Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Joliet in 2025

In 2025, Joliet's tech scene is absolutely exploding with opportunities, and I'm here for it! Local employers are actively seeking professionals with skills in data science, full-stack development, and cybersecurity.

The tech sector's 25% growth isn't just a random number - it's driven by major developments like the Lion Electric Factory and innovative startups making waves in the area.

According to recent data, Will County's business development is on an upward trend, with tech companies leading the charge.

The average tech salary of $155,930 annually is seriously impressive, especially for roles in cloud computing and AI. What's really cool is that local startups are innovating in areas like warehouse automation and sustainable energy, creating even more job opportunities.

The city's transformation from its manufacturing roots to a tech hub is creating perfect conditions for both entry-level positions and senior roles. Whether you're interested in software development or cybersecurity, Joliet's tech market is ready to welcome fresh talent with competitive salaries and exciting projects.

How we ranked the best tech jobs in Joliet for 2025. Our research focused on three key factors: salary potential, job growth, and in-demand skills. According to Robert Half's 2025 Salary Guide, tech salaries are seeing steady growth, with 45% of tech leaders increasing starting salaries to attract top talent.

The data shows impressive earning potential, like Machine Learning Engineers commanding up to $459,000 in top markets.

“Tech salaries are seeing steady growth, with 45% of tech leaders increasing starting salaries to attract top talent.”

• Salary potential: Tech salaries are climbing, offering excellent earning opportunities.
• Job growth: There is a rising demand for tech roles, especially in emerging fields.
• In-demand skills: Expertise in Python, cloud platforms, and cybersecurity is essential.

When looking at growth trends, CompTIA's latest workforce report reveals that 61% of managers are planning to hire for new roles, particularly in emerging fields like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

The demand is real - 90% of hiring managers say finding qualified candidates is challenging, which means more opportunities for those with the right skills.

“90% of hiring managers say finding qualified candidates is challenging.”

• Emerging fields: Growing areas in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity offer new roles.
• Talent demand: There's a struggle to find qualified candidates, highlighting opportunities.

Speaking of skills, recent industry analysis shows that expertise in Python, cloud platforms, and cybersecurity tools are absolute must-haves.

Companies aren't just looking for technical skills though - they want people who can collaborate and solve problems. What's really interesting is that 56% of tech managers are now more flexible about experience requirements, making it easier for newcomers to break into the field.

I'm seeing firsthand how bootcamps and certifications are becoming valid alternatives to traditional degrees, especially for roles like software development and data analysis.

“56% of tech managers are now more flexible about experience requirements.”

• Technical skills: Mastery of Python, cloud, and cybersecurity is non-negotiable.
• Collaboration: Companies value teamwork and problem solving in potential hires.
• Flexible experience: Reduced emphasis on experience allows newcomers easier entry.
• Alternative education: Bootcamps and certifications are becoming respected learning paths.

The position of Cloud Architect in Joliet has become seriously competitive in 2025, with salaries ranging from $160,720 to $210,945 for skilled professionals.

Working as a Cloud Architect means being at the core of a company's digital transformation, handling everything from cloud platform strategy to implementing robust security measures.

The role has evolved beyond just technical skills - you need to be someone who can both design complex systems and explain them in simple terms to stakeholders.

What makes this role particularly exciting is the variety of career paths available.

Leading companies in Joliet are actively seeking architects who can revolutionize their data and analytics capabilities while ensuring top-notch security.

The work involves creating scalable solutions that can grow with the business, implementing data security protocols, and making sure everything runs smoothly across different platforms.

Robert Brown has noticed that employers are really emphasizing the importance of having practical experience with major cloud platforms like AWS and Azure.

The most successful Cloud Architects are those who combine technical expertise with strong leadership abilities.

According to recent job postings in Joliet, companies are looking for professionals who can handle everything from developing strategic roadmaps to managing cross-functional teams.

The field is perfect for tech enthusiasts who enjoy solving complex problems and want to be at the forefront of digital innovation. With the growing emphasis on cloud computing, this role isn't just about maintaining systems - it's about shaping the future of how businesses operate in the digital space.

Machine Learning Engineers are seriously crushing it in Joliet's tech scene this year. These tech pros are the real deal, designing and developing AI systems that are changing how companies operate.

The salary game is strong too - ML Engineers are pulling in around $165,110 annually, with experienced pros hitting upwards of $200,000. What makes this role extra interesting is that they get to wrangle datasets, design experiments, and fine-tune algorithms for real-world applications.

The coolest part? They're behind everything from Netflix recommendations to self-driving cars. The global machine learning market is expected to explode from $26.03 billion to a massive $225.91 billion by 2030, which means tons of opportunities for anyone looking to jump into this field.

Getting started means mastering Python, diving into frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch, and really understanding how to work with data. Companies in Joliet are seriously investing in AI, making it the perfect time to get into machine learning.

Plus, with the field growing so fast, there's always something new to learn and explore. Whether you're fresh out of college or switching careers, machine learning engineering is definitely worth checking out - it's basically like being paid to build the future.

Data Scientists in Joliet are seriously changing the game in 2025, as companies realize that data analysis is crucial for making smart business moves.

It's mind-blowing to see how these professionals are transforming massive amounts of raw data into practical solutions that companies can actually use. According to recent studies, companies using data analytics are seeing a 10% boost in productivity, and they're 5 times more likely to make faster decisions.

With an average salary of $160,617 in Joliet, it's clear that businesses are investing heavily in data science talent. The role has become super important for staying competitive, especially since data analytics and AI are revolutionizing how businesses operate, from improving customer experiences to streamlining operations.

Skills in Python and R programming are absolutely essential, but what's really setting successful data scientists apart is their ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights using visualization tools like Tableau and Power BI. Companies are now treating data as their most valuable asset, and they're looking for professionals who can help them unlock its full potential.

Whether it's predicting market trends, optimizing operations, or enhancing customer experiences, data scientists are at the forefront of innovation in Joliet's tech scene.

The combination of cutting-edge technology and strategic thinking makes this role not just financially rewarding but also incredibly impactful for career growth.

As a software engineer in Joliet's growing tech scene, you're looking at some seriously exciting opportunities right now. According to recent industry data, the average salary hits $142K for experienced JavaScript developers, with top performers earning even more.

• 68% of local companies report they can't find enough qualified developers, which means amazing opportunities for those with the right skills.
• The emerging trends in 2025 show AI tools like GitHub Copilot are making coding more efficient than ever, letting developers focus on solving complex problems rather than writing basic code.
• The push toward cloud computing is massive too, with over 90% of businesses increasing their cloud usage.
• Beyond just coding, employers are investing heavily in cybersecurity and DevSecOps, with teams using these practices deploying code 46x more frequently.
• If you're thinking about jumping into software engineering, now's the perfect time - companies are expanding their tech teams, and they're especially keen on developers who understand both traditional programming and newer technologies like AI and cloud architecture.
• The best part? You don't need decades of experience to start - companies are more interested in your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to new technologies.

With these expanding opportunities, it's clear that the tech industry in Joliet is poised for continued growth, and those with the right skill set stand to benefit profoundly.

Network Security Engineers are at the forefront of protecting digital assets in Joliet's tech landscape. According to recent industry data, these professionals earn between $67,000 to $139,000 annually, with experienced engineers commanding higher salaries.

Their role has become increasingly critical, as CISA reports a 62% rise in cyberattacks between 2021 and 2022. Network Security Engineers handle everything from maintaining firewalls and implementing security protocols to conducting system audits and responding to real-time threats.

Current responsibilities include managing data access, testing networks for vulnerabilities, and ensuring system backups are operational.

To break into this field, you'll need a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, plus certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. The most successful engineers are those who stay current with emerging security trends and have strong skills in networking technologies, programming, and API integration.

What makes this role especially exciting is the constant evolution of security challenges - you're basically playing a high-stakes game of digital chess against potential threats.

The job outlook is strong, particularly in Joliet where companies are investing heavily in cybersecurity infrastructure. If you're interested in problem-solving and protecting important data, this career path offers both technical challenges and the satisfaction of keeping organizations safe from cyber threats.

The AI Research Scientist role in Joliet has become seriously exciting in 2025, with salaries now reaching up to $170,800 at leading companies like Highmark Health.

It's mind-blowing how AI has moved beyond research labs and into practical applications, transforming how businesses operate. These scientists are the masterminds behind the algorithms that make machines think and learn, creating solutions that honestly feel like they're straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Companies are investing heavily in generative AI research, opening doors for fresh graduates to dive into cutting-edge projects.

The tech scene in Joliet is absolutely booming, with companies seeking AI experts who can handle everything from machine learning to deep neural networks.

The requirements are pretty intense - you need solid Python skills, experience with frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlow, and a strong grasp of statistical modeling.

Companies like NVIDIA are actively recruiting new college grads for research scientist positions, specifically in fundamental generative AI. The field keeps evolving at lightning speed, and staying current with the latest developments is crucial.

What makes it worth it? Besides the excellent pay, you get to work on projects that genuinely push the boundaries of what's possible with technology.

The cybersecurity landscape in Joliet is transforming rapidly in 2025, with companies like Kellanova actively recruiting security analysts for their Global Cybersecurity team.

The field offers exciting opportunities, with internship programs like Mr. Cooper's Information Security program providing hands-on experience with Security Information & Event Management (SIEM), firewalls, and Data Loss Prevention tools.

Entry-level positions start around $33,500, with experienced professionals earning well into six figures. The demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals continues to grow, as shown by the increasing number of cybersecurity analyst positions across Joliet and surrounding areas.

Key responsibilities now include managing email gateway protection, tracking IT security incidents, and implementing behavior analytics tools. Beyond technical skills, employers value strong communication abilities and relevant certifications.

The field requires constant learning and adaptation, as threats evolve and new security measures emerge. Companies prioritize candidates who can tackle real-world challenges, from handling DLP violations to addressing insider threats.

This dynamic environment offers clear career progression, with opportunities to specialize in areas like network security, incident response, or governance and compliance.

For those starting in cybersecurity, bootcamp training combined with industry certifications provides a solid foundation for entering this high-growth field.

As a Penetration Tester in Joliet for 2025, you're looking at an exciting career with an average salary ranging from $97,000 to $132,500, with top performers earning up to $156,000.

Working as an ethical hacker means you'll spend your days finding vulnerabilities in computer systems before the bad guys do. It's like being a detective in the digital world - you get to break into systems (legally!) and help companies protect their valuable data.

The role requires serious tech skills, and as a professional penetration tester, you'll need to master tools like Kali Linux, Metasploit, and Wireshark.

The job involves conducting security audits, testing applications and networks, and sometimes even trying to breach physical security - which honestly makes for some pretty interesting workdays.

You'll need to know your way around various programming languages, especially Python and Bash, and stay current with the latest hacking techniques.

According to recent industry data, about 55% of penetration testers have a bachelor's degree, while 44% hold a master's.

But what's really cool is that certifications like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) or OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) can often be just as valuable as formal education.

The field is growing super fast, and companies are desperate for skilled professionals who can think like attackers but work for the good guys. Whether you want to work in-house for a big company, join a security firm, or go freelance, there's plenty of room to grow and make your mark in this field.

DevOps Engineers in Joliet are crushing it with salaries reaching up to $183,650 in 2024, making it one of the most attractive tech careers in the area.

As someone looking to break into tech, it's exciting to see how this role bridges development and operations teams while focusing on automation and efficiency.

The field keeps evolving, and trending DevOps tools in 2025 include Git for version control, Jenkins for continuous integration, and Docker for containerization - all essential skills for anyone serious about this career path.

The best part? These tools are totally learnable through hands-on practice and dedication.

What makes DevOps truly interesting is how it's reshaping tech careers.

Motion Recruitment's latest salary guide shows that DevOps professionals are in high demand across different experience levels, from entry-level positions starting at $151,675 to senior roles commanding top dollar.

The key to success? Master the core tools, get comfortable with cloud platforms like AWS or Azure, and stay current with automation practices. Companies in Joliet are actively seeking DevOps talent who can streamline their development processes and boost productivity through smart automation.

For anyone considering this path, focus on building these essential skills:

• CI/CD pipeline implementation using Jenkins or GitLab: Set up automated integration and delivery pipelines.
• Container orchestration with Docker and Kubernetes: Manage and deploy applications efficiently at scale.
• Infrastructure as Code using Terraform or Ansible: Automate the setup of IT infrastructure.
• Cloud platform expertise (AWS, Azure, or GCP): Gain proficiency in at least one major cloud service platform.
• Strong scripting abilities in Python or Shell: Enhance your ability to automate repetitive tasks.

The tech scene in Joliet is growing fast, and DevOps Engineers are leading the charge in transforming how companies deliver software.

It's definitely worth checking out if you're into both coding and problem-solving!

As a cybersecurity professional in Joliet for 2025, Information Security Analysts are seriously changing the game in tech, with salaries ranging from $65,000 to $160,000 depending on experience.

We're talking about protecting companies from cyber threats - it's literally like being a digital guardian. The coolest part? The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a massive 33% growth in job opportunities through 2030, creating about 47,100 new positions.

That's huge! Leading companies in Joliet are actively searching for analysts who can handle everything from threat hunting to system maintenance.

Want to get into this field? Here's what you need:

• Strong skills in security tools and threat detection: Build your capability in handling security systems efficiently.
• Knowledge of network security and data protection: Understand how to safeguard information and networks effectively.
• Understanding of security compliance standards: Ensure adherence to industry standards and regulations.
• Problem-solving abilities for quick incident response: Develop the skill to address security issues expediently.

The work is super dynamic - one day you're monitoring security alerts, the next you're developing new protection strategies.

Companies around Joliet are offering competitive packages, especially if you've got certifications like CISSP or CEH. It's not just about technical skills though - you need to be good at explaining complex security stuff to people who might not be tech-savvy.

Real talk: this job is perfect for anyone who loves solving puzzles and staying ahead of threats.

As someone just starting in tech, the combination of high pay, job security, and the chance to protect important data makes this role seriously appealing. Plus, with hybrid work options becoming more common, you get flexibility while making a real impact in the digital world.

Looking ahead to 2025, Joliet's tech scene is absolutely taking off, with incredible opportunities for anyone ready to jump into the field. The latest job market data shows entry-level tech positions starting between $26,000 to $47,000, with experienced professionals earning way more.

Companies are seriously investing in their tech teams - 68% of local businesses say they need more tech talent, and job growth has jumped 25% since 2013. Technical support roles are everywhere, with positions ranging from entry-level help desk specialists to senior developers making up to $140,000 annually.

If you're thinking about getting into tech, now's literally the perfect time - companies are offering flexible work arrangements, competitive salaries, and tons of room for growth.

Just make sure to focus on building skills in programming, cloud platforms, and cybersecurity - those are the areas where employers are desperately looking for talent.

The tech scene here is growing fast, and there's plenty of room for newcomers to make their mark and build amazing careers.

Companies are seriously investing in their tech teams - 68% of local businesses say they need more tech talent, and job growth has jumped 25% since 2013.

• Entry-level salaries: Entry-level tech positions start between $26,000 to $47,000.
• High demand: 68% of local businesses say they need more tech talent.
• Technical support roles: Positions range from help desk specialists to senior developers with salaries up to $140,000.
• Skill focus: Building skills in programming, cloud platforms, and cybersecurity is critical.