Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Little Rock in 2025
Last Updated: December 14th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
In 2025, Little Rock's tech industry is booming with a 2.9% job growth and approximately 1,200 new positions. High-demand roles like software developers and cloud architects offer lucrative salaries, reaching up to $167,000 for senior professionals. Key skills include Python, AI, and machine learning, with major players like Amazon and Microsoft driving expansion. Little Rock's tech salaries are increasingly competitive with major hubs, benefiting from lower living costs and expanding remote work opportunities. This tech growth surpasses national averages, making it an ideal time to enter the industry.
In 2025, Little Rock's tech scene is absolutely crushing it! Arkansas ranked fourth highest in tech job growth with a 2.9% increase, adding about 1,200 new positions.
The median salary for software developers hits $83,970, with top earners reaching $131,490 - seriously impressive numbers! Major players like Amazon and Microsoft are driving massive growth, especially in AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
Whether you're into coding, cloud computing, or ethical hacking, there's something for everyone.
The best part? Entry-level IT positions are everywhere, from computer support specialist to information security analyst roles.
Companies are looking for skills in Python, Java, JavaScript, and emerging tech like AI and machine learning. If you're thinking about jumping into tech, now's literally the perfect time - the industry is growing faster here than the national average at 3.3%.
Plus, with tons of networking events like Little Rock Tech Fest and flexible education options, getting started is totally within reach!
Key Industry Growth Areas | Companies Involved | Top Skills Required |
---|---|---|
AI and Machine Learning | Amazon, Microsoft | Python, Java |
Cybersecurity | Local Startups | JavaScript, Ethical Hacking |
Data Analytics | Global Firms | Data Science, Machine Learning |
- Tech Job Growth: Little Rock is seeing a boom in tech jobs with a 2.9% increase.
- Major Players: Companies like Amazon and Microsoft are driving growth.
- Variety of Roles: From entry-level to experienced, roles like information security analyst are in demand.
Table of Contents
- Methodology Behind the Rankings
- Cloud Architect: Leading the Pack
- Machine Learning Engineer: Harnessing AI
- The Data Scientist: Uncovering Insights
- Software Engineer: The Backbone of Tech
- Network Security Engineer: Protecting Data
- Cybersecurity Engineer: Ensuring Safety
- DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations
- Information Security Analyst: A Vital Role
- Penetration Tester: Ethical Hacking for Security
- AI Research Scientist: Pioneering Future Tech
- Conclusion: Mapping Your Path in Tech
- Frequently Asked Questions
Check out next:
Maximize your job search with remote job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn, tailored for the Little Rock tech scene.
Methodology Behind the Rankings
(Up)Let me break down how we figured out the best-paying tech jobs in Little Rock for 2025. According to Dice's latest salary report, tech salaries have shifted significantly, with some roles seeing major growth while others experienced declines.
We collected data from multiple sources to get the real picture. While Glassdoor offers useful insights, it's worth noting that salary data can vary greatly based on when it was reported and specific company packages.
That's why we cross-referenced everything with current industry statistics showing an average IT salary of $109,707 nationally, with variations by state and city.
Our process looked at three key factors:
- Compensation Analysis: We analyzed base salaries and total compensation packages, including bonuses and benefits.
- Job Market Demand: We tracked job market demand by counting current openings and growth projections.
- Skills and Certifications: We evaluated required skills and certifications that boost earning potential.
Our data shows that tech salaries in smaller markets like Little Rock are becoming more competitive with major tech hubs, especially for roles in cloud architecture, cybersecurity, and machine learning.
This means you don't have to move to Silicon Valley to make serious money in tech. Plus, with remote work becoming standard, local tech professionals can often access national salary ranges while enjoying Little Rock's lower cost of living.
Pretty sweet deal, right?
Cloud Architect: Leading the Pack
(Up)Cloud Architects are leading the tech revolution in Little Rock, and their role is seriously exciting. As key strategists in cloud computing, they're the ones making sure companies can scale and innovate without breaking a sweat.
The best part? The salary potential is incredible, hitting up to $167,000 for senior professionals in 2025. What makes this role amazing is how it combines technical expertise with real business impact - you get to shape how entire organizations operate in the cloud.
When I looked into what makes Cloud Architects so valuable, I found that they're basically the masterminds behind digital transformation.
According to recent industry research, they're responsible for designing cloud environments, troubleshooting complex issues, and making sure everything runs smoothly.
The role requires a mix of programming skills, security knowledge, and the ability to think strategically about business problems.
What's really cool about being a Cloud Architect in Little Rock is that you get to work with cutting-edge technology while enjoying a lower cost of living compared to major tech hubs.
The field is constantly evolving, and as career development experts point out, the path to becoming a Cloud Architect is pretty clear: start with a strong foundation in IT, get certified in major cloud platforms like AWS or Azure, and gain hands-on experience with real projects.
For someone like David Thompson looking at career options, it's awesome to see a role that combines problem-solving, innovation, and fantastic earning potential right here in Little Rock.
Machine Learning Engineer: Harnessing AI
(Up)As a Machine Learning Engineer in Little Rock's growing tech scene, you're basically at the forefront of tech innovation in 2025.
It's honestly amazing - we design and build AI systems that can learn and adapt on their own, working with everything from smart healthcare apps to financial prediction tools.
The role requires solid programming skills, especially in Python, and you need to know your way around popular frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch. What's really cool is how AI engineers are shaping the future through their work with neural networks, decision trees, and other machine learning algorithms.
The essentials for success include:
- Strong data processing abilities are crucial for managing and interpreting complex data sets.
- A real understanding of stats and probability is key for developing accurate models.
- Gaining hands-on experience with cloud platforms enhances flexibility and scalability in projects.
Little Rock's tech scene is totally taking off, with machine learning jobs growing exponentially.
The salary situation is pretty sweet - we're looking at around $135,000 yearly in 2025, which is seriously competitive. Local tech companies are actively hiring, from cool startups to bigger established companies, all wanting to level up their AI game.
Looking at the bigger picture, machine learning jobs are set to grow 15% over the next decade - that's major job security right there.
As someone just starting out in Little Rock, getting into this field means constantly learning and staying updated with new tech, but the payoff is totally worth it.
The opportunities are real, and if you're ready to put in the work, the future in machine learning is incredibly bright.
The Data Scientist: Uncovering Insights
(Up)Data Scientists are crushing it in Little Rock's tech scene, with their ability to turn massive amounts of data into game-changing insights. According to recent industry analysis, Data Scientists in healthcare analytics are earning median salaries of $108,020, with those in scientific research pushing $126,430.
The role requires mastery of multiple tools - Python, R, and SQL are must-haves, plus understanding complex statistical concepts to build and validate predictive models.
Latest projections show Data Science jobs growing by 73,100 positions between 2023 and 2033, with mid-level professionals earning between $110,131 and $123,925 annually.
Little Rock's Data Scientists need solid skills in machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch, and according to industry experts, they should also be comfortable with data visualization tools like Tableau and Power BI. The field is seriously taking off in Arkansas, with professionals working on everything from risk detection to targeted advertising.
With remote work becoming more common, Little Rock's Data Scientists can tap into opportunities nationwide while enjoying the city's lower cost of living. Plus, the integration of emerging tech like IoT and 5G is creating even more exciting possibilities for those ready to dive into this field.
Whether you're analyzing market trends or building predictive models, Data Science offers a seriously rewarding career path with real impact.
Software Engineer: The Backbone of Tech
(Up)In 2025, Software Engineers remain the backbone of technological advancement in Little Rock, Arkansas. The role has become increasingly dynamic, with adaptability and problem-solving skills being essential as remote work and AI reshape the tech landscape.
Software Engineers are responsible for developing, testing, and maintaining software systems, with a growing emphasis on AI integration and machine learning capabilities.
Front-end development skills including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like Angular and React have become standard requirements.
The most in-demand programming languages now include Python, JavaScript, Java, and emerging technologies like Rust and Go. Python leads the pack, appearing in over 33% of job listings, while newer languages like Rust command higher salaries, averaging around $210,000 annually in competitive markets.
The career outlook is promising - AI tools and remote work options have transformed how we collaborate and code.
Entry-level positions in Little Rock start at $75,000, with experienced professionals earning upwards of $130,000 annually. The shift towards remote work has opened up opportunities to work with companies nationwide while living in Little Rock, potentially accessing even higher salary ranges.
Success in this field requires continuous learning, active participation in the developer community, and staying current with emerging technologies. For anyone starting out, focusing on building a strong foundation in programming fundamentals while gradually exploring specialized areas like AI or cybersecurity is the way to go.
Network Security Engineer: Protecting Data
(Up)Network Security Engineering is the real deal in Little Rock's tech scene right now. These pros handle everything from implementing and maintaining corporate networks to protecting against cyber threats.
They're like digital guardians keeping our data safe. The work involves setting up firewalls, running security checks, and making sure nobody's messing with company networks.
According to current trends, Little Rock is seeing major growth in this field, with lots of companies looking to beef up their security teams.
Want to get into this field? You'll need to know your stuff.
The career path typically starts with a tech degree and some key certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CCNA. The daily grind includes managing security hardware and software, checking for network problems, and staying ahead of new security threats.
The best part? Many companies now offer remote work options, with some positions only requiring 25% travel.
- Entry-level positions start around $66,000, but experienced pros can make up to $174,000 annually.
- Many employers offer solid benefits like paid medical premiums and flexible time off.
- If you're into problem-solving and keeping up with the latest tech, this career path is definitely worth checking out.
The field keeps growing as more companies move their operations online, making it a super stable career choice for 2025 and beyond.
Cybersecurity Engineer: Ensuring Safety
(Up)In 2025, Cybersecurity Engineers in Little Rock are at the forefront of protecting critical systems and data. According to Entergy's latest job listings, these professionals focus heavily on Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems while implementing comprehensive security strategies.
Their daily responsibilities include network security maintenance, vulnerability assessments, and rapid incident response. Network security specialists manage corporate WANs, LANs, and server architectures, ensuring robust protection against evolving cyber threats.
The role demands expertise in multiple areas, from cloud security to advanced threat detection.
GuidePoint Security emphasizes the importance of understanding Zero Trust architectures and Defense in Depth strategies.
Entry-level positions typically start at $80,000, with experienced professionals earning up to $150,000 annually. The increasing complexity of cyber threats has led to a surge in demand for specialists who can navigate both technical and strategic aspects of cybersecurity.
Looking ahead, successful Cybersecurity Engineers need to master cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, while staying current with emerging threats.
The field offers serious growth potential, with companies investing heavily in security infrastructure. Recent data shows a 70% increase in cyber incidents since 2023, making this career path not just lucrative but essential for protecting organizations.
For tech enthusiasts who love solving complex problems and staying ahead of threats, cybersecurity engineering offers an exciting and rewarding career path in Little Rock's growing tech scene.
DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations
(Up)The role of a DevOps Engineer in Little Rock continues to evolve, with companies like Lumen offering competitive internships that pay between $26 to $43 per hour for entry-level positions.
DevOps Engineers bridge development and operations teams by automating workflows and optimizing troubleshooting procedures. The tech stack includes proficiency in backend languages like Java and Python, databases such as SQL and MongoDB, and web technologies including HTML/CSS and JavaScript.
Success in this field requires mastering cloud platforms and understanding L2/L3 networking protocols like MPLS, BGP, and TCP/IP.
By 2025, DevOps professionals will be making strategic decisions about public cloud migration, managing infrastructure through code, and implementing security measures across platforms.
The role has expanded beyond traditional development to include crucial responsibilities in platform modernization and technology lifecycle management.
Industry data shows that experienced DevOps Engineers in Little Rock can expect salaries ranging from $54,080 to $89,440 annually, with higher compensation for those holding AWS Solutions Architect certifications.
The job market in Little Rock is particularly exciting for tech graduates, with major employers offering hybrid work options and comprehensive benefits packages.
Companies are investing heavily in DevOps talent, recognizing the critical role these professionals play in maintaining competitive advantage. For those starting their tech careers, the combination of hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies and competitive compensation makes DevOps engineering an attractive path.
The field offers clear progression opportunities, especially for those willing to stay current with emerging technologies and industry best practices.
Information Security Analyst: A Vital Role
(Up)Information Security Analysts have become crucial players in Little Rock's tech scene in 2025. As a cybersecurity professional, you'll be right at the frontline, hunting down threats and protecting digital assets.
The role goes beyond just monitoring networks - it's about being the guardian of an organization's entire digital infrastructure. According to recent data, analysts spend their days conducting vulnerability assessments, managing security architectures, and implementing cutting-edge protection measures.
A typical day involves working with advanced security systems to prevent unauthorized access and protect sensitive data.
The position requires solid technical skills in firewall administration, encryption technologies, and network protocols. Analysts get to work with the latest security tools while solving complex problems.
The role also involves collaborating with system owners and maintaining monitoring systems for approved applications.
Most positions require a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or a related field, plus certifications like CISSP or Security+. With salaries ranging from $81,000 to $110,000 in Little Rock, and the constant evolution of cyber threats, this career path offers both financial stability and intellectual challenge.
Companies are actively seeking professionals who can adapt to new threats and technologies, making this role essential for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and security.
Penetration Tester: Ethical Hacking for Security
(Up)As a penetration tester in 2025, you're basically a digital detective who simulates cyberattacks to find security weaknesses before the bad guys do.
It's super exciting - you get to test everything from networks and apps to entire computer systems, looking for vulnerabilities that could put companies at risk.
The role has gotten way more important in Little Rock as businesses deal with increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.
The toolkit for pen testers is pretty impressive! Modern testing platforms combine automated scanners with AI to make the process more efficient.
You'll work with tools like Metasploit for automation, Nmap for network mapping, and Wireshark for digging deep into network traffic. Plus, you'll need to master social engineering and phishing simulation techniques - it's not just about the tech, it's about understanding how people think and interact with systems.
Penetration testing careers are seriously rewarding, with salaries in Little Rock averaging around $128,000 annually.
Companies are investing heavily in security because they've seen how effective penetration testing can be - it's helping them reduce security incidents by up to 60%.
The field is growing like crazy, with a projected 25% increase in job opportunities over the next five years. It's perfect timing for anyone interested in cybersecurity to jump in and make their mark protecting organizations from digital threats.
AI Research Scientist: Pioneering Future Tech
(Up)AI Research Science in Little Rock is seriously taking off in 2025, and it's wild to see how these professionals are reshaping our future. Recent career projections show that AI Research Scientists are the architects behind algorithms that make computers smarter and more adaptable.
At UA Little Rock's emerging tech hub, researchers are already pushing boundaries in cybersecurity and AI applications, proving that our city is becoming a legit player in the tech world.
The work these scientists do impacts everything from healthcare to finance, and honestly, it's pretty incredible to watch it unfold.
If you want to make it in this field, you need to be sharp with both coding and math.
The must-have skills include:
- Solid programming knowledge in Python, R, and Java - these are the building blocks of machine learning
- Strong math skills in calculus, linear algebra, and probability - can't escape the numbers in this field
The pay is seriously worth the effort.
In Little Rock, AI Research Scientists are looking at making between $135,000 to $150,000 yearly by 2025. That's not just a job - that's a career move that could set you up for life.
Local tech leaders confirm that Little Rock is becoming a hotspot for AI innovation, with new research centers and opportunities popping up all over.
If you're into tech and want to be part of something bigger, this is definitely a path worth considering. The future of tech is happening right here in Little Rock, and AI Research Scientists are leading the charge.
Conclusion: Mapping Your Path in Tech
(Up)Little Rock's tech scene is taking off in 2025, and I'm excited to share what's happening! Based on recent job market data, entry-level tech positions like computer support specialist and information security analyst are in high demand.
The average salary for computer and information research scientists hits around $100,660 annually, which is pretty sweet for someone just starting out. Local tech companies are particularly interested in candidates with skills in Python, SQL, and web development, with companies like Sequretek and Smiley Technologies actively hiring in these areas.
Getting started is easier than you might think - Nucamp's Full Stack Web + Mobile Development bootcamp runs for 22 weeks and includes everything from JavaScript to MongoDB, with flexible payment options starting at $2,604.
What's really cool is that major employers like Blue Cross and Blue Shield and emerging tech startups are creating tons of opportunities for fresh talent.
Whether you're into coding, cybersecurity, or data analysis, there's a path for you here. The tech community is growing fast, and companies are ready to invest in new talent who bring fresh perspectives and energy to their teams.
If you're thinking about jumping into tech, Little Rock's got your back with plenty of opportunities to launch your career.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What is the job growth rate for tech jobs in Little Rock by 2025?
Little Rock is experiencing a tech job growth rate of 2.9%, adding approximately 1,200 new positions by 2025.
What are some of the highest paying tech roles in Little Rock in 2025?
Some of the highest paying tech roles in Little Rock include Cloud Architect with salaries up to $167,000, Machine Learning Engineer around $135,000, and Software Engineer ranging from $75,000 to over $130,000 for experienced professionals.
Which tech skills are most in-demand in Little Rock in 2025?
Skills in Python, Java, JavaScript, AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and data analytics are highly sought after by companies like Amazon and Microsoft in Little Rock.
What opportunities exist for tech professionals with remote work in Little Rock?
Tech professionals in Little Rock can access national salary ranges through remote work opportunities while benefiting from the city's lower cost of living.
How does the cost of living in Little Rock affect tech salaries?
Little Rock's lower cost of living allows tech professionals to enjoy competitive salaries similar to major tech hubs, providing a significant advantage for those working locally or remotely.
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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.