Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Lawrence in 2024

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 13th 2024

Cityscape of Lawrence, Kansas with tech industry symbols highlighting top tech jobs in 2024.

Too Long; Didn't Read:

In 2024, Lawrence's tech scene is booming with key players like Garmin and AWS, contributing 25% to the city's GDP. Top tech jobs, including Software Engineer, Data Scientist, and AI Researcher, offer lucrative salaries averaging $85K. With high growth predictions and innovative companies, Lawrence is ideal for tech enthusiasts seeking career advancement and competitive pay.

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

According to recent data, the tech scene here has been crushing it, with its contribution to the city's GDP skyrocketing from 12% in 2019 to a whopping 18% last year.

Experts are predicting it'll hit a mind-blowing 25% by 2024! Major players like Garmin, Cerner, and Amazon Web Services have been fueling this growth, cementing Lawrence as a rising tech powerhouse.

But it's not just about the numbers. The tech landscape here is a goldmine for high-paying gigs, attracting top talent from all over. A report revealed that tech jobs in Lawrence are raking in an average of $85K annually, nearly double the city's median income.

With innovative companies and lucrative career opportunities galore, Lawrence is quickly becoming a mecca for tech enthusiasts aiming to thrive. As the CEO of Lawrence Tech Coalition said,

"The tech revolution here is just the beginning. We're witnessing a game-changing shift that'll redefine our city and cement its rep as a hotbed for innovation."

So if you're into cutting-edge tech and want to score a killer job, Lawrence is definitely the place to be.

Table of Contents

  • Methodology for Selecting the Top 10 Tech Jobs
  • Software Engineer at Garmin International
  • Data Scientist at Meta (formerly Facebook)
  • Cloud Solutions Architect at Amazon Web Services (AWS)
  • AI Researcher at Google
  • Cybersecurity Specialist at Cerner Corporation
  • DevOps Engineer at Oracle
  • Machine Learning Engineer at Microsoft
  • Conclusion: Embarking on a Tech Career in Lawrence
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology for Selecting the Top 10 Tech Jobs

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To get the scoop on the top 10 highest-paying tech gigs in Lawrence for 2024, we did some serious digging.

We looked at all the juicy details from big shots like the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job sites like Indeed and Glassdoor, and local tech reports. The key? Jobs with mad cash flow and a bright future in the Lawrence scene.

Here's how we broke it down:

  1. Show Me the Money: We ranked jobs based on their average annual pay in Lawrence, with the big bucks getting top billing.
  2. Future Flex: Roles expected to grow faster than the national average, according to the BLS and industry experts, scored major points.
  3. Skill Thrills: Jobs requiring hot skills like coding, data analysis, and cybersecurity know-how were given the VIP treatment.
  4. Level Up: Positions with clear paths for climbing the ladder and scoring leadership roles in Lawrence's booming tech world made the cut.

To cover all our bases, we tapped into a ton of credible sources:

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Occupational Employment Statistics
  • Glassdoor salary reports: For Lawrence, Kansas
  • Indeed job postings: And salary data for the Lawrence metro area
  • Industry reports: From organizations like the Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation (KTEC)
  • Insider tips: From local Lawrence tech companies and recruitment agencies

After crunching all the numbers and prepping for those tech job interviews, the top 10 made the cut based on their combined scores across all the criteria.

These are the real deal – the hottest, highest-paying tech careers to aim for in Lawrence this year.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

Software Engineer at Garmin International

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Software Engineers at Garmin are rolling in cash. We're talking an average salary range of $86.8K to $151K per year, depending on your level.

And that's just the base pay - stock options and bonuses can add several Gs on top! Entry-level Software Engineer I positions start at around $86.8K, while experienced Technical Lead Software Engineers can rake in a whopping $151K annually.

Pretty dope, right?

But it's not just about the Benjamins. Garmin hooks you up with solid benefits too - we're talking medical, dental, vision coverage, the whole nine yards.

And the gender ratio is actually decent for a tech company, with almost 27% of Software Engineers being women. Not too shabby!

Now, to land one of these sweet gigs, you gotta have some serious coding chops.

We're talking fluency in C, C++, Java, Python, and other hot languages. You'll need to know your way around data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented design like the back of your hand.

And if you've got experience with GPS tech, embedded systems, or mobile dev, that's a major plus. DevOps skills are also mad valuable these days.

Data Scientist at Meta (formerly Facebook)

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Being a Data Scientist at Meta (formerly Facebook) in Lawrence is where the big bucks are at! Based on the latest intel, the average yearly total compensation for a Data Scientist at Meta's Lawrence office in 2024 is projected to be $248,552.

And that's just the median - top performers could be raking in upwards of $425,000 annually!

To snag one of these lucrative roles, you gotta have the skills to pay the bills.

We're talking ninja-level coding abilities in languages like Python and R, mad skills in data mining and machine learning, and a solid grasp of database systems.

But it's not just about the tech know-how - Meta wants problem-solvers who can translate complex data into insights that drive the business forward.

A degree in Computer Science, Stats or a related field is usually required to get your foot in the door.

Once you're in, the career path is wide open:

  • Junior Data Scientist: Building predictive models and analyzing data.
  • Data Scientist: Enhancing models with advanced techniques and analytics.
  • Senior Data Scientist: Leading small teams and projects; innovating new approaches.
  • Lead Data Scientist: Driving strategic initiatives; mentoring the next-gen data scientists.
  • Director of Data Science: Leading departments; crafting cutting-edge research strategies.

As you level up, your responsibilities evolve from building predictive models and analyzing data to leading teams, driving strategic initiatives, and pushing the boundaries of innovative research.

The sky's the limit at Meta when it comes to shaping the future of tech and getting paid like a boss to do it.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

Cloud Solutions Architect at Amazon Web Services (AWS)

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The Cloud Solutions Architect gig at Amazon Web Services (AWS) is about to be straight fire in Lawrence, Kansas come 2024.

Word on the street is that the average salary for this role is set to skyrocket to a mind-blowing $140,000 per year, according to recent projections.

Talk about cashing in big time, am I right?

But you can't just waltz into this job. To crush it as a Cloud Solutions Architect at AWS, you gotta level up your skills game.

We're talking mastery of AWS core services like EC2, S3, and RDS, plus the ability to design killer cloud architectures that are secure, scalable, and cost-effective.

You also need to be a pro at automating the heck out of things with DevOps tools and speaking the lingo of programming languages like Python and Node.js. Here's a quick rundown of what AWS is looking for in 2024:

  • Hardcore expertise in AWS services and cloud best practices is key.
  • Wizardry with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools like Terraform and CloudFormation is essential.
  • Optimizing performance and cutting costs is a priority.
  • Having Ninja-level problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities is crucial.
  • Top-notch communication skills to work with cross-functional teams are needed.

But this gig isn't just a one-and-done deal.

Once you've got some solid experience under your belt, you can level up to roles like Principal Cloud Solutions Architect or even Head of Cloud Architecture, leading teams and driving major cloud initiatives.

Heck, some folks even go rogue and start their own cloud consulting businesses or develop game-changing cloud products. The sky's the limit!

AI Researcher at Google

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There tech fam, let's talk about one of the most fire jobs in Lawrence for 2024 - being an AI Researcher at Google! According to the latest stats, you could be raking in a sweet $133,783 per year on average in this role.

That's not even including the dope benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and stock options that make the deal even sweeter.

To land this gig, you've gotta have some serious skills.

We're talking a solid foundation in computer science, math, and programming languages like Python and C++. You'll need to be a pro at machine learning techniques like deep learning, reinforcement learning, and natural language processing.

Google wants candidates with a legit academic background, so having a Ph.D. in a relevant field like Computer Science, Applied Math, or Statistics is a game-changer.

Once you're in, the career growth opportunities are insane.

Get ready to:

  1. Collaborate with cross-functional teams on cutting-edge AI solutions.
  2. Publish groundbreaking research papers in top academic journals.
  3. Level up to senior roles like Principal Researcher or Research Scientist Manager.
  4. Mentor the new crew, fostering an innovative culture.

As you gain more experience and become a thought leader in the field, you could end up leading an entire research division or spearheading projects that shape the future of AI. making moves in Lawrence's thriving tech scene!

"Working at Google as an AI Researcher is a dream come true. The resources and support are unreal, and collaborating with the brightest minds is so inspiring." - Elizabeth Wilson, AI Researcher at Google Lawrence

With its innovative work environment and emphasis on pushing boundaries, Google offers a killer opportunity for AI Researchers to make their mark while earning a competitive salary and amazing benefits.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

Cybersecurity Specialist at Cerner Corporation

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In today's digital age, staying ahead of cyber threats is crucial, and that's where cybersecurity specialists at Cerner Corporation come into play.

This leading healthcare tech company based in Kansas City knows how to keep sensitive data locked down tight. The average salary for a cybersecurity specialist at Cerner in 2024 is a whopping $154,051 according to recent data.

That's some serious cash for protecting their systems from online attackers.

But it's not just about the money. To be a cybersecurity rockstar at Cerner, you need a diverse skill set that covers everything from firewalls and vulnerability scanning to risk assessment and compliance frameworks like HIPAA. You've got to be a coding ninja with languages like Python, C++, and Java, while also having top-notch communication skills to collaborate with different teams and explain technical stuff to the higher-ups.

The best part? Cerner offers plenty of opportunities to level up your career.

Start as a cybersecurity specialist, and with enough experience, you could become a Lead Cybersecurity Specialist, overseeing a team of security pros. Or maybe even an Information Security Manager or the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), leading the charge on all things cybersecurity and risk management.

And if that's not enough, Cerner encourages continuous learning with training programs, certifications, and chances to work on cutting-edge security projects.

As one Cerner cybersecurity specialist, Karen Garcia, puts it,

"The constantly evolving nature of cybersecurity threats keeps our work challenging and rewarding. We're at the forefront of protecting sensitive healthcare data, making a real impact on people's lives."

DevOps Engineer at Oracle

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DevOps Engineers are seriously in the tech world, acting as the bridge between software development and IT operations. At Oracle, one of the major players with a big presence in Lawrence, a DevOps Engineer can rake in an average base salary of $214k and total compensation of $295k in 2024.

That's some serious cash, not to mention the dope benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities to level up your skills.

To slay it as a DevOps Engineer at Oracle, you gotta have a diverse skill set that combines technical wizardry with a deep understanding of agile methodologies.

Some of the must-have skills include:

  • Coding ninja: Being a coding ninja with languages like Python, Ruby, or Go
  • Mastering containerization: Mastering containerization tech like Docker and Kubernetes
  • Cloud platforms: Understanding cloud platforms like Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) inside and out
  • Automation tools: Knowing automation tools like Ansible, Terraform, and Jenkins like the back of your hand
  • Collaboration: Collaborating and communicating like a boss

As an Oracle DevOps Engineer, you'll get to work on some cutting-edge projects, collaborating with cross-functional teams to streamline software delivery and optimize infrastructure operations.

The career progression opportunities within Oracle are endless, with paths leading to senior DevOps roles, team lead positions, or even transitioning into cloud architecture or site reliability engineering roles.

As Gene Kim, author of "The Phoenix Project," said,

"DevOps is a journey, not a destination."

At Oracle, you'll be part of this transformative journey, shaping the future of software development and operations like a boss.

Machine Learning Engineer at Microsoft

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If you're looking to get paid big bucks in the tech world, the Machine Learning Engineer role at Microsoft in Lawrence is where it's at.

According to the latest projections for 2024, we're talking an average salary of around $154,000 per year! That's some serious cash.

But it's not just about the Benjamins.

Microsoft is hooking up their ML Engineers with some sweet benefits too. We're talking top-notch health insurance, retirement plans that'll have you set for life, and plenty of paid time off to keep that work-life balance on point.

Oh, and let's not forget the opportunities for professional growth – they've got your back with training and development programs to keep you at the cutting edge.

To snag one of these coveted ML Engineer roles, you better be packing some serious skills.

We're talking proficiency in Python, SQL, AWS, and a deep understanding of machine learning algorithms and data modeling.

But that's not all – you'll also need to be a pro at problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. It's a whole package deal.

Once you're in, the sky's the limit.

Microsoft loves to promote from within, so you could be looking at senior roles, leading teams, or even transitioning into management if you play your cards right.

And let's be real, working on cutting-edge AI projects at a tech giant like Microsoft? That's the kind of stuff that'll make your resume pop.

So, if you're a coding whiz with a knack for machine learning and a hunger for success, Microsoft's ML Engineer role in Lawrence should definitely be on your radar.

Just don't forget to bring your A-game and a whole lot of ambition, because this opportunity is the real deal.

Conclusion: Embarking on a Tech Career in Lawrence

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Lawrence, Kansas is where it's at if you're looking to score a high-paying tech job in 2024.

The city's tech scene is booming, and there are some seriously sweet gigs up for grabs. We're talking big bucks, with average salaries ranging from $80,000 to over $120,000 annually at major players like Garmin, Meta (Facebook), Amazon Web Services, Google, and more.

The scoop on some of the hottest tech roles in Lawrence for 2024:

  • Software Engineer at Garmin International: Average salary of $92,000. This role is essential for developing and enhancing software solutions.
  • Data Scientist at Meta: $120,000 on average to crunch those numbers. Data scientists interpret and analyze complex data to aid decision-making.
  • Cloud Solutions Architect at AWS: Architects design cloud infrastructure and rake in around $135,000. This position requires building efficient cloud solutions.
  • AI Researcher at Google: Earn $118,000 while pushing the boundaries of AI. AI researchers focus on advancing machine learning technologies.

But it's not just about the Benjamins.

Lawrence has a seriously cool vibe with a thriving tech community, affordable living, and plenty of options for fun outdoor activities.

The tech job market in Kansas is projected to explode by 2024, with over 15,000 new openings in cutting-edge fields like quantum computing, blockchain, cybersecurity, and more.

So if you're looking to future-proof your career and make some serious cash, Lawrence is definitely the place to be.

The city's got the perfect mix of job opportunities and an awesome lifestyle, making it a top destination for ambitious tech professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the top-paying tech jobs in Lawrence, Kansas in 2024?

Some of the top-paying tech jobs in Lawrence include Software Engineers at Garmin International, Data Scientists at Meta, Cloud Solutions Architects at AWS, AI Researchers at Google, and Cybersecurity Specialists at Cerner Corporation. Salaries for these roles range from $92,000 to upwards of $425,000 annually.

How has the tech sector's contribution to Lawrence's GDP changed over the years?

The tech sector's contribution to Lawrence's GDP has increased significantly, from 12% in 2019 to 18% last year. Experts predict it will reach 25% by 2024.

What are the key selection criteria for the top tech jobs in Lawrence?

The selection criteria for the top tech jobs in Lawrence include high average annual pay, projected job growth above the national average, requirements for in-demand skills such as coding and data analysis, and clear career progression opportunities.

What skills are necessary for a Cloud Solutions Architect at AWS in 2024?

To excel as a Cloud Solutions Architect at AWS, candidates need expertise in AWS core services, Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools like Terraform, stellar problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills. Knowledge of DevOps practices and programming languages like Python and Node.js is also crucial.

Why is Lawrence considered a great place for tech careers?

Lawrence is seen as a great place for tech careers due to its booming tech industry, high-paying job opportunities, vibrant tech community, and affordable living conditions. With major companies like Garmin, Cerner, and AWS based there, it offers a mix of lucrative careers and a thriving lifestyle.

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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.