Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Kansas City in 2025

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 25th 2024

Aerial view of Kansas City, Missouri, highlighting its tech hub status in 2025.

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In 2025, Kansas City is a booming tech hub with over 77,000 professionals and a $16.5 billion impact on the local economy. High-paying roles include Cloud Architects ($175,000 annually), Product Managers, and Enterprise Account Executives. Major firms like Verizon and startups offer opportunities across AI, fintech, and cybersecurity. With a lower cost of living, Kansas City's growing tech scene offers competitive salaries and career growth.

Kansas City's tech scene in 2025 is absolutely crushing it! Recent data shows tech now makes up nearly 10% of KC's economy, with over 77,000 skilled professionals calling this city home.

The transformation is real - we're not just talking about BBQ anymore. Tech companies are expanding like crazy, with more than 4,400 firms driving innovation across fintech, cybersecurity, and AI. The money's seriously good too - Cloud Architects are pulling in around $175,000, while Product Managers and Enterprise Account Executives aren't far behind at $150,000+.

What's super exciting is that KC just got named a regional tech hub by the U.S. Commerce Department, which means even more investment and jobs are coming our way.

Major players like Verizon and Cerner are expanding, while remote-first startups are popping up everywhere. Whether you're into Machine Learning, Network Security, or Data Science, KC's got opportunities for days.

And with the cost of living way lower than the coasts, your tech salary goes so much further here. This tech explosion is just getting started - let's break down the roles that are making waves in KC right now.

Table of Contents

  • Methodology Behind the Ranking
  • Cloud Architect: Leading the Pack
  • Enterprise Account Executive at Verkada Inc: Sales Meets Tech
  • Product Manager, Workday HCM at Dropbox: Bridging Tech and Management
  • Machine Learning Engineer: Shaping the Future of AI
  • Data Scientist: The Heart of Data-Driven Decision Making
  • Senior Counsel at MetLife: Legal Meets Tech
  • Software Engineer: Building the Tech Backbone
  • Network Security Engineer: Protecting Digital Infrastructure
  • AI & GenAI Data Scientist at PwC: At the Cutting Edge of Innovation
  • Conclusion: Thriving in Kansas City's Tech Industry in 2025
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology Behind the Ranking

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Let me break down how we ranked the best-paid tech jobs in Kansas City for 2025. According to recent market data, Kansas City's tech sector is seriously growing, with over 3,900 tech companies contributing $16.5 billion to the local economy.

Our ranking system focused on real numbers - we're talking actual salaries and job openings, not just empty promises. The city's expected to create 110,000 new tech jobs, which is honestly mind-blowing.

We didn't just make wild guesses here.

Kansas City's tech scene keeps growing, with a 1.4% growth rate even during tough times.

What's really interesting is how the job market's shifting - AI and cloud computing pros are making bank, with some positions paying over $150k annually. Plus, the low cost of living here means your tech salary goes way further than in places like San Francisco or New York.

The latest research shows that roles combining AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are literally taking over the market.

Companies like Garmin, Cerner, and T-Mobile are always on the lookout for fresh talent, and they're not shy about paying for it. What's cool is that you don't necessarily need a traditional degree - many companies are more interested in your actual skills and what you can do.

The ranking considered everything from entry-level salaries starting around $50k to senior positions hitting six figures, making sure to factor in both immediate opportunities and long-term career potential.

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Cloud Architect: Leading the Pack

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In 2025, Cloud Architects are seriously crushing it in Kansas City's tech scene. As a Cloud Architect, you're the mastermind behind designing scalable cloud environments and making sure everything runs smoothly.

The pay is pretty sweet too - we're talking an average of $128,418 per year, with senior positions reaching up to $167,000. Major companies in the region like Shelter Insurance and Veterans United Home Loans are actively hiring cloud experts.

The role requires solid skills in AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, plus you need to know your way around network architecture and security.

  • Assessing business requirements: Cloud Architects evaluate the company's needs to plan necessary implementations.
  • Planning network installations: They carefully design and execute network setups for efficiency.
  • Ensuring security and efficiency: It's crucial to have security measures in place and maintain optimal performance.

Companies are looking for people who can handle both the technical side and communicate effectively with teams.

Entry-level positions start around $85K, making it a great career choice right out of college or bootcamp. You'll need to stay updated with the latest cloud tech and security practices, but that's what makes it exciting - there's always something new to learn.

With more businesses moving to cloud solutions, this role is guaranteed to stay in high demand throughout 2025 and beyond.

Enterprise Account Executive at Verkada Inc: Sales Meets Tech

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Working as an Enterprise Account Executive at Verkada is seriously next-level in 2025. The position combines cutting-edge tech with strategic sales, offering an annual compensation package between $175,000 to $320,000, which is pretty incredible for professionals ready to make their mark.

These executives work with Verkada's cloud-based security solutions, including everything from video security to environmental sensors. The role involves spending about 50% of time in the field, meeting clients and conducting site visits, so you're not just stuck behind a desk all day.

The other half focuses on developing territory strategies and closing deals with major organizations.

The position requires sharp business instincts and technical knowledge, making it perfect for ambitious professionals who want to grow in the tech industry.

Global Enterprise Account Executives work with Fortune 500 companies and manage complex sales cycles from start to finish.

What makes this role stand out is the combination of generous base salary, performance bonuses, and equity packages, plus some sweet perks like 100% covered healthcare premiums and flexible PTO. With Verkada's expansion to 15 offices across three continents and over 28,000 customers in 70+ countries, there's massive potential for career growth.

The company's rapid growth since its founding in 2016 and $460M+ in funding shows they're serious about innovation and expansion, making it an exciting time to join their team.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Product Manager, Workday HCM at Dropbox: Bridging Tech and Management

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Product Manager roles at Dropbox are seriously changing the game in tech management. As a Product Manager for Workday HCM, you're looking at a salary range between $148,800 - $201,300 CAD, which shows just how much companies value this position.

The role goes way beyond basic project management - you'll be driving innovation in HR tech, working with cutting-edge AI tools, and making decisions that impact thousands of employees.

At Dropbox specifically, you're responsible for the entire Workday platform, from implementation to optimization, while collaborating with teams across HR, IT, and Finance.

By 2025, product management skills will focus heavily on data-driven decision making and remote leadership, which means you'll need to master both technical skills and people management.

The position requires at least 7 years of experience, strong analytical abilities, and the know-how to handle everything from benefits systems to talent management modules.

With remote work options and comprehensive benefits, it's clear why this role is attracting top talent. If you're into both tech and leadership, this position offers real opportunities to shape how companies work while building a solid career path.

What makes it even better is that you're not just managing a product - you're actively influencing how companies handle their most valuable asset: their people.

Machine Learning Engineer: Shaping the Future of AI

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As a Machine Learning Engineer in Kansas City's tech scene, you'll be right at the center of AI innovation in 2025.

It's honestly mind-blowing - we're talking about creating algorithms that make machines think and learn like humans. The role involves developing ML models, fine-tuning algorithms, and working with cutting-edge tech in natural language processing and computer vision.

What's really cool is how these skills let you build everything from chatbots to autonomous systems.

Machine Learning Engineers in Kansas City are looking at salaries ranging from $109K to $166K annually, with senior positions reaching up to $210K at companies like Dandy.

The best part? Kansas City's lower cost of living means your salary goes way further than in coastal tech hubs. Companies like Garmin and Cerner are offering competitive packages, and there's a growing number of startups ready to invest in AI talent.

The career outlook couldn't be better.

Kansas City's Downtown Innovation District is buzzing with AI development opportunities, and according to recent projections, we're looking at a 40% growth in AI and ML specialist roles by 2027.

That's roughly 2.6 million new jobs globally! Whether you're interested in working with established tech companies or joining a startup, Kansas City's tech scene is perfect for anyone ready to dive into machine learning.

The city's commitment to innovation makes it an awesome place to kickstart your career in AI and make a real impact on the future of technology.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Data Scientist: The Heart of Data-Driven Decision Making

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Data Scientists are seriously shaping the future of tech in Kansas City right now. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these professionals combine statistics, machine learning, and programming to help companies make smart moves with their data.

What makes this role super interesting is how it blends technical skills with real-world problem-solving. At places like the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, Data Scientists work hands-on with AI and machine learning to build new features and products.

The role involves collecting and processing data, creating predictive models, and communicating findings through data visualization - basically turning complex information into useful insights that anyone can understand.

What's really cool about being a Data Scientist in KC is that you get to work on meaningful projects across different industries.

According to recent job market data, Data Scientists here build and maintain data pipelines, automate data collection processes, and help businesses make better decisions.

The salary range is pretty sweet too, ranging from $72,553 to $191,900 depending on experience and position level. Companies are investing heavily in data talent because they need people who can turn their massive amounts of data into actionable strategies.

Whether you're working in healthcare, finance, or tech startups, the skills you bring as a Data Scientist are in super high demand, and that's not changing anytime soon.

With Kansas City's tech scene growing fast, it's definitely one of the most promising career paths to consider.

Senior Counsel at MetLife: Legal Meets Tech

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In 2025, the role of Senior Counsel in Kansas City's tech scene is getting a major upgrade. According to recent industry predictions, legal tech is transforming how counsel positions operate, with AI and automation reshaping traditional responsibilities.

Senior Counsel positions now demand expertise in emerging technologies, making the role more dynamic than ever. Legal professionals aren't just reviewing contracts anymore - they're driving innovation in legal operations and tech implementation.

The compensation matches the evolving demands, with Senior Counsel positions in Kansas City's tech sector offering competitive salaries above $180,000 annually.

PWC's latest analysis shows that top priorities for legal officers in 2025 include mastering data governance and managing regulatory risks in the tech space.

The role requires a unique blend of legal expertise and tech savvy, particularly in areas like cloud computing, network architecture, and software applications.

What makes this role especially exciting is its impact on tech innovation.

Industry trends show that Senior Counsel positions are becoming more strategic, requiring professionals to balance legal oversight with business growth.

They're not just legal advisors anymore - they're key players in shaping how tech companies operate and innovate. For anyone interested in where law meets tech, this role offers the perfect opportunity to be at the forefront of both fields while making a real impact in Kansas City's growing tech ecosystem.

Software Engineer: Building the Tech Backbone

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Software engineering in Kansas City is absolutely taking off! As a software developer, you get to analyze user needs and create solutions that make a real difference.

The job market here is super exciting - companies in KC are offering salaries ranging from $98,900 to $183,100, which is seriously impressive. According to recent job listings, major employers like Federal Reserve Bank and Tyler Technologies are constantly on the lookout for talented developers who know their way around .NET, Java, and Python.

What's really cool is that many positions now offer hybrid work options, letting you balance office time with remote work. Plus, companies like Spectrum are investing heavily in tech talent, connecting nearly 100 million users through innovative software solutions.

The industry here focuses on practical skills - you'll need to be sharp with programming languages, know your way around cloud platforms like AWS or Azure, and be ready to jump into DevOps practices.

Most positions want you to have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, but what really matters is your ability to solve problems and work well in a team.

Companies are offering sweet benefits packages too, including professional development opportunities, flexible schedules, and competitive healthcare plans. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your career, Kansas City's tech scene is the place to be right now!

Network Security Engineer: Protecting Digital Infrastructure

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Network Security Engineers are at the frontline of protecting companies from cyber threats and it's one of the most exciting tech roles out there. These professionals implement security measures like firewalls, anti-spam systems, and intrusion detection tools to keep networks safe.

The coolest part? In Kansas City, the average salary for this role hits $127,602, making it seriously worth considering as a career path. What's even more interesting is that by 2025, there will be 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity positions globally, which means massive opportunities for anyone getting into the field.

The daily life of a Network Security Engineer involves monitoring networks, running security audits, and staying one step ahead of potential threats.

Security engineers build and maintain entire security systems, making sure company data stays protected from cyber-attacks.

With Kansas City's tech sector growing rapidly, businesses are desperately searching for security talent, especially in healthcare and financial sectors where data protection is crucial.

The best part about this career is that you can start with basic certifications like CompTIA Security+ and work your way up to more advanced roles, constantly learning and evolving with technology.

Looking ahead to 2025, Kansas City's cybersecurity landscape is set to boom.

Companies are investing heavily in security infrastructure, and they need skilled professionals who can handle everything from threat detection to incident response.

If you're thinking about getting into tech, Network Security Engineering isn't just about the awesome salary - it's about being part of something important, protecting digital assets, and staying at the cutting edge of technology.

The field is growing so fast that many companies are even willing to train the right candidates, making it a perfect time to jump in.

AI & GenAI Data Scientist at PwC: At the Cutting Edge of Innovation

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The role of an AI & GenAI Data Scientist at PwC has transformed into something seriously exciting in 2025. Based on PwC's latest predictions, companies implementing AI strategies are seeing their product development cycles cut in half while reducing costs by 30%.

The position, offering a competitive salary range of $84,000 to $202,000, combines hands-on tech work with real business impact. You get to work with cutting-edge tech like large language models, machine learning, and deep learning while solving actual business problems.

The coolest part? You're not just coding - you're building solutions that help companies make smarter decisions.

Kansas City's tech scene is absolutely booming right now.

PwC's AI initiatives are pushing boundaries with their focus on responsible AI development - about 46% of executives are working to make their AI systems more accountable and ethical.

The role involves everything from designing AI architectures to working with unstructured data and building custom applications. The job combines technical skills with client interaction - you're not just behind a screen all day.

With AI predicted to transform entire industry landscapes and 73% of executives planning to use GenAI to change their business models, this career path is seriously going places.

  • Must-Have Skills:
    • Python and data science libraries: Python and data science libraries are essential for developing and deploying AI models.
    • Experience with LLM development frameworks: Frameworks streamline development processes, making it easier to implement LLMs efficiently.
    • Cloud platforms knowledge (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud): Familiarity with cloud platforms ensures scalable and flexible deployment solutions.
    • Strong analytical thinking: Analytical skills are crucial for interpreting data and deriving actionable insights.

As Kansas City continues to grow as a tech hub, the opportunities for AI & GenAI Data Scientists are just getting started.

The field combines future-focused technology with real-world impact, making it an awesome career choice for anyone passionate about tech and innovation.

Conclusion: Thriving in Kansas City's Tech Industry in 2025

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Kansas City's tech scene in 2025 is seriously taking off! According to recent data, tech now makes up nearly 10% of KC's economy, with over 77,000 skilled professionals in the field.

The money is pretty sweet too - a Cloud Architect can pull in around $135,000 annually, while Machine Learning Engineers and AI Data Scientists aren't far behind at $125,000.

Employment forecasts show steady growth through 2025, especially in areas like healthcare tech (18% growth) and fintech (15% growth).

Major companies like Cerner, Garmin, and T-Mobile are always on the lookout for fresh talent.

The job market here is growing faster than other major cities, which is amazing news for anyone looking to break into tech.

Something that really stands out is that Kansas City's job growth rate of 1.7% beats the national average of 1.5%.

Plus, with the lower cost of living compared to places like San Francisco or New York, your salary goes way further here. Whether you're into software development, cybersecurity, or AI, there's room for everyone.

The city's investing heavily in new tech initiatives, and with more companies setting up shop here, the opportunities just keep coming. If you're thinking about a tech career in KC, now's definitely the time to jump in!

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the top-paying tech jobs in Kansas City in 2025?

Some of the top-paying tech jobs in Kansas City in 2025 include Cloud Architects, Product Managers, Enterprise Account Executives, and Machine Learning Engineers. Salaries for these positions often exceed $150,000 annually.

How is Kansas City's tech scene expected to grow by 2025?

Kansas City's tech scene is expected to grow significantly, with the number of tech companies contributing over $16.5 billion to the local economy and creating approximately 110,000 new tech jobs by 2025.

Why is working in Kansas City's tech industry advantageous compared to other cities?

Kansas City offers competitive salaries and has a lower cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs like San Francisco and New York, allowing tech professionals to maximize their earnings. Additionally, the growing tech industry provides ample job opportunities and potential for career advancement.

What skills are important for tech roles in Kansas City?

Important skills for tech roles in Kansas City include proficiency in cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, strong programming abilities, and expertise in areas like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, depending on the specific role.

Are traditional degrees necessary for tech jobs in Kansas City?

Many companies in Kansas City's tech industry prioritize actual skills and practical experience over traditional degrees, making it possible to secure top tech positions even without a formal degree in some cases.

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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.