Most in Demand Tech Job in Lawrence in 2025
Last Updated: December 13th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Lawrence, Kansas is poised to become a tech hub in 2025, with high demand for roles in cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI, and machine learning. Major companies like CRI Advantage and GaDirect offer salaries over $100,000. Skills in network security, AWS, Python, and Agile methodologies are crucial. The University of Kansas bolsters the talent pipeline, and an affordable cost of living enhances Lawrence's appeal. With remote work thriving, job seekers can expect competitive salaries and opportunities for growth in this rapidly evolving market.
The tech job market in Lawrence, Kansas, is seriously taking off in 2025, with cybersecurity jobs projected to grow by 35% through 2031, offering salaries over $100,000.
The integration of AI and automation isn't just changing the game - it's creating entirely new opportunities. Major players like CRI Advantage and GaDirect are driving this growth, while the University of Kansas keeps pumping out skilled tech graduates.
Remote work is here to stay, with emerging tech hubs like Phoenix and Denver competing with Lawrence for talent.
What's really exciting is how AI is revolutionizing everything from marketing to software development.
The hottest areas right now include cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI/ML engineering. Companies are specifically looking for people with hands-on experience in network security, risk assessment, and incident response.
With Lawrence's affordable cost of living and growing tech scene, it's becoming a prime spot for both startups and established tech companies. The key to success? Stay current with the latest tech skills and be ready to adapt as the industry evolves.
Table of Contents
- Demand for Cloud Architects and Cloud Security Engineers in Lawrence
- The Rising Need for Cybersecurity Engineers in Lawrence
- AI and Machine Learning Jobs Opportunities in Lawrence
- Full-Stack Developer Roles in Lawrence's Tech Scene
- Data Science Careers in Lawrence
- Opportunities for Tech Product Managers in Lawrence
- DevOps Engineer Demand in Lawrence
- Support Infrastructure for Tech Job Seekers in Lawrence
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Demand for Cloud Architects and Cloud Security Engineers in Lawrence
(Up)The tech scene in Lawrence is seriously heating up, with Cloud Architect salaries reaching up to $190,000 annually.
These tech pros are crushing it by designing scalable solutions that keep local companies competitive. What's really interesting is that effective communication and problem-solving skills are just as crucial as technical expertise.
The demand is real - especially for those who can handle AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud platforms, with most Lawrence companies looking for architects who can juggle multiple cloud environments.
Beyond just building cloud systems, Cloud Architects are now key strategic players in shaping how companies operate.
They're responsible for everything from cost optimization to security frameworks, making sure businesses can scale without breaking the bank. What's particularly cool is the rise of serverless computing and microservices - these aren't just buzzwords anymore but essential skills that Lawrence employers are actively seeking.
The role combines technical skills with business strategy, perfect for anyone who loves solving complex problems.
The opportunities in Lawrence are expanding fast, especially as more companies shift to hybrid work models.
Cloud Security Engineers are becoming super important, focusing on building secure infrastructures that can handle remote work demands. With most local companies planning to use multiple cloud platforms by 2025, the need for skilled architects who understand both security and infrastructure is skyrocketing.
This means tons of opportunities for anyone looking to break into tech, with plenty of room for growth and innovation.
The Rising Need for Cybersecurity Engineers in Lawrence
(Up)The cybersecurity landscape in Lawrence is experiencing massive growth, with the market projected to expand by 35% from 2021 to 2031.
The demand is real - 68% of local businesses dealt with cybersecurity incidents last year, a significant jump from 42% in 2020. Major players like CRI Advantage and GaDirect are actively seeking talent, with information security roles offering six-figure salaries.
Cloud computing, IoT devices, and AI systems need protecting, plus there's the whole thing with data privacy laws that companies have to follow. The cybersecurity sector contributed $200 million to Kansas's economy in 2022, and it's not slowing down.
Looking at the numbers, cloud security specialists are seeing a 27% growth rate, while information security analysts are at 22%. To get in on this action, you need skills in network security, risk assessment, and encryption protocols.
The University of Kansas is helping fill the talent pipeline, but there's still a massive skills gap - we're looking at a 65% growth needed in the global cybersecurity workforce by 2024.
Lawrence's tech scene offers competitive salaries while keeping that low cost of living, making it an ideal spot for both startups and established companies. Whether you're into incident response, cloud security, or threat hunting, Lawrence's cybersecurity market is ready for fresh talent ready to tackle these challenges head-on.
AI and Machine Learning Jobs Opportunities in Lawrence
(Up)The tech scene in Lawrence, Kansas is seriously heating up with AI and Machine Learning jobs taking center stage in 2025. A deep dive into current job market data shows an impressive range of positions, from entry-level to executive roles, with salaries stretching from $60K to over $300K annually.
The University of Kansas is leading this transformation, with its EECS department actively recruiting for positions in AI and cybersecurity, showing their commitment to building a strong tech foundation.
The department's $7 million annual research budget and growing student body of 1,400 creates a perfect environment for innovation. For those looking to break into the field, research opportunities in machine learning are expanding, particularly in areas like computational mechanics and scientific ML applications.
The local job market offers:
- Flexible work arrangements: Companies are providing remote options for their employees.
- Competitive benefits packages: Incentives include equity options and wellness programs.
Key skills in demand include Python, TensorFlow, and experience with cloud platforms like AWS and Azure.
Companies are specifically looking for professionals who can handle data science tasks, deep learning projects, and MLOps. The combination of academic resources and industry opportunities makes Lawrence an emerging tech hub, especially for those interested in AI and ML careers.
With the University's R1 status and $275 million in external research funding, the city is positioned to become a significant player in the AI revolution, offering real opportunities for both fresh graduates and experienced professionals to make their mark in this rapidly evolving field.
Full-Stack Developer Roles in Lawrence's Tech Scene
(Up)The full-stack developer landscape in Lawrence is seriously heating up in 2025. Full-stack development programs are expanding rapidly to meet the growing demand, with entry-level salaries ranging from $60,000 to $103,000.
The shift towards remote work has made Lawrence an attractive hub for tech talent, with companies actively recruiting developers who can handle everything from frontend design to backend architecture.
According to recent data, over 578 software engineering positions are currently available in and around Lawrence, with multiple companies offering internship programs to help bridge the skills gap.
The tech stack requirements in Lawrence have evolved beyond basic coding skills.
Companies expect developers to be proficient in:
- HTML & CSS: Create responsive and user-friendly interfaces
- JavaScript: Utilize React and Angular for dynamic web applications
- Backend Development: Node.js and Express are must-have skills
- Database Management: SQL and NoSQL expertise is essential
What's really cool is how local companies are investing in developer growth, offering competitive salaries and opportunities for skill advancement.
Major employers like Choice Solutions LLC and Netsmart Technologies are leading the charge with innovative projects and mentorship programs. The key to success? Stay curious and keep learning - the tech scene here is constantly evolving, and the developers who thrive are the ones who embrace new challenges and technologies head-on.
Data Science Careers in Lawrence
(Up)Data science careers in Lawrence are absolutely taking off right now, with starting salaries ranging from $75,000 to $148,000 for qualified professionals.
The upcoming 2025 Kansas Data Science Conference at KU shows just how much the field is growing locally. For students and recent grads looking to break into the industry, there are tons of opportunities - from internships to entry-level positions.
Currently, data science internships in Lawrence offer competitive pay between $24,000 to $73,000, making them a solid stepping stone into the field.
The tech stack you'll need includes Python, SQL, and data visualization tools like Tableau. Companies aren't just looking for technical skills - they want people who can communicate complex data insights clearly and work well in teams.
The field is super diverse, with roles in healthcare, finance, and tech startups. Local employers like T-Mobile and Blue Cross Blue Shield are actively hiring data scientists, offering real opportunities to work on meaningful projects.
Whether you're into machine learning, business intelligence, or data analytics, Lawrence's tech scene has something for everyone. Even better, many positions offer flexible work arrangements and solid benefits packages, including mentorship opportunities and professional development.
The key is to start building your portfolio early, maybe through internships or collaborative projects, and stay current with the latest tools and techniques.
With the University of Kansas expanding its data science programs and more companies setting up shop in Lawrence, it's honestly a great time to jump into this field.
Opportunities for Tech Product Managers in Lawrence
(Up)The market outlook for tech product managers in Lawrence is shifting in interesting ways. While 2024's projected growth didn't fully materialize due to economic factors, including higher interest rates and global market uncertainties, the role remains crucial.
According to Robert Half Technology's latest IT report, product managers who combine technical expertise with soft skills are still highly sought after.
The role requires mastery of Agile methodologies, project management tools, and the ability to guide products from concept to launch. The University of Kansas, for instance, actively supports this growth through specialized programs, with recent research showing increased competition for these positions across multiple industries.
- Agile frameworks: Key skills include Agile frameworks (Scrum, Kanban).
- Project management tools: Proficiency with project management tools (Jira, Trello, Asana).
- Stakeholder management: Skills in stakeholder management.
The average salary range in Lawrence spans from $55,000 to $65,000 for entry-level positions, with significant growth potential based on experience and expertise.
Companies are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate practical experience with these tools and methodologies through real-world projects or certifications.
What's really cool is how the role combines technical knowledge with business strategy – it's perfect for those who love both tech and leadership.
The role requires mastery of Agile methodologies, project management tools, and the ability to guide products from concept to launch.
The University of Kansas actively supports this growth through specialized programs, with recent research showing increased competition for these positions across multiple industries.
For aspiring product managers, key skills include Agile frameworks (Scrum, Kanban), project management tools (Jira, Trello, Asana), and stakeholder management.
The average salary range in Lawrence spans from $55,000 to $65,000 for entry-level positions, with significant growth potential based on experience and expertise.
Companies are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate practical experience with these tools and methodologies through real-world projects or certifications.
What's really cool is how the role combines technical knowledge with business strategy – it's perfect for those who love both tech and leadership.
DevOps Engineer Demand in Lawrence
(Up)DevOps engineering is becoming one of the hottest tech careers in Lawrence, Kansas, with job listings showing salaries ranging from $70,000 to $150,000. The demand for DevOps talent continues to grow as companies realize these roles are challenging to fill but crucial for success.
Local employers like Garmin and Federal Reserve Bank are actively seeking DevOps professionals, particularly those skilled in cloud technologies and automation.
Breaking down silos between development and operations teams has become essential, with studies showing organizations implementing DevOps practices experiencing a 22% increase in customer satisfaction.
The career path is especially promising in Lawrence, where the tech job market is projected to grow 35% through 2031. Local companies are offering competitive packages, with senior positions reaching up to $225,000 for those with cloud architecture expertise.
Key skills employers look for include proficiency in containerization tools like Docker, automation platforms such as Ansible, and major cloud services including AWS and Azure.
The role requires both technical expertise and strong communication abilities, as DevOps engineers often bridge the gap between different teams while managing complex deployment pipelines.
Companies in Lawrence particularly value candidates who can demonstrate experience with continuous integration tools like Jenkins and version control systems such as Git, making these skills essential for anyone looking to break into the field.
Support Infrastructure for Tech Job Seekers in Lawrence
(Up)Lawrence's tech scene in 2025 is seriously stepping up its game with comprehensive support for anyone looking to break into tech careers. The Economic Development Corporation reports that innovation in cybersecurity and technology is creating more high-tech jobs than ever.
The Lawrence Workforce Center is crushing it with their career services, offering specialized training in cloud computing and cybersecurity - fields that are growing like crazy with a 22% projected increase.
What's really cool is that local tech giants like Garmin and NetApp regularly show up at job fairs, making it easier to network and land that first tech job. The University of Kansas IT department is also expanding, with entry-level positions starting around $51K for tech support roles.
Plus, Lawrence's public libraries aren't just about books anymore - they're tech hubs offering free access to coding resources and professional development platforms.
The City's improvement plan includes major investments in digital infrastructure, making Lawrence an even better spot for tech professionals.
Whether you're into cybersecurity, software development, or IT support, Lawrence's support systems are making it easier to launch and grow your tech career.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the most in-demand tech jobs in Lawrence, Kansas in 2025?
The most in-demand tech jobs in Lawrence, Kansas in 2025 include Cloud Architects, Cloud Security Engineers, Cybersecurity Engineers, AI/ML Engineers, Full-Stack Developers, Data Scientists, and DevOps Engineers.
Why is Lawrence an attractive place for tech professionals?
Lawrence is attractive for tech professionals due to its affordable cost of living, a growing tech scene with opportunities in cloud computing, AI/ML, and cybersecurity, and support from the University of Kansas in producing skilled tech graduates.
How is the University of Kansas contributing to Lawrence's tech job market?
The University of Kansas is supporting the tech job market by pumping out skilled tech graduates, offering research opportunities with a $7 million annual budget, and expanding programs in fields like data science and AI/ML.
What skills are employers in Lawrence looking for in tech job candidates?
Employers in Lawrence are looking for skills in cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, Google Cloud; proficiency in programming languages like Python and JavaScript; and expertise in cybersecurity, network security, and risk assessment.
What opportunities are available for tech product managers in Lawrence?
Tech product managers in Lawrence are in demand, with opportunities to leverage Agile methodologies, project management tools like Jira, and skills in stakeholder management, with salaries ranging from $55,000 to $65,000 for entry-level roles.
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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.