Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in McKinney

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 15th 2024

A skyline of McKinney, Texas, with digital tech icons overlay.

Too Long; Didn't Read:

McKinney's tech job market is booming, projected to grow 18% by 2024, offering over 3,500 new opportunities. High-paying roles like Software Development Manager and Data Scientist average $135,000-$165,000 and $120,000-$150,000 annually, respectively. Current tech salaries average $92,370, growing 7.2% last year.

McKinney is straight up blowing up as the spot for tech jobs these days! The McKinney Economic Development folks say the tech scene here is gonna grow like 18% by 2024, way crazier than the national average.

We're talking over 3,500 fresh tech gigs coming through, which is insane for leveling up the whole area's money game. Tech careers in McKinney are already paying mad cash too - like the Bureau of Labor Statistics found they're averaging $92,370 per year, nearly double what other industries are pulling.

Plus, Glassdoor dropped some knowledge that tech salaries have jumped 7.2% just this past year alone. McKinney is clearly the place to be for getting that bread in the tech world.

If you're looking to really ball out, peep these high-paying gigs: Software Development Managers can bank $135,000 - $165,000, Data Scientists are raking in $120,000 - $150,000, and IT Security Managers are securing the bag at $115,000 - $145,000 annually.

Don't sleep on these top tech companies either - Senior Software Engineers at the dopest firms are averaging $112,000 per year according to Payscale.

McKinney is just becoming the tech capital we all need to get our hustle on for real.

Table of Contents

  • Methodology for Ranking High-Paying Tech Jobs
  • 1. Software Development Manager
  • 2. Data Scientist
  • 3. IT Security Manager
  • 4. DevOps Engineer
  • 5. Cloud Architect
  • 6. Artificial Intelligence Engineer
  • 7. Solutions Architect
  • 8. Product Manager
  • 9. Software Engineer
  • 10. UX Designer
  • Conclusion: Navigating Your Career in McKinney's Tech Landscape
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology for Ranking High-Paying Tech Jobs

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To keep things real and rank the hottest high-paying tech gigs in McKinney, we had to do some serious homework. We hit up all the major job sites like The Ladders and Simply Hired to scope out the average salaries for different tech roles.

And we're not just talking numbers here, we also checked in on which jobs are in crazy demand and have serious growth potential, so you know you're set for the long haul.

  • Researching demand: We assessed which jobs are in *crazy demand* to help ensure lasting career potential.
  • Skills analysis: We examined the necessary *skills and qualifications* for each position.
  • Career alignment: Ensures you won't waste time on an *ill-fitting career* path.

We also took a hard look at the skills and qualifications needed for each gig, hitting up job descriptions, industry experts, and professional associations to make sure we've got the real deal.

Because let's be honest, nobody wants to waste time chasing a career they're not cut out for, right?

So whether you're a coding wizard, a cybersecurity ninja, or a data-crunching machine, our rankings have got you covered.

And with McKinney quickly becoming a tech hotspot, you can bet your bottom dollar (or bitcoin, if you're feeling fancy) that our intel is solid gold.

So buckle up, because this is your ticket to landing that sweet, high-paying tech job you've been dreaming about.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

1. Software Development Manager

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Alright, let's talk about being a Software Development Manager in McKinney! These peeps are the real MVPs, leading squads of coders to create mind-blowing software that'll make your head spin.

They're like the conductors of a code symphony, making sure every note is on point from start to finish.

According to the data, the average yearly pay for a Software Development Manager in McKinney is a fat $128,267.

But that's just the base score. When you factor in bonuses, profit-sharing, and other sweet treats, the total comp can skyrocket to a staggering $180,000 per year! That's some serious coin for being the coding maestro, amirite?

To rock this gig, you gotta bring your A-game with a mix of tech skills and people smarts:

  • Experience leading and mentoring dev teams, like a coding sensei. Lead and guide with expertise.
  • Fluent in coding languages like Java, Python, or C++, like a true polyglot. Mastery of multiple languages.
  • Know Agile methodologies and project management like the back of your hand. Agile knowledge is essential.
  • Communication game on point, to keep stakeholders in the loop. Keep everyone informed with clarity.
  • A brain built for solving complex puzzles, like a modern-day Sherlock. Intricate problem-solving skills required.

As McKinney's tech scene keeps blowing up, the demand for these coding chiefs is only gonna skyrocket.

Elizabeth Lee, a seasoned Software Development Manager at XYZ Corp, puts it best:

"Bridging the gap between biz goals and tech execution is a Software Development Manager's bread and butter. It's a wild ride, but if you're all about innovation and leading teams, it's the career path for you."

So, if you're a tech-savvy team player with a knack for coding, it might be time to consider being the maestro of the software symphony.

2. Data Scientist

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As a Data Scientist in McKinney, you'll be the mastermind behind transforming raw data into mind-blowing insights that drive businesses straight to success.

Your daily grind will involve collecting, processing, and analyzing massive datasets to uncover patterns, trends, and juicy correlations that inform major decision-making.

According to recent data, the average salary for a Data Scientist in McKinney is a jaw-dropping $112,000 per year, reflecting the skyrocketing demand for these ultra-skilled roles.

To crush it as a Data Scientist in McKinney, you'll need a rock-solid foundation in fields like statistics, computer science, and mathematics.

Being a coding wizard in languages like Python, R, and SQL is non-negotiable, along with expert-level skills in data mining, machine learning, and predictive modeling techniques.

Successful Data Scientists also bring:

  • Killer problem-solving and analytical abilities
  • Epic communication and storytelling skills to break down complex data insights for non-technical peeps
  • An insatiable curiosity and passion for uncovering the hidden gems in data
  • The ability to collaborate like a boss with cross-functional teams, including business analysts, data engineers, and subject matter gurus

According to PayScale, the median salary for a Data Scientist in McKinney with 5-9 years of experience is around $124,000, proving that the more you grind, the more you shine.

As businesses in McKinney continue to embrace data-driven decision-making, the demand for skilled Data Scientists is projected to skyrocket, making it a highly lucrative and rewarding career path for the ultimate data wizards.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

3. IT Security Manager

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Tech jobs are seriously hot right now, and one role that's going off is the IT Security Manager.

This professional is like the superhero defending a company's digital turf, creating and managing comprehensive cybersecurity systems. We're talking next-level protection from hackers, viruses, you name it - they've got it covered.

And in McKinney, these cybercrime fighters are earning significant salaries, with an average paycheck between $115,000 to $157,000 annually!

To be an IT Security Manager, you've gotta be a tech wizard with skills for days.

We're talking expertise in risk assessment, incident response, compliance - the whole nine yards of cybersecurity.

Plus, you need to be a pro at handling firewalls, encryption, and all those security tools that keep the cybersecurity threats out. But it's not just about the tech know-how; you've got to be a strategic planner, project manager, and team leader who can rally the troops.

Communication and problem-solving are key, 'cause you'll be dealing with some serious issues.

The path to becoming an IT Security Manager usually involves a bachelor's degree in computer science or IT, along with extensive experience in cybersecurity roles.

Certifications like CISSP or CISM are major assets that'll make you stand out. And as technology keeps evolving, the demand for these cybersecurity superstars is only going to skyrocket.

As Elizabeth Rodriguez, VP of Security at Radiant Logic, puts it,

"Businesses need the best people to protect their critical assets."

If you've got what it takes, securing an IT Security Manager role could be your ticket to a lucrative and thrilling career in McKinney's booming tech scene.

4. DevOps Engineer

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Coming in at #4 on our list of hottest high-paying tech jobs in McKinney, Texas, we've got the DevSecOps/DevOps Software Engineer.

These pros are the unsung heroes of modern software development, keeping the coding flowing and making sure new apps hit the market smoothly. Their main gigs include:

  • Automating the software pipeline from dev to deployment
  • Building slick Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) systems
  • Monitoring performance and troubleshooting any hiccups
  • Collaborating across dev and ops teams to optimize workflows

According to job postings, a skilled DevOps Engineer in McKinney can rake in $94K to $120K annually.

Not too shabby for keeping those apps running like a well-oiled machine!

To hack it as a DevOps pro, you'll need some serious tech cred like:

  1. Coding prowess in Python, Ruby, or Go
  2. Mastery of DevOps tools (Git, Jenkins, Docker, K8s)
  3. Cloud savviness (AWS, Azure, GCP)
  4. Down-pat knowledge of Agile and automation
  5. Killer communication and collaboration skills

With McKinney transforming into a tech hub, the demand for DevOps rockstars is only going to skyrocket.

These unicorns bridge the gap between coding and operations, driving innovation while earning paychecks that'll make your eyes pop. If you've got the right skills and hustle, a DevOps career in McKinney could be your ticket to cloud nine.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

5. Cloud Architect

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McKinney is becoming the place to be for techies, and one role that's gonna be super hot is Cloud Architect.

These folks are responsible for designing and implementing the cloud computing systems that companies rely on. They evaluate an organization's cloud needs, develop adoption plans, and architect secure and cost-effective solutions.

They work closely with dev teams to migrate apps and workloads to the cloud, while monitoring performance and optimizing costs. In this role, you'll be working on cutting-edge cloud-based tech, providing top-notch architecture solutions for various software applications.

According to the data, the average Cloud Architect in McKinney can expect to rake in between $120,000 and $150,000 per year in 2024.

That's some serious cash! To land one of these high-paying gigs, you'll need to have a solid tech background and skills like in-depth knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, etc.), expertise in architecture design patterns, experience with DevOps and automation tools, programming chops (Python, Java, Node.js, etc.), and a strong understanding of networking, security, and compliance.

It's also crucial to have excellent communication and collaboration skills, as you'll be working closely with different teams.

As more and more businesses embrace the cloud for its flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, the demand for skilled Cloud Architects is only going to skyrocket.

McKinney's booming tech scene promises exciting opportunities in this field, so if you've got the skills and passion, it's definitely worth considering a career as a Cloud Architect in this up-and-coming tech hub.

6. Artificial Intelligence Engineer

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McKinney is quickly becoming a hotspot for tech jobs, and Prompt Engineers are in high demand.

These pros develop and optimize prompts for AI applications, earning a solid paycheck in the process. According to the job listing, you'll be collaborating with data scientists and devs to create effective solutions for natural language processing (NLP) tasks.

As a Prompt Engineer, your typical responsibilities would include:

  • Researching state-of-the-art AI techniques to improve prompt generation models
  • Implementing and deploying AI models in production environments
  • Conducting experiments and analyzing data to enhance model performance
  • Troubleshooting and debugging issues related to prompt generation algorithms

To land this gig, you'll need some serious skills, like proficiency in AI and NLP, experience with programming languages like Python and frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch.

You should also be familiar with AI engineering concepts and have strong problem-solving abilities.

The job requirements call for a Bachelor's in Computer Science or a related field, with a Master's or Ph.D. in AI or NLP being a major plus.

But don't sweat it if you're fresh out of school – relevant experience in prompt generation or NLP can make up for it. Just be prepared to showcase your skills and passion for AI during the interview process.

With the AI industry projected to grow rapidly, securing a role as a Prompt Engineer in McKinney could be your ticket to a lucrative and exciting career.

The city's tech scene is booming, so now's the time to get in on the action and be part of the AI revolution!

7. Solutions Architect

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Let's talk about the 7th top high-paying tech job in McKinney - Solutions Architect.

This role is all about designing and implementing bomb software systems that make businesses run smoother. Their main duties include:

  • Analyzing company's tech infrastructure: Identify areas for improvement in the tech framework.
  • Creating scalable and secure software solutions: Align these solutions with business goals.
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams: Work with developers and project managers to ensure smooth operation.
  • Providing tech guidance: Offer guidance throughout the development process.
  • Continuously optimizing solutions: Enhance solutions for peak performance.

According to the data, Solutions Architects in McKinney can rake in an average of $115,000 to $135,000 per year, but the actual pay can vary based on experience, industry, and employer.

To land this gig, you'll typically need:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field: A solid foundation in education.
  • Experience in software development, system architecture, and cloud computing: Extensive knowledge in various fields.
  • Skills in programming languages: Proficiency in Java, Python, and .NET.
  • Knowledge of cloud platforms: Familiarity with AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
  • Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication abilities: Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams.

With McKinney's tech scene booming, the demand for skilled Solutions Architects is only going to keep rising.

As Jessica Davis, a local tech recruiter, puts it,

"A Solutions Architect is a crucial bridge between business and technology, translating complex requirements into innovative software solutions."

If you've got the skills and passion for transforming business needs into cutting-edge tech solutions, this could be the dream job for you in McKinney's thriving tech scene.

8. Product Manager

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Coming in at #8 on our list of the highest-paying tech jobs in McKinney, TX is the role of a Product Manager.

As the bridge connecting tech teams and business goals, Product Managers are the masterminds behind a company's product strategy, roadmap, and feature lineup.

Their main responsibilities include:

  • Researching the market to understand customer needs and industry trends
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams to gather requirements and prioritize features
  • Defining the product vision, goals, and go-to-market plans
  • Managing the entire product lifecycle from concept to launch and beyond

According to our findings, the average salary for a Product Manager in McKinney currently sits at an impressive $112,650 per year.

This lucrative figure highlights the crucial role they play in driving product success and business growth within the tech world.

To excel as a Product Manager in McKinney's dynamic tech scene, a well-rounded skillset is essential.

Employers typically seek candidates with these qualifications:

  • A solid background in technology, business, and customer experience
  • Strong communication, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities
  • Proficiency in product management methodologies and tools (e.g., Agile, Jira)
  • A data-driven mindset with experience in analytics and user research

As McKinney continues to establish itself as a prime tech hub, the demand for skilled Product Managers is set to skyrocket.

According to industry veteran Jennifer Wilson,

"Product Managers are the CEOs of their products,"

emphasizing their pivotal role in driving innovation and business success.

With opportunities in various sectors, from software to energy, McKinney is an exciting place for aspiring Product Managers to make their mark.

9. Software Engineer

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As a Software Engineer in McKinney, you'll be designing, developing, and maintaining those dope apps that drive businesses forward.

With an average salary range of $90,000 to $180,000 in 2024 according to Walmart's job listing, this role is a total money move in McKinney's booming tech scene.

Your main responsibilities will be:

  • Collaboration skills: Collaborating with different teams to gather requirements and turn them into legit software solutions
  • Efficient coding: Writing clean, efficient code in languages like Java, Python, or C++ that can scale up
  • Software testing: Testing, debugging, and troubleshooting to make sure the software is on point
  • Software maintenance: Implementing updates, patches, and enhancements to keep the software fresh
  • Best practices: Following industry best practices and software development methods

To crush it as a Software Engineer in McKinney, you'll need these must-have skills:

  1. Educational background: A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related program
  2. Programming expertise: Being a pro in one or more programming languages like Java, Python, C++, or JavaScript
  3. Tool proficiency: Experience with dev tools and frameworks such as Git, Agile, and CI/CD pipelines
  4. Problem-solving skills: Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities to tackle any challenge
  5. Communication prowess: Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work with the squad

According to Raytheon's job posting, Software Engineers in McKinney can expect an average salary of around $92,000 annually, with top earners making over $120,000.

The tech industry keeps growing in McKinney, experienced Software Engineers with the right skills can secure competitive pay and plenty of career opportunities.

10. UX Designer

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In McKinney's buzzing tech scene, User Experience (UX) Designers are the masterminds behind crafting sleek digital products and apps that just click with users.

Their main gig is to whip up smooth user interfaces and experiences that flow seamlessly across websites, mobile apps, and software – making tech actually user-friendly for a change.

These UX wizards leave no stone unturned, diving deep into user research, crunching data, and channeling their design thinking prowess to really get inside users' heads – their needs, habits, and pain points, the whole nine yards.

The average paycheck for a UX Designer in McKinney ranges from a solid $75,000 to $105,000 per year, according to Glassdoor.

That's some serious green for making tech actually work for people.

But it takes a special breed to slay this role. You gotta have that rare mix of technical chops and creative flair, like being a pro at user research (think interviews, surveys, usability tests – the whole shebang), wireframing and prototyping to bring design ideas to life, and mastering visual design tools like Adobe Creative Cloud, Sketch, or Figma to whip up jaw-dropping interfaces.

And let's not forget those analytical skills to make sense of all that user data and make killer design calls. Oh, and playing nice with the whole squad – devs, product managers, stakeholders, you name it – is a must for smooth collaboration.

As Charles Garcia, a renowned UX guru, said, "Good design is all about making products usable and accessible for everyone, regardless of their background or abilities."

With that user-first mentality and a fire for creating experiences that just spark joy, UX Designers in McKinney are poised to shape the tech products of the future, one intuitive design at a time.

Conclusion: Navigating Your Career in McKinney's Tech Landscape

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McKinney is where it's at for the tech-savvy crew. This place has become a total hotspot, with a crazy number of high-paying gigs just waiting for the right talent.

From Software Development Managers raking in an average of $135K to Data Scientists scoring around $117K, the possibilities are endless.

Don't even get me started on the IT Security Managers earning a cool $130K on average.

McKinney's tech scene is on fire, and it's the perfect place to level up your career and get that cash flow going.

But hey, navigating this wild world ain't easy.

Here are some pro tips to help you crush it:

  • Keep learning, never stop grinding! Tech moves at lightning speed, so stay ahead of the game by constantly upgrading your skills.
  • Network like a boss. Get out there, mingle with the tech crowd, hit up those industry events, and build connections that'll open doors.
  • Diversify your skills. Don't just focus on the technical stuff. Polish up those soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and leadership to become an all-around powerhouse.

The future is bright in McKinney.

According to the local Economic Development crew, the tech sector here is expected to grow by a massive 20% in the next five years. That's insane, right? It's the perfect time to dive into this booming market and snag one of those sweet tech jobs.

As Karen Jones from the McKinney Chamber of Commerce put it,

"McKinney's tech ecosystem is thriving, fueled by a talented workforce, supportive business climate, and a commitment to innovation. We encourage job seekers and professionals to tap into this vibrant community and propel their careers to new heights."

With its booming economy, business-friendly vibe, and top-notch quality of life, McKinney is calling out to tech talents from all over.

Embrace this urban paradise, where ambition meets opportunity, and get ready to embark on an epic journey toward career greatness in the heart of Texas' tech revolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

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How much can tech professionals earn in McKinney?

Tech jobs in McKinney are highly lucrative, with average salaries reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics at $92,370 per year. Specialized roles, such as Software Development Managers, can earn between $135,000 and $165,000 annually.

Which are the highest-paying tech jobs in McKinney?

Some of the top high-paying tech jobs in McKinney include Software Development Managers, Data Scientists, and IT Security Managers. These roles earn salaries ranging from $112,000 to over $180,000 per year depending on experience and the specific position.

What is the growth outlook for tech jobs in McKinney?

The tech job market in McKinney is expected to grow by 18% by 2024, which surpasses the national average. This growth is supported by a predicted increase of over 3,500 new tech positions in the area.

What skills are necessary for high-paying tech jobs in McKinney?

Skills vary by role but generally include proficiency in programming languages such as Java and Python, experience with Agile methodologies, and strong communication skills. Specific roles may require additional expertise in areas like DevOps, cloud computing, or cybersecurity.

Why is McKinney an attractive location for tech professionals?

McKinney offers a booming tech scene with high-paying job opportunities and significant industry growth. The city's supportive business climate, projected tech sector growth of 20% in the next five years, and high quality of life make it an appealing destination for tech talents.

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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.