Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Fort Collins in 2025
Last Updated: January 3rd 2025
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Fort Collins will be a thriving tech hub in 2025, boasting an 18% industry growth and over 2,500 tech jobs with competitive salaries. Key players like HP and Intel have strong presences, while innovation in fintech, real estate tech, and cybersecurity flourishes. Top roles include AI Architect ($200,000+), Cloud Solutions Architect ($145,581), and Cybersecurity Analyst ($135,000). Software Engineers earn $85,000-$190,000, and Data Scientists average $118,000. The city's tech expansion offers vibrant opportunities for tech careers, particularly in blockchain, IoT, and DevOps.
Fort Collins is totally crushing it as a tech hub in 2025, with an impressive 18% industry growth that's creating amazing opportunities for tech professionals.
The city's tech scene is seriously taking off, with companies like TurboTenant leading the pack in innovation and growth.
Fort Collins has over 2,500 tech jobs and counting, with professionals making way above average salaries. The startup ecosystem is thriving, featuring success stories like OtterBox (with $1 billion in sales!) and Kickfurther.
The Founded in FoCo conference brings together over 725 tech professionals annually, making it easier to network and find opportunities.
Major players like HP and Intel maintain strong presences here, while innovative startups in fintech, real estate tech, and cybersecurity keep popping up. For anyone looking to break into tech, Fort Collins offers the perfect mix of established companies and cutting-edge startups, plus the lifestyle perks of Colorado living.
The city's projected 15% job growth by 2024 makes it an absolute powerhouse for tech careers.
Table of Contents
- Methodology: Selecting the Top 10 Tech Jobs
- Software Engineer: A High-Demand Role
- Cybersecurity Analyst (Entry Level): Protecting IT Infrastructure
- Full Stack Developer: Mastering Both Frontend and Backend
- Blockchain Engineer: Innovating with Blockchain Solutions
- Cloud Architect: Guiding Cloud Strategies
- Data Scientist: Turning Data into Insight
- IoT Solutions Architect: Developing Smart Solutions
- DevOps Engineer: Ensuring Seamless IT Operations
- Conclusion: The Future of Tech Careers in Fort Collins
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Methodology: Selecting the Top 10 Tech Jobs
(Up)In selecting Fort Collins' top tech jobs for 2025, we focused on salary potential, career growth, and industry requirements. According to recent salary data, Software Engineers earn around $98,456 annually, while Data Scientists command $112,932, making these roles incredibly attractive.
The city's tech scene is growing fast, with major players like Hewlett-Packard and Intel establishing strong presences, while offering a cost of living 3.2% below the national average.
Salary Ranges and Growth Potential: The latest research shows exciting opportunities across various tech roles.
Industry analysis indicates AI Architects are now the highest-paid non-executive roles, pulling in over $200,000 annually.
Cloud computing experts are especially in demand, with 85% of organizations adopting multi-cloud strategies but only 9% having the required expertise. This skills gap means serious earning potential for those willing to learn.
Industry Demands and Required Qualifications: The tech scene here is seriously heating up, and companies are looking for solid skills in programming, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.
Current market trends show that roles like Cloud Solutions Architect ($145,581) and Cybersecurity Analyst ($135,000) offer amazing opportunities.
Entry-level positions typically require a relevant degree or bootcamp certification, plus hands-on experience with current technologies. The cybersecurity field alone is facing a massive talent shortage, predicted to hit 85 million professionals by 2030, which means tons of opportunities for those getting into the field now.
Software Engineer: A High-Demand Role
(Up)The role of a Software Engineer stands out as one of the most exciting career paths in Fort Collins for 2025, driven by massive growth across tech and non-tech industries alike.
Software engineers create and maintain applications that power modern technology, from mobile apps to complex business systems.
Their day-to-day work involves collaborating with teams to design software solutions, debug code, and ensure everything runs smoothly. The cool thing about being a software engineer is getting to work with cutting-edge tech tools while solving real-world problems.
Local universities like Colorado State offer specialized programs in software engineering, preparing students with essential skills in programming languages like Python, Java, and C++.
The career path is seriously rewarding - starting salaries in Fort Collins begin around $85,000, with experienced engineers making $140,000-$190,000 annually.
What's really interesting is how the field is evolving with remote work opportunities and the integration of AI tools, making it easier to collaborate on projects from anywhere.
The demand for software engineers isn't slowing down either - local tech companies are constantly looking for fresh talent who can bring new perspectives to their teams.
Whether you're interested in building mobile apps, creating business software, or working on cutting-edge AI projects, there's a place for you in Fort Collins's growing tech scene.
The best part? You don't necessarily need a traditional computer science degree to break in - coding bootcamps and hands-on experience can also open doors to this career path.
Growth opportunities in Fort Collins look amazing, with the local tech sector expanding faster than ever.
Companies value engineers who can adapt quickly and bring fresh ideas to the table. With more startups choosing Fort Collins as their home base and established tech firms expanding their presence, it's an incredible time to jump into software engineering.
The combination of competitive salaries, work-life balance, and the chance to work on meaningful projects makes this career path seriously worth considering for anyone interested in technology.
Cybersecurity Analyst (Entry Level): Protecting IT Infrastructure
(Up)In 2025, Cybersecurity Analyst positions in Fort Collins offer exciting opportunities for tech enthusiasts looking to make their mark in digital security. According to recent job listings, government agencies like the IRS and CDC are actively recruiting cybersecurity professionals, highlighting the field's stability and growth.
The role involves monitoring networks, conducting security assessments, and responding to potential threats. While a Bachelor's degree is valuable, many professionals now enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps and certification programs.
The salary landscape for entry-level positions is particularly attractive, with InfoSec Jobs reporting ranges starting at $60,000 and climbing beyond $100,000 for more experienced roles.
Benefits often include remote work options, flexible hours, and comprehensive healthcare packages. Key technical skills in demand include proficiency in threat detection tools, incident response protocols, and cloud security platforms.
Current job market data shows over 50 active cybersecurity positions in Fort Collins, with salaries reaching up to $117,000 for skilled professionals.
The path to success in this field is clear: start with foundational certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH, gain hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions, and continuously update your skills as technology evolves.
Fort Collins' growing tech scene offers numerous networking opportunities and professional development resources. With the rise in sophisticated cyber threats, organizations are investing heavily in security talent, making this career path both financially rewarding and professionally fulfilling.
Full Stack Developer: Mastering Both Frontend and Backend
(Up)Full Stack Developers in Fort Collins are crushing it in 2025, with salaries at major tech companies like Hewlett Packard Enterprise offering between $113,000 to $259,500 for experienced developers.
The field is seriously competitive, and companies are actively hunting for talent who can handle both frontend and backend development. The job outlook is strong, especially for those willing to level up their skills constantly.
Starting out is totally doable - while most positions ask for a Bachelor's in Computer Science, coding bootcamps in Fort Collins are becoming a legit alternative, with programs ranging from $2,124 to $14,000.
The tech stack you need to master includes JavaScript, Python, and modern frameworks like React and Node.js. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Building awesome user interfaces
- Setting up servers and databases
- Making sure everything works on mobile
- Collaborating with design teams
You'll need to get comfortable with Git for version control and databases like MySQL and MongoDB. Companies are increasingly focused on DevOps practices, so understanding that workflow is a major plus.
The tech scene in Fort Collins is booming, and if you're ready to put in the work, you can build an amazing career here. Companies aren't just looking for coders; they want problem-solvers who can handle the full development stack and adapt to new technologies as they emerge.
Blockchain Engineer: Innovating with Blockchain Solutions
(Up)As a Blockchain Engineer, you'll be diving into one of tech's most exciting and well-paid career paths.
The average salary ranges from $100,000 to $120,000 annually in the US, with some positions offering even higher compensation in tech hubs like Fort Collins. These engineers are crucial in developing and managing blockchain infrastructure, creating smart contracts, and building decentralized applications that are changing how we handle data and transactions.
The role has seen massive growth, with the demand for blockchain professionals expected to increase by 22% through 2030.
Success in this field requires mastery of specific technical skills.
Key responsibilities include developing blockchain-based systems, maintaining secure computer networks, and implementing cryptography solutions.
The essential programming languages are:
- Solidity - For creating smart contracts on Ethereum
- Python and JavaScript - For blockchain application development
- C++ - For core blockchain protocol development
Fort Collins is becoming a hotspot for blockchain innovation, with its growing tech community and startup culture.
Local companies are actively recruiting blockchain talent, offering competitive salaries and the chance to work on groundbreaking projects. The combination of Colorado's tech-friendly environment and the rising adoption of blockchain technology makes this an incredible time to enter the field.
Whether you're interested in cryptocurrencies, smart contracts, or decentralized applications, blockchain engineering offers endless opportunities to innovate and shape the future of technology.
Cloud Architect: Guiding Cloud Strategies
(Up)In 2025, Cloud Architects are absolutely crushing it in Fort Collins' tech scene. These professionals are the masterminds behind designing and managing cloud computing strategies, making sure companies can scale efficiently and stay competitive.
The role demands serious tech knowledge across AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform, plus the ability to communicate complex ideas to different teams. While a Bachelor's in Computer Science is typically required, what's really making Cloud Architects stand out is their certification game - AWS Solutions Architect and Azure Solutions Architect Expert are must-haves.
What makes this role super interesting is that Cloud Architects aren't just tech experts - they're strategic leaders who guide organizations through their cloud journey.
The salary is pretty sweet too, with Cloud Architects in Fort Collins pulling in around $128,418 to $167,000 annually, depending on experience. That's definitely worth the grind of mastering cloud technologies and getting those certifications!
The tech landscape is constantly evolving, and Cloud Architects need to stay ahead of the curve.
According to recent industry insights, the most successful Cloud Architects are those who master both technical skills like infrastructure design and soft skills like project management.
They're working with cutting-edge stuff daily - containerization, serverless computing, and multi-cloud deployments. The role combines the excitement of new tech with the satisfaction of solving real business challenges, making it one of the most rewarding careers in tech right now.
Data Scientist: Turning Data into Insight
(Up)Data Scientists in Fort Collins are absolutely crushing it in 2025! According to recent salary data, these tech pros are pulling in an average of $118,000 base salary, plus around $5,000 in extra compensation.
The role has seriously evolved - it's not just about crunching numbers anymore. Latest career trends show Data Scientists are now diving deep into artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and machine learning.
The field is growing super fast - projections show a massive 36% job growth from 2023 to 2033!
If you're thinking about getting into this field, the path to success starts with solid programming skills in Python and R, plus a strong foundation in statistics and machine learning.
Companies in Fort Collins are particularly interested in candidates who can handle big data analytics and create predictive models.
With Fort Collins' tech scene expanding and major companies setting up shop here, the opportunities are seriously amazing. You don't necessarily need a master's degree to start - many companies value practical skills and real-world experience over advanced degrees.
The key is to stay current with the latest tech trends and keep building your skills through hands-on projects and certifications.
- Proficiency in programming: Programming skills in Python and R are essential for an entry-level position.
- Solid foundation: A strong base in statistics and machine learning is crucial for success.
- Big data handling: Experience in managing big data analytics and creating predictive models is highly valued.
- Continuous learning: Staying updated with the latest tech trends ensures ongoing competitiveness in the field.
IoT Solutions Architect: Developing Smart Solutions
(Up)As an IoT Solutions Architect, you'll be at the forefront of creating smart technology solutions that shape our connected world.
The role combines technical expertise with strategic thinking, making it one of Fort Collins' most exciting tech careers in 2025. Working with everything from sensors to cloud platforms, you'll need to master the three primary architecture layers: perception (devices and sensors), networking (connections), and applications (user interfaces).
Key responsibilities include developing the IoT vision, designing end-to-end architecture, and spearheading technical strategy implementation.
What's awesome about this role is the salary potential - you can earn between $45,320 to $206,652 nationally, with a median of $108,400.
In Fort Collins, the competitive tech scene pushes these numbers even higher. To succeed, you'll need a bachelor's degree in IT, computer science, or computer engineering, plus hands-on experience with IoT technologies.
Essential skills include understanding computer operating systems, data management, and system architecture design.
The best part? You don't need to be a coding expert - while programming knowledge helps, your main focus will be on designing solutions and managing implementations.
For anyone starting out, Fort Collins is perfect for building an IoT career.
The city's growing tech ecosystem, combined with established companies investing in smart technology, creates plenty of opportunities to gain experience and grow professionally.
Plus, with the increasing adoption of IoT across industries, from smart homes to industrial applications, the demand for skilled architects is only going up. It's honestly one of the most future-proof tech careers you can choose right now.
DevOps Engineer: Ensuring Seamless IT Operations
(Up)DevOps Engineers are in serious demand right now in Fort Collins, and it's a perfect time to jump into this field. Major companies like Schneider Electric and Lenovo are actively recruiting for these positions, offering both on-site and remote opportunities.
The role goes way beyond just coding - you're basically the bridge between development and operations teams, making sure everything runs smoothly. Entry-level positions, including internships at companies like Lumen, are paying between $26-$43 per hour, which is pretty sweet for getting started.
You'll need to know your stuff though - think Python, Java, and cloud platforms like AWS. Recent job postings show that employers are looking for people who can handle multiple projects and aren't afraid to dive into new tech.
Companies across Fort Collins are expanding their tech teams, especially in areas like network automation and system architecture.
If you're thinking about getting into DevOps, focus on getting hands-on experience with CI/CD pipelines, container orchestration, and infrastructure as code. The coolest part? Many positions offer hybrid work options, and the field is growing like crazy.
Most entry-level roles want you to have a degree in computer science or a related field, but what really matters is your actual skills and ability to solve problems.
The job market here is seriously competitive, but if you've got the right mix of technical skills and can work well in a team, you're looking at some amazing opportunities.
Conclusion: The Future of Tech Careers in Fort Collins
(Up)Fort Collins is seriously heating up as a tech hub in 2025, with some major players making moves here. Entry-level positions are starting at $19.50/hour for internships, but the real money is in full-time roles.
According to the latest data, Software Engineers at companies like Intel and HPE are pulling in $105K-$120K starting salary, while Cloud Architects and AI specialists can hit $150K or more.
The Walter Scott Jr. College of Engineering is driving this growth with its new AI-focused faculty positions, showing how serious Fort Collins is about tech innovation.
The most in-demand roles right now are in Cloud Architecture, Cybersecurity, and AI/ML, with companies like Broadcom, AMD, and OtterBox actively hiring.
- Break into tech: For anyone looking to break into tech, the city offers tons of opportunities through bootcamps, internships, and networking events.
- Transforming tech scene: The tech scene here isn't just growing - it's transforming Fort Collins into a legit tech destination.
- Local unemployment rate: With the local unemployment rate at 2.9%, there's never been a better time to jump into tech in Fort Collins.
- Investment in technology: Companies are investing heavily in emerging technologies like blockchain and IoT.
- Commitment to innovation: The city's commitment to innovation is backed by competitive salaries and solid career growth paths.
Fort Collins makes it a smart choice for anyone serious about building a future in tech.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What is the projected growth of the tech industry in Fort Collins by 2025?
The tech industry in Fort Collins is projecting an impressive 18% growth by 2025, making it a significant hub for tech opportunities.
What are some high-paying tech jobs in Fort Collins for 2025?
Some of the high-paying tech jobs in Fort Collins for 2025 include AI Architects with salaries over $200,000, Data Scientists earning around $118,000, and Cloud Architects with salaries ranging from $128,418 to $167,000.
What are the expected qualifications for entry-level tech positions in Fort Collins?
Entry-level tech positions in Fort Collins typically require a relevant degree or bootcamp certification, along with hands-on experience. Skills in programming, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are highly sought after.
Which companies are major players in Fort Collins' tech scene?
Major companies such as Hewlett-Packard (HP) and Intel are well-established in Fort Collins, with numerous innovative startups in fintech, real estate tech, and cybersecurity also emerging in the area.
How does Fort Collins' cost of living compare to the national average?
Fort Collins offers a cost of living that is 3.2% below the national average, providing a favorable financial environment for tech professionals living and working in the area.
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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.