Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Las Cruces in 2024

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 25th 2024

Tech jobs in Las Cruces, New Mexico, 2024 - a collage featuring different tech roles.

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Las Cruces is poised for tech industry growth in 2024, with tech jobs fueling nearly 8% of its GDP and major employers like White Sands Missile Range and Virgin Galactic hiring over 5,000 tech pros. The top tech roles include Software Engineers, Data Analysts, and Cloud Solutions Architects, offering salaries up to $135,000. With support from New Mexico State University's STEM programs and city initiatives for tech growth, the local tech scene is rapidly expanding, offering a wealth of high-growth, high-paying opportunities for skilled professionals.

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

Alright, let me tell you about the booming tech scene in Las Cruces! By 2024, this city is the new hot spot for tech companies and high-paying jobs.

Las Cruces is quickly becoming a hub for innovation, thanks to its prime location, skilled workforce, and business-friendly vibes.

Check out these mind-blowing facts that prove Las Cruces is the place to be for tech enthusiasts:

  • Tech industry growth: In 2023, the tech industry contributed a massive $1.2 billion to Las Cruces' economy, making up nearly 8% of the city's total GDP. That's insane!
  • Top tech employers: Major tech players like White Sands Missile Range, Virgin Galactic, and General Dynamics have set up shop here, employing over 5,000 tech pros combined.
  • STEM education powerhouse: New Mexico State University is a total powerhouse, churning out over 500 graduates annually in STEM fields like computer science, engineering, and data analytics. Talk about fueling the talent pipeline!
  • City supports tech growth: The city is actively supporting the tech industry, with initiatives like Economic Development Week 2024 that focus on job training, apprenticeships, and industry certifications.

As William Lee, President of the Las Cruces Tech Council, said,

"Las Cruces is rapidly emerging as a prime destination for tech companies seeking a skilled workforce and a business-friendly environment."

With its momentum and strategic advantages, Las Cruces is a major player in the tech game by 2024.

Table of Contents

  • Methodology for Ranking Top Tech Jobs
  • 1. Software Engineer at White Sands Missile Range
  • 2. Data Analyst at New Mexico State University
  • 3. IT Manager at Memorial Medical Center
  • 4. Systems Administrator at Virgin Galactic
  • 5. Network Architect at CenturyLink
  • 6. Cybersecurity Specialist at SecureWorks
  • 7. Database Administrator at Doña Ana Community College
  • 8. AI Engineer at General Dynamics
  • 9. Cloud Solutions Architect at IBM
  • 10. UX/UI Designer at Sapient
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology for Ranking Top Tech Jobs

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We're talking about the hottest tech gigs in town for 2024.

To make this list legit, we did our homework – crunched numbers, checked projections, and got the inside scoop from the experts. Here's how we ranked these prime opportunities:

  • Show Me the Money: We zeroed in on roles packing the biggest paychecks, digging into data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, PayScale, and local job postings.
  • Future-Proof Careers: Jobs projected to blow up in New Mexico from 2022 to 2024 got priority, based on forecasts from the state's Department of Workforce Solutions and industry reports.
  • Skills to Kill: Tech roles requiring mad skills like AI/ML, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics made the cut – gotta align with what's hot in the market.

We did a deep dive, checking out job descriptions, skill requirements, and employer profiles across major job boards and company websites in Las Cruces.

Then we cross-checked that intel with regional salary surveys, growth projections from the BLS and state agencies, and insights from industry pros.

This multi-angle approach means our rankings are on point for the most lucrative, in-demand tech careers in Las Cruces for the next few years. As Sarah Lopez, Career Counselor at New Mexico State University, said,

"The tech scene in Las Cruces is evolving fast, so job seekers need to lock down skills for high-growth, high-paying roles driving innovation."

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

1. Software Engineer at White Sands Missile Range

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The Software Engineer gig at White Sands Missile Range tops the list of highest-paying tech jobs in Las Cruces for 2024.

We're talking a mind-blowing average annual salary of $112,630! This is your chance to be at the cutting edge, working on some seriously innovative stuff.

As a Software Engineer, you'll be designing, developing, and maintaining software applications that support missile testing and evaluation.

You'll collaborate with different teams, translating complex requirements into efficient code. It's all about conducting rigorous testing, debugging, and implementing security protocols to protect sensitive data and systems.

To crush this role, you'll need serious skills like proficiency in programming languages like C++, Java, and Python.

You'll also need expertise in software development methodologies (think Agile, Waterfall), experience with database management and integration, and some killer problem-solving and analytical abilities.

As Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, said,

"The heart of innovation is imagination and the ability to see change as an opportunity."

Software Engineers at White Sands Missile Range live and breathe this mindset, driving technological advancements that shape the future of national defense.

It's an opportunity to be part of something truly game-changing.

2. Data Analyst at New Mexico State University

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Alright, let's dive into this Data Analyst gig at NMSU. It's like one of those sweet tech jobs that'll have you swimming in cash by 2024.

We're talking an annual paycheck between $41,000 to $80,000, which ain't too shabby for a fresh grad, am I right?

But it's not all about the Benjamins.

As a Data Analyst, you'll be tackling some serious data wrangling.

From collecting raw info from all sorts of sources to cleaning it up and running complex analyses, your job is to transform that mess into meaningful insights.

You'll be identifying trends, spotting patterns, and basically becoming a data whisperer.

Of course, to land this gig, you'll need to bring your A-game.

NMSU wants candidates who know their way around stats, coding languages like SQL and Python, and data mining tools. But it's not just about the technical know-how; you'll also need to have those killer communication skills to present your findings in a way that makes sense to the big wigs.

Data is the new oil, and universities like NMSU are sitting on a goldmine of untapped info.

As a Data Analyst, you'll be the one helping them refine that crude data into valuable insights that can improve everything from student experiences to research projects.

It's a chance to be part of the data revolution while scoring a sweet paycheck – what more could a tech-savvy 20-something want?

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

3. IT Manager at Memorial Medical Center

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Working as an IT Manager at Memorial Medical Center in Las Cruces is a sweet gig, and the pay is fire! We're talking an average salary between $61k and $119k per year, according to the latest data.

That's some serious cash for keeping the hospital's tech game on point. You'll be leading a squad of tech ninjas, managing everything from cybersecurity to data storage solutions.

It's a crucial role that keeps the hospital running smoothly and ensures patients' info is locked down tighter than Fort Knox.

4. Systems Administrator at Virgin Galactic

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If you're a tech whiz looking to take your skills to new heights, the Systems Administrator gig at Virgin Galactic is where it's at.

These folks are the true MVPs, keeping the company's computer systems running like a well-oiled machine. From maintaining top-notch performance to troubleshooting hiccups, they're the backbone of Virgin Galactic's tech ops.

Industry insiders are predicting that by 2024, the average Systems Admin in the aerospace biz could be raking in a mind-blowing $92,670 per year.

But here's the kicker - with a pioneer like Virgin Galactic, you can expect to score an even sweeter paycheck, thanks to the cutting-edge nature of their groundbreaking missions.

We're talking next-level benefits too, like rubbing shoulders with industry legends, access to insane tech toys, and the chance to make your mark on the final frontier.

As a Systems Admin at Virgin Galactic, you'll be part of the crew that keeps their Delta Mission Systems programs running smoothly.

A Virgin Galactic rep put it best:

"Our missions depend on seamless system integration, and our IT pros are crucial in making that happen."

So, if you're ready to take your tech game to new heights, this could be the opportunity of a lifetime.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

5. Network Architect at CenturyLink

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Check this out! Being a Network Architect at CenturyLink in Las Cruces is like being the tech wizard behind the scenes, designing and optimizing those intricate computer networks that keep everything connected and running smoothly.

It's a highly sought-after gig, and the workload involves some serious responsibility, like developing comprehensive network strategies that align with the company's goals, evaluating and integrating the latest technologies to boost performance and security, and collaborating with different teams to identify network needs and come up with scalable solutions.

There's more! As a Network Architect, you'll also be overseeing the deployment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of all that fancy network hardware and software.

And according to industry projections, the expected salary for this role at CenturyLink in Las Cruces in 2024 is around $115,000 per year. That's some serious cash!

To land this sweet gig, you'll need to have a diverse range of technical skills and certifications under your belt.

We're talking in-depth knowledge of networking protocols, routing technologies, and security best practices, proficiency in network design and modeling tools like Cisco Packet Tracer and GNS3, expertise in virtualization technologies, cloud computing, and software-defined networking (SDN), and industry-recognized certifications like Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Juniper Networks Certified Professional (JNCIP), or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

According to Gartner, "By 2025, 60% of enterprises will have a certified Network Architect on staff to manage the complexity of hybrid and multi-cloud environments."

That's how crucial this role is in shaping the future of digital infrastructure and ensuring seamless connectivity for businesses in Las Cruces and beyond.

So, if you're a tech-savvy wizard with a passion for networking, this could be your dream job!

6. Cybersecurity Specialist at SecureWorks

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In today's digital scene, being a Cybersecurity Specialist at SecureWorks is like being the ultimate guardian against those shady hackers.

These cyber warriors are on a mission to protect their company's sensitive data and keep those pesky breaches at bay. Check out their daily grind:

  • Network Monitoring: Keeping a watchful eye on networks and systems, always on the lookout for any vulnerabilities
  • Risk Assessment: Assessing risks and coming up with strategies to neutralize those threats
  • Incident Response: Crafting epic incident response plans and leading investigations when sh*t hits the fan
  • Trend Awareness: Staying ahead of the game by keeping tabs on the latest cybersecurity trends and best practices

With cyber threats getting more advanced by the day, the demand for skilled Cybersecurity Specialists is skyrocketing.

In Las Cruces, these cyber ninjas can expect to rake in a cool $85,000 to $115,000 annually by 2024. The global cybersecurity market is projected to surpass a staggering $248 billion by 2023.

That's some serious cash for keeping companies safe from those digital menaces!

According to cybersecurity experts, "In the modern digital age, cybersecurity is no longer an optional luxury; it's an existential necessity for every organization."

With data breaches costing companies billions each year, investing in a top-notch cybersecurity team is a no-brainer.

So, if you're looking to make some serious dough while saving the digital world, consider becoming a Cybersecurity Specialist!

7. Database Administrator at Doña Ana Community College

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Being a Database Administrator at a college like Doña Ana is no joke.

You're the data guardian, responsible for keeping all that sensitive info on lock - from student records to financial deets. It's a crucial role, and you gotta be on your A-game.

In Las Cruces, a DBA can expect to rake in around $85,000 per year in 2024, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and local job market analysis.

Not too shabby, right? But you gotta earn that paycheck by handling tasks like:

  1. Designing efficient database architectures for optimized data storage.
  2. Ensuring security and compliance with data regulations to protect information.
  3. Establishing backup and recovery systems for information protection.
  4. Monitoring performance and resolving database issues promptly.
  5. Collaborating with IT teams to meet organizational data requirements.

In the education world, data management is critical.

As Dr. Karen Smith puts it,

"Data is the lifeblood of education, driving decision-making, tracking student progress, and facilitating research."

When you've got a solid database system in place, colleges can personalize learning experiences, streamline administrative tasks, and make data-driven decisions for continuous improvement.

It's a game-changer, and the DBA is the key player in making it happen.

8. AI Engineer at General Dynamics

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AI Engineering is blowing up, and Las Cruces isn't missing out on the action! One of the hottest gigs right now is being an AI Engineer at General Dynamics.

With AI taking over everything from defense to healthcare, these people are in high demand.

The average AI Engineer salary in New Mexico in 2024 is projected to hit around $115,000 annually.

But at a cutting-edge company like General Dynamics, you're looking at over $130,000 for experienced professionals.

To succeed as an AI Engineer at General Dynamics, you must have some serious skills.

We're talking Python, C++, Java, and being proficient at machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch. Math and stats? You better be a wizard. AI Engineers also need to excel at natural language processing, computer vision, and deep learning.

The projects you'll tackle at General Dynamics are next-level stuff.

Think building AI systems for self-driving vehicles, predicting maintenance issues before they happen, or creating cyber defenses that'll make hackers cry:

  1. Developing AI decision-makers for military operations: Building advanced algorithms to support strategic decision-making.
  2. Designing self-learning threat detection algorithms: Crafting algorithms that adapt and evolve to identify potential threats.
  3. Creating computer vision models to analyze satellite imagery: Developing models that process and interpret vast amounts of visual data.
  4. Building natural language systems for intelligence gathering: Designing systems capable of understanding and processing human language for data collection.

As AI continues taking over the world, being an AI Engineer is going to be a major key to unlocking the future.

Dr. Mary Lopez, Chief AI Scientist at General Dynamics, says,

"AI is the future, and those who master it will be at the forefront of technological innovation."

9. Cloud Solutions Architect at IBM

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The cloud computing game is about to go off the charts in 2024, and Las Cruces is where it's at for scoring the big bucks as a Cloud Solutions Architect.

We're talking IBM levels of pay, with salaries ranging from $115,000 to $135,000 for these tech wizards. It's a sweet gig if you can nail it!

Get ready to juggle hybrid and multi-cloud setups, keeping everything running smoothly across multiple environments.

Edge computing and IoT are gonna be huge, so you'd better brush up on designing low-latency solutions for all those connected devices. And don't sleep on containerization and serverless architectures - they're the future of agility and scalability.

To land one of these prime roles, you'll need to level up your skills across the board.

We're talking mastering cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and GCP, becoming a security and compliance ninja, and getting down with DevOps automation tools.

Fault-tolerance and high availability? Better have that on lock. And don't forget about your communication game - you'll be dealing with stakeholders left and right.

If you want to cash in on the digital transformation wave hitting Las Cruces, becoming a Cloud Solutions Architect at IBM is a surefire way to rake in the dough.

Just be ready to stay ahead of the curve and keep leveling up those skills. The cloud computing hype is only going to intensify in 2024!

10. UX/UI Designer at Sapient

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Landed a sweet UX/UI Designer gig at Sapient in Las Cruces, and let me tell you, this role is fire! As the demand for rad digital experiences keeps skyrocketing, UX/UI Designers are becoming total MVPs.

Check it out, the average paycheck for this role in Las Cruces is projected to hit $85,000 by 2024 – that's some serious cash flow!

At the core, we're talking about crafting user-centric designs that make digital interactions smooth as butter.

To slay in this field by 2024, you gotta level up your skills like prototyping and wireframing with tools like Figma and Adobe XD, rocking user research through interviews and testing, and nailing visual design with a killer eye for color, typography, and layout.

Don't sleep on responsive design either – we're talking interfaces that adapt seamlessly across devices. Plus, collaboration with devs, PMs, and stakeholders is key for aligning that sweet design vision.

With Sapient expanding in Las Cruces, the demand for dope UX/UI Designers is about to blow up.

As Jennifer Moore, the Lead UX/UI Designer at Sapient Las Cruces, puts it,

"A great user experience is the cornerstone of successful digital products and services. We're seeking passionate designers who can understand user needs, translate them into intuitive interfaces, and deliver exceptional digital experiences."

So, if you're all about one of the highest-paying tech jobs in Las Cruces, level up those UX/UI skills and get ready to crush it!

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why is Las Cruces becoming a hub for tech jobs in 2024?

Las Cruces is increasingly becoming a hub for tech jobs due to its strategic location, skilled workforce, and business-friendly environment. In 2023, the tech industry contributed around $1.2 billion to the city's economy, making up nearly 8% of the GDP. Major employers like White Sands Missile Range, Virgin Galactic, and General Dynamics are based here, employing over 5,000 tech professionals.

What are the highest paying tech jobs in Las Cruces for 2024?

Some of the highest paying tech jobs in Las Cruces for 2024 include Software Engineer at White Sands Missile Range with an average annual salary of $112,630, Network Architect at CenturyLink with around $115,000, and AI Engineer at General Dynamics with salaries over $130,000 for experienced professionals.

How are top tech jobs ranked in Las Cruces?

Top tech jobs are ranked based on salaries, future job growth projections, and required skill sets aligned with market trends. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, PayScale, and local job postings were considered, alongside growth forecasts from the state's Department of Workforce Solutions.

What skills are important for tech jobs in Las Cruces?

Important skills for tech jobs in Las Cruces include proficiency in programming languages like Python and Java, expertise in AI/ML, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics. Additionally, skills in using design tools like Figma, as well as industry certifications such as CCNP or CISSP, are highly valued.

What role does New Mexico State University play in the tech growth of Las Cruces?

New Mexico State University plays a crucial role in tech growth by producing over 500 STEM graduates annually in fields like computer science, engineering, and data analytics, providing a skilled workforce for the growing tech industry in Las Cruces.

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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.