Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Plano in 2025

The tech scene in Plano is absolutely wild right now! According to recent market analysis, the Dallas-Plano area is crushing it with a 7.3% job growth rate and over 101,000 new tech positions.

What makes this particularly exciting is that tech professionals here are making serious money - Platform Architects are pulling in $150,000 to $210,000, while even mid-level software developers are earning between $129,000 and $141,000.

Industry reports show that companies are especially hungry for AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity experts.

Living costs in Plano are way lower than other tech hubs like San Francisco or New York, which means you keep more of what you earn. Major players like Wells Fargo and JP Morgan Chase are actively recruiting here, and with 50% of roles being fully in-office and 30% hybrid, there's plenty of flexibility in how you work.

The combination of competitive salaries, growing job market, and sweet work-life balance makes Plano seriously attractive for anyone looking to level up their tech career.

Looking at Plano's tech scene in 2025, I'm excited to share how the job market is totally transforming. Data shows tech job openings are growing at an impressive 20% rate, with over 1,000 companies actively hiring.

The average tech salary sits at $95K annually, which is seriously attractive considering Plano's cost of living is 6% below the national average. What's really interesting is how AI Architects are currently the highest-paid non-executive roles, pulling in over $200K, while even mid-level software engineers are making between $130K-$140K. Platform Architects aren't far behind, earning between $150K-$210K.

When it comes to what employers want, the skills game is changing fast.

Cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI development are the must-have skills right now.

Companies are especially keen on finding people who know their way around AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, plus having solid cybersecurity knowledge is huge since the average data breach costs nearly $5 million.

The competition is real, but so are the opportunities - especially with major players like Toyota, Liberty Mutual, and JP Morgan setting up shop here.

What makes this ranking system really useful is how it combines real salary data with actual market demands.

Companies are investing heavily in entry-level talent, offering mentorship programs and awesome benefits. The best part? Many roles offer hybrid work options, and the tech community here is super welcoming to newcomers.

If you're thinking about getting into tech in Plano, now's definitely the time to make your move.

As someone who's just starting my tech career, I'm excited about the Cloud Architect role in Plano's tech scene. These professionals are seriously reshaping how companies operate in the digital space.

According to recent industry data, Cloud Architects earn between $80,000 to $167,000 annually, with experienced professionals hitting the higher end of that range.

The job goes way beyond just technical stuff - it's about creating entire digital ecosystems that actually work. A typical Cloud Architect position requires at least 7 years of experience working with major platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, plus solid knowledge of security protocols and compliance standards like HIPAA.

The role is super hands-on, with about 80% of the time spent doing practical work.

You need to know your way around infrastructure as code (IaC), containerization, and cloud security. Companies are looking for people who can handle both the technical side and communicate effectively with teams.

It's not just about building stuff - it's about making smart decisions that help businesses grow. The demand for Cloud Architects keeps growing as more companies move their operations to the cloud, making it an amazing career choice for anyone interested in shaping the future of tech in Plano.

In 2025, the role of a Network Security Engineer in Plano, Texas, has become critical as businesses increasingly rely on robust IT infrastructures to safeguard sensitive data against cyber threats.

Network Security Engineers are tasked with designing, implementing, and maintaining security systems that protect networks from unauthorized access and data breaches.

Key responsibilities include monitoring network security, responding to incidents, and ensuring compliance with security standards. The expertise required in this role involves an in-depth understanding of security protocols such as IPsec, SSL/TLS, and VPNs, which are essential for encrypting data and securing network communications.

As the demand for cybersecurity continues to rise, Network Security Engineers in Plano command lucrative salaries and see promising job growth.

According to recent salary surveys, the average salary for Network Security Engineers in Plano in 2025 ranges from $115,000 to $135,000 annually, reflecting an increase in compensation owing to the critical nature of the role.

Additionally, the employment rate in this sector is projected to grow by 28% over the next decade, highlighting the role's increasing importance and demand in the tech industry.

• Network Security Protocols:
  • IPsec
  • SSL/TLS
  • VPNs
• Average Salary: $115,000 - $135,000
• Job Growth Rate: 28% over the next decade

Given the continuous evolution of cyber threats, organizations in Plano place a high value on Network Security Engineers who possess up-to-date skills and certifications, such as CISSP and CEH, to effectively defend against potential attacks.

As quoted by an industry professional, "Network Security Engineers are the frontline warriors in safeguarding our digital world." This emphasizes the significance of this role in today's tech-driven economy and illustrates why it stands as one of the best-paid tech jobs in Plano, Texas.

Data Science roles in Plano are absolutely crushing it in 2025! As a Data Scientist at major companies like Capital One, you'll work on exciting projects from customer lifetime value analysis to fraud detection and even cutting-edge GenAI applications.

The salary range is seriously impressive - starting around $94,600 and going up to $152,400 at places like Liberty Mutual. Currently, top employers in Plano are actively recruiting for roles in machine learning, predictive analytics, and data modeling.

The skills you need are pretty straightforward - Python, SQL, and machine learning fundamentals are must-haves.

What's really cool is how companies are now focusing on specialized areas like contextual bandits, representation learning, and causal inference.

The tech stack typically includes tools like XGBoost, Random Forest, and various clustering algorithms. Most positions require a Bachelor's degree plus 3-5 years of experience, or a Master's degree with less experience.

The best part? Many companies offer flexible work arrangements, comprehensive benefits, and serious growth opportunities.

What makes this role incredibly rewarding is the chance to solve real business problems using data.

Whether you're building recommendation systems, optimizing pricing strategies, or developing predictive models, you're directly impacting business decisions. Plus, with the growing tech scene in Plano, there's always something new to learn and exciting projects to tackle.

The combination of technical challenges, competitive pay, and career growth makes Data Science one of the most sought-after tech roles in Plano right now.

As a Machine Learning Engineer in Plano, Texas, you'll be right at the center of AI innovation in 2025. Major companies like GEICO are actively seeking ML experts to lead AI automation initiatives across their operations.

The role involves developing models for complex data processing, with a focus on practical applications like image recognition and natural language processing.

Python and Java skills are must-haves - they're literally the backbone of everything we do in ML.

What makes this career path seriously exciting is the variety of opportunities.

Companies are offering $65-70 per hour for contract roles, with responsibilities ranging from building recommendation systems to optimizing pricing strategies.

The average full-time salary hits between $130,000 to $160,000 annually, which is pretty sweet for someone passionate about tech.

To really succeed in this field, you need to master specific skills.

Current job postings emphasize expertise in software development, debugging, and maintenance of ML applications.

Key technical requirements include:

• Solid understanding of classification and clustering algorithms
• Experience with tools like XGBoost and Random Forest
• Strong SQL skills for data manipulation
• Knowledge of statistical analysis and experimental design

The growth potential is massive - we're looking at a 22% increase in job openings over the next decade.

Companies in Plano are investing heavily in ML technology, making it an ideal spot for career growth. Whether you're fresh out of college or transitioning into tech, Machine Learning Engineering offers a clear path to being part of the next big wave in technology.

The cybersecurity engineer role continues to be super important in protecting companies from digital threats, and the pay definitely shows it. According to recent salary data, cybersecurity engineers in Texas are earning an average of $126,977 annually, with entry-level positions starting at around $111,987.

In Plano specifically, mid-level cybersecurity professionals can make between $99,000 to $189,000, while senior positions like Chief Information Security Officers can earn up to $280,000.

The growth in this field is seriously impressive, with a projected 35% increase in job opportunities by 2030.

What makes cybersecurity engineering stand out is the mix of technical skills needed.

You've got to master SIEM tools like Splunk, get good at firewall management, and know your way around intrusion detection systems. Companies are looking for people who can handle everything from encryption protocols to vulnerability testing.

The cool thing is that cybersecurity engineers are averaging $175,000 nationally, making it one of the highest-paying tech roles out there.

The future looks incredible for anyone getting into cybersecurity.

Major companies in Plano like Toyota and Capital One are actively hiring, and the demand keeps growing. What's really interesting is that the field offers tons of room for growth - you can start as an analyst and work your way up to architect or CISO roles.

The key is staying current with the latest security tools and threats.

For anyone just starting out, getting certifications like CISSP or Security+ is crucial.

The investment in these certs definitely pays off, as they can boost your earning potential significantly. With the right mix of certifications and hands-on experience, you can quickly climb the salary ladder in this dynamic field.

Software engineering continues to be a major career move in Plano, Texas, with exciting opportunities emerging in 2025. As a fresh grad looking at Plano's growing tech scene, software engineers can expect salaries ranging from $75K to $119K to start.

JPMorgan Chase's 2025 Software Engineer Program is making waves, offering a two-year career development track that's perfect for entry-level talent. The program focuses on creating solutions that actually matter, working with cutting-edge tech, and getting real mentorship opportunities.

Companies are actively searching for developers skilled in Python, JavaScript, Java, and C++.

The job market is seriously heating up too - Plano's seeing a 12% growth in tech jobs, with over 15,000 new positions added. Major players like Toyota Connected North America and Capital One are investing heavily in tech talent, making it an awesome time to jump into the field.

If you're thinking about becoming a software engineer here, you'll want to focus on building skills in cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity - these are the areas where companies are investing big time.

The best part? You don't have to wait until you're senior to make good money - entry-level positions are competitive right from the start, especially if you've got the right mix of technical skills and can show you're ready to learn and grow.

In 2025, Penetration Testers are absolutely crushing it in Plano's tech scene! These cybersecurity pros work with major Fortune 50 companies, earning between $48-60 per hour for contract roles and up to $88 per hour for senior positions.

The job involves conducting intense security assessments across web apps, APIs, mobile applications, and cloud environments. What makes this role super interesting is that you get to think like a hacker while staying on the right side of the law.

You'll need to master tools like Burp Suite, Metasploit, and Cobalt Strike - basically the essential toolkit for finding security weak spots before actual hackers do.

The career path is seriously taking off in Plano, with companies actively recruiting for both contract and permanent positions.

What's really cool is that many roles offer hybrid work arrangements, typically requiring just three days in the office. The skills you need? Python coding is a must, along with knowing your way around security frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK and OWASP. Companies are especially interested in people who can handle mobile app testing and API security, which are becoming huge focus areas.

Beyond the technical stuff, employers want people who can write clear reports and work well with teams.

Many positions include mentoring opportunities, which is perfect if you're looking to level up your career. The benefits are pretty sweet too - most jobs offer the full package with health insurance, 401(k) matching, and flexible spending accounts.

If you're into puzzles, problem-solving, and want to make the internet a safer place while making good money, this could be your perfect career move.

As an AI Research Scientist in Plano for 2025, you're basically stepping into one of tech's most exciting roles. The foundation for success starts with solid math skills - we're talking linear algebra, calculus, and statistics - which are absolutely crucial for developing cutting-edge algorithms.

Being an AI researcher means you'll be diving deep into machine learning, working with frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch, and mastering programming languages like Python, R, and Java.

The coolest part? You get to solve real-world problems using artificial intelligence.

The salary range for AI Research Scientists in Plano is hitting between $150,000 to $185,000 annually, depending on your experience and which company you join.

This field is absolutely exploding right now, with major companies racing to build their AI teams. The job market is super hot, with a growth rate that's way above average compared to other tech roles.

Plus, with remote work options becoming standard, you're not just limited to Plano-based companies - you can work for tech giants across the country while enjoying Plano's lower cost of living.

The future looks seriously bright for AI Research Scientists.

Whether you're into healthcare AI applications, fintech innovations, or gaming industry breakthroughs, there's something for everyone. The key is staying current with the latest AI developments and building a strong project portfolio.

Companies are fighting over talented AI researchers, and if you've got the skills, you'll definitely have your pick of awesome opportunities. It's not just about the technical skills though - being able to collaborate with teams and communicate complex ideas clearly is just as important for landing those top positions in Plano's growing tech scene.

DevOps Engineers in Plano are crushing it right now with amazing job prospects and competitive salaries. Leading healthcare tech companies are offering $110K-$125K plus sweet bonuses for professionals who can handle cloud technologies and containerization.

The role demands hands-on experience with Azure, Kubernetes, and Docker, plus the ability to build and enhance CI/CD pipelines. Companies want people who can communicate effectively and work well in teams.

Major players in inventory management are offering remote work options, with positions focused on implementing microservices and setting up DevOps environments using tools like Azure DevOps and Octopus.

The minimum requirements typically include 1-3 years of technical experience, with at least one year in a DevOps role. DevOps Engineers are expected to oversee technology projects while ensuring they align with infrastructure engineering practices.

The perks are pretty impressive too - companies are offering comprehensive health benefits, flexible PTO, 401K matching, and even stock options. For anyone looking to break into tech or level up their career, DevOps engineering in Plano is seriously worth considering.

The combination of high pay, remote work options, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology makes it an awesome career choice in 2025.

Information Security Analysts are the modern-day guardians of company data, and this role is seriously taking off in Plano's tech scene. According to recent industry reports, there are currently 457,000 unfilled cybersecurity positions nationwide, making this career path super promising.

These professionals protect computer systems from cyber threats while staying ahead of emerging risks - especially with AI becoming a bigger deal in both defense and attacks.

Global spending on information security is set to hit $212 billion in 2025, showing just how crucial this field has become.

The job goes beyond just technical stuff - analysts need to handle policy development, risk management, and deal with government regulations.

The salary potential is pretty amazing too.

Entry-level positions start around $99,000 with just a Security+ certification, and you can climb up to $150,000+ as you gain experience and advanced certifications.

Industry surveys show that 80% of cybersecurity professionals report high job satisfaction, which makes total sense given the awesome career growth opportunities.

The best part? You don't always need hardcore coding skills - there are various roles available focusing on different aspects of security. Companies in Plano are investing heavily in security teams, especially since many are adopting hybrid work models that require robust security measures.

If you're interested in protecting critical data while making a solid income, this could be your perfect career match.

Plano is absolutely crushing it as a tech hub in 2025! Ranking as the fourth-best tech city in America, with the best internet infrastructure nationwide, Plano's tech scene is reaching new heights.

The job market here is insane - Dallas-Plano added 101,000 new jobs last year, making it the top job creator in the country.

For tech roles, the numbers are pretty sweet - Cloud Architects are pulling in $150,000-$210,000, while Data Scientists are making around $110,000-$124,000 annually.

What's really cool is that over $1.1 billion has been invested in local startups, creating tons of opportunities for tech professionals.

If you're looking to break into tech, bootcamps and certifications are the way to go.

Skills that employers are hungry for include AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. The market is especially hot for Platform Architects and NLP Engineers, with salaries hitting up to $210,000 and $180,000 respectively.

Networking is super important too - getting involved with the Dallas Techies Slack Group or hitting up the Dallas Tech Networking Mixer can open doors to amazing opportunities.

The best part about Plano's tech scene? The cost of living is way lower than Silicon Valley or NYC, so your salary goes much further.

Major companies like AT&T and Texas Instruments are always on the lookout for fresh talent. With the tech sector growing at 4% annually and the Dallas-Fort Worth area housing 43% of Texas's tech talent, there's never been a better time to jump into tech in Plano.

Just keep learning, stay on top of emerging technologies, and don't be afraid to put yourself out there at industry events!