Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Lincoln
Last Updated: December 25th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Lincoln is an emerging tech hub contributing $1.2 billion annually to the local economy and employing 9,000 workers. The top high-paying tech jobs include Software Development Managers at $126,420, DevOps Engineers at $130,633, and Cloud Solutions Architects averaging $121,000. The city's affordable living and strong job growth make it an appealing destination for tech professionals.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Lincoln is quickly becoming a prime spot for techies, with major players like Hudl, Sandhills Publishing, and Spreetail setting up shop and driving the city's tech scene.
According to the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, the tech industry contributes a whopping $1.2 billion annually to the local economy and employs around 9,000 workers.
With its affordable living costs and high quality of life, Lincoln is an attractive place for tech talent and startups to thrive.
In this article, we'll rank the top 10 high-paying tech gigs in Lincoln based on:
- Average salary data from sites like Glassdoor, PayScale, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Job growth projections and demand in the local market.
- Essential skills and qualifications needed for each role.
Whether you're a coding genius, data wizard, or cloud computing pro, get ready to explore the lucrative tech careers shaping Lincoln's future.
And for those looking to land a tech job in Lincoln, we've got you covered with insider tips and tricks.
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Ranking Tech Jobs
- 1. Software Development Manager
- 2. Data Scientist
- 3. Information Systems Security Manager
- 4. IT Manager
- 5. DevOps Engineer
- 6. AI/ML Engineer
- 7. Network Architect
- 8. Data Engineer
- 9. Cloud Solutions Architect
- 10. Mobile Applications Developer
- Conclusion and Future Trends
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Methodology for Ranking Tech Jobs
(Up)To rank the hottest high-paying tech jobs in Lincoln, we had to get real creative. First, we went straight to the money and looked at salary data from legit sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, and PayScale.
We're talking cold, hard cash specific to the Lincoln area, so you know it's accurate.
We didn't just stop there. Money ain't everything, right? We also checked out job demand and growth projections from the Nebraska Department of Labor and the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development.
We wanted to find the tech roles that are blowing up right now and are gonna keep growing in the future. If a job has a solid outlook, you know it made our list.
On top of that, we looked at a few other key factors:
- Educational Requirements: Jobs that need advanced degrees or fancy certifications got some extra **credit. We respect the grind.
- Skill Versatility: Roles that require a diverse skillset and the ability to adapt to different situations were prioritized. Tech is always changing, so you gotta be ready.
- Career Advancement Opportunities: We favored jobs with clear paths for leveling up and moving up the ranks. Nobody wants to be stuck in the same spot forever.
By considering all these angles, we crafted a ranking that covers the most lucrative and promising tech careers in Lincoln.
It's a solid guide to help you make the right moves for your future.
1. Software Development Manager
(Up)Software Development Managers in Lincoln are the real MVPs, leading the charge in creating kickass software that powers businesses. As a recent job listing from Oracle shows, they manage teams that design, develop, troubleshoot, and debug software programs for databases, applications, tools, and networks.
With an average salary of around $126,420 per year, it's a sweet gig for those who can handle the pressure.
To land this role, you need to be a coding wizard with skills that would make a hacker jealous.
We're talking a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field, and expertise in coding languages like Java, Python, or C++. But it's not just about being a tech genius; Oracle's job listing also highlights the need for strong leadership, project management, and problem-solving abilities.
You'll be the one calling the shots, setting the roadmap, and ensuring your team delivers top-notch software on time and within budget.
It's a demanding role, but the rewards are worth it.
As a Software Development Manager, you'll be the driving force behind cutting-edge tech solutions, collaborating with cross-functional teams and clients to bring innovative ideas to life.
One job posting even mentions serving as a liaison to communicate milestones and changes, delivering completed software products to clients, and ensuring they perform flawlessly.
2. Data Scientist
(Up)Data science is the hottest thing in tech right now, and Lincoln, Nebraska is catching on.
Companies are drowning in data, and they need whiz kids who can turn those mind-numbing numbers into money-making insights. That's where data scientists come in – they're like modern-day fortune tellers, except they use math and code instead of crystal balls.
If you're eyeing this gig, the average annual salary for a data scientist in Lincoln is a solid $97,823.
That's some serious cash for crunching numbers, am I right? But you gotta have the skills to pay the bills. Most employers want you to have a master's degree in data science, computer science, stats, or something equally nerdy.
If you've got a bachelor's and a ton of experience though, they might still give you a shot.
So, what does it take to be a data wizard? First off, you need to speak the languages – Python, R, SQL, and Java should roll off your tongue like lines from your favorite movies.
You also need a crazy strong grasp of statistics, machine learning, and data viz. But it's not just about the technical know-how; you gotta be able to communicate your findings in a way that makes sense to the non-nerds in the room.
Data science jobs in Nebraska are expected to grow by a whopping 27.9% between 2020 and 2030.
That's way faster than most other careers. So if you're looking for a future-proof job that pays bank and lets you flex your analytical muscles, data science in Lincoln might just be your ticket to the good life.
3. Information Systems Security Manager
(Up)Information security managers are like the superheroes of the tech world, protecting companies from nasty cyber threats.
In Lincoln, these pros are in high demand, earning a sweet average salary of $122,890 per year. But their job is no walk in the park. They gotta stay on top of their game, monitoring networks, assessing risks, and implementing hardcore security protocols to keep those pesky hackers at bay.
So, what exactly do these cyber guardians do? Well, according to CISA, they acquire and manage resources, advise the big shots on risk levels, collect data for reports, validate security measures, integrate cybersecurity into continuity plans, manage situational awareness, oversee training programs, and identify security requirements throughout the system life cycle.
Talk about a superhero's to-do list!
But it's not just about technical skills. These top-notch professionals need a crazy good understanding of compliance frameworks, risk management, and threat analysis too.
They gotta stay ahead of the curve, always learning about emerging technologies and trends in cybersecurity. It's like they're in a never-ending battle against the bad guys of the digital world!
4. IT Manager
(Up)Being an IT Manager in Lincoln is a sweet gig! These tech leaders oversee the entire digital infrastructure, ensuring everything runs smoothly and securely.
From managing networks and systems to leading badass IT crews, they've got their hands full. But the perks? The pay is lit, averaging between $85K to $120K per year! That's some serious cash for being a tech boss.
Their daily grind involves juggling budgets, negotiating deals with vendors, and steering major tech projects to success.
It's like being the captain of a digital ship, navigating through rough waters while keeping the crew motivated and on point. Communication skills are key, as they need to break down complex techno-babble for the non-geeks in the room.
Plus, strategic thinking and problem-solving are essential to drive innovation and stay ahead of the game.
As one seasoned IT pro puts it, "It's not just managing tech; it's about leading people and driving change."
But being an IT Manager isn't just about hitting targets and crunching numbers.
It's about inspiring teams, embracing cutting-edge tech, and aligning the company's digital vision with its overall goals. That's what sets the real tech leaders apart in Lincoln's thriving scene.
5. DevOps Engineer
(Up)DevOps Engineers are straight-up crushing it in Nebraska, making an average of $130,633 per year! That's some serious cash, especially for us 20-somethings just getting started.
But it's not all about the money, even senior DevOps Engineers in Lincoln rake in around $135K.
These tech wizards are the ones making sure our apps and websites run smoothly, automating all the behind-the-scenes stuff so developers can focus on coding. They're like the glue holding everything together, and companies in Lincoln know how valuable they are.
With the tech scene here blowing up, the demand for DevOps skills is only going to keep rising. So if you're into coding, automation, and keeping things running like a well-oiled machine, DevOps could be your ticket to a sweet career.
Just be ready to learn some serious tools and languages like Python, Docker, and Kubernetes. It's not easy, but the payoff is worth it – both in cash and job satisfaction.
Who knows, you might even end up working for a top tech company in Lincoln!
6. AI/ML Engineer
(Up)Let me tell you about this hot career path that's blowing up – AI/ML Engineering.
It's all about building these crazy intelligent systems that can learn and adapt, just like us humans. These ML Engineers are designing mind-boggling AI that can see, hear, and make decisions on its own.
Wild, right?
In Lincoln, an AI/ML Engineer can rake in an average of $112,000 per year, but the sky's the limit with the right skills and experience.
Big names like McKinsey are predicting that by 2024, AI will be revolutionizing industries left and right – from manufacturing and healthcare to finance and retail.
We're talking AI systems that can predict when machines need maintenance, discover new drugs, detect financial fraud, and even personalize your shopping experience.
Insane!
With AI taking over the world, the demand for talented ML Engineers is skyrocketing. The World Economic Forum estimates that by 2025, there'll be a whopping 97 million new jobs created in AI and automation globally.
To snag one of these gigs, you'll need to be a coding whiz with a solid grasp of computer science, math, and statistics. Mastering languages like Python, R, and Java will give you a serious edge too.
7. Network Architect
(Up)Check it! Coming in at #7 on our list of the highest-paying tech jobs in Lincoln is the Network Architect role. These badass tech wizards are the ones designing, building, and keeping those sick computer networks running - you know, the backbone of how we stay connected and share data in this digital age.
With companies relying hard on secure and lightning-fast networks, Network Architects are straight-up vital.
The average yearly pay for a Network Architect in Lincoln is projected to be around $150,000 in 2024.
That's some serious cash, all thanks to the growing need for skilled pros who can navigate the complexities of network infrastructure like bosses.
To slay in this field, aspiring Network Architects gotta have a unique combo of technical skills and strategic thinking.
The key qualifications are usually:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, IT, or a related field: Formal education is important.
- Extensive knowledge of network protocols, hardware, and software - like the back of their hand: A clear understanding of network essentials is crucial.
- Coding skills in programming languages like Python, Java, or C++: Proficiency in coding aids network efficiency.
- Hands-on experience with network design and implementation tools: Practical experience is valuable.
Industry certs can seriously boost a Network Architect's credibility and job prospects.
Some of the hottest certs to have are:
- Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP): A widely recognized certification.
- Juniper Networks Certified Professional (JNCIP): Recognizes expertise in Juniper’s technology.
- VMware Certified Professional – Network Virtualization (VCP-NV): Emphasizes skills in network virtualization.
As tech keeps evolving, the role of Network Architects is only going to become more crucial in shaping the future of connectivity.
"Network architects are the unsung heroes of the digital age, ensuring that data flows seamlessly across complex systems," says Elizabeth Gonzalez, a seasoned IT pro in Lincoln.
So if you're into building the backbone of how we stay connected, this could be the career path for you.
8. Data Engineer
(Up)Check it out, the data engineering scene in Lincoln is blowing up! These tech wizards are raking in some serious dough, with salaries averaging around $92K in 2024, but the real ballers could be scoring over $120K per year.
Companies are scrambling to hire data engineers to tame their ever-growing data beasts, making these pros an absolute must-have for any legit tech team.
So, what's the deal with data engineers? Basically, they're the ones building the intricate pipelines and architectures that keep data flowing smoothly throughout an organization's systems.
To be a rockstar data engineer, you gotta master a diverse set of tools and technologies, like:
- Data Warehousing: Solutions like Amazon Redshift, Google BigQuery, and Snowflake.
- Data Lakes: Platforms such as Amazon S3, Azure Data Lake Storage, and Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS).
- ETL/ELT Tools: Apache Airflow, Talend, and Informatica PowerCenter for data extraction, transformation, and loading.
- Programming Languages: Python, Scala, and SQL for manipulating and analyzing data.
- Cloud Computing: Expertise in cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.
As companies double down on data-driven decision-making, the demand for skilled data engineers is skyrocketing.
According to local tech exec Daniel Anderson,
"Data Engineers are the unsung heroes of the data revolution, enabling organizations to unlock the full potential of their data assets."
With their ninja-level skills in building robust data infrastructures, data engineers are set to play a huge role in shaping Lincoln's tech landscape and beyond.
9. Cloud Solutions Architect
(Up)Being a Cloud Solutions Architect is a sweet gig, mate! These tech wizards get to design and build badass cloud computing systems for companies. It's like being an architect, but for the digital age.
They analyze what a business needs, assess their current setup, and craft scalable cloud solutions that align with their goals and industry standards.
In Lincoln, Nebraska, the average salary for a Cloud Solutions Architect is a solid $121,000 per year, according to data from job sites like Glassdoor and PayScale.
Not too shabby, eh? But to land one of these gigs, you gotta have some serious skills:
- Mastering Cloud Platforms: Master the art of cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.
- Cloud Architecture Patterns: Know cloud architecture patterns and services like the back of your hand.
- Virtualization and Containerization: Understand virtualization and containerization tech like Docker and Kubernetes.
- Cloud Security Practices: Keep cloud security practices and risk management on lock.
- DevOps Expertise: Be a DevOps pro with automation tools.
With more and more companies moving their operations to the cloud, the demand for these cloud gurus is skyrocketing.
According to industry reports, the global cloud computing market is expected to grow from $445.3 billion in 2021 to $947.3 billion by 2026, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 16.3%.
Companies need scalable and cost-effective IT solutions, plus they're diving into big data, AI, and IoT. Cloud architects who can handle AI and ML solutions are in high demand too!
10. Mobile Applications Developer
(Up)Check it out - Mobile App Developers are where it's at these days! These coding ninjas are responsible for bringing dope apps to life on your phone, whether it's the latest game or that slick new social media app everyone's talking about.
In Lincoln, we're talking some serious cash for these skills - an average of $104,200 per year, according to the data.
To be a Mobile App Dev, you gotta be fluent in coding languages like Java, Swift, and Kotlin.
Java's the OG for Android apps, while Swift is Apple's slick language for iOS. And let's not forget about cross-platform frameworks like React Native that let you build apps for both Android and iOS with the same codebase.
Sick, right?
With the mobile app market expected to hit a mind-blowing $808.7 billion by 2024, according to App Annie, these skills are going to be in crazy high demand.
Stay ahead of the game by learning cutting-edge tech like Flutter (Google's UI toolkit) and React Native Web (for deploying React Native apps on the web). Being a Mobile App Dev is the way to level up your career in this fast-paced tech world.
Conclusion and Future Trends
(Up)Alright, let's talk about the future of tech jobs in Lincoln - it's looking pretty sweet, not gonna lie. From what I've seen, this city is a prime spot for scoring some high-paying gigs in the tech world.
We're talking roles like data scientists, cloud architects, and cybersecurity experts - all areas that are expected to blow up in the coming years.
According to the stats, tech jobs in Nebraska could grow by a solid 11% between 2021 and 2031, which is even faster than the national average.
That's some serious demand we're talking about. And Lincoln, being the economic powerhouse that it is, is poised to be at the forefront of this tech boom. With businesses going all-in on cloud computing, data analytics, and cybersecurity, those with skills in these fields will be highly sought after.
Companies are going to need innovative minds to drive these cutting-edge technologies forward, and Lincoln could be the perfect breeding ground for the next generation of tech pioneers.
But it's not just the traditional tech roles that are heating up.
Emerging tech like AI, machine learning, and IoT are opening up a whole new world of opportunities. Innovative minds will drive these technologies, and Lincoln could be the perfect place for tech pioneers.
So, if you're thinking about diving into the tech scene, Lincoln is definitely a city worth considering.
With its affordable cost of living and a thriving community of tech enthusiasts and professionals, it's a prime spot to launch or level up your career. Just make sure you've got the right skills and mindset to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
And if you need some guidance, check out Nucamp's resources on landing a tech job in Lincoln - they've got your back.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the top high-paying tech jobs in Lincoln?
The top high-paying tech jobs in Lincoln include Software Development Manager, Data Scientist, Information Systems Security Manager, IT Manager, and DevOps Engineer.
What is the average salary for a Software Development Manager in Lincoln?
The average salary for a Software Development Manager in Lincoln is around $126,420 per year.
How much does a Data Scientist earn in Lincoln?
A Data Scientist in Lincoln earns an average salary of $97,823 per year.
What skills are required for a Cloud Solutions Architect?
A Cloud Solutions Architect needs skills in cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, cloud architecture patterns, virtualization, containerization technologies, cloud security, and DevOps expertise.
What is the job growth projection for tech jobs in Lincoln?
Tech jobs in Nebraska, including Lincoln, are projected to grow by 11% between 2021 and 2031, which is faster than the national average.
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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.