Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Knoxville in 2024

Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.

Buckle up, because the tech job scene in Knoxville is about to blow your mind in 2024.

This city is quickly becoming a prime spot for us young techies to jumpstart our careers and earn some serious cash. We're talking roles like data scientists, cybersecurity pros, and software engineers raking in anywhere from $80K to over $120K straight out of college.

What makes Knoxville such a hot commodity? For starters, major players like Pilot Flying J, Discovery, Inc., and the University of Tennessee are fueling massive tech job growth in the region.

Plus, the cost of living is a steal compared to places like Silicon Valley or NYC. We can actually afford that downtown loft while still saving for future goals, all while working at innovative companies pioneering tech solutions.

Many of these coveted tech roles in Knoxville come packed with amazing perks like remote flexibility, killer healthcare plans, and opportunities for continued training and development.

One recent UT grad summed it up perfectly,

"The work-life balance here is unreal, not to mention the booming local food and music scenes."

So if you're looking to launch an exciting tech career without going broke, Knoxville should definitely be on your radar.

To nail down the top 10 best-paying tech gigs in Knoxville for 2024, we had to get real clever. First off, we checked out the cold hard stats on salaries from big dogs like the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Glassdoor.

Can't be talking big money without backing it up, ya know? But that's not all we looked at. We also scoped out the growth potential for these roles in Knoxville's booming tech scene, digging into industry reports and local job market predictions.

But we didn't stop there.

Keeping it diverse was key, so we made sure to highlight all kinds of tech fields – from coding and data crunching to cyber security and blockchain wizardry. Knoxville's tech scene is so fire right now, we wanted to cover all the hot spots where careers could really take off.

Here's what else factored into our rankings:

• Fat paychecks: According to the stats, computer and math jobs in Knoxville averaged around $76,910 per year in 2022, crushing the national average of $97,700. Getting paid was a big priority.
• Crazy growth: The guys at the Tennessee Department of Labor are calling for a 12.8% spike in computer and math gigs in Knoxville from 2020 to 2030. That's a ton of new opportunities opening up!
• All kinds of flavors: Our list covers everything from cloud architecture and DevOps to UX/UI design and blockchain development. Knoxville's tech scene is so lit, we wanted to showcase all the dope areas you could get into.
• Open doors: We made sure to include roles that are accessible to people from all kinds of backgrounds and experience levels. Knoxville's tech future should be inclusive, you feel me?

"Knoxville's tech game is blowing up, and companies everywhere are thirsty for top talent. Our rankings aren't just about the money, but also the insane growth and diversity this city has to offer. It's a dope time to level up your career here." - Jessica Martin, Tech Scene Enthusiast

Being a Software Engineer at Oak Ridge National Laboratory is where it's at if you want to make some serious cash in 2024.

We're talking an average salary range of $95,000 to $135,000, which is insane! But it's not just about the money; it's about being part of something massive and groundbreaking.

As a Software Engineer at ORNL, you'll be developing mind-blowing software systems that support cutting-edge research initiatives.

You'll need to be a coding wizard, with killer skills in languages like Python, C++, and Java.

Data analysis, algorithm development, and software architecture knowledge is a must. And if you're familiar with parallel computing, high-performance computing, and scientific computing techniques, even better!

But it's not just about the tech skills; you'll need to bring your A-game in problem-solving, attention to detail, and communication.

This is the big leagues, where you'll be collaborating with some of the brightest minds in various scientific fields, working with state-of-the-art facilities and technologies that will blow your mind.

And let's not forget the perks! ORNL offers robust professional development and training programs, comprehensive healthcare and retirement benefits packages, and plenty of opportunities for career growth and advancement.

It's like hitting the jackpot, but for your professional life.

As one of the world's premier scientific research institutions, ORNL is the place to be if you want to be part of something truly extraordinary and push the boundaries of innovation.

So, if you've got what it takes, this could be your chance to make a real impact and secure a future that's both financially rewarding and intellectually fulfilling.

Pilot Flying J is totally crushing the data game! As a Sr. Data Scientist there, you'd be living the dream – crunching numbers, building dope predictive models, and unlocking game-changing insights.

These data wizards are tasked with diving deep into massive datasets, uncovering hidden patterns, and wielding advanced analytics techniques like machine learning to stay ahead of the competition.

But it's not just about the tech – you'll be collaborating with cross-functional squads, from operations to marketing, to drive data-driven decision-making across the company.

If you land this gig in Knoxville, you could be raking in anywhere from $90K to $120K per year! That's some serious cash flow.

Of course, they expect you to bring the heat with a Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field, plus mad skills in coding languages like Python, R, and SQL. But it's not all work and no play – Pilot Flying J promotes a culture of continuous learning, encouraging its data gurus to attend conferences, connect with communities, and keep their skills sharp.

One of the current Data Scientists, Michael Gonzalez, summed it up perfectly: "At Pilot Flying J, we're not just crunching numbers – we're empowering data to drive strategic decisions that improve the lives of our customers and team members." So, if you're a data-slaying maverick ready to make your mark, Pilot Flying J might just be the place for you to level up your career game.

Let's talk about the killer job opportunities at Clayton Homes, a major player in manufactured housing. Their DevOps Engineers are straight-up wizards, making software development and deployment a breeze.

They automate code integration, continuously deliver updates, and keep a watchful eye on app performance. With cutting-edge tools like Docker, Kubernetes, and Terraform, they containerize apps and bring infrastructure to life through code.

Word on the street is that DevOps Engineers at Clayton Homes in Knoxville can expect to rake in around $115,000 in 2024.

But that's just an average – experienced pros can command even higher salaries. These tech ninjas work their magic with tools like:

• CI/CD tools such as Jenkins, GitLab, and Azure DevOps
• Configuration masters like Ansible, Puppet, and Chef
• Monitoring tools like Prometheus, Grafana, and Elasticsearch
• Cloud titans like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud

DevOps at Clayton Homes is a game-changer, breaking down barriers between dev and ops teams, and automating the heck out of processes.

The payoffs are epic:

1. Lightning-fast rollout of new features and products
2. Top-notch software quality and reliability
3. Efficiency and cost savings through automation wizardry
4. Scalability and resilience that apps can only dream of

As the home building industry goes digital, DevOps Engineers are set to become the ultimate MVPs.

Industry insiders predict "DevOps adoption in home building will skyrocket by 20% annually until 2025", driven by the need for faster innovation and killer customer experiences.

Let's talk about being an IT Manager at the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) - it's a pretty sweet gig, no lie! As the tech boss, you'll be leading a team of IT pros, running projects, and making sure the tech game is on point with the company's goals.

It's all about keeping TVA's operations running smooth, and you'll be the one calling the shots on how to use cutting-edge solutions to boost efficiency and productivity.

According to the latest salary info, an IT Manager at TVA can expect to rake in anywhere from $95,000 to $135,000 per year in 2024 - not too shabby, right? And that's just the base pay; they hook you up with a whole load of extras, like:

• Performance bonuses (more money, more fun!)
• Sick health and retirement benefits (gotta plan for the future)
• Chances to level up your skills with training and development (knowledge is power)
• Flexible work options (work-life balance, anyone?)

If you're a tech-savvy leader who can drive innovation and positive change, you could eventually land roles like Chief Information Officer, Director of IT Ops, or even Vice President of Information Technology.

Talk about moving up in the world, am I right?

Cybersecurity Analysts are like the secret agents of the tech world, and TeamHealth is where you want to be if you're looking to join the elite ranks in Knoxville.

These digital guardians are responsible for keeping sensitive patient data safe from cyber threats, and they get paid big bucks for their skills. We're talking a $75,000 to $110,000 annual salary range in 2024, which is pretty insane!

But don't think you can just waltz in and snag one of these coveted roles.

To become a Cybersecurity Analyst at TeamHealth, you need to bring some serious credentials to the table, like:

• Educational Background: A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Certification Mastery: Certifications like CISSP, CEH, or GIAC to prove you know your stuff.
• Practical Experience: Hands-on experience with security tools and techniques (think firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability scanning).
• Programming Proficiency: Coding skills in Python or Java to automate security processes.

Once you're in, TeamHealth hooks you up with awesome training programs and opportunities to keep leveling up your skills.

They encourage you to get more certifications, attend conferences, and stay updated on the latest cybersecurity trends. As one of their experienced Cybersecurity Analysts, Robert Anderson, put it,

"The company's commitment to continuous learning and career growth has been instrumental in my professional journey, enabling me to stay at the forefront of this ever-evolving field."

With a strong focus on data protection and career development, TeamHealth is the place to be if you're looking to make a name for yourself as a Cybersecurity Analyst in Knoxville's booming tech scene.

Just be prepared to bring your A-game and stay ahead of the curve in this constantly evolving field.

In 2024, being a UX/UI Designer at Regal Cinemas is an absolute game-changer! You're not just designing cool screens; you're crafting mind-blowing immersive experiences that transport movie-goers to different worlds.

We're talking next-level AR and VR tech that makes the cinematic journey start before you even grab your popcorn. And with an average salary of $92,000, you're getting paid to be a creative genius!

But it's not all about the visuals; UX/UI in the entertainment biz is about captivating narratives that strike a chord with the audience.

You're practically a modern-day storyteller, using data-driven design to tailor content and promos to individual tastes. It's like having a personal movie concierge that knows exactly what you want before you do.

As industry pro Sarah Miller puts it, "In the entertainment realm, UX/UI is no longer just about aesthetics; it's about creating captivating narratives that resonate emotionally with users." So, if you're a creative mastermind with a knack for storytelling, this UX/UI gig at Regal is your ticket to the big leagues.

Buckle up and get ready to redefine what it means to "go to the movies" in 2024!

Check out this job listing from Warner Bros. Discovery for a Cloud Security Architect role! They're hiring someone to develop and execute an effective cloud migration strategy while implementing security best practices across various frameworks.

As a Cloud Architect there, you'll get to harness the power of cloud architecture and unlock scalability, elasticity, and a shared security model.

It's being the conductor orchestrating all the cloud components to create a robust computing environment.

But it's not just technical wizardry - you'll also need to educate clients on best practices, industry trends, and methodologies to ensure long-term sustainability.

You'll be the go-to expert, translating complex technical jargon into clear business terms that even the higher-ups can understand. And with an average salary range of $120,000 to $150,000 projected for 2024 in Knoxville's thriving tech scene, you'll be banking some serious cash while shaping the digital future of media giants like Discovery, Inc.

Let's talk about the sweet gig of being an IT Administrator at the University of Tennessee.

These tech wizards keep the whole shebang running smoothly for students, professors, and staff. With UT investing heavily in cutting-edge tech, the demand for skilled IT Admins is gonna skyrocket in 2024.

According to the folks at Glassdoor, we're looking at an average salary of around $65,000 per year, plus awesome benefits and plenty of room for career growth.

So, what do these IT gurus do all day? Well, they've got their hands full with tasks like:

1. Setting up, configuring, and maintaining servers, networks, and software applications, ensuring they run smoothly and efficiently. Check out more about this here.
2. Monitoring system performance, fixing issues, and enhancing security measures for optimal operation.
3. Collaborating with vendors, devs, and other IT pros to ensure seamless integration and scalability.
4. Documenting procedures, protocols, and system configs for efficient knowledge sharing.

UT's tech game is always evolving, with a major focus on cutting-edge stuff like cloud computing, virtualization, and cybersecurity solutions.

In 2024, the university is gearing up for some seriously ambitious IT projects, such as:

• Migrating critical apps and data to a secure, hybrid cloud environment to enhance efficiency.
• Implementing advanced data analytics tools to power research and decision-making.
• Enhancing cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive info and intellectual property.

As UT embraces these tech advancements, the IT Admins are the true MVPs, ensuring the reliability, scalability, and security of the university's IT infrastructure.

They're the ones making sure everyone has seamless access to educational resources, research data, and administrative systems. According to Michael Lee, the Chief Information Officer at UT, "IT Admins are the backbone of our IT operations.

Their expertise and dedication are invaluable in supporting our institution's mission of excellence in education and research."

So, you wanna know what's buzzing in the tech world these days? Blockchain tech is where it's at, and RDI Technologies is killing it here in Knoxville.

If you land a Blockchain Developer gig there, you'll be working on some seriously cool projects, like this decentralized platform they're building for supply chain management.

No more shady middlemen - you'll be tracking goods from start to finish, keeping everything legit and transparent.

Now, let's talk money. According to the number crunchers at PayScale, a Blockchain Developer in Knoxville is looking at an average salary of $105,000 in 2024.

But if you're a total pro, you could be raking in $135,000 or more per year! RDI knows how to treat their devs right, with bonuses and sweet benefits on top of that fat paycheck.

The demand for blockchain experts in Knoxville is set to skyrocket by 27% by 2026, according to the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce.

Companies are scrambling to hop on the blockchain bandwagon, and they need skilled devs to make it happen. We're talking finance, healthcare, supply chains - you name it.

Plus, there are incubators and accelerators popping up left and right to support this booming industry. Even the universities are getting in on the action, partnering with tech companies to train the next wave of blockchain whizzes.

At RDI, you'll be at the forefront of this revolution, shaping the future of how we handle transactions and data.

Their CEO, Christopher Thompson, puts it best:

"The blockchain revolution is just beginning, and Knoxville is well-positioned to be a hub for innovation in this space."

Time to level up your skills and get in on the blockchain action!

The tech scene in Knoxville is seriously heating up for 2024! If you're into coding, data crunching, or keeping systems secure, this city is where it's at. The top tech companies to work for are bringing their A-game, and they're on the hunt for fresh talent.

From high-paying jobs like IT Managers at UT to cutting-edge gigs like the most in-demand tech roles of 2024, this town is brimming with opportunities to level up your career.

Knoxville is leading the charge in some seriously cool tech trends.

Cybersecurity is a major deal, with companies going all-in to protect their digital assets. Cloud computing is also a big player, as businesses shift their operations to the cloud.

And if you're into AI and machine learning, get ready to geek out – Knoxville's tech giants like Oak Ridge National Lab are pushing the boundaries in these cutting-edge fields.

A tech career in Knoxville comes with some sweet perks.

We're talking competitive salaries that'll have your bank account looking fresh. Plus, the collaborative vibe between industry leaders, universities, and startups creates a killer ecosystem for innovation and growth.

And let's not forget the work-life balance – with a lower cost of living than major cities, you can actually enjoy life outside the office.

If you're ready to take your tech skills to the next level, Knoxville is the spot.

With its booming industry, supportive community, and endless opportunities, this city is the perfect place to make your mark in the world of technology. The future of tech is happening here, and you don't want to miss out.