Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Des Moines in 2024
Last Updated: December 5th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Des Moines' tech sector is booming, employing over 27,000 people and generating $10 billion annually. Top-paying tech jobs for 2024 include Software Development Managers ($139,730), Cloud Solutions Architects ($130,890), and Data Architects ($123,670). Job postings increased by 18% from 2019 to 2021, highlighting demand in areas like software development, cybersecurity, and data analytics. Major trends driving growth include AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Keep an eye on emerging technologies and continuous learning to stay competitive.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Des Moines is really making moves as a rising tech hub, and the industry is set to blow up even more by 2024.
According to reports, the tech sector here employs over 27,000 people and generates a massive $10 billion economic impact annually. This growth is being fueled by a huge demand for tech skills across various industries, from finance and healthcare to manufacturing and agriculture.
A report from the Greater Des Moines Partnership shows that job postings for tech roles in the area increased by 18% between 2019 and 2021.
Companies are seriously hungry for talent in areas like software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, and cloud computing. As Des Moines keeps attracting major tech players and startups, the demand for skilled professionals is only going to skyrocket further.
Jay Byers, CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership, said:
"The tech industry is a critical driver of our region's economy, and we are committed to developing a skilled workforce to meet the growing needs of employers."
To keep up with this demand, local initiatives are happening to upskill the workforce and promote tech education.
With competitive salaries, a low cost of living, and a thriving startup scene, Des Moines is positioning itself as an attractive destination for tech professionals looking for rewarding careers.
If you're interested in getting into the tech field, check out Nucamp's coding bootcamps to gain the skills companies are seeking.
Table of Contents
- Methodology Used to Rank the Best Paid Tech Jobs
- 1. Software Development Manager
- 2. Data Architect
- 3. Cloud Solutions Architect
- 4. IT Program Manager
- 5. Cybersecurity Manager
- 6. DevOps Engineer
- 7. Data Scientist
- 8. Full-Stack Developer
- 9. IT Security Consultant
- 10. Database Administrator
- Conclusion and Future Outlook
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Methodology Used to Rank the Best Paid Tech Jobs
(Up)To figure out the best-paid tech jobs in Des Moines for 2024, we used a solid approach focused on real facts and expert predictions. The main source for salary info was the Bureau of Labor Statistics' data on wages, specifically for the Des Moines area.
Using local numbers made sure the rankings showed the real deal in Des Moines, not just national averages that might not fit the vibe here.
But salary alone wasn't enough.
We gave major props to job growth projections and demand trends, since those directly impact earning potential and career chances. Data from Iowa's workforce folks, plus insights from tech industry leaders like CompTIA and Robert Half Technology, gave us a complete picture of the tech roles set to explode in Des Moines by 2024.
The key was highlighting roles with competitive pay and serious growth potential in Des Moines' booming tech scene.
We looked at factors like:
- Average 2024 Salary: Projected annual wages based on official stats and industry growth estimates.
- Job Growth Outlook: How much employment opportunities will increase or decrease from 2019 to 2024, according to Iowa's projections.
- In-Demand Skills: Analysis of the tech skills and expertise companies are hungry for, based on job postings and employer surveys.
- Industry Trends: Evaluation of new technologies, business needs, and market forces shaping the future of tech roles in Des Moines.
Focusing on these data-driven factors means the ranking gives a forward-thinking, comprehensive view of the most lucrative and promising tech careers in the Des Moines area for 2024.
1. Software Development Manager
(Up)The top dog in Des Moines' tech scene for 2024 is the Software Development Manager role.
These professionals are the bosses who lead teams of coders, devs, and programmers on a mission to create mind-blowing software. Their daily grind involves managing the entire development cycle from start to finish, collaborating with different squads to turn business needs into technical specs, keeping projects on track with timelines and budgets, implementing coding standards that make the final product flawless, and mentoring their crew to level up their skills.
To rock this gig, you'll need a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field, plus tons of experience in development and project management.
But that's not all – you gotta be a coding prodigy with multiple programming languages under your belt, a master of agile methods, and a boss at leading teams and communicating clearly.
According to the data, the average salary for Software Development Managers in Des Moines is a whopping $116k-$162k, with job growth expected to skyrocket by 9% thanks to the city's booming tech scene.
Major players like Dwolla, Worldpay, and Principal Financial Group are all seeking experienced Software Development Managers in Des Moines to captain their cutting-edge software ships.
If you've got the skills to pay the bills, this could be your golden ticket to a seriously lucrative tech career in the heart of Iowa.
2. Data Architect
(Up)Being a Data Architect is going to be a major role in Des Moines by 2024. These tech wizards will be tasked with designing and managing a company's entire data infrastructure, from databases to warehouses.
Their job? Analyzing data needs, developing data models, implementing security measures, and ensuring top-notch data quality.
To excel in this role in Des Moines in '24, you'll need some serious credentials, like a bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field.
You need to be a pro at database management systems like Oracle, SQL Server, and PostgreSQL, but also have skills in data modeling, warehousing, and governance frameworks.
And don't forget programming languages like Python, Java, and R – those will be essential.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly income for Data Architects in Des Moines is estimated to be a solid $123,670 in 2024.
That's substantial, thanks to the high demand for these tech professionals. Plus, the job market looks promising, with an 8% increase in opportunities expected from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than most other occupations.
As data continues to drive business decisions, Data Architects will be essential in 2024.
Key trends shaping their job market include:
- Cloud adoption: More companies adopting cloud-based data platforms and big data tech
- Data security: A major focus on data security, privacy, and compliance with regulations
- AI integration: Integrating AI and machine learning into data management processes
- Data governance: High demand for data governance and quality management expertise
To stay on top of the game, Data Architects in Des Moines will need to continuously level up their skills and keep up with the latest tech and industry best practices.
3. Cloud Solutions Architect
(Up)Let's talk about being a Cloud Solutions Architect in Des Moines, because that's where the money's at in 2024! These tech wizards are the masterminds behind companies' whole cloud game.
They design, build, and manage those cloud systems that keep everything running smoothly online.
To make that cash as a Cloud Solutions Architect in Des Moines, you gotta have serious skills with cloud tech like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
Knowing your way around programming languages such as Python and Java is also a must. And don't forget about virtualization, containerization, and automation – those are the building blocks of the cloud world.
Most employers want you to have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, plus some certifications from the big cloud providers.
But the effort's worth it. We're talking an average salary of around $132,570 in Des Moines by 2024, and that's just the start! With cloud tech taking over the world, these jobs are only going to keep growing.
4. IT Program Manager
(Up)Being an IT Program Manager in Des Moines is a sweet gig, especially if you're into managing complex IT projects and products.
These tech wizards oversee the entire lifecycle, from planning to execution, ensuring everything runs smoothly and aligns with the company's goals. They juggle cross-functional teams, budgets, and timelines like pros.
To rock this role in 2024, you'll need some serious skills under your belt.
Companies will be hunting for candidates with:
- Killer project management chops, like PMP or PRINCE2 certifications
- Proven leadership abilities to manage teams effectively
- Communication game strong enough to keep stakeholders in the loop
- Deep knowledge of IT frameworks, methodologies, and best practices
- Expertise in agile and waterfall project management approaches
You'll typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, IT, or a related field, plus loads of professional experience managing IT projects.
But some companies might be flexible if you have the right mix of skills and experience.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the average annual salary for an IT Program Manager in Des Moines to be around $127,490 in 2024.
Not too shabby, right? And with a projected 7% job growth between 2021 and 2031, driven by the rising demand for complex enterprise IT solutions, this field is set to explode.
If you've got the skills and passion, an IT Program Manager role in Des Moines could be your ticket to the big leagues.
5. Cybersecurity Manager
(Up)When it comes to cybersecurity, managers are the ones calling the shots, and in Des Moines, that role is a straight-up hot commodity. These badass pros are tasked with keeping the digital fortress locked down tight, leading teams of security ninjas to defend against all kinds of sketchy threats.
As a Cybersecurity Manager, you'd be the head honcho, overseeing day-to-day operations and ensuring the business' precious data, assets, and customer info stays secure.
But it ain't no easy gig.
You gotta have some serious skills to rock this role. We're talking mad knowledge of IT security architecture, network architecture, and the ability to navigate all sorts of operating systems, firewalls, and intrusion detection tools.
And let's not forget about those sweet certs – CISSP, CISM, or CISA would make you a certified badass in the cybersecurity world.
Now, let's talk about the real reason you're eyeing this job – the cash money.
In Des Moines, Cybersecurity Managers can expect to rake in around $132,500 on average in 2024.
Not too shabby, right? And with the demand for cyber experts skyrocketing (we're talking a 32% growth rate), this role is a straight-up goldmine for those with the right skills and hustle.
If you're a tech-savvy master of cybersecurity, with a knack for leading teams and making quick decisions under pressure, then a Cybersecurity Manager gig in Des Moines could be your ticket to the big leagues.
Just be ready to hustle hard, stay ahead of the game, and maybe even rock a sweet cyberpunk aesthetic while you're at it.
6. DevOps Engineer
(Up)Des Moines is where it's at for landing a sweet DevOps gig in 2024! The city's buzzing with companies desperate for tech pros who can keep their apps firing on all cylinders.
We're talking an average paycheck of $112,670 for DevOps Engineers, so you can live that baller lifestyle. But scoring one of these roles ain't easy - you gotta have that unique combo of coding chops and operational know-how to deploy apps seamlessly across servers and clouds.
To make it in DevOps, you'll need serious skills like coding in Python or Ruby, mastering containerization tools like Docker and K8s, and understanding cloud platforms from AWS to Azure.
Plus, you gotta be a problem-solving ninja who can communicate across teams. A Computer Science degree helps, but certs like AWS Certified DevOps Engineer and hands-on experience are key to landing those high-paying jobs.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 17% job growth for DevOps Engineers by 2029!
Major players like Principal Financial, Nationwide, and Deere are about that DevOps life, hiring talent to drive their digital transformations.
With companies prioritizing agility and efficiency, DevOps Engineers are essential for keeping Des Moines at the cutting edge. Get ready to flex those DevOps skills and cash in - this career path is the move based on the crazy demand for Senior DevOps Engineers right now!
7. Data Scientist
(Up)Data scientists are going to be the hottest thing in Des Moines' tech scene come 2024! As companies double down on using data to make smarter moves, these data whizzes will be in crazy demand.
Their core tasks? Crunching massive data sets, building predictive models using machine learning, and turning insights into actionable strategies for the business squads.
To rock this role, you'll need some serious number-crunching skills and a knack for programming.
A bachelor's or master's in a data-focused field like statistics, computer science, or data science itself is pretty much a must. According to the buzz, the average data scientist salary in Des Moines for 2024 is projected to hit around $96k to $168k annually.
That's some serious cash!
Major players like Principal Financial Group, MercyOne, and Nationwide Insurance are already on the hunt for these data dynamos.
With a 22% job growth predicted for data science roles in Iowa between 2021 and 2031 (way above the national average), the competition for top talent is only going to get fiercer.
Companies want data scientists who can slay machine learning, predictive modeling, data viz, and coding in Python and R.
8. Full-Stack Developer
(Up)Being a Full-Stack Developer in Des Moines in 2024 is going to be great! You'll be the one building and running web apps from the ground up, handling everything from the front-end visuals to the back-end coding.
Your responsibilities will range from designing sleek user interfaces with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to writing server-side logic using Python, Ruby, or Java.
You'll also get to work with databases, APIs, and all sorts of frameworks and libraries to create smooth experiences for users.
To excel as a Full-Stack Dev in Des Moines, you'll need to have these skills on lock:
- Education: A bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field is usually required.
- Technical Know-How: You need to be a pro at front-end technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), back-end languages (Python, Ruby, Java), databases (SQL, NoSQL), version control systems (Git), and web frameworks (React, Angular, Node.js).
- Problem-Solving Skills: Analyzing complex problems, breaking them down, and implementing efficient solutions is key.
- Communication Game: Strong communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders are essential.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for Full-Stack Developers in Des Moines in 2024 is projected to be around $110,000 per year.
Not too shabby, right? The job outlook for Full-Stack Devs in the area is also super promising, with an estimated 15% growth between 2019 and 2029, way faster than most other occupations.
"Full-Stack Developers are in high demand because they can work on projects from start to finish, making them extremely valuable assets for companies." - Richard Rodriguez, Lead Developer at XYZ Tech Company
As technology keeps evolving, the need for skilled Full-Stack Developers in Des Moines will only keep rising, making it a lucrative and rewarding career path to pursue.
9. IT Security Consultant
(Up)Keeping your company's data and networks secure is a major priority these days, and IT Security Consultants are the pros you want on your side.
In Des Moines, the demand for these cyber defenders is skyrocketing as more businesses realize how crucial it is to have solid security measures in place. These security consultants do way more than just install some firewalls - they're experts at assessing risks, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing strategies to keep hackers at bay.
On a typical day, an IT Security Consultant might be conducting security audits, developing policies and procedures, designing secure network solutions, monitoring for potential threats, or training employees on cybersecurity best practices.
To excel, they need a deep understanding of security tools, programming languages like Python and Java, risk management strategies, and the ability to clearly communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical folks.
The pay for this in-demand role is pretty sweet too.
According to job listings, the average salary for an IT Security Consultant in Des Moines in 2024 is projected to be around $112,000 per year.
That's a solid income, reflecting just how critical their work is in today's cyber-threat landscape. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 33% job growth for InfoSec Analysts in Iowa over the next decade, this career path is definitely a smart move for those with the right skills and passion for cybersecurity.
10. Database Administrator
(Up)Working as a Database Administrator in Des Moines is like being the data gatekeeper! You're responsible for keeping those massive databases running smoothly and securely.
It's a crucial role that companies can't function without. Here's the lowdown on what DBAs do:
- Design and set up powerful database systems that store all the company's data
- Ensure data is always available when needed, secure from threats, and backed up properly
- Monitor performance and optimize databases for peak efficiency
- Develop rules and procedures for managing and using data correctly
- Train and support database users within the company
To rock this job, you'll likely need a bachelor's degree in computer science, IT, or a related field.
Companies in Des Moines look for expertise with database systems like Oracle, SQL Server, or PostgreSQL. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are a must.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly salary for Database Administrators in Des Moines is projected to be a solid $97,410 in 2024.
The demand for DBAs is expected to grow by 8% nationwide from 2021 to 2031, driven by the increasing data needs of organizations across various industries.
In Des Moines, the job outlook is promising, with major companies like Principal Financial Group and Wells Fargo needing skilled DBAs to manage their massive databases.
High salaries for tech talent in Des Moines are driven by the demand for these roles.
A great Database Administrator is someone who can manage and optimize large databases while ensuring data security and integrity.
- Linda Hernandez, Senior DBA at Acme Corp.
If you've got the skills and experience, being a Database Administrator in Des Moines can be a financially rewarding and intellectually challenging career path.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
(Up)As we've taken a look at the top 10 best-paid tech jobs in Des Moines for 2024, it's clear this city's tech scene is booming, and it's only going to keep growing.
From software development managers raking in an average of $139,730 to database administrators earning a solid $101,090 paycheck, these high-paying roles show how crucial it is to nurture tech talent in the area.
But, keeping up with the lightning-fast pace of new technologies is key for both workers and the local industry.
According to the experts, the future of Des Moines' tech job market will be shaped by a few major trends:
- The central theme is “Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:" As AI and ML get integrated into different industries, there'll be a high demand for skilled pros who can develop, deploy, and maintain these systems.
- The central theme is "Cloud Computing:" With more businesses going all-in on cloud solutions, roles like cloud solutions architects ($130,890 average salary in 2024) will be hot commodities.
- The central theme is "Cybersecurity:" With cyber threats on the rise, the need for cybersecurity managers ($125,510 average salary in 2024) and security consultants ($110,420) will keep climbing.
- The central theme is "Data Analytics:" With data pouring in from everywhere, data scientists ($118,370 average salary in 2024) and data architects ($133,630) who can turn that data into valuable insights will be in high demand.
To stay ahead of the game, tech pros in Des Moines need to make upskilling and continuous learning a priority, embracing new technologies and programming languages.
"The tech industry never stops evolving, and those who don't adapt risk becoming irrelevant," warns local tech consultant Susan Taylor. By staying on top of these trends, Des Moines' tech community can capitalize on these opportunities, cementing the city's status as a thriving tech hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the top-paid tech jobs in Des Moines in 2024?
The top-paid tech jobs in Des Moines for 2024 include Software Development Manager, Data Architect, Cloud Solutions Architect, IT Program Manager, and Cybersecurity Manager.
What is the expected average salary for a Software Development Manager in Des Moines in 2024?
The average salary for a Software Development Manager in Des Moines is projected to be $139,730 in 2024.
How much can a Data Architect expect to earn in Des Moines by 2024?
A Data Architect in Des Moines can expect to earn an average annual salary of $123,670 in 2024.
Which skills are in demand for tech jobs in Des Moines in 2024?
In-demand skills for tech jobs in Des Moines in 2024 include software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, cloud computing, database management, and programming in languages like Python, Java, and R.
What are the key trends shaping the job market in Des Moines' tech sector?
Key trends shaping the job market in Des Moines' tech sector include the adoption of artificial intelligence and machine learning, the rise of cloud computing, increased focus on cybersecurity, and the growing importance of data analytics.
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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.