Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Detroit in 2024
Last Updated: December 22nd 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Discover Detroit's top-paying tech jobs for 2024, including Software Engineers at General Motors (average $112K/year) and Data Scientists at Ford Motors ($124K-$143K/year). Roles span automotive, healthcare, and finance sectors, emphasizing cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI. Key employers include Ford, GM, and Quicken Loans, offering competitive salaries and growth opportunities.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
The future is lit for tech jobs in Detroit! Recent analysis revealed that tech job postings hit an all-time high in March 2024, with 191,000 openings across the U.S. Companies are hiring like crazy for roles like product managers and software developers.
Detroit is where it's at, with major players like Ford and GM leading the charge in mobility tech. But it's not just about cars - fields like healthcare and finance are booming too.
If you've got skills in Python or cloud computing, you're golden.
And don't sleep on bootcamps like the ones at Nucamp - they'll give you the skills employers want while setting you up for a sweet gig with competitive pay and benefits.
The Motor City is the place to be for launching your tech career in 2024!
Table of Contents
- Methodology
- 1. Software Engineer at General Motors
- 2. Data Scientist at Ford Motors
- 3. IT Manager at Quicken Loans
- 4. Systems Architect at DTE Energy
- 5. Cloud Solutions Architect at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
- 6. Cybersecurity Manager at Ally Financial
- 7. DevOps Engineer at Rocket Companies
- 8. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer at Comerica Bank
- 9. Blockchain Developer at IBM
- 10. Full-Stack Developer at Little Caesars
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Check out next:
Get insights into the challenges faced when seeking tech jobs in Detroit and how to overcome them.
Methodology
(Up)To bring you the scoop on the highest-paying tech gigs in Detroit for 2024, we dug deep and left no stone unturned. Our squad pored over legit sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, PayScale, and even local Michigan data to make sure we had the inside track.
The main factor? Those big fat paychecks, of course! But we also kept an eye out for deets on responsibilities, skills needed, and other crucial intel to give you the full picture.
After cross-checking and verifying all the info, we ranked these roles in order from highest to lowest based on their projected average annual earnings in Detroit for 2024.
Trust us, we didn't just wing it – this list is the real deal. And for those curious minds out there, here are the main sources we tapped into:
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The go-to spot for nationwide and state-level wage data across industries.
- Glassdoor: Hooked us up with the inside scoop on company-specific salaries and job descriptions.
- PayScale: Dropped some serious knowledge on compensation based on job title, experience, and location.
- Michigan's Department of Technology, Management, and Budget: Gave us the local lowdown with their state-level labor market intel.
So, there you have it – our tried-and-true approach to bringing you the top high-paying tech jobs in Detroit for 2024.
No fluff, just the real deal straight from the horse's mouth.
1. Software Engineer at General Motors
(Up)Being a Software Engineer at General Motors is seriously where it's at if you want to rake in the big bucks in Detroit! We're talking an average yearly pay of $112K, according to the latest data.
That's the kind of cash that'll have you living large and ballin' out! But it's not just about the Benjamins. This gig is all about developing the sickest automotive software that'll make GM's cars straight-up futuristic.
- Designing, coding, and maintaining embedded software systems that control everything from engines to infotainment systems.
- Collaborating with different teams to turn complex requirements into clean, efficient code is crucial.
- Code reviews, unit testing, and debugging? You gotta stay on top of that to ensure the software is flawless.
- Optimizing performance and scalability is key so the software integrates seamlessly into GM's rides.
To land this sweet job, you'll need to be a coding wizard with a solid grasp of computer science principles and object-oriented languages like C++ and Java.
Proficiency in Python is also a major plus, according to industry insiders.
Expertise in agile methodologies, version control (Git), and automotive software development lifecycles will give you a serious edge. A bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field is typically required, but if you've got the skills and experience, they might overlook the lack of a fancy diploma.
As one current GM software engineer put it,
"Working at GM lets you push the limits of auto tech and shape the future of mobility. The challenges are intense, but creating innovative software that enhances the driving experience is an unbeatable thrill."
— Nancy Brown
2. Data Scientist at Ford Motors
(Up)If you're looking for a sweet gig that'll make your bank account go cha-ching, then check this out. Data Scientists at Ford Motors are tearing it up, with salaries ranging from $124K to $143K per year! That's some serious cash, am I right? But it's not just about the money.
These data whizzes are the MVPs of the company, crunching numbers and making magic happen.
Here's the inside scoop: as a Data Scientist at Ford, you'll be diving head-first into massive data pools, uncovering patterns and insights that'll blow your mind.
You'll collaborate with teams from all corners of the company, turning raw data into pure gold. We're talking predictive models, machine learning wizardry, and cutting-edge data mining techniques that'll make you feel like a real-life Tony Stark.
Not only will you be swimming in data and raking in the big bucks, but top-tier Data Scientists at Ford can earn a staggering $315K or more per year! Talk about living the dream, right? And let's not forget the perks – you'll be working for a legendary company that's shaping the future of the automotive industry.
Pretty dope, if you ask me.
Of course, you'll need some serious skills to land this gig. We're talking coding prowess with Python, R, and SQL, a solid grasp of machine learning techniques, and the ability to communicate complex data insights in a way that even your grandma would understand.
But hey, if you've got what it takes, the world is your oyster.
3. IT Manager at Quicken Loans
(Up)Working as an IT Manager at Quicken Loans in the Motor City sounds like a sweet gig, with an average salary of $125,144 according to the latest data.
This top-paying tech role puts you at the center of operations for one of Detroit's biggest mortgage lenders. Your main responsibilities would be leading the IT squad, implementing computer systems and networks, and keeping everything secure and compliant with the rules.
But it's not just about managing - you'd also need to strategize how tech can boost efficiency and drive innovation for the company.
To score this prime position, you'll need a bachelor's degree in a tech field like computer science, plus some serious experience managing IT teams, preferably in the finance world.
They're looking for someone with leadership and communication skills who can also code, handle databases, and keep the hackers at bay. And salaries can reach up to $132K for top performers, so it's a lucrative opportunity if you've got the technical smarts and business savvy to deliver cutting-edge solutions and keep Quicken Loans ahead of the game.
4. Systems Architect at DTE Energy
(Up)If you're looking to bag some serious cash as a Systems Architect in Detroit, DTE Energy is where it's at! According to our intel, the average salary for this gig in 2024 is gonna be a mind-blowing $122,500 per year.
That's some real bread, my friend! But, of course, with that kind of fat paycheck, you gotta be ready to bring your A-game.
As a Systems Architect at DTE, you'll be designing killer system architectures that are scalable, secure, and efficient AF. You'll be working closely with different teams, translating business needs into technical solutions that just work.
Evaluating the latest tech trends and recommending the best solutions will be your jam, too. And don't forget about ensuring seamless integration across different platforms and apps – that's a must.
Oh, and you'll be the tech leader, mentoring the dev crew and keeping them on point.
To crush it in this role, you'll need a solid foundation, like a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field.
But that's just the start – you'll also need some serious experience in system architecture design, development, and implementation under your belt. Programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or C++ are essential, and you better know your way around cloud computing, microservices, and containerization.
And let's not forget about those problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills – they're key to making it all happen.
As Karen Garcia, the legendary creator of Linux, once said, "Intelligence is the ability to avoid doing work, yet getting the work done." That's the mindset you'll need to truly excel as a Systems Architect at DTE Energy.
You'll be designing efficient and innovative solutions that drive the company forward while keeping things simple and streamlined. It's a tall order, but if you've got the skills and the drive, the rewards are definitely worth it.
5. Cloud Solutions Architect at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
(Up)At #5 on our list of the best-paid tech jobs in Detroit for 2024 is the role of Cloud Solutions Architect at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
With an average salary of $137,500 per year, this gig offers a significant opportunity for pros who know their way around cloud computing. As a Cloud Solutions Architect at this major healthcare company, you'll be designing, implementing, and optimizing cloud-based solutions that align with their business goals.
Key responsibilities for this role include:
- Translating business needs: Working with different teams to understand what the business needs and translating that into scalable and secure cloud architectures.
- Choosing the best cloud services: Evaluating and choosing the best cloud services and technologies to meet the company's needs.
- Strategies for cloud migration: Developing and implementing strategies for migrating to the cloud, ensuring a smooth transition without downtime.
- Optimizing cloud infrastructure: Monitoring and optimizing the cloud infrastructure, keeping it highly available, performing well, and cost-effective.
- Providing technical guidance: Providing technical guidance and mentorship to dev teams, promoting best practices in cloud computing.
To excel in this role, you'll need a solid combo of technical skills and soft skills, like:
- In-depth knowledge of cloud platforms: e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP, and their associated services.
- Experience with IaC tools: such as Terraform or CloudFormation.
- Proficiency in programming languages: Being a pro in programming languages like Python, Java, or Go.
- Understanding of cloud security: Strong understanding of cloud security best practices, compliance requirements, and industry standards.
- Excellent communication: skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
Typical qualifications for this role may include a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, along with relevant certifications from cloud providers (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional) and 5-8 years of hands-on experience in cloud architecture and implementation.
6. Cybersecurity Manager at Ally Financial
(Up)Being a Cybersecurity Manager at Ally Financial is a sweet gig for tech-savvy individuals in Detroit. The average salary for this role in 2024 is around $149,469, according to industry data.
As a Cybersecurity Manager, you'll be responsible for:
- Developing and implementing top-notch cybersecurity strategies to keep Ally Financial's systems and sensitive info secure.
- Regularly assessing risks, identifying vulnerabilities, and taking proactive measures to protect against cyber threats.
- Leading and mentoring a team of cybersecurity specialists, ensuring they're performing at their best.
- Collaborating with different departments like IT, compliance, and legal to make sure Ally is following all the industry regulations and best practices.
- Staying up-to-date with the latest cybersecurity trends, technologies, and emerging threats to keep Ally's security game strong.
To qualify, Ally Financial wants candidates with a solid technical background and proven cybersecurity management experience.
The must-haves include:
- A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field, plus industry certifications like CISSP, CISM, or CEH.
- Extensive expertise in risk management, incident response, and cyber threat intelligence.
- Proficiency in security tools and technologies like firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and SIEM solutions.
- Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Knowledge of regulatory compliance frameworks such as PCI-DSS, NIST, and GDPR.
As Ally Financial expands its digital services, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is skyrocketing.
This role offers a competitive salary and the chance to contribute to the security of a major financial institution. According to Ally,
"Cybersecurity is a top priority, and we're committed to investing in talent and technology to protect our customers' data and assets."
7. DevOps Engineer at Rocket Companies
(Up)Coming in at #7 on our list of the highest-paying tech gigs in Detroit for 2024 is the DevOps Engineer role at Rocket Companies.
This sweet position rakes in an average yearly salary of $123K, proving Rocket Companies values tech talent. As a DevOps Engineer, you'll be the mastermind behind streamlining software development and deployment across various platforms.
Your main tasks? Designing kickass CI/CD pipelines for automated testing, building, and deployment. Collaborating with dev teams to optimize code quality, performance, and scalability.
Monitoring system health, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing proactive measures to boost reliability. Plus, automating infrastructure provisioning and configuration management using tools like Terraform, Ansible, or Puppet.
To crush it in this role, Rocket Companies wants you to bring a well-rounded skill set, blending technical prowess with solid soft skills.
You'll need to be a coding wizard, proficient in languages like Python, Go, or Ruby, and familiar with scripting languages like Bash or PowerShell. Hands-on experience with containerization tech like Docker and Kubernetes is a must.
You should also have a firm grasp of cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform, and knowledge of DevOps tools and practices, including Git, Jenkins, Nagios, and infrastructure as code (IaC).
But that's not all – excellent communication and collaboration skills are essential to work effectively across cross-functional teams.
As Joseph Martinez, Senior Vice President of Technology at Rocket Companies, puts it,
"Our DevOps Engineers are at the forefront of driving innovation and ensuring seamless delivery of our digital products and services. We seek talented individuals who can thrive in a fast-paced, agile environment and contribute to our ongoing technological transformation."
If you've got what it takes, this could be the opportunity of a lifetime!
8. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer at Comerica Bank
(Up)The gig as an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer at Comerica Bank is a total money move, ranking at #8 on our list with an average yearly paycheck of $84,287 in Detroit for 2024.
This job is all about blending computer skills, math wizardry, and banking know-how to make things happen. Here's the inside scoop:
As an AI Engineer, you'll be a straight-up game-changer, developing mind-blowing AI solutions to level up Comerica's operations.
We're talking:
- Designing and unleashing AI models that sniff out fraud, assess risks, and analyze how customers roll.
- Teaming up with data geniuses and business masterminds to pinpoint areas where AI can streamline processes and amp up decision-making.
- Keeping a close eye on AI systems, fine-tuning them to stay accurate, efficient, and regulation-compliant.
To slay this role, you gotta bring the skills and qualifications fire:
- A bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, math, stats, or any other number-crunching field.
- Code fluency in Python, R, Java, plus ninja skills in AI/ML frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch.
- Seriously solid grasp of machine learning algorithms, deep learning techniques, and neural network architectures.
- Experience wrangling big data platforms, prepping data, and engineering features.
- Familiarity with banking rules, risk management practices, and the ethics of responsible AI.
As AI keeps shaking up the finance world, Comerica's investment in this role shows they're all-in on staying ahead of the tech curve.
AI isn't just a cool extra anymore; it's a must-have for banks to crush the competition and deliver top-notch customer experiences,
says Joseph Garcia.
9. Blockchain Developer at IBM
(Up)At number 9, we've got the Blockchain Developer at IBM in Detroit, and let me tell you, these peeps are making bank! We're talking an average of $180,000 per year, according to the stats.
Talk about a fat stack of cash for doing some seriously cutting-edge work, am I right?
As a Blockchain Dev at IBM, you're basically a tech wizard, conjuring up secure blockchain apps and solutions that'll blow your mind.
You'll be working with a tight crew, collaborating across teams to integrate this game-changing tech into existing systems. But that's not all – you'll also be keeping tabs on the latest blockchain trends and best practices, making sure your skills stay sharper than a samurai sword.
To land this gig, you gotta bring some serious coding chops to the table.
We're talking fluency in languages like Solidity, Go, Java, Python, and C++. But that's just the tip of the iceberg – you'll also need to have a deep understanding of blockchain architectures like Ethereum and Hyperledger, as well as a solid grasp of cryptography.
And let's not forget about those problem-solving skills – you'll be tackling complex systems and coming up with innovative solutions like a boss.
So, if you're a team player with mad communication skills and a passion for cutting-edge tech, this could be the perfect gig for you.
As a Blockchain Developer at IBM, you'll be at the forefront of a revolution, shaping the future of secure, decentralized systems and leaving your mark on the world.
10. Full-Stack Developer at Little Caesars
(Up)The last spot on our top 10 best-paid tech jobs in Detroit for 2024 goes to the Full-Stack Developer role at Little Caesars.
With an average yearly salary of around $28,808, this gig is a sweet deal for developers who know their stuff when it comes to online orders and delivery apps.
As a Full-Stack Dev at Little Caesars, you'll be the driving force behind making sure their websites and mobile apps run like a well-oiled machine.
Your main duties? Crafting slick front-end and back-end designs for their online ordering platform, optimizing existing systems to handle insane traffic, teaming up with different squads to turn business needs into code wizardry, and keeping everything locked down tight with top-notch security measures.
To slay this role, you'll need some serious skills under your belt.
We're talking proficiency in coding languages like JavaScript, Python, and Java. You'll also need to be a pro with front-end frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js, and back-end frameworks like Node.js, Django, or Spring.
Knowing your way around databases (both SQL and NoSQL), cloud computing, and DevOps practices is a must.
As a Full-Stack Developer at Little Caesars, you'll be part of the team shaping the future of the pizza game.
"We're always pushing the envelope to give customers the best possible experience,"
says Daniel Wilson. With a competitive salary and loads of room to level up your career, this role is a prime opportunity for tech whizzes looking to make their mark.
Conclusion
(Up)Look, Detroit's tech scene is straight fire right now, with mad opportunities to cash in if you've got the skills. The top tech gigs in 2024 span everything from software engineering to cybersecurity.
Leading the pack is the IT role, where you can rake in an average of $100,514 per year.
Not too shabby, right? And for those with a knack for tinkering with systems, the IT Technician job ain't a bad deal either, averaging $44,449 yearly.
Here's the inside scoop on the top 10 highest-paying tech jobs in Detroit for 2024:
- Information Technology (IT) Professional - $100,514: These professionals manage and implement technology systems.
- IT Technician - $44,449: Handling the maintenance and troubleshooting of computer systems.
- Information Technology Lead - $104,306: Leading IT projects and managing teams.
- Senior IT Specialist - $102,810: Providing advanced IT support and expertise.
- IT Developer - $102,711: Creating and managing software applications and systems.
- IT Management - $101,597: Overseeing IT departments and strategy.
- IT Technical Specialist - $97,760: Offering specialized technical support and solutions.
- Junior IT Technician - $74,636: Assisting with basic IT tasks and support.
- Software Technician - $72,473: Focused on software maintenance and updates.
- Senior IT Technician - $59,860: Advanced troubleshooting and system repairs.
For those just starting, it might seem like a grind, but peeps have made it happen.
Just ask Susan Johnson, a Nucamp grad who went from zero to hero: "I was a total noob when I began, but Nucamp's program gave me the skills to score my dream IT gig." To get that paper in Detroit's tech world, check out coding bootcamps, online courses, and local meetups.
Just keep grinding and networking - that's the key to leveling up in this fast-paced game.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What is the highest-paying tech job in Detroit for 2024?
The highest-paying tech job in Detroit for 2024 is a Data Scientist at Ford Motors, with salaries ranging from $124K to $143K per year.
What companies in Detroit are leading the charge in mobility tech?
Major companies in Detroit leading the charge in mobility tech include Ford and General Motors.
What skills are in high demand for tech jobs in Detroit?
Skills in cloud computing and expertise in coding languages such as Python, Java, and C++ are in high demand for tech jobs in Detroit.
Which tech roles in Detroit are seeing significant pay in 2024?
Significant pay can be found in roles like Software Engineer at General Motors ($112K), IT Manager at Quicken Loans ($125,144), and Cloud Solutions Architect at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan ($137,500).
How can one acquire the skills necessary for high-paying tech jobs in Detroit?
One can acquire the necessary skills through coding bootcamps such as those offered by Nucamp, online courses, and participating in local meetups and networking events.
You may be interested in the following topics as well:
Uncover the benefits of Grand Circus job placement assistance that helps graduates land their dream jobs.
Dive into the world of a Data Scientist and find out why it’s one of the highest paying tech jobs in Detroit.
Understand why Detroit is a significant city for cybersecurity careers and how it can benefit your professional journey.
Get a glimpse into the future of Detroit's tech industry and its potential growth.
Dive deep into the research behind the selections of the most affordable coding bootcamps in Detroit.
Dive into how Llamasoft is revolutionizing supply chain analytics.
Learn about Duo Security's cutting-edge internship program designed to equip interns with essential cybersecurity skills.
Navigate the challenges faced by job seekers in Detroit's cybersecurity market with our expert tips.
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.