Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Kansas City
Last Updated: December 25th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Kansas City's booming tech industry encompasses over 102,700 jobs and contributes $16.5 billion annually. Top high-paying roles include Computer and Information Systems Managers ($137,160 median salary), Information Security Analysts ($98,610), and Software Engineers with average salaries potentially exceeding $132,000. Rapid growth in fields like AI and cloud computing promises continued demand and lucrative opportunities. Tech job growth in Kansas City is projected to rise by 15% by 2024, surpassing national averages, fueled by innovation in healthcare, finance, and startups.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Kansas City is totally killing it as a tech hotspot, drawing in major talent and investors from all over.
The KC Tech Council says the area has over 3,900 established tech firms and a mind-blowing 102,743 tech jobs! This booming industry rakes in an insane $16.5 billion for the local economy each year, proving just how vital these roles are for growth and innovation.
With all this tech fire, Kansas City ranks among the best cities for scoring fat paychecks in tech.
According to the latest stats, some of the highest-paying gigs in the region include:
- Solutions Architects with huge salaries
- Information Security Analysts with a median annual salary of $98,610
- Computer and Information Systems Managers with a median of $137,160 per year
As Elizabeth Lee from KC Tech Council puts it, "Kansas City's tech scene is on fire, offering loads of rewarding, high-paying careers in cutting-edge fields." With competitive salaries and a thriving community, the city is a total magnet for top tech talent, cementing its place as the tech capital of the heartland.
Table of Contents
- Methodology: How We Ranked the Top 10 Jobs
- Software Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Information Security Analyst
- DevOps Engineer
- Cloud Solutions Architect
- Mobile Application Developer
- AI/Machine Learning Specialist
- Full Stack Developer
- IT Project Manager
- Systems Analyst
- Conclusion: The Future of Tech Jobs in Kansas City
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Methodology: How We Ranked the Top 10 Jobs
(Up)To rank the dopest high-paying tech jobs in Kansas City, we had to be super thorough. We didn't mess around with no sketchy sources. We went straight to the big dogs like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and heavy hitters like PayScale and Glassdoor for the real deal on salaries and pay scales.
Cheddar was a major factor, but we ain't all about that cash life.
Job growth was a key player too, 'cause who wants a dead-end gig, right? If a role wasn't projected to blow up more than the national average of 5%, we weren't feeling it.
Tech's the future, and we looked at how emerging techs like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are shaking things up, creating mad new opportunities. The demand for digitalization across industries is crazy too, setting the stage for some serious growth.
But we didn't stop there.
We scoped out the real-time job postings on sites like Indeed and LinkedIn to see what's actually poppin' in Kansas City right now. Roles with more openings got bumped up the list 'cause who doesn't want options? According to some hot study, the tech sector in KC has grown by a whopping 20% in job openings over the last three years, blowing past the national average.
This city's tech game is strong, no cap!
Software Engineer
(Up)If you're looking to score big in the tech world of Kansas City, Software Engineering is where it's at.
These coding wizards are the masterminds behind the apps and systems that keep our digital lives running smoothly. From dreaming up the architecture to making that code sing, they handle it all with finesse.
According to the data, the average annual pay for a Software Engineer in KC is a sweet $92,730, with the top guns raking in over $132K. But that's not even the best part – job openings in this field are projected to skyrocket by 22% by 2024, way higher than the national average.
Kansas City is doubling down on its tech game, attracting companies left and right and fostering a breeding ground for innovation.
To slay as a Software Engineer here, you'll need a diverse arsenal of skills.
Java, Python, C++, and JavaScript should roll off your tongue like poetry. Experience with object-oriented programming and database management systems is clutch.
Employers also dig Agile methodologies and knowing your way around version control systems like Git. But it's not just about the technical chops – problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills are key.
Most gigs will require a Bachelor's in Computer Science or Software Engineering, but relevant experience and certifications can also open doors.
As Barbara Lee, a seasoned Software Engineer in KC, puts it, "The key to success in this field is a relentless pursuit of learning and adapting to ever-evolving technologies. Software Engineers must constantly upskill themselves to stay ahead of the curve."
Data Scientist
(Up)In the world of tech, being a Data Scientist is like being a modern-day treasure hunter, except you're digging for golden insights buried in massive data piles instead of pirate booty.
And Kansas City is where the action's at! These data-mining gurus are raking in some serious cash, with salaries ranging from around $59,966 to $140,713 per year, according to the U.S. Department of the Treasury job posting.
Their game is all about unleashing the power of computational thinking and heavy-duty math skills to spot trends and dig up those hidden gems of knowledge in seemingly random data dumps.
It's like a giant puzzle that only the sharpest minds can solve. To make it in KC as a Data Scientist, you gotta have that solid background in programming, statistics, and machine learning under your belt.
We're talking Python, R, SQL - the whole nine yards of code-slinging expertise.
Information Security Analyst
(Up)Kansas City is where it's at for anyone looking to dive into the wild world of cybersecurity! With hackers constantly trying to break through digital defenses, the role of an Information Security Analyst has become absolutely crucial.
These tech wizards are the frontline warriors tasked with monitoring networks, sniffing out vulnerabilities, and implementing security measures to keep the bad guys at bay.
In KC, these cyber guardians are raking in some serious cash, with an average salary of around $98,720 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The pay can skyrocket even higher based on factors like experience, certifications, and the industry you're in. To truly level up in this field, you've gotta have a diverse skill set - from technical know-how to analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
While a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field is usually required, employers are also on the hunt for candidates with industry-recognized certs.
Some of the hottest ones in KC include the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP).
These bad boys validate your expertise in areas like security management, identifying vulnerabilities, and cloud security best practices.
With data breaches constantly making headlines and cybercrime becoming more advanced by the day, the demand for skilled Information Security Analysts in Kansas City is only going to keep rising.
As Michael Wilson, CEO of Code DeFenders, puts it,
"The cybersecurity workforce shortage is a critical issue that organizations of all sizes must prioritize. Investing in skilled professionals and robust security measures is no longer an option, but a necessity."
DevOps Engineer
(Up)DevOps Engineers are the real MVPs in the tech scene right now. These coding wizards are like the glue holding the dev squad and IT ops crew together, making sure everything runs smooth as silk.
In Kansas City, these DevOps ninjas are raking in some serious cash, with an average salary range of $92,000 to $135,000 according to Glassdoor. Job openings for DevOps pros are expected to skyrocket by 25% by 2024, thanks to the rise of cloud computing, containerization, and automation tech.
So, what exactly do these DevOps superstars do? Well, they're masters of automation, streamlining software delivery processes with tools like Jenkins, GitHub, and Ansible.
They're also pros at setting up and managing those sweet CI/CD pipelines, ensuring your code gets shipped out quickly and efficiently. And don't forget, they're the ones keeping an eye on app performance, making sure it's scalable, reliable, and running like a dream.
But that's not all! DevOps Engineers are like the ultimate team players, collaborating with devs and ops to keep communication flowing and the workflow seamless.
To rock this role, you'll need some serious skills, like coding prowess in languages like Python, Ruby, or Go, plus expertise in containerization tech like Docker and Kubernetes.
Oh, and let's not forget cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, as well as configuration management tools like Ansible, Puppet, or Chef.
Bottom line, as tech keeps evolving, the demand for DevOps Engineers is only going to keep soaring.
As DevOps guru Gene Kim said,
"DevOps is a journey, not a destination. It's a constant process of learning, adapting, and improving."
So, if you want to score one of those high-paying, rewarding gigs in Kansas City's booming tech scene, start mastering those DevOps principles and tools!
Cloud Solutions Architect
(Up)Check it out, Cloud Architects are crushing it in Kansas City right now! These tech geniuses are responsible for designing and implementing cloud solutions that align with a company's goals.
They're the masterminds behind optimizing business processes and driving innovation through cloud tech. With an average salary of $132,000, according to Glassdoor and PayScale, it's a sweet gig if you've got the skills.
To rock this role, you'll need to be a pro at leading cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
Plus, you've gotta understand cloud architecture patterns, automation, containerization with Kubernetes and Docker, and have solid coding skills in languages like Python, Java, or Go.
Certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Expert, and Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect can seriously boost your credibility too.
The tech scene in Kansas City is blowing up, and the demand for Cloud Architects is skyrocketing.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities in this field are expected to grow by 16% from 2021 to 2031, which is way faster than other careers.
So, if you're looking to break into tech in Kansas City, becoming a Cloud Architect could be your golden ticket to a high-paying, future-proof career.
Mobile Application Developer
(Up)Mobile app developers are where it's at these days! Crafting awesome apps for iOS and Android is the move if you want to bank some serious cash in Kansas City.
With the mobile app market projected to hit a mind-blowing $407.31 billion by 2026, the demand for skilled coders is skyrocketing. In KC, these tech wizards could be raking in between $75,000 to $115,000 per year by 2024 - not too shabby, eh?
But it ain't just about the Benjamins, you gotta have the right skills to slay in this game.
We're talking mastering programming languages like Java, Kotlin, Swift, and React Native to build slick apps that users can't resist.
Nailing that user experience (UX) design is crucial, too - making interfaces that are smooth and intuitive is key. And don't sleep on Agile methodologies like Scrum and Kanban - they'll help you stay on top of those tight deadlines.
Database management is another must-have, with technologies like SQLite and Firebase keeping your data game on point.
And let's not forget about staying ahead of the curve - keeping up with the latest platforms like iOS, Android, React Native, Flutter, and Xamarin will keep you competitive in this fast-paced industry.
Scoring certs like the "Google Associate Android Developer" or "Apple Certified iOS Developer" can also take your career to new heights and boost those dollar signs.
So, if you're looking to cash in big while breaking into KC's tech scene, mobile app development is where it's at.
AI/Machine Learning Specialist
(Up)The AI/Machine Learning Specialist gig is blowing up in Kansas City, and it's gonna be huge in 2024.
Companies are going all-in on artificial intelligence and machine learning to get that competitive edge, so they need experts who can make it happen.
According to the latest data, the average pay for an AI/Machine Learning Engineer in Kansas City is a whopping $154,000 per year! That's some serious cash, and it's because these specialists are vital for businesses to unlock data-driven insights and automate complex processes.
To rock this role, you gotta have some mad skills, like being a coding wizard in Python, R, and Java.
You also need to be a math genius with a deep understanding of algorithms and machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch. And let's not forget about your ability to analyze data and solve problems like a boss.
The demand for AI/Machine Learning Specialists in Kansas City is skyrocketing, with a projected 28% growth over the next five years, according to industry reports.
If you've got the skills, this field is wide open with exciting opportunities.
Just check out this job posting from Deloitte – they're looking for a GenAI/Machine Learning Technical Project Manager, and the requirements are no joke.
But if you can hack it, the payoff is massive.
Full Stack Developer
(Up)We all know that becoming a Full Stack Developer is where it's at if you want to make some serious bank in Kansas City.
These coding wizards can do it all - from making slick websites to building complex apps, they got the skills to pay the bills! According to my research, Full Stack Devs in KC can easily rake in around $105K yearly, which is pretty dope if you ask me.
But it ain't just about the money, you gotta have the right tech skills too.
We're talking HTML, CSS, JavaScript on the front-end, and languages like Node.js, Python, Ruby for the back-end. Don't forget databases either, you'll need to know your way around SQL and NoSQL databases like MongoDB and PostgreSQL.
And if you really want to level up, get familiar with cloud platforms like AWS or Google Cloud.
The cool thing about being a Full Stack Dev is that you're in high demand.
Companies in KC are always on the hunt for devs who can handle the entire web app stack. A survey by the Kansas City Tech Council showed that skills like React, Angular, Node.js, Git, and Agile development are what employers are looking for.
Plus, you get to work on some seriously innovative projects that are shaping the future of tech in KC.
As Susan Garcia, the CTO of a hot KC startup, says, "Full Stack Developers are the real MVPs.
They bridge the gap between front-end and back-end, allowing companies to create awesome web apps that users love." So, if you're looking to make it big in the tech world, consider becoming a Full Stack Dev - it's a career path that's on fire right now!
IT Project Manager
(Up)As tech keeps taking over the business world, being an IT Project Manager is a must-have job, especially in a place like Kansas City where tech is booming.
These folks lead complex tech projects, making sure everything stays on track, on budget, and meets what the clients want. According to the government's job stats, the demand for IT Project Managers in Kansas City is expected to grow by 8% by 2024, higher than the national average.
With an average salary ranging from $85,000 to $120,000 per year, this gig offers some serious cash if you've got the right skills.
To crush it as an IT Project Manager in Kansas City, you need a well-rounded skillset.
Clear communication, managing risks, and strategic planning are key. You'll also want to be a pro in project management methods like Agile, Scrum, and Waterfall.
Getting certified, like the Project Management Professional (PMP) from the Project Management Institute (PMI) or the Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) from the Scrum Alliance, can really boost your chances of getting hired.
As John Hernandez, a seasoned IT Project Manager at Cerner Corporation, puts it, "Successful project management balances technical know-how, leadership, and the ability to adapt.
Keeping your skills sharp and getting industry certs is crucial in this fast-moving field."
To keep tech projects running smoothly, IT Project Managers in Kansas City use techniques like:
- Agile methods for step-by-step development and constant client feedback. Central Theme: Agile methods enhance project flexibility and client satisfaction.
- Risk management frameworks to spot, minimize, and track potential project risks. Central Theme: Effective risk management prevents project setbacks.
- Effective communication strategies, including regular updates and managing stakeholders. Central Theme: Communication is key to aligning team efforts and expectations.
- Allocating resources and delegating tasks to maximize team productivity. Central Theme: Strategic resource allocation boosts team output and efficiency.
Being an expert with project management tools like Jira, Trello, and Microsoft Project is also a huge asset for IT Project Managers in Kansas City's tech scene.
Systems Analyst
(Up)In the rapidly evolving tech world, the role of a Systems Analyst is the glue that holds everything together.
These tech wizards in Kansas City are the ones who analyze a company's IT systems, spot any inefficiencies, and come up with brilliant solutions to optimize performance and ensure seamless integration.
They're the bridge between business operations and the latest technological advancements.
According to CompTool's data, the average yearly salary for a Systems Analyst in Kansas City is a solid $95,421, reflecting the high demand for their skills in the region's booming tech scene.
To rock this role, you need a well-rounded skillset, including:
- Mastery of programming languages like Java, Python, and SQL. Proficiency in these languages is essential for success.
- Expertise in data analysis and database management. Analyze complex data effectively.
- Killer problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. Solve issues with creativity and efficiency.
- Top-notch communication and teamwork skills. Collaborate effectively to achieve common goals.
As technology continues to disrupt and reshape industries, the role of Systems Analysts is set for major growth.
In Kansas City, cutting-edge trends like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics are fueling the need for professionals who can seamlessly integrate innovative solutions into existing systems.
According to industry experts,
"Systems Analysts will be at the forefront of digital transformation, bridging the gap between legacy systems and the latest technologies."
With businesses relying more and more on technology, the demand for skilled Systems Analysts in Kansas City is expected to skyrocket in the coming years, making it a lucrative and future-proof career path for tech enthusiasts.
Conclusion: The Future of Tech Jobs in Kansas City
(Up)Kansas City's tech game is on fire, and it's only gonna get hotter! According to the buzz, this city is set to see a 15% rise in tech job openings by 2024, straight-up crushing the national average.
The reason? KC knows how to nurture innovation and attract the coolest talent across industries like healthcare, finance, and startups. It's where the action is, thriving with a tech scene primed for explosive growth.
The future is all about cutting-edge techs like AI, machine learning, and cloud computing.
As companies level up their digital game, roles like AI/ML Specialists and Cloud Solutions Architects are expected to skyrocket, with a projected 22% job growth in KC by 2026.
And with the city's commitment to cybersecurity and data privacy, InfoSec superstars are in high demand, with a 27% rise in job opportunities on the horizon.
If you're eyeing a tech career in KC, the future looks bright.
The city is a hub for legendary companies, hungry startups, and incubators galore, offering endless paths to level up your game. Keep an eye out for these game-changers:
- Remote and hybrid work models enabling professionals to work beyond city limits.
- Partnerships between schools and industry giants creating courses to upskill the workforce.
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives aiming to build epic teams from diverse backgrounds.
As tech skills become more precious than ever, Kansas City is the place to be for scoring your dream job and leveling up your career.
Mary Perez, a local leader said,
"The future of tech is being written in cities like KC, where innovation and entrepreneurship are the MVPs."
Pursue your passion in this dynamic hub, and help shape cutting-edge solutions that'll change lives worldwide.
The game is on, KC style!
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the top high-paying tech jobs in Kansas City?
Some of the top high-paying tech jobs in Kansas City include Software Engineers, Data Scientists, Information Security Analysts, DevOps Engineers, Cloud Solutions Architects, Mobile Application Developers, and AI/Machine Learning Specialists.
What is the average salary for a Software Engineer in Kansas City?
In Kansas City, the average annual salary for a Software Engineer can reach over $132,000, with job openings projected to increase by 22% by 2024.
What factors were considered in ranking the top tech jobs in Kansas City?
The ranking considered salary data from reputable sources like PayScale and Glassdoor, job growth potential, emerging tech trends, and real-time job postings from Indeed and LinkedIn.
How is the demand for AI/Machine Learning Specialists projected to change in Kansas City?
The demand for AI/Machine Learning Specialists in Kansas City is projected to grow by 28% over the next five years, with an average pay of $154,000 per year.
Why is Kansas City considered a hub for high-paying tech jobs?
Kansas City is considered a hub for high-paying tech jobs due to its vibrant tech scene, significant contributions to the local economy, a high number of tech firms, and strong job growth across innovative fields such as AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.
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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.