Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Milwaukee in 2025

Milwaukee's tech scene is absolutely crushing it in 2025! The Milwaukee-Madison tech corridor is set to create 30,000 direct jobs and generate a massive $9 billion economic impact over the next decade.

The MKE Tech Hub Coalition is making real progress on their goal to double the local tech workforce.

At Summerfest Tech 2025, they're bringing together over 2,000 tech professionals from 37 states, focusing on cutting-edge areas like AI and advanced manufacturing.

The average tech salary here is hitting around $120,000 for top roles, which is seriously competitive. We're seeing tons of positions opening up for Cloud Architects, Machine Learning Engineers, and DevOps specialists.

Companies are particularly hungry for talent in fintech, healthcare tech, and advanced manufacturing. This ranking breaks down the highest-paying roles you can target right now, perfect whether you're fresh out of school or looking to level up your career.

Milwaukee's lower cost of living compared to other tech hubs means your salary goes way further here. It's literally the perfect time to jump into Milwaukee's tech scene!

Here's how we figured out Milwaukee's top-paying tech jobs for 2025. The research shows Milwaukee's tech sector is set to create over 30,000 direct jobs with a $9 billion economic impact in the coming decade.

Our analysis combines data from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and major industry reports, revealing that the average tech salary in Milwaukee hits around $95,000.

The methodology gets interesting when you look at specific roles - Cloud Architects are crushing it with salaries between $128,000 and $167,000, while Machine Learning Engineers are pulling in about $135,000.

The rankings factor in both salary potential and market demand, with major companies like Northwestern Mutual and Johnson Controls actively recruiting. Even entry-level positions start around $60,000, and the demand for AI and cloud computing skills keeps pushing salaries higher.

The data shows bootcamp enrollments jumped 40%, proving more people are catching on to these opportunities. We looked at everything from current salary trends to projected growth rates, putting extra weight on roles requiring hot skills like Python and AWS.

The whole tech scene here is seriously taking off, especially with the MKE Tech Hub Coalition getting $5 million in investments. These aren't just random numbers - they represent real opportunities for anyone looking to get into tech in Milwaukee.

Cloud Architects are absolutely crushing it in Milwaukee's tech scene, leading the pack of high-paying positions in 2025. According to recent industry analysis, Cloud Architects are pulling in an impressive average of $201,572 annually, making this role seriously attractive for tech professionals.

Their expertise in designing and managing cloud solutions has become essential as companies race to upgrade their digital infrastructure. The role has evolved way beyond just managing systems - these professionals are now the masterminds behind complex cloud strategies that keep businesses competitive.

What makes this role stand out is the mix of technical and business skills required.

Cloud architecture demands expertise in multiple areas, including infrastructure design, security implementation, and cost optimization.

The most successful Cloud Architects are crushing it with their knowledge of AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform, while also staying ahead of emerging technologies like edge computing and AI integration.

They're basically the tech world's ultimate problem solvers, creating solutions that help companies scale and innovate.

The Milwaukee market is seriously heating up for Cloud Architects.

Industry experts highlight that the role requires strong skills in cloud security, identity management, and regulatory compliance - skills that are in super high demand but short supply.

Companies are competing hard for talent, offering competitive salaries and benefits packages to attract the best. The combination of technical expertise and strategic thinking makes Cloud Architects invaluable team members who can transform how businesses operate in the digital space.

Looking ahead, this career path offers incredible growth potential for anyone ready to dive into cloud technologies and keep learning as the field evolves.

Machine Learning Engineers have become major players in Milwaukee's tech scene, with companies actively seeking professionals who can design and build advanced AI systems.

The role combines data science expertise with software engineering skills, making it one of the most versatile positions in tech. These engineers typically earn between $113,000 to $124,000 annually, with experienced professionals commanding higher salaries.

The field is especially hot right now, with over 200 machine learning positions currently open in the Milwaukee area.

What makes this career path so exciting is the constant evolution of technology.

Essential skills for success include strong programming abilities in Python and Java, expertise in statistical analysis, and proficiency with machine learning frameworks.

Companies like Molson Coors, Milwaukee Tool, and Komatsu are actively hiring ML engineers to work on projects ranging from production optimization to customer experience enhancement.

The role requires a mix of technical skills and problem-solving abilities, as engineers often collaborate with data scientists and software developers to bring AI solutions to life.

The growth potential in this field is massive, especially with Milwaukee's tech sector contributing $8.1 billion to the local economy.

Machine learning engineers aren't just coding - they're shaping how businesses operate, from improving manufacturing processes to developing cutting-edge consumer applications.

For anyone interested in this career path, focusing on practical experience with real-world projects and staying updated with the latest AI developments is crucial.

Software engineers are completely transforming Milwaukee's tech scene in 2025. The field is growing super fast, with jobs increasing at twice the rate of other sectors, and it's projected to hit 7.1 million positions by 2034.

Python leads the pack with a 28.59% market share, making it essential for web apps and data analysis.

What's really cool is that companies are loosening their hiring requirements, creating amazing opportunities for newcomers like Patricia Moore to break into the field.

The tech landscape is evolving rapidly, with low-code development expected to handle 65% of all app development by 2025.

Software engineers are working with cutting-edge tools in cloud computing, AI, and machine learning. The best part? Entry-level positions in related fields like cybersecurity are starting at $92,000, way above the national average of $77,000.

What makes this career path even more exciting is how AI is revolutionizing software development, with new tools for coding, debugging, and optimization making the work more efficient than ever.

Companies in Milwaukee are investing heavily in sustainable software development and cybersecurity, creating tons of opportunities for software engineers who want to make a real impact.

The role has evolved beyond just writing code - we're now solving complex problems and creating solutions that help local businesses compete globally.

As a Data Scientist in Milwaukee's tech scene in 2025, you'll be right at the center of transforming how businesses operate. Working closely with business leaders, Data Scientists use their skills to turn complex data into clear insights that drive real results.

The role combines Python programming, statistical analysis, and machine learning to solve challenging business problems. What makes this career path seriously exciting is how it keeps evolving - multimodal AI models are becoming a huge deal, letting us work with text, images, and sound all at once.

Decision Intelligence is revolutionizing how companies operate, blending AI with traditional business intelligence to make better choices.

The salary game is strong too - Data Scientists in Milwaukee are pulling in around $130,000 annually, and the demand keeps growing. It's not just about the money though; you get to work on projects that actually matter, from improving healthcare outcomes to making supply chains more efficient.

The field is definitely getting more interesting with new challenges.

Ethics and AI transparency are becoming super important, pushing us to think carefully about how we use data.

Companies are looking for people who can not only crunch numbers but also explain complex findings to stakeholders who might not speak tech. The best part? Every day brings something new to learn - whether it's working with quantum computing or figuring out edge computing for IoT devices.

If you're into problem-solving and want a career that's both challenging and rewarding, data science in Milwaukee is definitely worth checking out.

The cybersecurity landscape in Milwaukee is experiencing massive growth, with a projected 28% increase in demand by 2024.

I'm seeing cybersecurity engineers take on critical roles in threat detection, cloud security, and AI-driven defense systems. The job requires staying ahead of cyber threats through continuous monitoring, implementing security protocols, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments.

Cybersecurity engineers are now expected to master network protocols, authentication methods, and various security attack vectors. The role has evolved way beyond just setting up firewalls.

Today's cybersecurity engineers need skills in AI threat detection, blockchain identity management, and automated cloud protection. Milwaukee's tech scene is seriously growing, with over 4,500 cybersecurity job openings reported in early 2024.

Major companies in Milwaukee are offering competitive packages for security professionals, including comprehensive benefits and opportunities for career growth.

The average salary has jumped to around $140,000-$170,000 for experienced professionals, reflecting the critical nature of the role. Working as a cybersecurity engineer means you're literally defending organizations against digital threats every day.

It's not just about technical skills anymore - you need to think strategically about threat prediction, incident response, and recovery planning. The field keeps changing with new technologies, so continuous learning is key.

With major Wisconsin businesses increasing their cybersecurity budgets and the rise of remote work, the opportunities in this field are pretty much endless.

Network Security Engineers in Milwaukee are seriously crushing it in 2025, with salaries ranging from $81,556 to $122,345 depending on experience and expertise.

These digital guardians do way more than just watch networks - they're handling everything from implementing hardcore security hardware to managing cloud tech and fighting off cyber threats.

At companies like Northwestern Mutual, they're working with cutting-edge tech like SASE architectures and zero-trust networks.

The job market's super hot right now - Milwaukee County alone is actively recruiting talent with mad skills in firewall management, vulnerability scanning, and incident response.

It's not just about the technical stuff though - these roles require strong communication abilities and the flexibility to handle everything from routine maintenance to crisis situations.

• Professional certifications like CCNA Security or Palo Alto PCNSA can really level up your game.
• The minimum requirements typically include an associate degree in IT and about five years of experience.
• Staying current with the latest security threats and solutions is crucial for success.

With Milwaukee's tech scene growing fast, network security engineers are becoming more crucial than ever for protecting companies' digital assets.

As a DevOps Engineer in Milwaukee, you're the bridge between coding and engineering teams, working across departments to develop and improve IT systems.

The role is seriously in demand right now, with over 55 active job openings across Wisconsin. What makes this position extra exciting is the mix of technical skills needed - you'll work with everything from Python and Java to cutting-edge cloud infrastructure tools.

The starting salary is pretty sweet too, beginning at $120,000 for junior positions, which is incredible for fresh graduates.

Working as a DevOps Engineer at major companies, you'll spend your days building and expanding IT infrastructure, automating applications, and making sure everything runs smoothly in the production environment.

It's not just about coding - you'll need strong analytical and problem-solving skills too. The best part is getting to work with the latest tech tools like Docker, Kubernetes, and various cloud platforms.

Want to break into this field? A computer science degree is typically required, but what really matters is hands-on experience with cloud platforms and automation tools.

Milwaukee's growing tech scene is perfect for DevOps Engineers, especially with Microsoft's recent $3.3 billion investment in Wisconsin's cloud infrastructure.

The growth in cloud-related positions has jumped 40% since last year, making this the perfect time to start building your DevOps career. Certifications in Docker, Kubernetes, or cloud platforms like AWS can really boost your prospects in this field.

In 2025, Information Security Analysts in Milwaukee are becoming the ultimate defenders against an increasingly wild cyber threat landscape. According to recent industry analysis, these professionals are now using advanced tools like SentinelOne Singularity and Qualys VMDR to detect and counter threats in real-time.

The role has seriously evolved - it's not just about putting up firewalls anymore. These analysts are diving deep into emerging trends like AI-powered attacks and systemic cyber events that can ripple through entire supply chains.

What's really interesting is how non-human identities (NHIs) have become a major focus, requiring analysts to protect automated systems, APIs, and connected devices that could be entry points for attackers.

The average salary has hit $108,000 annually in Milwaukee, reflecting how crucial this role has become. Working as an Information Security Analyst means constantly staying ahead of threats, whether that's running vulnerability assessments, implementing zero-trust architectures, or creating incident response plans that can handle everything from ransomware to sophisticated phishing attacks.

It's honestly one of the most dynamic tech roles out there - you're basically playing chess against cyber criminals, but the stakes involve protecting millions in assets and sensitive data.

As someone in this field, you're not just reading logs and running scans; you're actively shaping how organizations defend themselves in an increasingly connected world.

In 2025, Penetration Testers are ethical hackers who play a crucial role in Milwaukee's tech scene by finding security flaws before real threats can exploit them.

I've learned that pen testers work on the offensive side of cybersecurity, running authorized attacks on systems to expose weak points. It's honestly pretty exciting - you get to think like a hacker while helping protect important data and systems.

The average salary starts around $87,440 for newcomers, but experienced pros can make up to $146,000, which is seriously impressive.

The skills needed to crush it in this field are intense but totally worth developing.

You need to master:

• Programming languages: Master programming languages like Python and PowerShell to excel in penetration testing.
• Network protocols: Understand network protocols and security tools like Wireshark and Metasploit for effective cybersecurity measures.
• Social engineering tactics: Develop skills in social engineering techniques to identify and mitigate human vulnerabilities.
• Vulnerability assessment: Engage in bug hunting and vulnerability assessment to identify system weaknesses.

What's really cool is that pen testers get to work with all sorts of tech, from apps and networks to cloud systems.

The field is growing super fast, especially here in Milwaukee where companies are investing heavily in cybersecurity. There's a real shortage of qualified pros, which means amazing job security.

Plus, you're constantly learning new things since cyber threats are always evolving. Trust me, if you're into problem-solving and tech, this career is absolutely worth checking out.

In Milwaukee's tech scene, Full Stack Developers are crushing it in 2025, with salaries ranging from $76,000 to $131,000 for skilled professionals.

The role demands expertise in both front-end and back-end development, making it versatile and in-demand. At companies like Deloitte, developers lead the design of scalable web applications using Java and related technologies.

The tech stack typically includes JavaScript, HTML/CSS, React, and Angular for front-end, while Node.js, Python, and Ruby dominate the back-end landscape. Many companies, like Uline, are embracing modern development practices with Agile Scrum teams using technologies like Java, Angular, C#, and .NET. Full Stack Developers handle everything from designing responsive web applications and optimizing for mobile devices to managing databases and server maintenance.

They also collaborate with graphic designers and conduct thorough testing to ensure applications run smoothly. The role's growing importance comes from its ability to streamline development processes - one person can take a project from start to finish, which is huge for companies looking to move fast in the digital space.

With more businesses going digital-first, the demand for Full Stack Developers in Milwaukee keeps growing, making it an awesome career choice for tech enthusiasts who love tackling diverse challenges.

Landing a high-paying tech role in Milwaukee's thriving 2025 scene is seriously exciting, with over 11,100 new tech jobs added since late 2023 and an expected growth of 8%.

Cloud architects and AI specialists are leading the pack, with cloud-related positions seeing a massive 40% jump.

The tech sector is contributing $8.1 billion to Milwaukee's economy, making it a perfect time to jump in. Through Summerfest Tech 2025, happening June 23-26, you can connect with 2,000+ professionals and get hands-on experience with AI and advanced manufacturing tech.

For those starting out, entry-level positions are offering competitive salaries between $75,000 to $95,000, with cybersecurity roles starting at $92,000. The Milwaukee Tool internship program is a sweet deal, offering real experience in robotics and machine learning, plus housing support.

What's really cool is that 96% of tech companies now offer location flexibility, so you can work from anywhere while still being part of Milwaukee's tech community.

The key is to focus on building skills in Python, Java, and JavaScript, while getting hands-on experience through local tech events and bootcamps. Milwaukee's tech scene is seriously growing, and with the right skills and connections, you can totally be part of it.