Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Jacksonville in 2025
Last Updated: December 12th 2024
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Jacksonville's tech job market in 2025 is thriving, growing faster than major hubs like LA and Miami. Top roles like AI Architect and Cloud Architect boast salaries from $128,000 to $200,000. The city's expanding opportunities in diverse tech fields—thanks to cost-effective living, zero state income tax, and robust community initiatives—make Jacksonville ideal for tech professionals aiming to advance in a rapidly expanding ecosystem.
Jacksonville's tech scene in 2025 is absolutely crushing it! Major industries like logistics and healthcare are seeing massive gains from automation, making this the perfect time to jump into tech.
The city's job market is seriously impressive, with the University of Florida's new tech campus bringing advanced programs in AI, cybersecurity, and biomedical sciences to downtown.
What's really cool is that Jacksonville has the third largest monthly tech job growth rate in the nation, beating out major players like LA and Miami. The numbers don't lie - we're talking about over 62,000 professionals in financial services alone, and tech jobs are expected to grow another 28% by 2024.
Companies like Baptist Health, FIS, and Dun & Bradstreet are constantly hiring, offering competitive salaries that actually let you live comfortably. Plus, the cost of living here is way more reasonable than those overpriced tech hubs on the West Coast.
With regular tech meetups and a growing startup scene, Jacksonville's definitely the place to be for anyone looking to make their mark in tech.
Table of Contents
- How We Curated the Top 10 List
- 1. Cloud Architect – Leading Jacksonville's Tech Salaries
- 2. Machine Learning Engineer – Innovating with AI
- 3. Data Scientist – Uncovering Insights from Data
- 4. Software Engineer – Building the Future
- 5. Network Security Engineer – Safeguarding Digital Infrastructure
- 6. Cybersecurity Engineer – Defending Against Digital Threats
- 7. DevOps Engineer – Streamlining Development Processes
- 8. AI Specialist – Advancing Artificial Intelligence
- 9. Blockchain Developer – Innovating Financial Technologies
- 10. Cloud Solutions Consultant – Creating Effective Cloud Strategies
- Conclusion: Navigating Jacksonville’s Thriving Tech Landscape
- Frequently Asked Questions
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How We Curated the Top 10 List
(Up)Our analysis of Jacksonville's highest-paying tech jobs in 2025 combines real industry data with practical insights to help you make smart career moves. According to recent salary reports, AI Architects are leading the pack with salaries exceeding $200k, while cybersecurity roles are close behind due to increasing AI-related threats.
We looked at salary data from multiple sources, including Robert Half's latest tech salary guide and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, focusing specifically on Jacksonville's market dynamics.
What's really interesting is that cloud architects and network security engineers are seeing serious growth, with average salaries ranging from $148,000 to $201,000 annually.
- Flexible Hiring Requirements: Companies are actually lowering experience requirements while raising starting salaries.
- Flexible Tech Managers: 56% of tech managers are now more flexible about hiring requirements.
- Increased Initial Offers: 45% are boosting initial pay offers.
We've ranked these positions based on three main factors: how much you can make, how fast you can move up, and how many jobs are available right here in Jacksonville.
Every role on our list has been vetted through conversations with local tech leaders and cross-referenced with current job market data. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your tech career, these insights show where the real opportunities are in Jacksonville's tech scene right now.
1. Cloud Architect – Leading Jacksonville's Tech Salaries
(Up)As a Cloud Architect in Jacksonville in 2025, you're basically at the top of the tech food chain. These pros aren't just pushing buttons - they're overseeing entire cloud computing strategies and making sure everything runs smoothly.
The role is super hands-on, from designing scalable solutions to keeping data locked down tight. Cloud Architects are the ones making sure companies can handle their explosive growth without their systems falling apart.
The position demands serious skills, which is why it pays so well.
You need to be sharp with network architecture, security protocols, and system design.
It's not just about knowing your way around AWS or Azure - you've got to understand how everything connects and works together. Plus, you need to keep up with all the latest tech developments because cloud computing never stands still.
Cloud Architects in Jacksonville are seriously cashing in.
The position brings in between $128,000 to $167,000 yearly, depending on your experience. Companies understand that cloud computing directly impacts their bottom line, and they're ready to pay top dollar for someone who can keep their systems running efficiently.
The market's growing like crazy too, with a projected 21.2% growth rate through 2030. That means if you're thinking about getting into cloud architecture, now's definitely the time to make your move.
2. Machine Learning Engineer – Innovating with AI
(Up)Machine Learning Engineering in Jacksonville is seriously taking off in 2025, with major growth in AI and tech innovation. According to market projections, the global machine learning industry is set to hit $78.9 billion by 2025, growing at an insane rate of 38.6% annually.
Here in Jacksonville, ML engineers are seriously crushing it - they're building AI models, tweaking algorithms, and creating smart systems that help businesses work better.
The demand for these roles has jumped 15% locally, with companies in everything from healthcare to finance jumping on the AI train.
The money is absolutely amazing too.
ML Engineers in Jacksonville are pulling in around $145,000 annually, which is pretty sweet for the area. What's driving this? Well, new developments in AI show that everything from content personalization to voice search optimization is becoming huge.
Companies need ML Engineers who can handle these advanced technologies and keep up with the latest trends. It's not just about coding anymore - it's about creating smart solutions that actually make a difference.
The tech scene here is absolutely buzzing, especially with all the upcoming AI trends in healthcare and autonomous systems.
Jacksonville's Silicon Beach is becoming a legit tech hub where ML engineers can really make their mark. Between automated machine learning (AutoML) and edge AI development, there's so much room for innovation.
If you're looking to get into tech and want something that's both challenging and rewarding, Machine Learning Engineering in Jacksonville is definitely worth checking out.
The field is growing like crazy, and the opportunities are just getting started.
3. Data Scientist – Uncovering Insights from Data
(Up)In 2025, being a Data Scientist is one of the most exciting career paths you can take! According to recent industry analysis, the role has transformed into this perfect mix of technical skills and creative problem-solving.
We're not just crunching numbers anymore - we're building real-time analytics systems and creating ethical AI solutions that actually matter. The average salary is hitting around $120,000, and with the right skills, you can push that even higher.
Jacksonville's tech scene is crushing it, with Data Scientists being valuable across different industries.
The latest career insights show that healthcare analytics roles are paying up to $126,430 annually, while AI engineering positions are reaching $135,000.
Data Scientists are revolutionizing everything from supply chain optimization to personalizing customer experiences.
The skills you need to succeed are constantly evolving too.
The latest trends show that multimodal AI and decision intelligence are becoming huge focuses.
Companies are looking for people who can handle everything from machine learning to data visualization, and they're especially interested in those who understand AI ethics and can communicate complex ideas simply.
If you're thinking about getting into this field, now's the perfect time - the job market is projected to grow by over 90% for data-related roles. Just make sure to stay current with the latest tools and technologies, because this field moves incredibly fast!
4. Software Engineer – Building the Future
(Up)Software engineers in Jacksonville are revolutionizing tech development, crafting solutions that shape our digital future. In 2025, these professionals are creating groundbreaking applications across industries, from upgrading healthcare systems to building next-gen financial platforms.
According to recent industry insights, the rise of remote work and AI integration is transforming how developers operate, with tools like GitHub Copilot making coding faster and more efficient.
The evolution of high-performance languages like Go and Rust is pushing the boundaries of what's possible in software development.
Jacksonville software engineers are seeing impressive salary growth, with average compensation reaching $110,000, while senior positions command $140,000+ annually.
Latest market analysis shows that despite economic pressures, about 70% of businesses are prioritizing tech growth, creating abundant opportunities in healthcare, finance, and e-commerce sectors.
The shift toward automation and cloud computing is driving demand for skilled developers who can adapt to these changes.
To stay competitive in 2025, software engineers need to master AI integration, cloud-native development, and emerging technologies like blockchain.
Major Jacksonville employers like FIS and Black Knight are investing heavily in developers who can handle these advanced tools. The local tech scene is buzzing with opportunities for those ready to dive into machine learning, DevSecOps, and sustainable software practices.
This transformation isn't just about coding anymore - it's about creating solutions that make a real impact while working with cutting-edge tech.
The future looks incredible for software engineers in Jacksonville, with clear paths for growth and leadership.
Whether you're into AI development, cloud architecture, or full-stack development, the opportunities to build amazing things while earning a great salary are everywhere.
The best part? The tech community here is growing fast, making it an awesome time to jump into this field.
5. Network Security Engineer – Safeguarding Digital Infrastructure
(Up)As a Network Security Engineer, you're basically the guardian of digital infrastructure, and protecting networks isn't just important - it's absolutely essential.
With cyberattacks expected to cost over $10.5 trillion globally by 2025, protecting networks isn't just important - it's absolutely essential. Network Security Engineers earn an impressive average of $128,441, with entry-level positions starting at $90,421, making it a seriously attractive career choice.
The job involves everything from managing firewalls and implementing security blueprints to ensuring system backups are running smoothly.
What makes this role even more interesting is how artificial intelligence is transforming cybersecurity in 2025.
We're seeing AI-powered tools revolutionize both threat detection and prevention, which means Network Security Engineers need to stay ahead of the curve. The role requires solid technical skills, including expertise in programming languages like Java, Python, and C++, plus the ability to tackle real-world security challenges head-on.
The coolest part? Network Security professionals are leading the charge in developing cyber resilience strategies and implementing AI-driven security solutions.
With the rise of sophisticated cyber threats, companies are investing heavily in their security teams, making this career path not just financially rewarding but also incredibly dynamic.
For anyone looking to make their mark in Jacksonville's tech sector while earning a competitive salary, Network Security Engineering offers the perfect blend of challenge and opportunity.
6. Cybersecurity Engineer – Defending Against Digital Threats
(Up)In 2025, Jacksonville's cybersecurity landscape is experiencing rapid changes, with local organizations blocking thousands of password attacks monthly, according to recent data from Jacksonville University.
Cybersecurity Engineers are now facing AI-powered threats and quantum computing challenges that could potentially break current encryption standards. The upcoming Jacksonville Cybersecurity Summit highlights these emerging risks, bringing together experts from the FBI, IBM, and leading tech companies to address these challenges.
The role demands expertise in advanced threat detection, network protection, and compliance management.
The skill requirements are evolving fast. According to industry predictions for 2025, Cybersecurity Engineers need proficiency in AI-driven defense systems, quantum-resistant encryption, and social engineering attack prevention.
Certifications like CISSP and CEH remain valuable, but there's a growing emphasis on practical experience with machine learning tools and advanced threat detection systems.
The field requires constant learning, as attackers now use sophisticated AI tools for creating targeted phishing scams and adaptive malware.
The compensation reflects the critical nature of this role, with salaries ranging from $105,000 to $140,000 annually in Jacksonville.
This competitive pay scale is driven by the surge in ransomware attacks and the increasing complexity of cyber threats. The city's tech sector expansion, coupled with stricter data protection regulations, creates strong job security.
For tech enthusiasts interested in cybersecurity, Jacksonville offers real opportunities to work with cutting-edge defense technologies while protecting critical digital infrastructure.
The role combines technical challenges with the satisfaction of defending organizations against evolving cyber threats.
7. DevOps Engineer – Streamlining Development Processes
(Up)As a DevOps Engineer in Jacksonville's 2025 tech scene, you get to be the bridge between software development and IT operations, making everything run smoother and faster.
According to recent certification trends, DevOps professionals are crushing it by breaking down old barriers between development and operations teams.
The role is super hands-on - you'll work with cutting-edge tools for continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD), which basically means getting new software updates out quickly and reliably.
The best part? Jacksonville's DevOps positions are offering seriously competitive salaries ranging from $80,000 to $135,000, making it a sweet career choice for tech enthusiasts.
Companies like Citrix and Maximus are actively searching for DevOps talent, especially those skilled in cloud platforms like AWS and Azure.
What makes this role extra exciting is how it's constantly evolving.
Current job listings show that DevOps Engineers need to master container management (Docker, Kubernetes), automation tools, and programming languages like Python and PowerShell.
But it's not just about the technical stuff - you'll also collaborate with different teams, solve complex problems, and be at the forefront of digital transformation.
The demand is real, with Jacksonville's tech sector growing faster than ever. Companies are specifically looking for people who can handle cloud infrastructure, set up automated testing, and keep systems running reliably.
If you're into technology and love making things work better, DevOps Engineering could be your perfect career move in Jacksonville's booming tech market.
8. AI Specialist – Advancing Artificial Intelligence
(Up)In 2025, AI Specialists are seriously shaking things up in Jacksonville's tech scene. The career path is looking extra promising, especially with places like Baptist Health leading the way in AI innovation, where they're pioneering AI solutions for healthcare workflows.
The average salary range is pretty sweet, starting at $68,405 and going up to $181,216 according to federal benchmarks, with private sector roles often paying even more.
Plus, the job growth is projected at 36% - that's huge!
What's really cool is how UNF's AI & Machine Learning bootcamp is helping people break into the field locally.
They're teaching all the essential skills like Python, machine learning, and deep learning in just 26 weeks. It's perfect for anyone wanting to jump into AI without spending years in traditional education.
The tech companies here aren't just looking for coders - they want people who can think creatively about AI solutions.
I've noticed that major healthcare organizations are actively recruiting for AI roles, especially in areas like clinical research and data science.
The skills you need are pretty specific - machine learning algorithms, programming languages, and understanding of AI frameworks are must-haves. But what's really exciting is how these roles are becoming more diverse, from working on autonomous systems to developing AI solutions that help doctors make better decisions.
The opportunities are seriously endless, and Jacksonville's becoming a real hotspot for AI careers.
9. Blockchain Developer – Innovating Financial Technologies
(Up)The role of Blockchain Developers in Jacksonville's tech scene is absolutely taking off in 2025.
These developers are the masterminds behind designing secure blockchain systems, creating smart contracts, and building the architecture that's transforming how businesses operate.
What makes this role super interesting is how it's reshaping major industries - from banking to healthcare - by making everything more transparent and efficient.
According to recent financial industry reports, blockchain adoption is set to explode in 2025, with companies racing to implement these solutions.
The average blockchain developer salary now ranges between $120,000 to $200,000 annually, depending on expertise and specialization. That's seriously good money for doing cutting-edge work!
What's really cool about being a blockchain developer in 2025 is the variety of skills you get to use.
You need to know programming languages like Solidity and Python, understand cryptography, and be able to work with different blockchain platforms. The job market is particularly hot in Jacksonville's financial district, where banks and fintech companies are competing for talent to build their next-gen payment systems and digital asset platforms.
Companies are especially interested in developers who can create secure smart contracts and develop decentralized applications (dApps) that streamline business operations.
The most exciting part about this career is being at the forefront of technological change.
Whether you're working on NFT marketplaces, decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, or enterprise blockchain solutions, you're literally building the future of how businesses and people will interact with digital assets and automated systems.
For anyone looking to jump into tech, blockchain development is definitely worth considering - it's challenging, rewarding, and the opportunities are just getting started.
10. Cloud Solutions Consultant – Creating Effective Cloud Strategies
(Up)In 2025, Cloud Solutions Consultants are becoming key players in Jacksonville's expanding tech scene. The role focuses on implementing cloud technologies and developing efficient operational strategies.
Major consulting firms like Deloitte are actively recruiting for cloud positions, offering competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages.
The job involves working with businesses to evaluate their cloud requirements, design custom solutions, and manage cloud migrations. Companies like AWS, Google Cloud, and local tech giants FIS and Black Knight are leading this transformation.
The current market shows exciting growth potential, with salaries ranging from $85,000 to $149,000 based on experience and expertise.
Tech companies in Jacksonville are investing heavily in cloud infrastructure, creating numerous opportunities for professionals in this field.
The role typically requires expertise in various cloud platforms, development stacks, and DevOps practices, including experience with Node.js, Angular, React, and cloud services like AWS and Azure.
Looking ahead, career prospects in cloud consulting are particularly strong in Jacksonville.
The city's tech sector is growing rapidly, with many companies offering remote work options and comprehensive benefits packages. Key responsibilities include collaborating with architecture review boards, ensuring security compliance, and staying current with emerging technologies.
For tech professionals starting their careers, this role offers a perfect blend of technical challenge and business impact, with clear paths for advancement in Jacksonville's thriving tech ecosystem.
Conclusion: Navigating Jacksonville’s Thriving Tech Landscape
(Up)Jacksonville's tech scene is absolutely crushing it in 2025, with major companies like Citi offering Summer Technology Analyst positions starting at $80,000.
The city's becoming a serious player in tech, especially in software development, cybersecurity, and digital innovation. Companies are actively recruiting for diverse tech roles, from DevOps to UI/UX design, with competitive salaries averaging $98,000 annually.
Johnson & Johnson's MedTech division is expanding their R&D operations here, creating even more opportunities for tech professionals.
The city's also seeing major growth in entry-level tech positions, perfect for fresh graduates and career changers.
With companies investing heavily in automation and digital transformation, particularly in healthcare and logistics sectors, Jacksonville's tech job market is projected to grow 15% faster than the national average over the next five years.
Between the amazing weather, zero state income tax, and growing number of tech meetups and innovation hubs, Jacksonville's becoming the place to be for anyone serious about building a career in tech.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What makes Jacksonville's tech job market unique in 2025?
Jacksonville's tech job market in 2025 is unique due to its impressive growth rate, being the third largest in the nation. The city has a significantly lower cost of living compared to major tech hubs on the West Coast, making it an attractive destination for tech professionals. Additionally, companies like Baptist Health, FIS, and Dun & Bradstreet are constantly hiring with competitive salaries.
Which tech job roles are the highest paying in Jacksonville in 2025?
In 2025, some of the highest-paying tech roles in Jacksonville include AI Architects with salaries exceeding $200k, Cloud Architects earning between $128,000 to $167,000, and Machine Learning Engineers making around $145,000 annually. Data Scientists and Cybersecurity Engineers also feature as top earners with salaries reaching up to $135,000.
How did the top 10 list of best paid tech jobs get curated?
The top 10 list of best paid tech jobs was curated by analyzing salary data from multiple sources such as Robert Half's latest tech salary guide and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The roles are ranked based on salary potential, career advancement speed, and job availability in Jacksonville, with additional insights from local tech leaders.
What skills are essential for tech roles in Jacksonville in 2025?
Critical skills for tech roles in Jacksonville in 2025 include proficiency in AI-driven systems, cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, programming languages like Python, and expertise in blockchain technologies. Companies also value skills in machine learning, cybersecurity, and DevOps practices to keep up with industry advancements.
What opportunities does Jacksonville offer for tech professionals?
Jacksonville offers tech professionals numerous opportunities in a rapidly growing market. The city's tech sector expansion is driven by increased investments in automation and digital transformation, particularly in healthcare and logistics. With a variety of roles available and competitive salaries, Jacksonville presents a vibrant tech ecosystem ideal for career growth.
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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.