Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Rochester in 2025

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 26th 2024

Rochester, MN skyline with tech industry icons representing top-paid jobs in 2025.

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Rochester's tech industry is booming in 2025, projected to add over 22,000 jobs. High-demand roles include Cloud Solutions Architect with salaries of $177,750, Data Scientist at $122,840, and Network Engineer at $163,500. The city leads in healthcare tech innovation, offering competitive salaries and excellent growth opportunities, emphasizing AI and cybersecurity skills.

Rochester's tech scene in 2025 is absolutely crushing it! The area leads Minnesota with a stellar 3.6% job growth rate, making it the perfect spot for tech professionals looking to level up their careers.

The numbers are mind-blowing - tech companies are projected to add over 22,000 new jobs by the end of the year, with salaries that'll make your head spin. The focus has shifted to AI and machine learning, with 60% of tech managers actively hiring for AI-related positions.

Check out these current salary ranges:

  • Cloud Solutions Architect: Exploring cutting-edge cloud technologies with a salary of $177,750.
  • Data Scientist: Unlocking insights from data, earning $122,840.
  • Network Engineer: Ensuring seamless network operations with a paycheck of $163,500.

What's really exciting is that Minnesota ranks third nationally for job opportunities, with Rochester leading the charge in healthcare tech innovation.

The city's tech firms aren't just hiring - they're competing hard for talent, offering amazing benefits and competitive salaries. Whether you're fresh out of school or switching careers, Rochester's tech scene is ready to welcome new talent with open arms.

The following sections break down everything you need to know about landing these sweet tech gigs.

Table of Contents

  • Methodology of Identifying Top Tech Jobs
  • Cloud Architect: Designing the Future
  • Network Security Engineer: Guarding Digital Frontiers
  • Data Scientist: Crafting Insights from Data
  • Machine Learning Engineer: Innovating with Algorithms
  • Cybersecurity Engineer: Fortifying Against Threats
  • Software Engineer: Building the Digital World
  • Penetration Tester: Simulating Cyber Attacks
  • AI Research Scientist: Pioneering Intelligent Solutions
  • DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations
  • Information Security Analyst: Safeguarding Data Integrity
  • Preparing for a Successful Tech Career in Rochester
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology of Identifying Top Tech Jobs

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We break down how we figured out the best tech jobs in Rochester for 2025. We started by pulling data from trusted industry sources, which showed over 22,000 new tech jobs coming to Rochester by 2024.

The research wasn't just about counting job posts - we tracked salary trends, growth patterns, and what skills companies actually want. According to recent state-level data, Minnesota ranks third nationwide for job opportunities, with Rochester leading the charge in tech sector growth.

This matches up perfectly with what we're seeing from major employers like Mayo Clinic, which is currently hiring heavily in AI and machine learning.

We looked at real salary numbers, finding that Software Development Managers top the list at $141,730 annually, followed by Systems Architects at $144,340 and Data Scientists at $122,840.

These roles often value skills and certifications as much as traditional degrees, making them accessible through multiple career paths. Our scoring system considered everything from job posting frequency to actual hiring rates, giving you the real story about where the money and opportunities are in Rochester's tech scene.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

Cloud Architect: Designing the Future

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Cloud Architects are shaping the digital landscape of Rochester, MN in 2025, and their role has become crucial. According to recent industry analysis, these professionals manage entire cloud computing strategies, from infrastructure design to system integration.

Their work involves conducting detailed analysis, designing scalable solutions, and ensuring rock-solid security measures. The average salary for AWS Cloud Architects in Rochester starts around $102,517, with experienced professionals earning up to $130,337.

  • Exciting Role: Mix of technical and leadership responsibilities - Cloud Architects need to master both the technical aspects and team collaboration.
  • Technical Skills: Serious skills in cloud platforms like AWS and Azure are required, but it’s not just about the tech specs.
  • Problem Solvers: Need to be expert problem-solvers who can assess business requirements, plan network installations, and guide technical projects from start to finish.
  • Educational Requirement: Position typically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science, plus about five years of hands-on experience.
  • Continued Demand: With more businesses moving to cloud-based solutions, the demand for skilled Cloud Architects keeps growing.

According to Robert Half's job analysis, these professionals need expert problem-solving skills to assess business requirements, plan network installations, and guide technical projects from start to finish.

The position typically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science, plus about five years of hands-on experience with network systems, advanced routing, and security protocols.

With more businesses moving to cloud-based solutions, the demand for skilled Cloud Architects keeps growing, making it one of the most stable and well-compensated tech careers in Rochester right now.

Network Security Engineer: Guarding Digital Frontiers

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In 2025, Network Security Engineering stands as one of the most crucial tech roles in Rochester, MN. According to recent job market data, these professionals handle everything from installing and managing security solutions to troubleshooting complex network issues.

The role has evolved beyond basic security maintenance - now it's about staying one step ahead of cyber threats. What makes this position particularly exciting is the blend of technical skills and problem-solving required.

A typical day involves maintaining network stability, conducting security tests, and implementing cutting-edge protection measures.

The position requires strong technical knowledge in network protocols, authentication systems, and security administration.

What's really cool is how major employers like Mayo Clinic are now offering remote work options, making these roles more flexible than ever.

The average salary range hits between $128,000 to $132,000 annually, which is pretty amazing for professionals in this field. Skills in high demand include vulnerability identification, risk analysis, and the ability to work with various security tools.

Many employers look for candidates with a bachelor's degree in a technical field, but what really counts is hands-on experience with current security technologies.

The growth in this field is massive, especially with Rochester's expanding healthcare tech sector.

Organizations need skilled professionals who can protect their networks from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. The cool thing about being a Network Security Engineer is that you're literally defending digital assets while working with cutting-edge technology.

Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn, whether you're managing firewalls, detecting intrusions, or developing security strategies. For anyone interested in technology and cybersecurity, this career path offers both stability and excitement.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

Data Scientist: Crafting Insights from Data

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Data Scientists are crushing it in Rochester's tech scene right now. According to recent industry reports, the national mid-level salary ranges from $110,131 to $123,925, with Rochester's compensation staying competitive due to major players like Mayo Clinic.

Speaking of Mayo, their Data Science positions focus on analyzing massive healthcare datasets to uncover patterns that impact patient care.

The job market is seriously hot, with projections showing 73,100 new data science jobs opening up between 2023 and 2033. Essential skills include statistical modeling, machine learning, and data visualization - basically all the tools needed to turn raw data into something useful.

Minnesota's job market analysis shows Data Scientists among the top 15 fastest-growing roles.

Many companies are offering remote work options, making it possible to work for Rochester-based companies from anywhere. If you're thinking about getting into this field, now's definitely the time - companies are searching for people who can handle Python, create predictive models, and work with AI tools.

The demand is real, especially in healthcare tech, where Rochester's standing as a medical hub creates tons of opportunities for data professionals to make a real impact on patient care and medical research.

Machine Learning Engineer: Innovating with Algorithms

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Machine Learning Engineers in Rochester, MN, are driving AI innovation in 2025, creating systems that actually learn and improve from experience. Working at organizations like Mayo Clinic, these professionals bridge the gap between data science and software engineering, turning complex algorithms into real-world solutions.

Their daily work involves designing ML systems from scratch, optimizing algorithms for better performance, and making sure everything runs smoothly in production environments.

They get to collaborate with different teams to transform early prototypes into working applications that solve actual problems.

To make it in this field, you need solid skills in programming, cloud platforms, and distributed computing.

You've got to stay on top of new technologies while handling the practical aspects of deploying and maintaining ML models. Companies are actively hiring for these roles, offering competitive salaries that reflect the high demand.

In Rochester, the combination of healthcare tech expansion and the growing need for AI solutions has created amazing opportunities for ML Engineers willing to push boundaries and tackle complex challenges.

The job market is seriously hot right now, with ML Engineers being some of the most sought-after tech professionals in the region.

Whether you're working on healthcare applications at Mayo Clinic or developing innovative solutions for other tech companies in Rochester, there's no shortage of exciting projects to work on.

The field keeps evolving, and that's exactly what makes it such an awesome career choice for anyone passionate about technology and problem-solving.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

Cybersecurity Engineer: Fortifying Against Threats

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As a Cybersecurity Engineer in Rochester, you'll be on the frontlines of digital defense, protecting sensitive data and systems from cyber threats.

The role combines technical expertise with problem-solving skills, making it perfect for tech enthusiasts who love a challenge. In 2025, key responsibilities include vulnerability testing, implementing secure networks, and managing security tools like firewalls and intrusion detection systems.

According to recent data, the global cost of cybercrime is expected to hit $10.5 trillion annually, making this career path more crucial than ever.

The financial rewards are seriously impressive - salary ranges for Cybersecurity Engineers typically fall between $101,120 and $143,630, with experienced professionals earning even more.

At Mayo Clinic and other major employers in Rochester, you'll find competitive compensation packages that reflect the high demand for cybersecurity talent. Plus, with over 663,434 cybersecurity job openings nationwide, career growth opportunities are endless.

Want to break into this field? Start by getting hands-on experience with security tools and earning key certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. The latest job postings show employers are looking for skills in vulnerability identification, impact analysis, and risk assessment.

While a bachelor's degree in computer science or cybersecurity is typically required, what really matters is your ability to stay current with emerging threats and technologies.

The learning never stops in this field - but that's what makes it so exciting and rewarding.

Rochester's tech scene is booming, and the need for cybersecurity experts is growing with it.

If you're interested in protecting digital assets and fighting cyber threats, this career path offers both stability and excitement. The best part? Many positions now offer remote work options, giving you flexibility while you build your career in this dynamic field.

Software Engineer: Building the Digital World

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Software Engineering in Rochester, MN, has transformed into something way bigger than just coding - it's about creating real impact in 2025. According to Mayo Clinic's latest job postings, Software Engineers are now leading microservices, mobile, and web engineering teams, showing how diverse the role has become.

The demand is super high, with software developer positions in Rochester offering salaries ranging from $80,000 to $147,000. Western Digital and Mayo Clinic are actively recruiting talent, especially those skilled in Python, Java, and cloud technologies.

Companies in Rochester are looking for people who can handle both technical stuff and real-world problem-solving.

The average compensation package is now hitting $115,000 annually, making it seriously attractive for anyone considering this career path.

What makes Rochester unique is how software development connects with healthcare innovation.

Major tech employers are focusing on things like storage device validation, automation, and enterprise-level solutions.

It's not just about writing code anymore - you need to understand user experience, work in Agile teams, and stay current with emerging technologies. The industry here keeps growing, with opportunities in healthcare tech, data science, and system integration.

Rochester's software scene is perfect for anyone who wants to build tech that actually matters while earning competitive pay. If you're thinking about becoming a Software Engineer, now's definitely the time to jump in - the field is growing fast, and the opportunities are pretty much endless.

Penetration Tester: Simulating Cyber Attacks

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In 2025, Penetration Testing has become one of the most exciting careers in Rochester's tech scene.

These digital security experts are basically professional hackers who get paid to break into systems - legally, of course! The role involves running simulated cyber attacks to find weak spots before actual criminals do.

Think of it like being a security consultant who stress-tests everything from apps and networks to physical security measures.

According to recent data, Penetration Testers earn between $97,000 and $132,500 annually, with top performers making up to $156,000.

The daily work is super diverse, including everything from threat modeling and vulnerability scanning to social engineering exercises.

What's really cool is that no two days are the same - you might be testing a new network one day and conducting physical security assessments the next. The toolset is equally impressive, with testers using cutting-edge tech like Kali Linux, Metasploit, and Burp Suite.

“The path to becoming a Penetration Tester is pretty straightforward: you'll need solid programming skills in languages like Python and Bash, plus certifications like CEH or OSCP really help you stand out.”

The best part? The field is growing super fast, with a projected 32% growth rate through 2032.

That's massive compared to other tech jobs, making it an amazing career choice for anyone interested in cybersecurity. Plus, with more companies moving to remote work, many of these positions offer the flexibility to work from home.

AI Research Scientist: Pioneering Intelligent Solutions

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Being an AI Research Scientist in 2025 means you're literally shaping the future of technology.

The role combines creative problem-solving with cutting-edge innovation, as you develop algorithms and design AI models that push technological boundaries. Working with diverse teams, you'll apply AI solutions across industries, from gaming to healthcare.

The coolest part? You're always learning something new, experimenting with the latest AI tech, and finding ways to make machines smarter.

To crush it in this field, you need serious technical skills.

Essential requirements include mastering Python, getting comfortable with machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch, and having a solid grasp of statistical analysis.

What makes this career extra exciting is the chance to work with cutting-edge tools like large language models, neural networks, and emerging AI technologies.

Trust me, it's mind-blowing how quickly everything evolves in this space.

The job scene for AI Research Scientists in Rochester is seriously taking off.

According to recent industry data, salaries are now ranging from $117,700 to $165,700 annually, depending on your expertise and experience.

Major organizations, especially in healthcare tech, are investing heavily in AI research, making this career path not just financially rewarding but also incredibly impactful.

The surge in remote work opportunities means you can collaborate with teams worldwide while being based in Rochester, opening up even more possibilities for growth and innovation.

DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations

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As a DevOps Engineer in Rochester, MN, you're basically the tech world's ultimate problem-solver, connecting development and operations teams to create smooth, efficient workflows.

According to Robert Half's latest research, the role requires strong analytical skills and typically needs a bachelor's degree in computer science.

The work is super hands-on - you'll be automating processes, working with multiple programming languages like Python and Java, and using cool tools like Ansible and Chef.

Mayo Clinic's Center for Digital Health offers competitive salaries ranging from $86,569 to $121,180 annually, making it a seriously rewarding career choice.

Organizations like Spectrum are actively recruiting DevOps talent, offering incredible internship opportunities that focus on automating processes and optimizing application performance.

Essential skills include cloud platform expertise (AWS/Azure), containerization knowledge (Docker/Kubernetes), and version control mastery (Git). With remote work options becoming standard and a projected 28% job growth over the next five years, there's never been a better time to jump into DevOps.

Whether you're starting with an internship or diving straight into a full-time role, the field offers endless opportunities to learn, grow, and make a real impact on how technology works.

Information Security Analyst: Safeguarding Data Integrity

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Information Security Analysts are the frontline defenders of our digital world in 2025, and their role has become super critical here in Rochester, MN. These tech professionals are the masterminds behind protecting organizations from cyber threats, which is absolutely essential as attacks get more sophisticated.

According to recent industry research, the most in-demand skills now include Python scripting, cloud security expertise, and mastery of threat detection systems.

The field is seriously rewarding too - analysts with cloud security skills can earn premium salaries exceeding $15,000 above the base rate.

What makes this role amazing is how dynamic it is.

The latest job data shows that analysts don't just monitor systems - they're constantly investigating new hacking trends, implementing cutting-edge security measures, and protecting against ransomware and other cyber threats.

Major employers in Rochester, including healthcare giants and tech companies, are actively seeking analysts who can handle both technical challenges and communicate effectively with teams.

The career outlook is incredible - the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects massive growth in this field, way faster than average job growth.

In Rochester, analysts are earning competitive salaries starting around $105,000 annually, with plenty of room for growth as you gain experience. The best part? You get to work with cutting-edge tech while actually making a difference, protecting sensitive data and stopping cyber criminals in their tracks.

Whether you're into ethical hacking, threat analysis, or incident response, there's a specialization path for everyone in this field.

Preparing for a Successful Tech Career in Rochester

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Breaking into Rochester's tech scene in 2025 is genuinely exciting, with the city experiencing a serious tech transformation. According to recent industry reports, Minnesota's tech sector contributes $31 billion annually to the economy, making it a prime spot for career starters.

The path to success starts with solid education - whether through traditional routes like the University of Minnesota Rochester or through specialized bootcamps focusing on in-demand skills like Python, JavaScript, and cloud computing.

What's really cool is that Nucamp's Full Stack Web + Mobile Development bootcamp offers Google Cloud content with scholarship opportunities, perfect for getting started in just 22 weeks.

The tech community here is super active and welcoming.

Local tech events happen all the time, and they're perfect for meeting people who are already working in the field.

Places like Collider Coworking are always buzzing with tech professionals, and the Minnesota Technology Association runs events where you can connect with others who share your interests.

Even better, Rochester's major employers, especially in healthcare tech, are actively looking for fresh talent.

The most important thing I've learned? Never stop learning.

Tech professionals on Reddit consistently emphasize the importance of staying current with new technologies.

Whether it's getting certifications in cybersecurity, mastering cloud platforms, or learning about AI, there's always something new to explore. With entry-level tech salaries ranging from $75,000 to $95,000, and remote work options becoming more common, the effort definitely pays off.

Just remember to build a solid portfolio of projects while you're learning - it's what employers actually want to see.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the projected new tech job openings in Rochester by 2025?

Tech companies in Rochester are projected to add over 22,000 new jobs by the end of 2025, with a significant focus on AI-related positions.

Which tech job roles are currently offering the highest salaries in Rochester?

Some of the best-paid tech job roles in Rochester include Cloud Solutions Architect with a salary of $177,750, Network Engineer earning $163,500, and Software Development Managers topping the list at $141,730 annually.

How does Rochester fare in terms of tech sector growth compared to other locations?

Rochester is leading in tech sector growth, with Minnesota ranking third nationwide for job opportunities. The city's tech scene is particularly strong in healthcare tech innovation.

What educational background is typically required for a Cloud Architect in Rochester?

To become a Cloud Architect in Rochester, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science, along with about five years of hands-on experience in areas like network systems, advanced routing, and security protocols.

What skills are in demand for a Network Security Engineer in Rochester?

Skills in high demand for a Network Security Engineer include vulnerability identification, risk analysis, and proficiency in network protocols, authentication systems, and security administration.

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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.