Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Los Angeles in 2025
Last Updated: December 14th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
In 2025, Los Angeles' tech scene offers lucrative opportunities with roles like Cloud Architect, Machine Learning Engineer, and Data Scientist averaging $113,211 annually, yet roles like AI Research Scientist pulling over $250,000. Companies offer competitive salaries, flexible work options, and require skills in Python, AI, and cloud computing as tech job openings soar, with an expected 356,700 available annually. Remote work and hybrid models are boosting accessibility, with the city's tech industry growing twice as fast as other sectors, making it a prime destination for tech enthusiasts.
The tech scene in Los Angeles is straight fire in 2025! As a recent salary guide from Motion Recruitment shows, LA's tech sector is growing twice as fast as other industries, making it perfect for anyone looking to break into tech.
What's really exciting is that tech companies aren't just offering amazing salaries - they're also providing killer benefits and remote work options. The latest data shows LA tech workers averaging $113,211 annually, but specialized roles are pulling in way more.
Cloud Architects are leading the pack with salaries up to $190,959, and AI specialists are starting at $110,925.
Software Engineers are making between $90,000 to $198,000, depending on their experience and skills. The best part? Companies are actually loosening up their experience requirements to hire faster, which is perfect for newcomers.
If you're thinking about getting into tech, now's literally the perfect time - especially with hybrid work models becoming the norm and tons of entry-level positions opening up.
The competition might be real, but the opportunities are endless!
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Ranking Tech Jobs
- 1. Cloud Architect: Leading the Tech Earnings
- 2. Machine Learning Engineer: Code Meets Innovation
- 3. Data Scientist: The Analyst Wizards
- 4. Software Engineer: Essential Tech Backbone
- 5. Network Security Engineer: Guardians of the Grid
- 6. Cybersecurity Engineer: Defending Digital Fortresses
- 7. DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations
- 8. Information Security Analyst: Data Defenders
- 9. Penetration Tester: Ethical Hackers
- 10. AI Research Scientist: Pioneers of the Future
- Conclusion: Navigating the Tech Landscape in LA
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Now is the time to dive into the Overview of the tech industry in Los Angeles in 2025 and explore its unique aspects.
Methodology for Ranking Tech Jobs
(Up)Let me break down how we ranked these tech jobs in LA for 2025, because honestly, it's pretty interesting to see how the numbers stack up. According to recent industry data, tech jobs are growing twice as fast as other sectors, with over 356,700 job openings expected annually.
We pulled data from multiple sources including salary reports, job boards, and industry surveys to get the real picture. AI Architects are topping the charts with salaries over $200k, while Cloud Engineers and Cybersecurity experts aren't far behind.
The tech skills shortage is real - companies are seriously struggling to find qualified people, with 95% of tech leaders saying it's a major challenge.
We looked at two main things when ranking these jobs.
First, the salary potential - and let's be real, that matters a lot. Then we checked current job market demands, which showed some roles offering between $90,000 to $198,000 for Software Engineers.
What's cool is seeing how many companies outside the tech industry are now hiring tech talent - they're actually hiring more than traditional tech companies! The shortage of skilled professionals is pushing salaries up, especially in areas like AI and cloud computing, where only about 12% of IT pros have the right experience.
If you're thinking about getting into tech, this is probably one of the best times to do it, especially in LA where the tech scene is absolutely booming.
1. Cloud Architect: Leading the Tech Earnings
(Up)The role of Cloud Architect stands at the forefront of Los Angeles' tech scene, with mid-level professionals earning between $149,615 to $176,666 in 2025.
These architects are excelling in the job market, thanks to their crucial role in designing and implementing cloud solutions that power everything from streaming platforms to e-commerce giants.
The demand is clear - just check out the latest salary data for LA tech workers, showing Cloud Architects among the highest-paid tech professionals in the city.
What makes this role particularly interesting is the mix of skills needed.
You've got to be proficient with programming languages like Java and Node, plus really understand how databases work. According to recent job listings in LA, companies are offering between $130,000 to $170,000 for talented architects who can nail both the technical and business sides of cloud computing.
Essential skills include:
- Mastery of AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud platforms is crucial for Cloud Architects.
- Advanced routing and network security expertise enhance the way data is handled.
- Experience with high-availability systems is key for reliable cloud function.
- Project management abilities are needed to oversee and direct cloud initiatives.
The cloud computing market is expanding rapidly, and LA companies are investing heavily in cloud infrastructure.
It's exciting to see how Cloud Architects are shaping the future of tech in LA, especially in entertainment and media companies that need robust cloud solutions for streaming and content delivery.
For anyone looking to make their mark in tech while earning an impressive salary, becoming a Cloud Architect is definitely the move.
2. Machine Learning Engineer: Code Meets Innovation
(Up)In 2025, Machine Learning Engineers in Los Angeles are shaping the future of tech, combining software engineering with AI innovation. The role has evolved significantly, with responsibilities ranging from designing sophisticated ML systems to implementing scalable, production-ready solutions.
Engineers in this field need strong programming skills in Python, expertise with cloud platforms, and experience with frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch. Recent data shows ML Engineers in Los Angeles can earn between $90,000 to $120,000 starting out, with experienced professionals pushing past $165,000 annually.
What makes this role especially exciting is the variety of applications.
ML Engineers work on cutting-edge projects including voice recognition, text-to-speech systems, and image analysis.
The demand spans multiple industries, from entertainment studios to fintech startups, with companies like The Aerospace Corporation leading innovative projects in defense and space technology.
Major tech companies are actively recruiting for roles that focus on developing algorithms for distributed systems and improving customer experiences through AI.
Success in this field requires more than just technical skills.
The ability to collaborate effectively, manage time well, and adapt to rapidly changing technology are crucial.
As AI continues to transform how businesses operate, Machine Learning Engineers are becoming essential to company growth and innovation. The career path offers incredible opportunities for anyone passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems, with plenty of room for advancement and specialization.
3. Data Scientist: The Analyst Wizards
(Up)Data Scientists are seriously crushing it in LA's tech scene right now! UCLA Health is offering salaries up to $227,700 for data scientists who can handle AI/ML initiatives and tackle healthcare challenges.
The role has evolved way beyond just crunching numbers - we're talking about professionals who shape how companies make decisions using advanced tech. Major players like Snapchat are actively recruiting data scientists to optimize their products and drive innovation.
What's really cool is how diverse the opportunities are - from gaming companies to streaming platforms, everyone needs data expertise. Paramount's data science team is using analytics to revolutionize how we consume entertainment, offering hybrid work arrangements that give the perfect work-life balance.
The impact of data scientists spans across multiple industries.
In media and entertainment, they're crafting personalized content experiences that keep viewers hooked. Healthcare teams are using predictive analytics to improve patient care, while finance sectors rely on data scientists for risk assessment and fraud detection.
E-commerce companies are leveraging data insights to create smoother shopping experiences and manage inventory like never before. The numbers don't lie - with a projected 20% growth in demand over the next five years, data scientists are becoming the ultimate game-changers in LA's tech ecosystem.
For anyone looking to break into this field, the best part is that companies are investing heavily in talent development.
Whether you're into machine learning, natural language processing, or statistical analysis, there's a place for you in LA's data science community. The future looks incredibly bright for these digital problem-solvers who are reshaping how businesses operate in the City of Angels.
4. Software Engineer: Essential Tech Backbone
(Up)Software Engineers are crushing it in Los Angeles right now, and the outlook for 2025 is even better. Entry-level positions at companies like Whatnot are starting at $130,000-$140,000, making it one of the most attractive tech roles in the city.
The work is super diverse - you get to build everything from live streaming features to scalable systems handling millions of users. Top companies like Amazon are offering up to $200,000 for talented engineers who can tackle distributed computing and innovative tech solutions.
Beyond just coding, the role involves testing, debugging, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring products to life.
Essential skills include mastery of languages like Python, JavaScript, and Java, plus experience with cloud technologies and AI/ML frameworks. The best part? You can work in practically any industry that interests you - from entertainment and gaming to healthcare and fintech.
Companies are especially keen on engineers who can handle complex systems, work well in teams, and adapt quickly to new technologies. The competition is real, but if you've got the skills and drive, LA's tech scene is ready to welcome you with amazing opportunities and seriously competitive pay.
5. Network Security Engineer: Guardians of the Grid
(Up)Network Security Engineers in Los Angeles are the real MVPs of the tech world in 2025, protecting companies from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. According to recent industry forecasts, network security is becoming more dynamic and innovative than ever, with AI-powered solutions leading the charge.
Los Angeles, with its massive tech scene of 88,000+ companies, needs these digital defenders more than ever, especially since cybercrime costs are skyrocketing into the trillions.
The role is seriously intense - these engineers are basically the first line of defense against cyber attacks.
Their main responsibilities include:
- Building and maintaining bulletproof security systems: Engineers create robust systems to prevent unauthorized access.
- Running regular security checks to spot vulnerabilities: Routine checks help identify and fix security weaknesses early.
- Setting up advanced firewalls and encryption systems: Engineers implement high-level protective measures to safeguard data.
- Monitoring networks 24/7 for suspicious activity: Constant vigilance is crucial to detect potential threats promptly.
Security spending is expected to hit $212 billion by 2025, which means companies are investing heavily in top talent.
You'll need serious skills in firewall management, encryption, and security tools like Wireshark and Snort. Plus, knowing how to code and understanding network architecture inside and out is crucial.
The best part? LA-based security professionals are making bank.
Entry-level positions start around $90,000, while experienced engineers easily pull in $150,000+ annually. With an 18% job growth forecast and the constant evolution of cyber threats, this career path is basically future-proof.
If you're into problem-solving and want to be at the forefront of protecting digital assets, this role is definitely worth considering.
6. Cybersecurity Engineer: Defending Digital Fortresses
(Up)In 2025, Cybersecurity Engineers have become essential guardians of digital assets in Los Angeles's tech scene.
These professionals protect critical systems through advanced security protocols, encryption implementation, and comprehensive threat analysis. The role demands a mix of technical expertise and innovative problem-solving skills, with responsibilities ranging from penetration testing to network security configuration.
Key technical skills include proficiency in multiple programming languages like Python, JavaScript, and PHP, plus expertise in cloud security platforms like AWS and Azure.
The position requires staying current with emerging threats and security technologies, making it perfect for tech enthusiasts who love continuous learning.
The career outlook is seriously impressive, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 35% job growth through 2031 and approximately 19,500 new positions opening annually.
Entry-level positions in Los Angeles start around $80,000-$96,000, while experienced professionals can earn upwards of $185,000.
Companies are competing hard for talent, offering comprehensive benefits packages including flexible work arrangements, training budgets, and performance bonuses.
Major sectors hiring include healthcare, finance, entertainment, and tech startups, with positions available for both remote and on-site work.
Essential skills for success include:
- Network security and system administration: Safeguard company networks and efficiently manage systems to prevent unauthorized access.
- Cloud platform security management: Ensure safe data handling within cloud environments.
- Incident response and recovery: Quickly and effectively address and mitigate security breaches.
- Risk analysis and threat detection: Identify potential vulnerabilities and safeguard against them.
- Knowledge of security frameworks and compliance standards: Stay updated with regulations and frameworks like ISO and NIST.
- Team collaboration and problem-solving abilities: Work efficiently with others to address security challenges.
As cyber threats keep evolving, Cybersecurity Engineers will continue to be crucial players in protecting organizations' digital assets and maintaining trust in our increasingly connected world.
7. DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations
(Up)DevOps Engineers are totally reshaping how software gets made and deployed in Los Angeles. These tech pros are the ultimate problem-solvers, building and expanding IT infrastructure to keep businesses running smoothly.
They're not just coding wizards - they're the ones making sure everything from cloud systems to automation tools works perfectly. The coolest part? They get to work with cutting-edge tools like AWS, Docker, and Kubernetes, plus they need to know their way around programming languages like Python and Java.
What makes this role super interesting is how DevOps Engineers handle everything from deployment to troubleshooting, making sure systems stay reliable and efficient.
They're constantly working on automating processes and setting up monitoring systems to catch issues before they become problems. The demand is seriously growing - I've seen job postings everywhere from social media companies to entertainment studios in LA, each looking for people who can handle both development and operations tasks.
The money situation? Pretty sweet.
DevOps Engineers in Los Angeles are making between $135,000 to $155,000, with senior roles pulling in even more.
Plus, most companies offer solid perks like health benefits, paid time off, and 401(k) matching. If you're into tech and love solving complex problems, this could be your calling.
The field is constantly evolving, and there's always something new to learn, whether it's the latest cloud platform or a new automation tool.
8. Information Security Analyst: Data Defenders
(Up)In 2025, Information Security Analysts are crushing it in LA's financial and tech sectors. According to industry reports, the cybersecurity field is growing at a wild 20% rate, with the median salary hitting $81,000.
These digital guardians are literally stopping cyberattacks every 39 seconds! Bank of America's Cyber Rotation Program shows just how serious major companies are about security, offering two-year rotations with mentorship and specialized training.
The coolest part? You get hands-on experience dealing with real cybersecurity threats while working with cutting-edge tech.
The skills you need in 2025 are pretty intense but totally worth it.
Beyond just knowing security frameworks and encryption, analysts need to understand AI-driven threats and quantum computing risks. Recent financial sector reports show that AI integration has cut fraudulent transactions by 40% in just six months.
Plus, you've got to stay sharp with predictive analytics - one bank dropped their security incidents by 60% just by implementing these tools. The field keeps evolving, and there's always something new to learn, which keeps things super interesting.
The best part about being an Information Security Analyst in LA? The job security is unreal.
With cyberattacks becoming more sophisticated and companies investing heavily in protection, salaries are competitive and getting better. Major financial institutions and tech companies are offering comprehensive benefits packages, including remote work options.
What's really cool is that entry-level positions are totally accessible - companies are more focused on your skills and problem-solving abilities than just formal education.
If you're into protecting data and fighting cyber crime, this career path is seriously rewarding, both professionally and financially.
9. Penetration Tester: Ethical Hackers
(Up)As a Penetration Tester in Los Angeles, you get to be the good guy who breaks into systems legally to keep them safe.
The average salary here is pretty sweet, ranging from $95,000 to $133,000 annually, with extra perks like bonuses adding up to $17,000 more. What makes this job exciting is that every day brings different challenges - you're basically a detective for digital security.
To get started, you'll need solid tech skills and ethical hacking certifications like CEH or OSCP. The learning curve is steep but totally worth it.
You'll need to master tools like Nmap and Wireshark, get comfortable with various operating systems, and know your way around programming languages like Python and BASH. The best part? Companies are actively looking for people with these skills - tech giants, banks, and even entertainment companies in LA are hiring.
A penetration tester's main responsibilities include finding system vulnerabilities, running security assessments, and helping companies stay ahead of cyber threats.
What's really cool is that you can start in entry-level IT positions and work your way up to more advanced roles, potentially becoming a security consultant or even a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
With cyber threats constantly evolving, this career path isn't just lucrative - it's future-proof.
10. AI Research Scientist: Pioneers of the Future
(Up)In 2025, AI Research Scientists are reshaping how we interact with technology, and honestly, it's pretty mind-blowing. Major U.S. cities are offering competitive salaries for AI researchers, with Los Angeles emerging as a prime hub.
The average salary hits around $185,000 annually, with experienced pros pulling in over $250,000. What's really cool is that researchers are developing new ways for AI to think and reason, pushing beyond basic problem-solving into more complex territory.
The field is growing fast - there's been a 25% increase in demand since 2023, and it's not slowing down.
The toolbox for AI Research Scientists is getting more sophisticated.
Beyond the basics of Python and R programming, you've got to master modern frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch. These technologies are helping AI tackle increasingly complex problems with better accuracy, especially in areas like computer vision and natural language processing.
The real game-changer is how these skills are being applied - from creating AI that can understand human emotions to developing systems that can make split-second decisions in autonomous vehicles.
Los Angeles is becoming a serious player in AI innovation, with tech companies and startups launching new projects left and right.
The media sector alone has seen a 30% jump in AI initiatives. Working with massive datasets and training advanced models isn't just about crunching numbers anymore - it's about creating solutions that could change how we live and work.
Plus, many companies are now looking for researchers who can help make AI more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
Getting into this field means staying super curious and always learning.
The tech moves incredibly fast, so taking specialized courses and getting certifications is crucial. But what makes it worth it? The chance to work on cutting-edge tech that could literally shape our future.
That's pretty amazing.
Conclusion: Navigating the Tech Landscape in LA
(Up)Breaking down what's happening in LA's tech scene right now - it's seriously exciting! According to Motion Recruitment's 2025 data, the highest-paying roles are crushing it, with Chief Security Officers making up to $380,979 annually.
That's wild! The tech landscape is super dynamic, especially with AI and cloud computing leading the charge. What's really cool is that cloud architects and cybersecurity engineers are becoming absolute must-haves for companies, and they're paying big money for these skills.
If you want to get in on this, you need to level up with the right skills - Python, Java, and AI frameworks are basically your ticket to success. The best part? LA is now ranked as the fifth-largest tech workforce in North America, with amazing opportunities in entertainment tech, gaming, and startup innovation.
Remote work is totally changing the game too, making it possible to work for LA companies from pretty much anywhere. The key is staying ahead of the curve - whether that's mastering cloud platforms like AWS and Azure or getting deep into machine learning.
Trust me, if you're thinking about a tech career in LA, 2025 is looking pretty amazing for making it happen.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What is the average salary for tech workers in Los Angeles in 2025?
In 2025, tech workers in Los Angeles are averaging a salary of $113,211 annually, with specialized roles earning significantly more.
Which tech job is considered the highest paying in Los Angeles in 2025?
The Chief Security Officer position is among the highest paid, with salaries reaching up to $380,979 annually.
What are the essential skills for a Cloud Architect in Los Angeles?
Cloud Architects need proficiency in AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud platforms, advanced routing, network security expertise, high-availability systems experience, and project management abilities.
How has the role of Machine Learning Engineers evolved in Los Angeles by 2025?
By 2025, Machine Learning Engineers in Los Angeles have seen their roles expand, combining AI innovation with software engineering for applications in voice recognition, text-to-speech, and image analysis.
What industries are heavily recruiting Data Scientists in Los Angeles?
Data Scientists are in high demand across industries such as media and entertainment, healthcare, finance, and e-commerce, where they're using analytics to drive innovation and improve services.
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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.