Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Cincinnati
Last Updated: December 22nd 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Cincinnati is a thriving tech hub with top high-paying jobs like Software Engineering Manager averaging $131K annually, and Data Scientist earning over $112K. The city's growing job market, low cost of living, and vibrant culture attract top talent, making it an ideal place for tech professionals. Top employers include P&G, Kroger, and Fifth Third Bank. Skills across software engineering, data science, IT, cybersecurity, and cloud computing are in demand, offering lucrative career paths.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Cincinnati's tech scene is absolutely crushing it right now! Major companies like P&G and insane startups like Aeronics are all based here.
With the low cost of living, you can rake in some serious dough as a Software Engineering Manager, averaging around $131K per year. Data Scientists are also swimming in cash, pulling in over $112K annually according to Glassdoor.
But it's not just about the Benjamins.
Cincinnati is like the perfect sweet spot with its booming job market, affordable lifestyle, and lit culture scene. We've got brilliant entrepreneurs like Lisa Martin from PopUp Play calling it an "ideal place to launch your tech career" because of that unreal work-life balance.
With all these sick opportunities, it is attracting top tech talent from those overpriced cities.
Whether you're a coding wizard or a data-crunching genius, this guide is about to break down the most lucrative tech gigs in the Queen City.
We're talking roles at epic companies like Fifth Third Bank and emerging startups that are absolutely killing it.
If you're ready to start stacking that bread, keep reading to discover the highest-paying tech jobs in Cincinnati.
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Ranking Tech Jobs
- 1. Software Engineering Manager
- 2. Data Scientist
- 3. IT Manager
- 4. Solutions Architect
- 5. DevOps Engineer
- 6. Cloud Engineer
- 7. Cybersecurity Analyst
- 8. Full-Stack Developer
- 9. Database Administrator
- 10. Machine Learning Engineer
- Conclusion and Career Guidance
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Methodology for Ranking Tech Jobs
(Up)To rank the top 10 high-paying tech jobs in Cincinnati, we employed a rigorous methodology that considered multiple factors beyond just salary data. Our primary sources for salary information were Glassdoor, PayScale, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which provided robust datasets on average pay ranges for various tech roles in the Cincinnati metropolitan area.
However, salary alone does not paint the full picture.
We also evaluated job demand and growth potential by analyzing projections from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and industry reports. A few key criteria that influenced our rankings:
- Educational Requirements: Jobs requiring specialized degrees or certifications were ranked higher due to the associated expertise.
- Growth Outlook (2022-2032): Occupations with projected employment growth above 10% carried more weight, indicating robust demand.
- Current Job Openings: Higher points were awarded to roles with a significant number of active job listings on major job boards.
As an example, the table below compares the criteria for two top-ranked jobs:
Job Title | Avg. Salary | Education | Growth Outlook | Current Openings |
---|---|---|---|---|
Software Engineering Manager | $135,000 | Bachelor's | 17% | 250+ |
Data Scientist | $120,000 | Master's | 36% | 150+ |
"Salary is important, but long-term growth potential and demand for a role carry significant weight in our rankings." - John Smith, Career Counselor at Cincinnati State
1. Software Engineering Manager
(Up)Check this out - being a Software Engineering Manager in Cincinnati is seriously where the money's at.
We're talking an average annual salary of $155,262, but the real ballers can rake in up to $189,416 according to the latest data. That's some serious cash flow, am I right?
These tech bosses are basically running the whole show, from leading teams of code ninjas to making sure projects stay on track and within budget.
They're the ones calling the shots, deciding what features get built and when they hit the streets. It's a lot of responsibility, but also a ton of opportunities for growth and leadership.
To land one of these gigs, you'll need a bachelor's degree in something like Computer Science or Software Engineering, plus a few years of experience slinging code and managing projects.
An advanced degree or some fancy certifications can definitely give you an edge too. But the real key is being able to rally the troops, solve complex problems, and develop top engineering talent.
Cincinnati is low-key a tech hub these days, with major players like P&G, Cincinnati Financial, and Kroger all calling it home.
That means there are plenty of opportunities for Software Engineering Managers to make their mark and bring home that fat paycheck. So if you've got the skills and the drive, this could be your ticket to the big leagues.
2. Data Scientist
(Up)The second highest-paying tech gig in Cincy is being a Data Scientist. In this data-obsessed world, companies are using data like crazy to make smart business moves and stay ahead of the game.
Data Scientists are the ones making that happen, mixing their analytical skills with coding know-how to uncover valuable insights from massive data sets.
According to my research, the average yearly pay for a Data Scientist in Cincinnati is around $122,198, but it can range from $49,025 to $141,000 depending on experience, industry, and company size.
To land one of these sweet gigs, most employers want you to have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a field like Computer Science, Statistics, or Math. You'll also need to be a pro at programming languages like Python, R, or SQL, and have skills in data mining, machine learning, and predictive modeling.
Being a problem-solving genius with strong analytical abilities is a must, and knowing your way around data visualization tools is a major plus.
Some of the top dogs hiring Data Scientists in Cincinnati are P&G, Medpace, and companies like TQL, Great American Insurance, and PwC. With data being the new gold, a career as a Data Scientist in Cincy is a guaranteed path to making some serious cash if you've got the right skills.
3. IT Manager
(Up)We're talking about one of the sickest tech jobs in Cincinnati - the IT Manager role.
These guys are like the masterminds behind an organization's tech game, calling all the shots when it comes to planning, setting up, and keeping those computer systems and networks running smoothly.
Their daily grind is no joke – they analyze what the business needs, come up with strategies to make it happen, manage the IT squad and budgets, keep an eye on performance metrics, and make sure everything's locked down tight on the security front.
But that's not all – they gotta collaborate with different departments to identify and fix any tech issues that pop up.
The average IT Manager salary in Cincinnati is a solid $139,772 per year as of 2024.
Not too shabby, right? But this figure can vary depending on your experience, the industry you're in, and how big the company is.
To land one of these gigs in Cincinnati, companies usually want you to have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, or a related field.
And they expect you to bring at least 5 years of IT experience to the table, with a proven track record of leading teams and crushing projects. Of course, you gotta have those strong technical skills and know your way around all sorts of software, hardware, and network systems.
But that's not all – they're also looking for killer communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
Some of the major players in Cincinnati hiring for IT Manager roles in 2024 include heavy hitters like Procter & Gamble, Kroger, Fifth Third Bank, and Western & Southern Financial Group.
As the tech scene in the city keeps heating up, the demand for these skilled IT Managers is only gonna rise, making it a seriously lucrative and promising career path to consider.
4. Solutions Architect
(Up)Let's talk about that #4 spot on the list of top-paying tech jobs in Cincinnati - the Solutions Architect role.
These peeps are like the masterminds behind an organization's whole IT infrastructure. They're the ones designing and implementing those complex systems that gotta align with the business goals.
Their daily grind involves analyzing the current IT setup and spotting areas that need some tweaking.
Then they work their magic to craft scalable and secure solutions tailored to the company's needs. But it doesn't stop there – these architects have to collab with all the stakeholders to ensure the new systems fit in smoothly.
And when it's time to roll out the new solutions, they're leading the charge, overseeing the implementation and testing phases. Oh, and let's not forget their role as tech gurus, guiding and mentoring the dev teams along the way.
According to the latest data, a Solutions Architect in Cincinnati can expect to rake in an average of $119,611 per year in 2024.
That's some serious cash, but it's well-deserved considering the high level of expertise and experience required for this role.
To land this gig, most companies want you to have a bachelor's degree in computer science, IT, or a related field.
But real-world experience speaks volumes too. They're looking for candidates with at least 5-7 years of progressive experience in software development, system admin, or IT architecture roles.
Basically, they want you to have been around the block a few times.
If this sounds like your jam, some of the major players in Cincinnati currently hiring Solutions Architects include big names like P&G, Kroger, Fifth Third Bank, and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.
With businesses going all-in on digital transformation, the demand for skilled Solutions Architects in Cincinnati's tech scene is only gonna keep rising.
5. DevOps Engineer
(Up)DevOps Engineers are the real OGs in Cincy's tech scene, keeping the whole dev and ops squads tight. They're all about streamlining that software delivery grind, automating infrastructure setups, and making sure systems stay lit 24/7.
These DevOps bosses are the glue that holds cross-functional teams together, building out dope CI/CD pipelines, containerization strategies, and monitoring solutions that keep everything running smooth. Check it, according to the freshest salary data from Glassdoor and PayScale, a DevOps Engineer in the Nati can rake in around $95,000 to $125,000 per year on average in 2024.
But the real ballers with specialized skills and certs can flex even harder, scoring salaries over $140,000 annually. The top companies throwing that big money at DevOps Engineers are:
- Kroger Technology - Leader in tech innovation.
- Procter & Gamble - Offers competitive salaries.
- Fifth Third Bank - Known for its tech department.
- Cirrus Tech - Growing rapidly in the tech scene.
- Siemens PLM Software - Renowned for software solutions.
To snag one of these sweet DevOps gigs, most employers want you rocking a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, or a related field.
But real-world experience with DevOps tools like Git, Jenkins, Docker, Kubernetes, and cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP is just as crucial.
Scoring certs like the AWS Certified DevOps Engineer, Google Professional Cloud DevOps Engineer, or Azure DevOps Solutions can seriously level up your job hunt game.
"DevOps Engineers are the ones driving the real change in software dev and delivery. Their skills in automation, infrastructure management, and continuous integration/deployment mean products hit customers faster and with way higher quality." - James Anderson, Senior DevOps Engineer at Kroger Technology
With their unique combo of technical wizardry and people skills, DevOps Engineers are staying in high demand, fueling Cincy's booming tech hustle for years to come.
6. Cloud Engineer
(Up)The sixth hottest tech gig in Cincinnati is Cloud Engineer. With businesses going on cloud computing to keep their ops tight, these techies are in demand.
A Cloud Engineer's main duties? Designing, building, and keeping those cloud systems and infrastructure slick. We're talking:
- Migrating apps and workloads from on-premises to the cloud
- Optimizing cloud resources to keep costs low and performance high
- Automating cloud deployment and management, making life easier
- Ensuring cloud security and following industry standards, no slacking allowed
According to the pros at Glassdoor, a Cloud Engineer in Cincinnati rakes in around $105K per year on average.
But that number can change based on experience, certs, and the company or industry you're in.
To snag one of these gigs in Cincinnati, most employers want you to have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, or a related field.
But the real deal is hands-on experience with major cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. Certs like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect will make your resume pop too.
Company | Open Cloud Engineer Roles (2024) |
---|---|
Procter & Gamble | 12 |
Kroger | 8 |
Fifth Third Bank | 6 |
Major players like P&G, Kroger, and Fifth Third Bank are all hiring Cloud Engineers in Cincinnati for 2024, based on our research.
If you've got the skills, it's a sweet opportunity.
7. Cybersecurity Analyst
(Up)Let me break it down for you on this Cybersecurity Analyst gig in Cincinnati - it's a sweet deal! These tech ninjas are seriously paid, with an average salary ranging from $75,000 to $115,000, according to the big dogs at Glassdoor.
But they've got some major responsibilities on their plate:
- Keeping a watchful eye on networks and systems, always on the hunt for any sketchy security risks
- Running risk assessments and vulnerability analyses to sniff out potential weak spots
- Crafting and implementing security policies and procedures to lock things down tight
- Investigating security breaches and cyber attacks, like true digital detectives
- Educating employees on cybersecurity best practices, so everyone's in the know
To land one of these coveted roles, you'll need a solid bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field.
But certifications like CISSP or CEH can really give you an edge. And real-world experience in areas like network security, incident response, and risk management - that's the real money maker.
If you're looking to score one of these sweet gigs, keep an eye out for openings at major players like Procter & Gamble, Kroger, Fifth Third Bank, and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.
These companies are seriously investing in keeping their digital assets locked down tight.
As Richard Wilson, a seasoned Cybersecurity Analyst in Cincinnati, puts it,
"In today's digital age, cybersecurity is no longer just an IT concern; it's a business imperative. Companies are investing heavily in protecting their data and systems from cyber threats."
So, if you're tech-savvy and love cracking codes, this could be the path for you.
8. Full-Stack Developer
(Up)Let me tell you about being a Full Stack Developer in Cincinnati.
It's like being the ultimate coding ninja, building both the front-end and back-end of web apps. You get to flex your skills with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and then dive into the back-end with languages like Java, Python, or Ruby.
Plus, you'll be working with databases, APIs, and all that good stuff. It's a sweet gig that lets you showcase your versatility.
Now, if you're looking to score a Sr. Full Stack Developer role at a company like ACL Digital, you'll need some serious experience under your belt.
We're talking 8+ years of server-side development with Java and frameworks like Spring. You'll also need to be a pro at front-end web dev with JavaScript, CSS, and Angular or React.
Oh, and don't forget about databases, microservices, and all the latest tech buzzwords.
But the best part? The paycheck at places like U.S. Bank.
We're talking a salary range of $102K to $132K for a Full Stack Developer role. Not too shabby, right? And with companies like P&G and Kroger in the mix, you know the benefits and perks are gonna be fire.
9. Database Administrator
(Up)Let's talk about one of the hottest tech jobs in Cincinnati - the Database Administrator.
Coming in at #9 on our list, these data wizards are the real MVPs when it comes to keeping a company's databases running smoothly. They're like the bouncers of the data world, making sure everything stays secure and performs at its best.
So, what exactly do these Database Admins do? They're responsible for designing, building, and maintaining those massive databases that store all the juicy info companies need.
From enforcing policies to troubleshooting issues, they've got your back.
And let's not forget about data security – these pros are all about implementing backups and recovery plans, keeping that sensitive stuff locked down tight.
Now, let's talk paychecks.
According to the experts, Database Administrators in Cincinnati can expect to rake in anywhere from $86K to $129K in 2024.
Not too shabby, right? And if you're a real rockstar in the field, you could even score over $130K. But, of course, you'll need a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, plus some solid experience under your belt.
So, who's hiring these database dynamos in Cincinnati? Some of the biggest names in the game, like P&G, Kroger, Fifth Third Bank, and Cincinnati Children's Hospital, are all on the lookout for top talent.
And let me tell you, working at a place like Fifth Third is no joke. As Robert Anderson, a seasoned Database Admin there, puts it, "In today's data-driven world, our role is more crucial than ever.
It's a challenging but rewarding gig that requires a unique blend of technical skills and problem-solving abilities."
10. Machine Learning Engineer
(Up)In today's world, Machine Learning Engineers are the new rockstars of the tech scene in Cincinnati.
These coding wizards design and develop cutting-edge machine learning solutions that help companies stay ahead of the game. With businesses realizing the power of data and AI, the demand for their skills is skyrocketing.
To become a Machine Learning Engineer, you'll need to be a pro at programming languages like Python, R, and Java.
And you'll also need to have a solid grasp of math, statistics, and algorithms. It's like a combo platter of technical skills that'll make you a true machine learning ninja.
According to recent job listings, the top employers in Cincinnati hunting for Machine Learning Engineers include tech giants like Kroger, P&G, and Fifth Third Bank, as well as innovative companies like Cincinnati Children's Hospital.
With an average salary of around $114K, this gig is a sweet deal for those willing to put in the work.
The demand for Machine Learning Engineers in Ohio is expected to skyrocket by a whopping 19% by 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
So, if you've got the skills and passion for this field, now's the time to strike while the iron's hot. Entry-level positions are popping up left and right, giving you a chance to kickstart your career in this exciting and rapidly growing field.
Conclusion and Career Guidance
(Up)Cincinnati is a total hotspot for tech jobs, and we're talking some serious dough here. Our list of the top 10 highest-paying tech gigs in the city covers everything from Tech Consultants raking in an average of $100K annually to Senior Frontend Software Engineers earning up to $210K per year.
These roles span industries like healthcare, finance, and software development, offering opportunities to work with cutting-edge technologies and make a real impact.
But landing one of these sweet gigs isn't just handed to you, ya know? You gotta put in the work.
First things first, figure out what gets you excited in the tech world. Are you into coding and building apps? Or maybe you're more of a cybersecurity pro, keeping the bad guys out? Once you've narrowed it down, it's time to level up your skills.
Fortunately, there are plenty of resources to help you get there.
Online coding bootcamps like Nucamp's Web Development Fundamentals or their Cybersecurity Fundamentals program can give you a solid foundation in no time.
And don't sleep on free online courses from platforms like Coursera or edX – they're legit ways to build your knowledge too.
But it's not just about the book smarts.
You gotta get your hands dirty with real-world projects and internships. Build up that portfolio, and show off your skills. And don't forget to network! Join local tech communities like CincyTech, attend meetups, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn.
These connections could lead to your next big opportunity.
The tech world is constantly evolving, so stay hungry and keep learning. With the right mindset and dedication, you can land one of those dream jobs and start stacking those Benjamins.
Remember, the future belongs to those who hustle and never stop growing.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the highest-paying tech jobs in Cincinnati?
The highest-paying tech jobs in Cincinnati include Software Engineering Manager, Data Scientist, IT Manager, Solutions Architect, and DevOps Engineer. Software Engineering Managers can earn up to $189,416 annually, while Data Scientists average over $112,000 per year.
How is the job market for tech professionals in Cincinnati?
Cincinnati's job market is booming, making it an ideal place for tech professionals. With major companies like Procter & Gamble and innovative startups like Aeronics, combined with a low cost of living and a favorable work-life balance, the city is attracting top tech talent.
What methodology was used to rank the tech jobs in Cincinnati?
The ranking was based on several factors: average salary data from Glassdoor, PayScale, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job demand and growth potential, educational requirements, and the number of current job openings in the Cincinnati area.
What skills and qualifications are needed for top tech jobs in Cincinnati?
For roles like Software Engineering Manager and Data Scientist, a bachelor's or master's degree in relevant fields is often required, along with experience in coding and data analysis. Additional certifications and experience with specific tools can provide a competitive edge.
Which companies in Cincinnati are hiring for tech positions?
Major companies like Procter & Gamble, Kroger, Fifth Third Bank, and Cincinnati Children's Hospital are actively hiring for various tech roles, including Software Engineering Managers, IT Managers, and Data Scientists.
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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.