ready to level up your skills in scripting languages, containerization, CI/CD pipelines, and cloud platforms. And brush up on those communication skills too - you'll be the one keeping everyone in sync.

4. Product Manager

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Charleston's tech scene is blowing up, and being a Product Manager is where the action's at! In 2024, these bosses can score an average of $112,000 per year, making bank while calling the shots on rad products.

They're the masterminds behind innovative tech, blending biz smarts with tech wizardry.

To crush it as a Product Manager in Charleston, you gotta have mad skills – product strategy, market analysis, user experience design, the whole nine yards.

But it's not just about the technical know-how; top-notch communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities are key. Most employers want candidates with a bachelor's in a related field like computer science, business, or engineering, but an MBA or a master's can give you a serious edge.

The demand for these tech gurus is skyrocketing in Charleston.

According to the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, the local tech industry is projected to grow by 15% in the next five years, creating a ton of opportunities for Product Managers to lead the charge on game-changing projects.

And with cutting-edge tech like AI, IoT, and VR shaping the future, Product Managers who can navigate that terrain will be highly sought after.

As Charleston's tech ecosystem keeps leveling up, being a Product Manager is one of the most lucrative and rewarding career moves.

With the right skills, drive, and a commitment to continuous learning, these tech rockstars can look forward to a bright future in this ever-evolving industry.

As Michael White said,

"You've got to start with the customer experience and work back toward the technology."

The best Product Managers in Charleston will embody that philosophy, driving innovation, keeping customers stoked, and shaping the future of tech.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

5. Cybersecurity Analyst

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Charleston's tech scene in 2024 is going to be exciting, and Cybersecurity Analysts are going to be well-compensated.

These professionals are highly skilled when it comes to keeping a company's computer systems and networks secure from hackers, data breaches, and malware. Their primary responsibility is developing and implementing security measures, monitoring network activity, assessing risks, and handling security incidents effectively.

The average salary for Cybersecurity Analysts in Charleston is expected to reach $92,500 in 2024, which is a significant amount.

However, to secure one of these positions, you must possess a solid skillset. You need a strong foundation in computer science, networking, and information security.

You must be proficient in coding languages like Python, Java, and C++, have a thorough understanding of security tools and technologies such as firewalls and encryption, possess exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities, and stay updated with industry regulations and compliance standards like HIPAA and PCI DSS.

  • Coding chops with languages like Python, Java, and C++
  • Knowledge of security tools and tech (firewalls, encryption, etc.)
  • Next-level analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Familiarity with industry regs and compliance standards

Employers in Charleston are seeking candidates with reputable certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), or Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP).

As cyber threats continue to evolve, the demand for Cybersecurity Analysts will only increase.

CyberSeek is projecting a 32% increase in job openings nationwide for this role between 2021 and 2031.

If you possess the necessary skills and certifications, Charleston could be an excellent opportunity for you to secure a well-paying position in 2024.

6. Cloud Solutions Architect

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The tech game in Charleston is about to get lit, and if you're into that cloud business, this is your chance to cash in big time. Check it out: by 2024, Cloud Solutions Architects are gonna be raking in an insane average of $128,418 per year, straight up ballers! But it ain't just about the Benjamins, this role is all about being a tech wizard and making companies' cloud systems sleek, secure, and scalable AF.

As a Cloud Architect, you'll be the one designing and implementing those fancy cloud infrastructures, making sure they can handle whatever gets thrown at them.

You gotta be a master of all things cloud, from AWS and Microsoft Azure to Google Cloud Platform. We're talking top-notch coding skills, knowledge of containerization tech like Docker and Kubernetes, and a solid grip on DevOps practices and automation tools.

Oh, and don't forget about cloud security – you better be up on your game when it comes to keeping those systems locked down tight!

According to the experts, the cloud computing market is projected to skyrocket at a crazy 17.9% annual growth rate between now and 2027.

That means big demand for cloud ninjas like you, especially in up-and-coming tech hubs like Charleston. With the city's thriving tech scene and companies going all-in on cloud solutions, landing a sweet Cloud Architect gig in Charleston by 2024 is gonna be easier than stealing candy from a baby.

7. Mobile Application Developer

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Mobile Application Developers are totally killin' it these days, with businesses going all out to provide mobile apps to their customers. In Charleston, this role is going to be fire by 2024, with an average annual salary of $92,500 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Their main gig is designing, developing, testing, and launching mobile apps for platforms like iOS and Android. They work closely with designers, product peeps, and other devs to ensure users get an awesome experience and all the cool features they need.

To slay in this field, you gotta be solid with programming languages like Java, Swift, Kotlin, React Native, and know your way around mobile architectures and APIs.

Being a pro at mobile UX/UI design principles, agile development methods, and version control systems like Git is clutch too. Here are the key skills Mobile App Devs need to bring to the table:

  • Mastery of native (iOS, Android) and cross-platform dev frameworks
  • Experience with mobile app security and performance optimization
  • Knowledge of mobile app deployment and distribution processes
  • Problem-solving and analytical abilities
  • Understanding of mobile hardware capabilities and limitations

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 22% job growth for Mobile App Devs from 2022 to 2032, which is way faster than most other gigs.

This growth is fueled by the world's obsession with mobile devices and the need for fresh, user-friendly apps across industries like e-commerce, healthcare, finance, and entertainment.

As Charleston keeps attracting tech companies and startups, skilled Mobile App Devs are going to have career opportunities in this city.

8. IT Project Manager

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As a Project Manager in Charleston, you'll be riding the wave of the city's rapidly growing tech scene.

This role is all about steering crucial projects to success, and companies are ready to shell out some serious cash – we're talking an average of $73k to $136k annually for the right person.

To snag one of these gigs, you'll need to bring your A-game in areas like Agile and Scrum methodologies, technical know-how, leadership skills, and problem-solving abilities.

The demand for Project Managers in IT is only going to keep rising, with projections showing an 8% growth rate by 2030.

Charleston's thriving startup ecosystem and the influx of major tech companies setting up shop here mean plenty of opportunities to level up your career. As "The Silicon Valley of the South," this city offers a chance to work on cutting-edge projects and be part of Charleston's tech transformation.

9. Business Intelligence Analyst

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The business intelligence jobs in Charleston are heating up. As companies get more data-driven, roles like Business Intelligence Analyst in South Carolina are becoming in-demand.

These data wizards collect, analyze, and translate complex info into insights that drive the big decisions. According to the latest intel from job sites, salaries for Business Intelligence Analysts in Charleston can range from around $68K to over $198K per year, with most scoring between $80K-$150K. The big bucks depend on experience, with senior roles or specialized skills like cloud security bringing in the highest pay. To land one of these gigs in Charleston, you'll need some serious chops like SQL, Python, Tableau, and data visualization skills.

Companies want analysts who can turn messy data into clear reports and dashboards that tell a story. A bachelor's or master's degree in comp sci, stats, or a related field is usually required, but certs can help too. The job outlook in Charleston is bright, with top companies like Boeing, Blackbaud, and MUSC all hiring Business Intelligence Analysts.

If you're a data-crunching mastermind who can communicate insights, Charleston could be your next big career move in 2024.

10. UX/UI Designer

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Check this out - UX/UI Designers are total rockstars when it comes to making digital products look slick and work like a charm. In Charleston, these creative geniuses are in high demand, and raking in an average of $88,000 annually! That's some serious cash for crafting user-friendly experiences.

But it's not just about the Benjamins.

To be a UX/UI pro, you gotta have mad skills like wielding design tools effortlessly, understanding how humans interact with tech, and translating research into mind-blowing solutions.

You'll need to speak the lingo of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and be a pro at collaborating with different teams. It's a multifaceted gig, but totally worth it if you're a creative problem-solver at heart.

Charleston's tech scene is booming, especially in healthcare, e-commerce, and software, so the demand for UX/UI wizards is only going to skyrocket.

According to the experts, job opportunities in this realm could soar by 22% from 2020 to 2030.

That's insane growth!

While a degree in graphic design or human-computer interaction can give you a solid foundation, what really matters is your portfolio – a top UX/UI pro in Charleston says a kickass portfolio speaks volumes more than fancy credentials.

So, get creative, gain some real-world experience through internships or bootcamps, and showcase your user-centered brilliance to potential employers. The tech world in Charleston is your oyster!

Conclusion and Future Trends in Charleston's Tech Job Market

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Charleston's tech scene is booming, and the job prospects are looking fire in 2024! The city added 1,500 jobs last January, with hospitality and professional services leading the charge.

Registered nurses and software devs are among the hottest careers in town.

CompTIA predicts IT hiring will soar from 52% in Q1 2023 to 61% by Q4 2024, with full-stack, back-end, AI, and junior dev roles being top priorities. The real game-changers, though? Emerging fields like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

These cutting-edge disciplines are spawning new gigs like machine learning engineers, cloud architects, and ethical hackers. Talk about a career path that'll keep you at the forefront of innovation! Want to get in on the action? Stay hungry and keep leveling up those skills.

Check out local bootcamps and networking events - they're clutch for making connections and staying ahead of the curve.

And don't sleep on those industry certs either! With the right combo of technical know-how and hustle, you could be raking in six figures as a top-paid techie in the Holy City.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the projected growth rate for tech jobs in Charleston by 2024?

By 2024, the number of tech jobs in Charleston is projected to increase by 21%, according to reports.

What is the average salary for a tech job in Charleston?

The average tech salary in Charleston was $86,710 in 2022, higher than the national average.

Which tech job is expected to be the highest paying in Charleston in 2024?

Cloud Solutions Architect is expected to be the highest paying tech job in Charleston in 2024, with an average annual salary of $128,418.

What are some of the in-demand skills for tech jobs in Charleston?

In-demand skills for tech jobs in Charleston include proficiency in coding languages (Java, Python, C++), knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), mastery of tools like Docker and Kubernetes, and strong problem-solving and communication skills.

How is Charleston's tech ecosystem expected to grow beyond tech roles?

Charleston's tech ecosystem is flourishing, with significant growth in life sciences companies and the tech sector driven by business-friendly policies and a growing talent pool. Roles like Product Managers and Cybersecurity Analysts are expected to see significant demand.

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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.