Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Killeen in 2025

Killeen is making waves in the tech world, and the numbers prove it. As the second fastest-growing city in the U.S., Killeen's tech scene is exploding with opportunities.

The city has seen a stunning 25% growth in tech firms over the past five years, creating an awesome job market for tech professionals.

1. Software Engineers: Major roles like Software Engineers are pulling in $92,845 annually.
2. Cloud Solutions Architects: These professionals are hitting $132,225 annually.
3. Expansion in Central Texas: Many tech companies are looking to expand in Central Texas, bringing more jobs and opportunities.
4. Cost of Living: The city's low cost of living, 83.7% of the national average, makes it ideal for tech career starters.
5. Nearby Advantages: With Fort Cavazos nearby and new tech initiatives, demand for cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, and AI engineers is through the roof.

Whether you're into coding, cloud computing, or cybersecurity, Killeen's tech scene is ready for fresh talent.

This blog breaks down the highest-paying tech roles you can grab here in 2025.

The method for ranking Killeen's best-paid tech jobs in 2025 combines data from multiple sources to create a clear picture of the local tech scene. Killeen has seen a 25% growth in tech firms over the last five years, with roles like Software Engineers earning $92,845 and Data Scientists making $98,742 annually.

The selection process analyzes salary data, growth predictions, and required skills across different platforms including Glassdoor and Indeed. Killeen's tech jobs are seriously taking off, with Cloud Solutions Architects hitting earnings of $132,225 per year.

• Current Job Openings: The ranking considers current job openings and future demand, with employers specifically looking for skills in Python programming, data analysis, and cloud computing.
• Affordable Living Costs: The city's affordable living costs (83.7% of the national average) make these salaries even more attractive.
• Major Companies Hiring: Major companies like Adobe, Amazon, and Dell are actively hiring, creating a competitive job market that's pushing salaries higher.

Local economic factors show Killeen is becoming a legit tech hub, thanks to its location near Austin and Dallas.

The tech industry continues evolving, with AI, automation, and remote work reshaping job requirements and compensation.

The data shows an expected 18% increase in tech jobs over the next decade, which is pretty amazing for career growth. This growth, combined with the city's lower cost of living and growing tech community, makes Killeen an awesome spot for tech professionals looking to build their careers.

In 2025, Cloud Architects are crushing it in Killeen's tech scene with an average salary of $201,572. According to recent market analysis, the global cloud services market hit $602.31 billion in 2023 and is growing at a wild 21.2% annually through 2030.

These tech wizards design and implement cloud solutions that completely transform how companies operate. Beyond just managing systems, Cloud Architects tackle everything from budget planning to selecting the perfect tech stack for business needs.

What makes this role super interesting is the mix of skills needed.

Essential skills include mastering cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and GCP, plus being comfortable with programming languages such as Python, Java, and Ruby.

It's not just about coding though - you need to understand networking, security, and how to make different systems work together smoothly. The real game-changer is knowing how to automate everything using Infrastructure as Code (IaC) and keeping up with the latest security practices.

The job market for Cloud Architects in Killeen is absolutely booming.

Recent industry reports show that companies are willing to pay top dollar for professionals who can help them save money and work more efficiently through cloud computing.

What's really cool is that this field keeps evolving with new technologies, so there's always something exciting to learn. Whether you're working with AI integration, managing multi-cloud environments, or designing disaster recovery solutions, each day brings fresh challenges.

For anyone looking to make serious money in tech while working with cutting-edge technology, becoming a Cloud Architect is definitely the move in 2025.

Network Security Engineering is seriously taking off in 2025, with professionals in Killeen earning an average of $148,821 annually. As security engineers work to protect data through encryptions, firewalls, and advanced security methods, their role has become absolutely essential in defending against modern cyber threats.

I'm constantly amazed by how these professionals handle multiple responsibilities - from configuring network monitoring tools to responding to security incidents in real-time.

The daily work involves implementing and testing new security features, planning system upgrades, and leading incident response efforts when threats emerge.

What's really cool about this field is that the job outlook is growing 32% faster than average careers through 2032, making it an incredible opportunity for anyone interested in tech security.

In 2025, being a Data Scientist in Killeen means being at the forefront of tech innovation. According to recent job market data, salaries range from $75,000 to $148,000, with positions available at companies like Blockchain Technologies and Robotics Technologies LLC. The role combines mathematical skills with creative problem-solving, making it perfect for analytically-minded professionals who love diving into complex challenges.

PhD-level data scientists can earn between $105,734 and $133,899 in Killeen, showing how education can boost earning potential.

The day-to-day work involves processing huge datasets, building machine learning models, and creating data visualizations that actually mean something to business leaders.

Key responsibilities include data mining, developing prediction systems, and collaborating with IT teams.

Skills needed? Python and R programming are must-haves, plus strong stats knowledge and machine learning expertise. The best part is that companies are super flexible with work arrangements - you can find remote positions, contract work, or full-time roles with benefits.

Looking ahead, data science is shaping up to be one of the most stable career choices in tech. With more companies investing in AI and machine learning, the demand for skilled data scientists keeps growing. Plus, Killeen's proximity to Fort Hood and its growing tech scene means there are plenty of opportunities to work on meaningful projects that impact both military and civilian sectors. Whether you're fresh out of college or considering a career switch, data science offers a solid path with real growth potential.

Machine Learning Engineers in 2025 are absolutely crushing it when it comes to career opportunities and compensation. Check out how ML roles are projected to grow by 40% by 2027, adding millions of jobs globally.

Here in Killeen, these tech wizards are pulling in around $165,999 annually, given how they're revolutionizing everything from healthcare diagnostics to retail inventory management.

The coolest part? Machine Learning Engineers are the masterminds behind systems that can actually learn and improve on their own.

What's really exciting is that Machine Learning Engineers are now commanding salaries up to $200,000 at top companies, making it one of the most lucrative tech careers.

They're not just coding - they're creating the future by developing algorithms that can predict trends, automate complex tasks, and make smart decisions. The demand is off the charts because these professionals are essential for businesses staying competitive in our tech-driven world.

If you're thinking about becoming a Machine Learning Engineer, you'll need to level up these key skills:

• Python programming (it's basically the ML language of choice)
• Data structures and algorithms (the building blocks of everything)
• Machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch
• Math and stats (yes, they're actually important!)
• Problem-solving skills that'll make your brain hurt (in a good way)

In 2025, cybersecurity threats are reaching unprecedented levels, making the role of a Cybersecurity Engineer in Killeen, earning an average annual salary of $143,787, more critical than ever.

The recent cyber attack on Killeen's municipal systems perfectly illustrates why these professionals are in such high demand - the city faced a significant security breach affecting internal servers, requiring rapid response and recovery measures.

Cybersecurity Engineers are the frontline defenders against increasingly sophisticated threats, protecting everything from customer data to critical infrastructure.

Their responsibilities have expanded beyond traditional network security to include AI-driven threat detection, ransomware prevention, and comprehensive incident response planning.

• Skill Requirements: The skill requirements are intense but totally worth the investment. Beyond the essential technical knowledge of network protocols and encryption, today's cybersecurity pros need to stay ahead of evolving threats. By 2025, cyber attacks are projected to cost the global economy $10.5 trillion annually, making expertise in threat detection, incident response, and security architecture crucial. Certifications like CISSP and CEH are still gold standards, but hands-on experience with AI security tools and cloud platform security is becoming just as important.
• Business Vulnerabilities: The reality is intense - nearly half of all businesses with under 1,000 employees face security breaches, and the threats keep getting more sophisticated. Companies aren't just looking for security experts; they need strategic thinkers who can anticipate threats and build robust defense systems.
• Role of Cybersecurity Engineers: With the rise of AI-powered attacks and unrecognizable deepfakes, cybersecurity engineers are basically the superheroes of the digital world, protecting organizations from threats that could literally shut down their operations overnight. If you're into problem-solving and want a career that's never boring, this field is seriously worth checking out.

The tech scene in Killeen is seriously heating up, with Software Engineers earning an average of $92,845 annually, and top performers pushing well beyond that baseline.

What's really exciting is how the city has seen a 25% growth in tech companies over just five years, creating tons of opportunities for developers. The role demands a mix of technical skills and creative problem-solving, as engineers tackle everything from system architecture to user interface development.

Python programming tops the list of must-have skills, along with JavaScript and cloud computing expertise, especially in platforms like AWS and Azure.

The tech landscape here is super dynamic, with an expected 18% job growth over the next decade.

Major tech companies are actively recruiting, and the affordable living costs make Killeen an attractive spot for tech talent. Software engineers are diving deep into AI and machine learning projects, while also mastering DevOps practices and agile methodologies.

The proximity to tech hubs like Austin and Dallas adds extra appeal, creating a perfect environment for career growth.

Want to stand out in this field? It's all about staying current with the latest tech trends and continuously leveling up your skills.

The combination of competitive salaries, growing opportunities, and Killeen's affordable lifestyle is creating an awesome environment for software engineers to thrive.

Plus, with the rise of remote work, many engineers are choosing Killeen as their home base while working for companies across the country.

In Killeen's tech scene of 2025, Penetration Testers are seriously crushing it with an annual salary of $138,745. These digital security experts are basically ethical hackers who simulate cyberattacks to expose system weaknesses before actual hackers find them.

Just like how hackers keep leveling up their game, pen testers need to stay ahead by mastering tools like Metasploit for finding security holes, and Burp Suite for checking web apps.

What's really cool is how automated testing platforms are changing the game, making it possible to run continuous security checks without breaking the bank.

The skills needed are pretty intense - you've got to know your way around ethical hacking, network infrastructure, and honestly just be really good at breaking things (legally, of course).

Getting certifications like CEH or OSCP isn't just for show - these credentials prove you can think like the bad guys while staying on the right side of the law.

Recent studies show that regular pen testing can save companies millions in potential breach costs.

That's why more Killeen businesses are investing heavily in security talent.

As Killeen's tech sector keeps growing, penetration testers are becoming the MVPs of cybersecurity teams.

They're not just tech experts - they're digital bodyguards protecting everything from military contracts to personal data. With cyberattacks getting more sophisticated every day, these professionals are literally saving companies from disasters that could cost them millions.

It's honestly one of the most exciting careers in tech right now, especially in Killeen where the defense industry demands top-notch security.

As an AI Research Scientist in 2025, you'll be right at the center of tech innovation, working with cutting-edge AI tools and pushing what's possible.

The average salary of $131,809 in Killeen reflects just how valuable these skills are becoming. According to emerging AI trends, research scientists are focusing on generative AI, enhanced cybersecurity, and sustainable operations.

The work involves creating and testing machine learning models, developing algorithms, and solving real-world problems across industries like healthcare, finance, and gaming.

What's really cool about this role is how diverse the challenges are.

One day you might be working on making AI decisions more transparent, and the next day you could be developing autonomous systems. Key responsibilities include identifying research challenges, developing prototype solutions, and designing experimental setups to test AI hypotheses.

You'll need solid programming skills in Python and Java, plus a strong foundation in mathematics and statistics.

The field is seriously exciting right now, with opportunities to work on things like large language models, neural radiance fields, and computer vision. Many companies are looking for people who can think creatively about AI problems while keeping ethics and responsible development in mind. If you're into solving complex puzzles and want to be part of shaping the future of technology, this could be your perfect career path. The demand is growing fast, especially as more businesses start integrating AI into their operations.

In Killeen's evolving tech scene, DevOps Engineers are making waves with salaries reaching $92,000 annually, according to recent market data.

The role combines development and operations, focusing on streamlining software delivery through automation and collaboration. DevOps practices complement agile methodology, creating a powerful approach that speeds up development cycles while maintaining quality.

DevOps Engineers build and maintain CI/CD pipelines, automate deployment processes, and ensure smooth operations across development and production environments.

This role has become super important as more companies in Killeen embrace digital transformation and cloud technologies. The combination of technical expertise and collaborative mindset makes DevOps Engineers incredibly valuable - they're basically the bridge between writing code and getting it to users quickly and reliably.

Experience with software development is crucial, typically requiring at least 3 years of hands-on work.

Skills in cloud platforms, automation tools, and scripting languages are absolute must-haves, while knowledge of container technologies like Docker and Kubernetes can really set you apart.

The best part? There's tons of room for growth, especially as Killeen's tech scene keeps expanding. It's perfect for someone who loves both coding and problem-solving, and wants to be at the forefront of how modern software gets built and deployed.

Information Security Analysts in Killeen are seriously making their mark in 2025, with salaries ranging from $65,000 to $119,000 annually.

What makes this role awesome is how versatile it is - we're not just sitting behind screens watching for threats. A typical day involves hunting down vulnerabilities, maintaining critical systems, and implementing data governance protocols to keep organizations safe.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a massive 33% growth in job opportunities, which means about 47,100 new positions opening up. Want to stand out in Killeen's tech scene? Focus on cloud security, threat detection, and regulatory compliance.

The cool thing about this field is you're constantly learning and adapting to new challenges. Key tools we're using include CrowdStrike and Cylance for threat detection, plus SIEM systems for real-time monitoring.

Beyond the tech stuff, you need solid communication skills because you'll be explaining complex security issues to people who might not speak tech. What's really exciting is how this role is evolving with cloud computing and IoT - there's always something new to master.

The best part? Companies literally can't function without us. Whether you're protecting hospital records or banking data, you're making a real difference. Just make sure to get those essential certifications like CISSP or Security+ - they're basically your ticket to the show.

With remote work options and flexible schedules becoming more common, it's honestly one of the most rewarding tech careers you can choose in 2025.

Landing a high-paying tech job in Killeen isn't just about having a degree anymore - it's about staying ahead through constant learning. Continuous learning has become essential for career growth, especially with Cloud Architects earning over $201K annually.

The tech scene here is seriously growing, with Data Scientists pulling in $160K+ and Machine Learning Engineers making around $166K. These roles keep evolving, so there's always something new to learn.

Cybersecurity Engineers ($143K) and DevOps Engineers ($141K) are in huge demand, but you've got to keep your skills fresh to compete.

I've noticed that staying updated with the latest tech trends is crucial for success.

Whether it's through online courses, bootcamps, or certification programs, investing in your skills is totally worth it. The tech industry moves incredibly fast, and what's hot today might be outdated tomorrow.

That's why platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning are absolute lifesavers for keeping up with new developments.

Looking at Killeen's tech future, it's pretty exciting.

The city's tech job market is growing by more than 15% each year, which is massive. Tech companies are expanding here, and the local government is backing this growth with some serious investment in tech hubs.

If you're looking to break into tech or level up your career, focusing on cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI is the way to go. The key is to never stop learning - it's literally what sets you apart in this field.

And honestly? The opportunities are just getting started.