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

In 2025, Plano's tech scene is absolutely crushing it! As recent data shows, the city is experiencing a massive 20% surge in tech job openings, with software engineers pulling in between $130,000 to $140,000 annually.

What's super cool is that the tech landscape is rapidly evolving, creating incredible opportunities in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

The average tech salary sits around $95,733, and with living costs 6% below the national average, your money goes further here. Plus, there's a projected shortage of 1.8 million tech professionals by 2025, making it the perfect time to jump into roles like Cloud Architect or Machine Learning Engineer.

Major companies like Toyota Connected and Liberty Mutual are actively hiring, with over 21,000 tech positions available. Here's a look at the hottest tech jobs right now:

• Cloud Architect: Design and manage cloud environments, requiring expertise in cloud technologies.
• Machine Learning Engineer: Specialize in developing algorithms for AI, with strong skills in programming and data analysis.
• Data Scientist: Analyze and interpret data to provide business solutions, needing advanced analytical skills.
• Software Engineer: Develop software applications, requiring proficiency in coding and system architecture.
• Network Security Engineer: Protect network systems and manage security tools, with a focus on network security.
• Cybersecurity Engineer: Ensure the security of information systems by implementing cybersecurity measures.
• DevOps Engineer: Collaborate on IT and development processes, combining skills in development and operations.
• Information Security Analyst: Protect an organization's data, and continuously monitor security breaches.
• Penetration Tester: Identify security vulnerabilities through simulated attacks, proficient in penetration testing.
• AI Research Scientist: Conduct research and develop AI technologies, with a focus on artificial intelligence.

These roles need serious skills in programming, cloud tech, and data analysis - but the payoff is totally worth it.

Keep reading to find out how to land one of these amazing positions!

The methodology behind these rankings is based on real-world data from comprehensive salary surveys and industry analysis.

The research reveals AI Architects as the highest-paid tech professionals, with salaries exceeding $200,000, while roles in cloud computing and cybersecurity follow closely behind.

85% of organizations are adopting multi-cloud strategies, but only 9% of professionals have the required experience - talk about a massive opportunity! The rankings also factor in the projected talent shortage, which is expected to hit 85 million tech professionals globally by 2030.

I've looked at the skills that actually matter in 2025, and it's clear that AI and machine learning capabilities are absolute game-changers.

According to recent market predictions, about 60% of tech managers are prioritizing AI engineering roles, which is nearly double from last year.

The data shows that expertise in AI tools, model training, and prompt engineering isn't just nice to have anymore - it's essential. Plus, with the shift toward quality over quantity in hiring, companies are getting super selective, looking for candidates who can nail technical interviews and bring real value to their teams.

Plano's tech scene is becoming a magnet for top talent.

The numbers don't lie - tech salaries here are competitive with other major tech hubs, and the growth in job postings is seriously impressive. Companies are stepping up their game with better compensation packages to attract the best candidates.

For anyone looking to break into tech or level up their career, focusing on AI, cloud computing, or cybersecurity is definitely the way to go. These areas aren't just trending - they're shaping the future of tech jobs in Plano.

In 2025, Cloud Architects are crushing it at the top of Plano's tech salary rankings, with compensation ranging from $80,000 to $167,000 annually.

The position demands expertise in designing and managing cloud environments that can actually handle real-world business challenges. Working as a Cloud Architect means you're the go-to person for making sure everything runs smoothly in the cloud - from keeping systems secure to making them work faster.

Major healthcare companies in Plano are offering hybrid positions with competitive packages between $150K-$180K for architects who know their stuff in Azure, SQL Server, and Python.

The daily grind of a Cloud Architect isn't just about technical skills - it's about being smart with resources and making things work better.

Companies are looking for people who can handle everything from infrastructure design to disaster recovery, and they need you to be solid in multiple programming languages.

What makes this role extra interesting is how it combines hands-on tech work with strategic thinking - you're not just coding, you're literally building the future of how companies operate in the cloud.

You're not just coding, you're literally building the future of how companies operate in the cloud.

• Great Money, Transformative Projects: What's really cool about being a Cloud Architect in Plano is that you're not just earning great money - you're at the center of some seriously transformative tech projects.
• Hands-On and Leadership: The role typically involves an 80-20 split between hands-on technical work and leadership responsibilities.
• Recruiting by Major Players: With major players like AT&T and Texas Instruments actively recruiting in the area, and the cost of living being way lower than in Silicon Valley, Plano is becoming a sweet spot for cloud professionals.
• Continuous Learning: The position requires continuous learning as cloud technologies evolve, but that's what makes it genuinely exciting - you're always working with the latest tech and solving real problems.

With major players like AT&T and Texas Instruments actively recruiting in the area, and the cost of living being way lower than in Silicon Valley, Plano is becoming a sweet spot for cloud professionals.

The position requires continuous learning as cloud technologies evolve, but that's what makes it genuinely exciting - you're always working with the latest tech and solving real problems.

I'm super excited to share that Machine Learning Engineering is totally taking off in Plano right now! According to recent job market data, there are 75 ML positions available across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with companies like Capital One and Micron Technology actively hiring.

The work is seriously next-level - ML Engineers get to build and deploy AI models that make real-world impact. Machine Learning Engineers work on everything from digital imaging to video products, creating algorithms that power the apps and services we use every day.

The best part? Whether you're into full-time or contract work, there are options - 36 full-time and 7 contract positions are currently open. Plus, companies like GEICO are reimagining their customer experience through ML, which means tons of opportunities to make a difference.

If you're thinking about the money (because who isn't?), ML Engineers in Plano are making around $95K on average, with senior roles hitting way higher. To get in on this, you need to know Python (it's basically the holy grail), get good at statistical analysis, and master ML frameworks.

The tech scene here is growing crazy fast, and with major companies setting up ML teams in Plano, there's never been a better time to jump into this field. What makes it even better is that Plano's cost of living is 6% below the national average, so your salary goes further here.

Just remember, besides the technical stuff, you've got to be good at solving problems and working with others - it's not just about coding in your own bubble!

Data Scientists are revolutionizing business operations in 2025, with their role becoming absolutely essential for companies looking to stay competitive.

According to recent industry research, only 24% of organizations currently classify themselves as highly data-driven, creating massive opportunities for growth in this field.

Data Scientists in Plano are mastering a comprehensive toolkit that includes Python, R, SQL, and machine learning algorithms, while also developing expertise in cloud computing and data visualization to handle increasingly complex datasets.

The impact of data analytics on business success is undeniable.

Studies show that while trust in organizational data has actually decreased, with 67% of professionals not completely trusting their company's data for decision-making, this has created an even greater demand for skilled Data Scientists who can ensure data integrity and extract meaningful insights.

Companies effectively using data analytics are seeing 10-15% increases in profitability, making this role crucial for business growth.

The career outlook for Data Scientists in Plano is incredibly promising.

With an average salary of $125,000 annually, the position offers excellent financial rewards. Industry experts emphasize that success in this field requires a mix of technical expertise and soft skills, including strong statistical analysis abilities, programming proficiency, and effective communication skills.

The field continues to evolve rapidly, with artificial intelligence and machine learning becoming increasingly integrated into data analysis workflows, making it an exciting time to jump into this career path.

For those willing to continuously learn and adapt, the opportunities for growth and advancement in data science are practically limitless.

As a Software Engineer in Plano's growing tech scene, you can expect to make between $75K to $119K starting out, with major players like JPMorgan Chase and Toyota actively hiring.

The role goes way beyond just writing code - we're talking about being the architects of tomorrow's digital solutions. What's really cool is that problem-solving skills and a passion for technology matter more than traditional qualifications.

The tech stack you'll need to master includes Python, JavaScript, Java, and C++, plus you've got to stay sharp with the latest cloud technologies and AI developments.

Right now, software engineers are basically the architects of the digital world, handling everything from design and development to testing and maintenance.

What makes Plano especially attractive is that the cost of living is 6% below the national average, so your salary stretches further than in traditional tech hubs.

The job market is super active too, with a 7.3% growth rate and tons of new positions opening up.

If you're into AI or cloud computing, you can push your earnings even higher, especially as companies are investing heavily in digital transformation. Plus, the work environment is pretty flexible, with many companies offering remote options and great benefits packages.

It's honestly an awesome time to jump into software engineering in Plano - the opportunities are everywhere, and the compensation is seriously competitive.

Network Security Engineers in Plano are crushing it in 2025, with a projected job growth rate of 15% compared to 2024.

These tech defenders are responsible for building and maintaining security systems that protect networks from unauthorized access. The role has become super critical, especially with major players like Capital One and Toyota expanding their cybersecurity teams.

When it comes to getting paid, network security engineers are making bank - salaries range from $115,000 to $135,000 annually, with experienced pros pulling in even more.

Plus, there's a massive talent gap with over 47,200 unfilled positions statewide, making it a perfect time to jump into this field.

The job isn't just about playing defense anymore.

These engineers are now handling everything from implementing secure network architectures to managing cloud security in AWS and Azure environments.

Skills that really matter include mastering IPsec, SSL/TLS, and VPN protocols, plus staying up to date with the latest security tools. What's really cool is that many companies are offering hybrid and remote work options, giving engineers more flexibility in how they work.

The role has totally evolved beyond just monitoring networks - now it's about being proactive and using cutting-edge tech to stop threats before they happen. With AI boosting threat detection by 90% and companies investing heavily in automated security systems, the future looks pretty amazing for anyone wanting to get into network security engineering.

As a Cybersecurity Engineer in Plano, Texas in 2025, you're literally on the frontlines of digital defense, and the pay definitely shows how crucial this role is.

Entry-level positions start around $111,987, with experienced professionals earning significantly more.

The field is absolutely exploding, with a projected 35% growth by 2030. Major companies like Capital One are actively hiring cybersecurity talent in Plano, offering roles from technical engineers to security operations managers.

The job involves translating complex security objectives into real solutions, monitoring threats, and keeping systems secure. I'm talking about working with cutting-edge tools like SIEM systems and encryption protocols - it's seriously cool stuff.

Leading companies are looking for professionals who can handle everything from vulnerability assessment to implementing automated security testing in CI/CD pipelines.

The best part? You get to work with amazing tech while protecting important data and systems. Required skills include Python, knowledge of cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, and strong problem-solving abilities.

• Hybrid work options are becoming standard and comprehensive benefits packages including health insurance and 401(k) matching.
• It's honestly one of the most rewarding tech careers you can pursue right now.

DevOps Engineering is reshaping how tech companies operate in Plano right now. These professionals are crucial for implementing methodologies that balance needs across the software development lifecycle, with responsibilities ranging from setting up infrastructure to managing code deployments.

The role is versatile - one day you might be building CI/CD pipelines, the next day troubleshooting system issues. The pay is excellent, with salaries ranging from $90,000 to $120,000 for DevOps positions in Plano, plus amazing perks like flexible remote work options and competitive benefits packages.

The tech stack for DevOps Engineers is intense.

You need to know your way around cloud platforms, especially Azure in Plano's market. Companies are specifically looking for experience with Azure, Kubernetes, and Docker, plus solid knowledge of infrastructure-as-code tools like Terraform.

The role keeps evolving - it's not just about coding anymore. You've got to be good at communication, problem-solving, and understanding both the development and operations sides of things.

Most positions are offering hybrid work arrangements, which is perfect for maintaining work-life balance while still staying connected with your team.

• Technical Skills: Cloud platforms, containerization, automation tools
• Process Management: CI/CD pipelines, infrastructure management
• Soft Skills: Communication, collaboration, problem-solving

The DevOps scene in Plano is growing, with more companies investing in digital transformation.

Whether you're just starting or looking to level up your career, DevOps Engineering offers a clear path to professional growth with plenty of opportunities to learn new technologies and take on challenging projects.

Information Security Analysts are crushing it with entry-level salaries starting around $99,000 and potential earnings exceeding $150,000.

The job market is seriously hot right now - over 400 security analyst positions are currently open in Plano, ranging from entry-level to senior roles.

Companies like Ericsson are offering amazing opportunities, with their security internship program covering everything from ethical hacking to AI in cybersecurity.

The role involves protecting company data through vulnerability management, incident response, and threat monitoring - basically being a digital guardian.

What makes this job extra exciting is how it combines technical skills with problem-solving. You'll need to master security tools, understand risk management, and stay current with the latest cyber threats.

The best part? You don't necessarily need years of experience to break in - many companies are now offering entry-level positions with competitive salaries and awesome benefits.

Plus, with Plano's cost of living being 6% below the national average, your salary goes even further. The field is growing fast, with a projected 35% increase in cybersecurity jobs by 2030.

Whether you're into cloud security, network protection, or identity management, there's a specialization path for everyone. Companies are especially keen on candidates who can bridge the gap between technical security and business strategy, making this role perfect for tech-savvy problem solvers who also have solid communication skills.

• Security Tools Mastery: You'll need to master security tools to protect data.
• Risk Management Understanding: Understanding risk management is key to success.
• Latest Threats Awareness: Stay current with the latest cyber threats for protection.

Overall, the ever-expanding field of cybersecurity offers multiple paths, from cloud security to network protection, tailored for those who can effectively bridge technical skills and business strategies.

Being a Penetration Tester in 2025 is seriously cool - it's like getting paid to be a professional digital detective. These security pros are taking on an offensive role in cybersecurity, running controlled attacks on company systems to expose weak spots before real hackers find them.

The job requires mad skills in network protocols, coding languages like Python and Ruby, plus hands-on experience with tools like Metasploit and Wireshark. What's really interesting is how ethical and legal considerations shape everything these professionals do - they need explicit permission and have to document everything super carefully.

The money is pretty sweet too - Penetration Testers can make around $118,000 annually, with top performers pulling in over $150,000.

That's not just because it's a tech job - it's because these skills are absolutely critical for companies trying to protect themselves from cyber attacks. In Plano's tech scene, Penetration Testers get to work on all kinds of different systems, from healthcare tech to banking software, which keeps things interesting and challenging.

The best part? The demand for this role is expected to grow by 32% through 2032, so job security is basically guaranteed. Plus, many positions offer the flexibility to work remotely, which is perfect for maintaining that work-life balance while still making an impact in the cybersecurity world.

In 2025, AI Research Scientists are absolutely crushing it in the tech world, leading the charge in machine learning and artificial intelligence innovation. These professionals are earning impressive salaries ranging from $136,000 to $225,000 annually, making it one of the most financially rewarding careers in tech.

The role has evolved beyond just coding - now it's about creating breakthrough solutions that transform how businesses operate. The demand for AI research scientists is expected to grow 20% by 2033, with Plano emerging as a prime location for these opportunities.

What makes this role super interesting is how it combines cutting-edge tech with real-world problem-solving.

To succeed as an AI Research Scientist in 2025, you need to be seriously skilled in programming and stay updated with the latest AI frameworks.

About 77% of AI jobs require a master's degree, but the investment in education totally pays off.

The role isn't just about working solo - it's about collaborating with teams to create AI solutions that can handle complex challenges. Data scientists and software developers are your squad, working together to build systems that can think and learn.

From what I've seen, employers are especially interested in candidates who can translate complex AI concepts into practical applications that drive business growth.

The salary data speaks for itself - Plano's average of $160,000 for AI Research Scientists makes it a sweet spot for career growth.

With 1,200 job openings, the opportunities are definitely there for those ready to dive into this field. Companies aren't just looking for technical skills anymore; they want innovators who can push the boundaries of what's possible with AI. It's pretty amazing to be part of shaping how AI will be used in the future, and Plano is becoming the perfect place to make that happen.

The tech scene in Plano is absolutely crushing it right now! Recent data shows a 20% surge in job openings, with Platform Architects leading the pack at $150,000-$210,000 annually.

AI Research Scientists and Cloud Architects are close behind, pulling in seriously impressive salaries. What's even better is that living costs are 6% below the national average, so your money goes further here.

Tech salaries are reaching new heights, with entry-level positions starting around $100,000, and mid-level software developers earning between $129,000-$141,000.

The coolest part? Companies with 200-1,000 employees are perfect for gaining experience and building your resume.

With major players like Toyota Connected and Capital One actively hiring, and over 21,000 tech positions available, the opportunities are endless. Plus, 75% of companies are embracing hybrid work models, giving you the flexibility to work from home while still crushing your career goals.

If you're looking to break into tech, Plano's your spot - just make sure to stay on top of in-demand skills like AI development, cloud computing, and cybersecurity to stand out from the crowd.