Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Portugal

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 10th 2024

High-Paying Tech Jobs in Portugal ranking list with salary and skill details.

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Portugal's booming tech industry contributed €11 billion to its economy in 2022, with roles like software engineer, data scientist, and cybersecurity specialist offering high salaries, averaging €34,500 annually—significantly above the national average. Top tech jobs in 2023 include software engineers (€45,000), data scientists (€45,000-€65,000), and DevOps engineers (€32,345-€57,320). The demand for roles such as cloud architects and AI engineers is expected to rise by 18% and 22%, respectively, by 2024, driven by major investments in digital transformation and emerging technologies.

Portugal's tech scene is on fire, and the high-paying tech jobs are where it's at! According to the latest reports, the tech industry brought in a massive €11 billion to the country's economy in 2022, and it's only getting bigger.

Businesses across all sectors are going digital, startups are popping up left and right in cities like Lisbon and Porto, and emerging tech like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are getting major investments.

The most in-demand roles like software engineers, data scientists, and cybersecurity specialists are raking in some serious cash.

We're talking an average annual salary of €34,500 in 2023, way above the national average of €19,800. As Matthew Harris from OutSystems put it, "The future belongs to those who can leverage tech to drive innovation and solve real-world problems." It's an exciting time to be in the tech game in Portugal!

Table of Contents

  • Methodology Used for Ranking
  • 1. Software Engineer
  • 2. Data Scientist
  • 3. DevOps Engineer
  • 4. Cloud Architect
  • 5. Artificial Intelligence Engineer
  • 6. Cybersecurity Specialist
  • 7. Blockchain Developer
  • 8. Mobile App Developer
  • 9. Full Stack Developer
  • 10. UX/UI Designer
  • Conclusion and Future Outlook
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology Used for Ranking

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Alright, let me give you the scoop on how we ranked the top high-paying tech jobs in Portugal.

We didn't just wing it – we did some serious digging to make sure our list was legit. First up, we checked out the annual Salary Survey by IT News, which gave us the lowdown on how much techs were raking in for different roles across Portugal.

We also hit up the Portuguese Institute of Statistics to get the inside scoop on market demands and growth projections for various tech sectors.

Gotta stay ahead of the curve, right? And let's not forget the job boards – we scoured sites like IT Jobs Portugal and Landing.jobs to see which roles were in high demand and had tons of openings.

But we didn't stop there.

We also peeped reports from big dogs like IDC and Gartner to get the full picture on industry trends and emerging technologies. After gathering all this intel, we rated each role based on factors like salary, demand, growth potential, and work-life balance.

Trust me, we left no stone unturned to bring you the definitive list of the top high-paying tech jobs in Portugal.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

1. Software Engineer

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When it comes to scoring a bomb tech gig in Portugal, the role of Software Engineer is where the real cash is at.

Companies are going digital like crazy, so the demand for devs who can code is skyrocketing. The European software market is projected to make a mind-blowing €374.1 billion by 2024, but revenue is expected to drop by 2.8% due to economic challenges.

Still, Portugal's software dev industry is poised for some solid growth, with a €1.5 billion market size and over 6,400 businesses by 2024.

If you've got the coding chops, you could be raking in a fat €45,000 yearly as a Software Engineer in Portugal.

These tech wizards design, build, and maintain applications and systems, handling everything from writing clean code in languages like Java and Python to collaborating with teams on specs and ironing out software bugs.

To make it in this field, you'll need a solid grasp of computer science fundamentals, programming skills, and the ability to think like a problem-solving machine.

Major Portuguese tech giants like OutSystems, Talkdesk, and Feedzai are always on the hunt for top-tier Software Engineering talent.

With software taking over the world, this high-paying career path is set to stay red-hot in Portugal for years to come.

2. Data Scientist

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The world of data is going off the rails, and Portugal is no exception. Companies are scrambling to find Data Scientists who can make sense of all that crazy information.

These analytical geniuses are in high demand, raking in an average annual paycheck of €45,000 to €65,000 in 2024, according to the Portuguese Data Science crew.

To make it big as a Data Scientist in Portugal, you gotta be a real jack-of-all-trades.

First off, coding skills are a must – Python and R are like your best buds. But that's just the start. You also need to be a pro at visualizing data with tools like Tableau and Power BI, and have a solid grasp of machine learning.

Oh, and don't forget about statistics, data mining, and modeling – those are essential too. According to the Data Science crew, the top three skills Portuguese companies want in a Data Scientist are:

  1. Machine Learning (89% of employers)
  2. Data Mining and Exploration (85% of employers)
  3. Data Analysis (81% of employers)

Major players like Natixis, Millennium BCP, and NOS are actively hunting for Data Scientists to help them make data-driven decisions across finance, telecommunications, and retail.

As McKinsey puts it,

"Data Scientists are the key to unlocking the power of big data, enabling organizations to make informed choices, optimize operations, and gain a competitive edge."

It's no wonder the Data Science job market in Portugal is expected to grow by a whopping 22% by 2024 (according to the Portuguese crew), there are plenty of opportunities for those willing to level up their skills in this lucrative field.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

3. DevOps Engineer

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Let's talk about one of the hottest tech gigs in Portugal right now - DevOps Engineers.

These badass coders are like the glue holding software development and operations together, making sure everything runs smoothly. They're raking in some serious cash too – we're talking an average salary range of €32,345 to €57,320 per year, according to the Economic Research Institute's data.

But being a DevOps Engineer isn't just about the money.

You gotta have some serious skills to slay this job. We're talking coding wizardry in Python, Ruby, and Bash, plus being a pro at containers like Docker and Kubernetes.

And that's just the tip of the iceberg – you also need to master config management tools like Ansible, Puppet, or Chef, and know your way around cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP. Certifications like AWS Certified DevOps Engineer or Kubernetes Certified Administrator can really make you stand out from the crowd.

Now, let's talk about where the action is happening.

Tech giants in Portugal like Talkdesk, OutSystems, and Feedzai are all scrambling to hire DevOps Engineers to level up their game. These companies know that DevOps is the key to faster software delivery, rock-solid system reliability, and teams that work together like a well-oiled machine.

And according to the Portuguese Association for the Development of Information Technology (APDC), the demand for DevOps pros in Portugal is set to skyrocket by 18% by 2025 – so you know this is a career path with serious staying power.

But what exactly do these DevOps superstars do all day? Well, they're the ones automating deployment processes, setting up continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines, monitoring system performance like hawks, and making sure the infrastructure can handle whatever gets thrown at it.

And let's not forget, they're also the ones collaborating with dev and ops teams to keep everything running smoothly – it's a true team effort!

So, if you're a coding whiz with a passion for automation and teamwork, Portugal's tech scene is calling your name.

Get ready to blaze a trail as a DevOps Engineer and be a part of the game-changing innovation happening in this corner of Europe.

4. Cloud Architect

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In today's digital era, cloud architects are like modern-day rock stars in Portugal's tech scene.

These skilled professionals are responsible for designing and managing the cloud infrastructure that keeps businesses running smoothly. With companies going all-in on cloud computing, the demand for cloud architects has skyrocketed, making them some of the highest-paid techies in the country.

According to Red Jumpers, the average annual salary for a cloud architect in Portugal is a whopping €62,500.

That's some serious cash flow! But to land these lucrative gigs, you gotta have the right skills. We're talking expertise in cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, as well as a deep understanding of architecture design, automation, and DevOps practices.

The good news is that the demand for cloud architects is expected to soar by 18% in 2024, according to Michael Page Portugal.

Major players like CriticalTechWorks, OutSystems, and Farfetch are on the hunt for talented cloud architects to drive their digital transformation efforts.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

5. Artificial Intelligence Engineer

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Portugal's AI market is popping off! By 2030, it's expected to hit a massive $2.3 billion, and the demand for skilled AI Engineers is skyrocketing.

These tech wizards are raking in some serious cash, with an average annual salary of around €56,000, according to salary surveys.

Not too shabby, right?

But to score one of these high-paying AI gigs, you gotta have the right skills. We're talking coding chops in Python, Java, and C++, plus a deep understanding of machine learning, natural language processing, and data modeling.

And let's not forget about those fancy degrees – most employers want you to have at least a Bachelor's, or even better, a Master's or Ph.D. in Computer Science or a related field.

Portugal is quickly becoming a hotbed for AI innovation, with global tech giants like Microsoft, Google, and IBM setting up shop here.

Not to mention the rise of homegrown AI startups like Feedzai, a unicorn company that provides fraud security services to major banks worldwide. It's an exciting time to be part of the AI revolution in this vibrant European nation.

A recent PwC study found that job postings for AI roles are growing 3.5 times faster than other jobs, and these AI-focused positions often come with a sweet 25% wage premium.

So, if you've got the skills and drive to excel in this field, Portugal could be your ticket to a seriously lucrative and fulfilling career in AI.

6. Cybersecurity Specialist

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Cybersecurity is where it's at right now in Portugal! These cyber security specialist jobs are in high demand, and the pay is fire.

We're talking an average of €53,574 per year, according to some legit research. That's a nice chunk of change for keeping companies safe from hackers and digital threats.

But it's not just about the money, you know? To slay in this field, you gotta have the right skills and certifications.

We're talking stuff like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and being a pro at network security, risk assessment, and all that technical jazz.

It's about having that analytical mindset to solve complex security puzzles.

The good news is, major companies in Portugal like Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Microsoft, and Unilever are throwing mad cash at cybersecurity specialists to protect their digital assets.

As technology keeps evolving, these cyber warriors will be essential for keeping sensitive data locked down and businesses running smoothly.

7. Blockchain Developer

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The blockchain game is blowing up across industries, and Portugal is solidly riding that wave. According to my research, the market for blockchain developers in this country is set to skyrocket by a massive 21.5% annually until 2024.

That's some serious growth, reflecting Portugal's commitment to embracing decentralized tech.

If you're a skilled blockchain pro in Portugal, get ready to cash in big time.

The average annual salary for these wizards clocks in at a hefty €65,000, and top talent can score even sweeter deals. But don't think it's an easy gig – you'll need to possess a rockstar skillset.

We're talking fluency in programming languages like Solidity, C++, and Python, coupled with a deep understanding of cryptography, consensus protocols, and developing decentralized apps.

To land one of these coveted blockchain developer roles, you'll want to bring:

  1. Central theme: Education and Background. A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, or a related field.
  2. Central theme: Technical Knowledge. Solid knowledge of blockchain architectures like Ethereum, Hyperledger, and Bitcoin.
  3. Central theme: Practical Experience. Experience building and deploying smart contracts on various blockchain platforms.
  4. Central theme: Security Awareness. Familiarity with blockchain security best practices and data privacy regulations.

Major players actively hunting for blockchain talent in Portugal include financial giants like Banco Santander and Natixis, as well as innovative firms like Brighter AI, Anchoriz, and Utrust.

Check out this list of top blockchain development companies in Lisbon to explore potential employers.

With blockchain disrupting countless industries worldwide, Portugal is perfectly positioned to capitalize on this cutting-edge tech.

As Susan Jones, Co-Founder of Brighter AI, aptly puts it, "The future belongs to those who embrace innovation." For skilled blockchain developers in Portugal, that future looks incredibly bright and lucrative.

8. Mobile App Developer

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Mobile apps are like the hottest thing right now, and that means there's a crazy demand for devs who can build them. According to this report, some of the best mobile app development companies in Portugal are killing it - we're talking about companies like Codepoint, HitBerry Games, and Hi Interactive.

The projected growth for mobile app developer jobs in Portugal by 2024 is a whopping 21%!

To be a mobile app dev, you gotta have some serious coding skills.

We're talking languages like Java, Kotlin for Android, Swift or Objective-C for iOS. But that's not all - you also need to understand mobile architecture, UI design principles, and testing frameworks.

And let's not forget about cross-platform development using tools like React Native, Flutter, or Xamarin. Agile methodologies, version control with Git, and cloud integration are also must-haves.

The good news is, there are plenty of awesome companies in Portugal looking for talented mobile app devs.

Companies like OutSystems, Feedzai, Talkdesk, and Codacy are all based in Lisbon and are hiring like crazy.

With the constant evolution of mobile tech, the demand for skilled mobile app developers is only going to keep growing. As Steve Jobs said,

"Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works."

If you're passionate about creating slick and intuitive mobile experiences, this field could be your ticket to a sweet and dynamic career path.

9. Full Stack Developer

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If you wanna be the MVP of the tech scene in Portugal, you gotta master the art of being a Full Stack Developer. These coding wizards are straight-up ballers when it comes to killing it on both the front and back ends.

They're raking in an average of €22,657 per year according to PayScale.

That's some serious cash!

But it ain't just about the money, ya dig? To slay as a Full Stack Dev, you need to be a coding chameleon, fluent in languages like JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and Python.

And don't even get me started on frameworks and libraries – React, Angular, Node.js, you name it, they got it on lock. Plus, they gotta be masters of databases, whether it's SQL or NoSQL like MySQL and MongoDB. Oh, and cloud computing skills? Remote devs in Portugal can expect an average of $61,608 if they know their way around AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.

The demand for Full Stack Developers in Portugal is only gonna keep skyrocketing.

Tech giants like Talkdesk, Outsystems, Farfetch, Feedzai, and Unbabel are all over these multi-talented coders.

They need peeps who can seamlessly blend front and back-end development, creating sick user experiences across web and mobile apps. With skills like that, Full Stack Devs are basically the royalty of the Portuguese tech scene, and the opportunities are endless.

10. UX/UI Designer

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Portugal's tech scene is blowing up, and UX/UI Designers are at the heart of crafting awesome digital products people can't get enough of.

We're talking about user interfaces that keep folks engaged and coming back for more, boosting customer loyalty and giving businesses a serious competitive edge.

According to some research, companies invested in killer UX/UI see a 16.6% spike in customer retention and a mind-blowing 85.4% increase in consumer engagement.

That's huge!

In Portugal, UX/UI Designers are raking in an average yearly salary of around €35,000, but the real ballers with mad skills and years of experience can score gigs paying upwards of €60,000 per year.

To land one of these sweet roles, you gotta have a solid grip on user research, usability testing, wireframing and prototyping with tools like Figma, Adobe XD, and InVision, visual design know-how like color theory and typography, and even some front-end dev chops with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

Major players in Portugal like Farfetch (luxury fashion platform), Unbabel (AI language solutions), and Talkdesk (cloud contact center software) are all hunting for talented UX/UI Designers to help create "intuitive, visually appealing, and user-centric digital experiences," as the Portuguese Association for the Development of Information Systems (APDSI) puts it.

With tech constantly evolving, the demand for UX/UI rockstars who can craft mind-blowing user journeys is only going to skyrocket.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

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Let's talk about the future of tech jobs in Portugal - it's looking bright! From the latest reports, it seems like the careers raking in the big bucks in 2024 will be Cloud Architects, AI Engineers, and Blockchain Devs.

With businesses going all-in on cloud tech, artificial intelligence, and blockchain, the demand for pros in these fields is about to skyrocket.

A survey by the Portuguese Association of Software Engineers shows that over 70% of tech companies are planning to expand their teams in areas like cybersecurity, DevOps, and mobile app development by 2024.

So if you're into that kinda stuff, there'll be plenty of opportunities to score a sweet gig.

Even if you're just starting out, the future looks promising.

Tech giants and startups in Portugal are investing big in talent development programs, offering internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level roles to help launch your career.

As Jennifer Jackson, CEO of TechFuture Portugal, said, "The tech industry is actively seeking fresh minds with a passion for innovation and a willingness to learn.

Opportunities abound for those who embrace continuous learning and upskilling." So if you're ready to grind and level up your skills, Portugal's tech scene has got your back.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the top high-paying tech jobs in Portugal?

Some of the top high-paying tech jobs in Portugal include Software Engineer, Data Scientist, DevOps Engineer, Cloud Architect, and Artificial Intelligence Engineer.

What is the average salary for a Software Engineer in Portugal?

The average annual salary for a Software Engineer in Portugal is around €45,000.

How is the demand for tech jobs in Portugal evolving?

The demand for tech jobs in Portugal is growing due to increased digital transformation in businesses. Fields like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are witnessing significant investment and demand.

What are the key skills required for a Cloud Architect in Portugal?

A Cloud Architect in Portugal needs expertise in platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, along with a good understanding of architecture design, automation, and DevOps practices.

Which companies in Portugal are hiring for tech positions?

Major Portuguese companies like Talkdesk, OutSystems, Feedzai, and CriticalTechWorks are actively hiring for various tech positions, including Software Engineers, Data Scientists, and DevOps Engineers.

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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.