Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Kansas City in 2024
Last Updated: December 25th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
In 2024, Kansas City's tech industry offers lucrative opportunities with top roles including Solutions Architect averaging $141K, Data Scientist with a 17% salary increase, and DevOps Engineer earning up to $150K. The city's tech-driven economic expansion also highlights roles like AI Engineer, Full Stack Developer, and Cybersecurity Analyst, ensuring high demand and competitive compensation as the city emerges as a tech hub. Pursuing in-demand skills such as cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity can secure these high-paying jobs.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Kansas City's tech scene is absolutely blowing up, and by 2024, it's going to be a major hub for killer tech jobs that pay big bucks. Check this out - the tech industry in KC is growing faster than the national average, directly contributing almost 10% to the region's economy.
Plus, according to Nucamp's ranking, some of the highest-paying gigs in KC tech are Software Developers raking in over $100K a year on average.
But it's not just about the Benjamins.
KC is becoming a legit innovation hub, with initiatives like Digital Sandbox KC fueling the startup pipeline by funding over 200 companies and helping them raise a staggering $243 million in additional capital.
The future looks bright for ambitious techies looking to make their mark in this vibrant, up-and-coming scene.
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Ranking the Top 10 Best Paid Tech Jobs
- 1. Solutions Architect: Leading the Pack
- 2. Data Scientist: A Data-Driven Career
- 3. DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations
- 4. Software Engineering Manager: Leading Development Teams
- 5. Product Manager: Steering Product Success
- 6. Cybersecurity Analyst: Protecting Digital Assets
- 7. Cloud Engineer: Innovating in the Cloud
- 8. Artificial Intelligence Engineer: Harnessing AI Power
- 9. Full Stack Developer: Versatility in Demand
- 10. Network Architect: Designing Communication Networks
- Conclusion: Preparing for High-Paying Tech Careers in Kansas City
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Envision your future in Kansas City's tech industry and the incredible possibilities that await.
Methodology for Ranking the Top 10 Best Paid Tech Jobs
(Up)When it comes to scoring the top-paying tech gigs in Kansas City for 2024, we ain't playing around. Our crew dug deep into the data to rank the crème de la crème of jobs that'll make your wallet thicker than a brick.
Computer and information systems managers are sitting pretty with a median annual salary of $169,510, making them the kings of the hill.
But the battle for cash is fierce, with data scientists and cloud solution architects also raking in the big bucks, earning up to $170,000 per year.
Our methodology was tighter than Fort Knox's security.
We pored over data from legit sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, and PayScale to gauge the average salaries for each role. But that's not all.
We also scoped out the job growth projections and skill requirements, so you know these gigs are in high demand and won't become obsolete anytime soon.
And here's the real kicker – we factored in the cost of living in KC, so you can trust that these salaries pack a punch.
Whether you're a cybersecurity manager protecting companies from digital threats or a blockchain developer pioneering decentralized apps, the opportunities to rake in the dough are endless.
So, get your grind on, level up your skills, and prepare to dominate the tech scene in Kansas City come 2024!
1. Solutions Architect: Leading the Pack
(Up)Look, Kansas City is the place to be in 2024 if you're aiming for a sick career in tech, and the Solutions Architect role is at the top.
These brains are the real MVPs, mapping out the whole game plan for an organization's tech systems. They're the coaches, designing architectures that make businesses a powerhouse.
As a Solutions Architect, you'll be analyzing the current setup, spotting areas to level up, and cooking up scalable solutions that keep evolving with the company's needs.
You'll be teaming up with different squads, ensuring everything runs smoothly from start to finish. Staying up-to-date with the latest tech trends and best practices is key.
In Kansas City next year, the average yearly pay for this gig is a mind-blowing $141,000, plus some benefits on the side.
That's how much they value these tech masterminds driving innovation and digital transformations. To snag one of these roles, you'll need a diverse skillset mixing technical wizardry, problem-solving genius, and strategic vision.
- Coding ninja: Candidates must be proficient in languages like Java, Python, and C++.
- Cloud computing boss: Mastery in platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud is essential.
- Communication skills: Strong interpersonal skills are crucial for team collaboration and achieving goals.
- Experience and education: Paths often begin in software dev or system admin roles, with many pros upskilling through advanced certs or graduate degrees in computer science or IT.
As you climb the ranks, Solutions Architects can step into leadership positions like Chief Technology Officer or Chief Architect, steering the whole organization's tech vision.
These masterminds are bridging the gap between business needs and technical solutions, making them invaluable assets for any company aiming to crush it in the digital world.
2. Data Scientist: A Data-Driven Career
(Up)Data scientists are where it's at for the big bucks in KC tech next year! We're talking an average of $112K annually, that's a massive 17% jump from 2023 based on stats from the Missouri Department of Economic Development.
To snag one of these high-paying gigs, you gotta master a diverse set of skills like statistical analysis to find those hidden patterns in messy data. Machine learning is crucial too - you'll be building predictive models using algorithms like regression or neural networks.
Oh, and programming? A must! Python, R, SQL - learn 'em all if you wanna level up. Don't forget about data visualization either, because communicating those insights through slick graphics using tools like Tableau or Power BI is key.
As Amit Chopra from RXAnalytics puts it, "In today's data-driven world, the real value lies in transforming raw data into actionable intelligence for smarter decision-making."
And the demand for data scientists in KC is only gonna skyrocket in 2024, especially in industries like:
- Healthcare & Life Sciences: This industry is expected to see a 22% projected growth.
- Finance & Banking: Anticipate an 18% increase in the demand for data scientists.
- Retail & E-Commerce: Predicted to have a 16% increase in the requirement of data specialists.
- Manufacturing: There's a 14% expected growth in data-related roles.
So if you've got the skills and passion for uncovering data-driven insights, a data scientist career in KC could mean some serious cash flow while exercising those big brain muscles.
But it's gonna take some serious grind to make it in this field. Are you up for the challenge?
3. DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations
(Up)In 2024, being a DevOps Engineer is the way to go if you want a sweet tech job in Kansas City.
They're like the superheroes bridging the gap between the code geeks and the system nerds, making sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. These unicorns are in crazy high demand, scoring some seriously fat paychecks.
We're talking an average annual salary ranging from $95,000 to $130,000, but if you're a total rockstar with mad skills, you could be raking in over $150,000 per year! Not just that, but you get all the dope benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities to level up your game.
It's a total win-win situation.
You gotta be a coding chameleon, fluent in languages like Python, Ruby, and Bash scripting. On top of that, you need to be a wizard with automation tools like Ansible, Puppet, and Chef.
And don't even get me started on the containerization game - Docker and Kubernetes are your new best friends.
It's not just about the tech skills, though.
You gotta be a team player, collaborating seamlessly across different squads. Cloud computing platforms like AWS, Azure, and GCP? Check. Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines? Double check.
Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools like Terraform and CloudFormation? Triple check.
And let's not forget monitoring and logging tools like Prometheus and ELK Stack. Agile methodologies and lean practices are just the cherry on top.
As Patricia Martin, a local tech recruiter, put it, "The DevOps Engineer is the glue that holds the development and operations teams together, ensuring a smooth and efficient software delivery lifecycle." So if you're looking to make some serious cash while being a total tech rockstar, DevOps Engineering is the way to go.
4. Software Engineering Manager: Leading Development Teams
(Up)At number four in our ranking of the best-paid tech jobs in Kansas City for 2024, the role of Software Engineering Manager emerges as a critical leadership position, responsible for driving the success of software development teams.
With an average annual salary ranging from $150,000 to $200,000 according to job postings, this role commands a competitive compensation package in the Kansas City region.
Software Engineering Managers are tasked with overseeing the planning, execution, and delivery of software projects, ensuring that development teams adhere to industry best practices, timelines, and quality standards.
Their key responsibilities include:
- Leading a high-performing remote team of software engineers to deliver complex projects on time and with quality
- Developing and executing technical strategies, roadmaps, and priorities for the team's projects
- Coaching, mentoring, and developing team members' technical skills and leadership capabilities
- Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and experimentation
- Conducting regular 1:1 meetings, performance evaluations, and goal-setting sessions for team members
To excel in this role, Software Engineering Managers must possess a blend of technical expertise and leadership skills, including:
- 7+ years of experience as a Senior Software Engineer or similar role
- Proven track record of successfully leading remote teams
- Strong technical background in writing Flutter, React, Node, and TypeScript code
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Experience with agile methodologies, such as Scrum or Kanban
As the tech industry in Missouri continues to grow, the job outlook for Software Engineering Managers remains promising.
According to industry experts, companies like Anywhere Real Estate Inc.
(NYSE: HOUS) are actively seeking experienced leaders to spearhead their software development efforts.
"A great Software Engineering Manager is not only a skilled coder but also an inspiring leader who can bring out the best in their team and drive innovation." - Cerner Corporation, a leading tech employer in Kansas City
With their unique blend of technical and leadership skills, Software Engineering Managers play a pivotal role in shaping the success of tech teams and driving innovation in Kansas City's vibrant technology landscape.
5. Product Manager: Steering Product Success
(Up)As the mastermind behind product excellence, a Product Manager is the driving force that shapes a company's product vision and strategy.
In Kansas City's thriving tech scene, this high-demand role commands an average annual salary of $112,000 in 2024, reflecting the invaluable impact these gurus have on product success.
Product Managers are the ultimate multi-taskers, juggling responsibilities across the entire product lifecycle.
They get down and dirty with market research, soaking up customer insights like a sponge, and collaborating closely with teams like engineering, marketing, and sales.
With their strategic minds, they call the shots on feature prioritization, define product roadmaps, and ensure product goals align seamlessly with the company's objectives.
But that's not all – they also monitor product performance, analyze metrics like data scientists, and make informed decisions to continuously level up and iterate on the product offerings.
To slay in this dynamic role, Product Managers need a unique combo of strategic and cross-functional skills:
- Strategic Thinking: The ability to develop and execute game-changing product strategies that drive growth and profitability.
- Market and User Understanding: A deep grasp of target markets, customer needs, and user behavior that borders on telepathy.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Communication and collaboration skills on point to work effectively with various teams, from engineering to design, marketing, and sales.
- Analytical Mindset: The capacity to analyze data, spot trends, and make informed decisions based on insights that would make data scientists jealous.
- Technical Proficiency: A working knowledge of relevant technologies and tools to communicate seamlessly with technical teams.
As the product landscape continues to evolve at lightning speed, the demand for skilled Product Managers in Kansas City is expected to skyrocket, offering promising career prospects for those equipped with the right mix of strategic vision, cross-functional expertise, and an unwavering passion for driving product success.
6. Cybersecurity Analyst: Protecting Digital Assets
(Up)Cybersecurity is where it's at! As we live more of our lives online, keeping our digital stuff safe has become mad important for companies like Honeywell.
That's why Cybersecurity Analysts in Kansas City are raking in the big bucks, with an average salary of around $97K. But it's not just about the money - these cyber guardians get to flex their skills in areas like risk assessment, security best practices, and implementing policies to keep the bad guys out.
Their daily grind involves monitoring networks 24/7 for any sketchy activity, investigating breaches, and coming up with solid security game plans.
It's like being a digital bouncer, making sure only the right people get access to sensitive data and systems. The demand for these cyber warriors is skyrocketing at a rate of 35% until 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Companies are finally realizing that cybersecurity isn't just a nice-to-have, it's crucial for survival in our online world.
So if you're into solving complex puzzles, have a knack for sniffing out digital threats, and want to be part of the front line defending against cyber criminals, then a career as a Cybersecurity Analyst in KC could be your calling.
Just be ready to level up your skills constantly, because these hackers won't stop evolving their tactics. But hey, that's what makes it an adrenaline-pumping ride, right?
7. Cloud Engineer: Innovating in the Cloud
(Up)Cloud Engineers are the real MVPs in Kansas City's tech scene these days. As businesses keep moving their operations to the cloud, these pros are in high demand for designing and managing those slick cloud-based systems.
According to the latest reports, they're raking in an average salary of $112,000 per year! Talk about a serious payday, am I right? But it's not just about the Benjamins.
To really crush it as a Cloud Engineer in KC's competitive market, you gotta level up your skills. We're talking mastery of cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and GCP, plus mad expertise in virtualization, containerization (Docker, K8s), and infrastructure as code (like Terraform and CloudFormation).
You'll also need to be a coding ninja with languages like Python, Java, or Go for automation and scripting. And don't even think about slacking on cloud security, compliance, and risk management - that's a big no-no.
DevOps methodologies, CI/CD, and monitoring tools? You better believe they're part of the package too. As businesses go all-in on cloud-native architectures, the demand for Cloud Engineers who can migrate legacy systems and optimize cloud costs is skyrocketing.
The Kansas City Tech Council says
"Cloud Engineers with killer multi-cloud experience will be the real MVPs in 2024."
So, if you wanna be part of the cloud revolution and rake in that cash, better start leveling up those skills!
8. Artificial Intelligence Engineer: Harnessing AI Power
(Up)AI is taking over and AI Engineers are the ones building the future. These tech geniuses in Kansas City are coding up super smart systems that can think for themselves.
With businesses going all-in on AI, having an AI Engineer on your team is like having a secret weapon to crush the competition. That's why they're raking in some serious cash, with the average salary around $127,890 according to Glassdoor.
But that number could skyrocket by up to 15% come 2024 as AI keeps blowing up.
To be an AI Engineer in KC, you gotta be a master of machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch.
Knowing how to build deep learning models with neural networks is also key. Data engineering skills to wrangle massive datasets are essential for training these AI systems.
And of course, you need to be a coding pro in languages like Python, Java, and C++. It's a lot to handle, but the job description says you'll be designing mind-blowing AI that can automate tasks, make smart decisions, and maybe even outsmart humans one day.
Besides the technical know-how, AI Engineers need to be creative problem-solvers who can translate complex AI concepts into something us mere mortals can understand.
Communication and teamwork are vital when you're building tech that could change the world. As Google's CEO Sundar Pichai said,
"The future belongs to those who can leverage the power of AI to solve complex problems and drive innovation."
And in Kansas City, the future is looking bright and lucrative for the AI Engineers leading the charge.
9. Full Stack Developer: Versatility in Demand
(Up)The tech scene in KC is buzzing, and one role that's got all the recruiters going wild is the Full Stack Developer.
These coding wizards are like the Swiss Army knives of the web dev world – they can handle everything from the flashy front-end to the heavy-lifting back-end, making them a hot commodity for any company looking to level up their digital game.
If you're a Full Stack Dev in Kansas City, you can expect to rake in some serious cash.
We're talking an average annual salary of $124,300, according to the latest stats. But that number can vary depending on your experience, the industry you're in, and your mastery of specific tech stacks.
What makes Full Stack Devs so versatile, you ask? Well, they're like coding chameleons, blending seamlessly between front-end technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like React, Angular, and Vue.js, all while keeping an eagle eye on user experience and responsive design.
But that's just the tip of the iceberg – their back-end skills are equally impressive, spanning server-side languages like Python, Java, Ruby, and Node.js, plus database management, web server tech, and cloud computing platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
As businesses continue to go all-in on digital transformation, the demand for Full Stack Devs is only going to skyrocket. Industry experts are saying things like, "The future belongs to those who can bridge the gap between design and functionality, creating seamless user experiences that are both visually appealing and technically robust." So, if you're a coding chameleon with a knack for front-end flair and back-end brawn, Kansas City might just be the place to cash in on your skills.
10. Network Architect: Designing Communication Networks
(Up)Snatching the #10 spot for the best-paying tech jobs in Kansas City next year are the Network Architects. These experts are straight-up bosses when it comes to designing and setting up the communication networks that keep data flowing smoothly for companies.
With tech evolving at lightspeed, the demand for skilled Network Architects is about to skyrocket in the near future.
The average paycheck for a Network Architect in K.C. in 2024 is expected to fall between a sweet $105,000 and $135,000 annually.
That substantial compensation reflects how crucial their role is in keeping those network infrastructures running tight and secure. To excel in this field, Network Architects need a diverse skillset, like:
- Master protocols: Being proficient at network protocols, architectures, and security measures (think TCP/IP, VPNs, firewalls).
- Design mastery: Mastering network design tools and methods (Cisco, Juniper, LAN/WAN tech).
- Cloud expertise: Knowing cloud computing and virtualization inside-out.
- Analytical skills: Having that analytical mind to troubleshoot and optimize network performance.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for Network Architects in Missouri, especially the tech hotspot of Kansas City, is soaring.
As businesses rely more on digital connectivity and remote ops, the need for bulletproof and scalable network solutions will only intensify. They project 5% employment growth for Network Architects from 2022 to 2032, with a focus on cloud and mobile network architecture.
In a nutshell, being a Network Architect is crucial for designing and managing the complex communication networks that power today's organizations.
With attractive salaries, a diverse skill stack, and a bright job outlook, it's an enticing career path for techies in Kansas City seeking a lucrative and challenging gig.
Conclusion: Preparing for High-Paying Tech Careers in Kansas City
(Up)Let's talk about the tech scene in Kansas City and how you can score one of those sick, high-paying gigs in 2024. We're looking at roles like Solutions Architect (average $132K salary), Data Scientist ($122K), and DevOps Engineer ($118K) - the real money-makers, based on the research.
But landing one of those sweet jobs ain't easy.
Here's what you gotta do:
- Keep Leveling Up: Tech is always evolving, so stay ahead of the game by constantly learning new skills, getting certified, and building projects to flex your skills.
- Network Like a Boss: Hit up those local meetups, conferences, and events to connect with the tech crowd, pick their brains, and maybe even land your next gig.
- Skill Stack on Point: Cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI, full-stack dev - these are the skills that'll make you a hot commodity in the job market.
Now, to level up your game, check out:
- Coding Bootcamps: Places like Nucamp offer intense training to get you job-ready in web dev, data science, and other tech fields, real quick.
- Online Courses: Sites like Coursera, Udemy, and edX have a ton of courses taught by industry pros and top schools.
- Local Meetups: Join groups like Kansas City Tech Meetup to stay in the loop on events, resources, and networking opportunities.
Keep grinding, keep learning, and use these resources - that's how you'll land one of those sweet tech gigs and start raking in the big bucks in KC.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the best-paid tech jobs in Kansas City in 2024?
Some of the highest-paid tech roles in Kansas City for 2024 include Solutions Architect, Data Scientist, and DevOps Engineer, with salaries ranging from $100,000 to $200,000 depending on the role and experience.
Why is Kansas City becoming a major tech hub by 2024?
Kansas City is emerging as a major tech hub due to its significant contributions to the regional economy, initiatives funding over 200 startups, and a rapidly growing innovation ecosystem. These factors make it an attractive destination for tech professionals.
What skills are essential for securing a high-paying tech job in Kansas City?
To secure a high-paying tech job in Kansas City, skills in cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI, and full-stack development are crucial. Mastery in relevant programming languages and platforms, alongside problem-solving and strategic thinking, are also key.
How does the cost of living in Kansas City affect tech job salaries?
The cost of living in Kansas City is factored into tech job salaries, ensuring that compensation not only covers living expenses but also represents the high demand and value for tech expertise in the region.
What steps should I take to prepare for a tech career in Kansas City?
Preparing for a tech career in Kansas City involves continuous skill development, networking at local meetups and events, and taking advantage of educational resources such as coding bootcamps and online courses to build a competitive skill set.
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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.