Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Rochester in 2025

Rochester's tech scene is absolutely exploding in 2025! The region just secured a massive $40 million federal tech hub grant that's transforming the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse corridor into America's semiconductor superhighway.

Companies like Micron Technology are creating 9,000 direct jobs and 40,000 indirect positions in the region.

The tech boom isn't just about semiconductors - Rochester's seeing growth in software development, cloud computing, and data science. What's super exciting is that by 2030, the semiconductor industry alone will need to fill 115,000 jobs.

The most in-demand roles right now include:

• Semiconductor Engineers: They play a crucial role in the tech revolution, focusing on the design and development of semiconductors.
• Software Developers: These professionals are essential for creating the software solutions driving the tech industry forward.
• Cloud Solutions Architects: They design and manage cloud environments, ensuring efficient and scalable solutions.
• AI/ML Engineers: These experts develop artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms powering smart technologies.
• Cybersecurity Specialists: Their main task is to protect digital assets from cyber threats, ensuring data security.

If you're looking to break into tech, Rochester's the perfect place to start.

Companies are investing billions in the region, and they're actively recruiting talent at all levels. The tech hub designation means we'll see even more growth in emerging fields like AI and quantum computing.

Let's dive into the highest-paying tech jobs you can land in Rochester this year!

When putting together this ranking of Rochester's best-paid tech jobs for 2025, I made sure to dig deep into the latest data from multiple sources. Recent market analysis shows tech jobs are growing twice as fast as other sectors, with an expected jump from 6 million to 7.1 million jobs by 2034.

The salary criteria started at $100,000 annually, but what's really interesting is that skills like data strategy and security architecture can add premium pay bumps of 18-22% to base salaries.

I looked at which companies are actively hiring in Rochester and found that many are desperately seeking talent - actually, 95% of tech leaders say they're struggling to find skilled workers.

This means serious negotiating power for job seekers in fields like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. The data shows cybersecurity analysts can make between $90,000-$130,000, while AI specialists often pull in $120,000-$160,000, with senior roles pushing past $200,000.

Beyond just the numbers, I factored in which roles have staying power based on industry growth predictions and emerging tech trends. These aren't just high-paying jobs - they're careers with real potential for advancement as technology keeps evolving.

The role of a Cloud Architect has completely transformed in 2025, becoming one of the most exciting career paths in tech. These professionals are the masterminds who design, plan, and manage an organization's entire cloud computing strategy.

What makes this role interesting is the mix of technical skills and problem-solving abilities needed to create scalable cloud solutions. The average salary is looking pretty sweet too - Cloud Architects are earning between $128,418 to $167,000 annually, with specialized roles bringing in even more.

According to my research, 82% of Cloud Architects report being satisfied with their jobs, which isn't surprising given how much impact they have on shaping modern tech.

The day-to-day responsibilities are varied and challenging.

Cloud Architects need to stay on top of the latest cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, while also handling things like security protocols and cost optimization.

What's really cool about this role is that it combines both technical expertise and communication skills - you get to work with different teams and explain complex tech concepts to non-technical people.

Major companies in Rochester are actively looking for Cloud Architects who can lead their digital transformation efforts, making it a perfect time to jump into this field.

If you're thinking about becoming a Cloud Architect, start by getting solid experience in networking and systems design, then work your way up through cloud certifications.

Companies like Dover Corporation and BroadComm are always on the lookout for talented Cloud Architects, and the demand is only growing. With remote work becoming more common, the opportunities in this field are practically limitless.

It's definitely one of those roles where you can make a real difference while building a seriously rewarding career.

1. Cloud Strategy: Design, plan, and manage an organization's cloud computing strategy to ensure efficient operations.
2. Job Satisfaction: 82% of Cloud Architects report being satisfied, highlighting the impact they have on tech development.
3. Technical Expertise: Combines technical skills with communication to explain complex concepts to non-technical people.
4. Company Demand: Major companies in Rochester are seeking Cloud Architects for digital transformations.
5. Career Growth: Gain experience in networking, systems design, and pursue certifications for career advancement.
6. Remote Opportunities: The rise of remote work has expanded opportunities in the field of Cloud Architecture.

As a Machine Learning Engineer in Rochester, you get to be part of something seriously cool - creating AI systems that can think and learn on their own.

Machine learning engineers are key players in AI innovation, working on everything from designing smart algorithms to implementing systems that learn from experience.

The best part? The field is absolutely exploding right now.

The money is pretty amazing too. Machine learning engineers in Rochester are making between $121,000 to $193,000 annually, with experienced pros pulling in even more.

The role requires solid skills in programming, data analysis, and model development, but the payoff is worth it.

Plus, most companies offer sweet perks like hybrid work options and performance bonuses.

The job market is super hot, with major tech companies competing for talent.

Companies are looking for engineers who can design, implement, and maintain ML applications, especially those who know their way around Python, TensorFlow, and cloud platforms.

What's really exciting is how the role keeps evolving - you're not just coding, you're building systems that could power self-driving cars or create next-gen recommendation engines.

Companies in Rochester are investing heavily in AI, offering tons of opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects.

Whether you're fresh out of college or switching careers, the field is wide open for people ready to dive into machine learning. The key is staying current with the latest tech and being ready to adapt as AI keeps changing the game.

Data Science is absolutely crushing it in Rochester's tech scene right now. According to RIT's latest program data, fresh graduates are landing median first-year salaries of $131,200, making it one of the hottest career paths in 2025.

The role demands serious skills in machine learning, programming, and statistical analysis, but the payoff is worth it. Data scientists here aren't just number crunchers - they're driving real change by turning massive datasets into actionable insights that companies actually use.

Top employers like IBM, Amazon, and Microsoft are constantly searching for talent, offering both competitive pay and chances to work with cutting-edge tech. Recent job listings show that most positions require 5-10 years of experience in computer science or information systems, plus strong skills in Python, Java, and SQL. Entry-level positions through programs like Red Ventures' Launch Program are offering starting salaries around $95,000 with amazing benefits like flexible PTO and comprehensive healthcare.

The job market is expanding rapidly, with opportunities ranging from startups to major corporations. If you're into solving complex problems and have a knack for analytics, this field is seriously worth checking out.

The best part? Rochester's tech community is growing fast, and companies are investing heavily in data science talent to stay competitive in the global market.

Software engineers are shaping our digital future right now. As key architects of the digital world, we're responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the applications that power today's tech.

Everything from the apps on your phone to complex business systems starts with us writing code. The role isn't just about programming though - we're actually solving real problems and making things work better for everyone.

Remote work has totally changed the game, letting us collaborate with teams worldwide while using AI tools to speed up our workflow.

The pay is seriously impressive in Rochester, hitting around $120,000 annually, which goes even further thanks to the city's lower living costs.

When you consider that entry-level positions at major tech companies start between $99,500 and $200,000, it's clear that this career path has some serious potential.

Plus, Rochester's cost of living being 8% below the national average means you can save more while building your career.

Companies like Stripe, Cruise, and Roku are always searching for engineers who can handle the latest tech - we're talking AI, cloud computing, and cutting-edge security.

What's cool is that each company offers different challenges: Stripe's revolutionizing payments, Cruise is making self-driving cars a reality, and Roku's changing how we stream content.

Working at these places isn't just about coding - it's about being part of something bigger and constantly learning new skills to stay ahead of tech trends.

In 2025, Rochester's tech scene is buzzing with opportunities for Network Security Engineers, the digital defenders who keep cyber threats at bay.

These professionals are responsible for designing secure network solutions, monitoring security incidents, and responding to emerging threats.

Their daily work involves everything from configuring firewalls to managing VPNs and conducting risk assessments. The role is seriously in demand - with starting salaries around $110,000 to $156,000 annually in Rochester, depending on experience and expertise.

Major employers like Mayo Clinic and tech giants are actively seeking security talent.

Mayo Clinic's security engineering positions focus heavily on penetration testing and vulnerability research, offering both on-site and remote opportunities.

The work environment is getting more flexible too - many companies now offer hybrid or remote positions, making it easier to maintain work-life balance while protecting critical infrastructure.

To succeed in this field, you'll need solid technical skills and certifications.

Network security professionals are expected to work independently, handling everything from malware prevention to security advisory monitoring.

The most successful engineers combine technical expertise with strong problem-solving abilities. What's really cool is how the field keeps evolving - there's always something new to learn, whether it's the latest security tools or emerging threat patterns.

Bottom line: Network Security Engineers in Rochester aren't just tech professionals - they're essential guardians of digital assets, earning competitive salaries while working on the cutting edge of cybersecurity.

The role offers both stability and growth potential, making it an awesome career choice for those interested in tech and security.

As a cybersecurity engineer in 2025, you're basically the guardian of the digital realm, protecting networks and systems from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

The role has evolved way beyond just setting up firewalls - now you're designing complete security architectures and staying one step ahead of potential attacks.

Entry-level positions start around $80,000, with experienced professionals in Rochester earning upwards of $140,000 annually.

The field is absolutely exploding, with a projected 35% job growth through 2031.

Major tech companies are seriously investing in cybersecurity talent.

Companies like Meta and Google aren't just looking for tech skills - they want innovative thinkers who can spot vulnerabilities before they become problems. Security engineers often lead teams and collaborate across departments, making this role perfect for people who love both tech and teamwork.

The continuous learning aspect is super exciting - you're always working with new tools and tackling fresh challenges.

Beyond just protecting data, cybersecurity engineers are critical for building trust between companies and their users.

The role requires solid skills in network security, encryption, and threat detection, plus certifications like CISSP or CEH can really boost your career prospects.

What makes this job especially cool is how it combines technical expertise with problem-solving - you're basically a digital detective, identifying and neutralizing threats before they can cause damage.

The role continues to evolve with emerging technologies, making it an incredible career choice for anyone passionate about tech and security.

With Rochester's growing tech scene, cybersecurity engineers are becoming more crucial than ever in protecting our digital future.

In Rochester's tech scene, DevOps Engineers are the real MVPs of 2025, making everything run smoothly behind the scenes. These pros are changing the game as automation experts who streamline software deployment and operations, pushing teams to work faster and smarter.

This role requires strong observability skills, covering everything from metrics to logs and traces.

The pay is impressive - DevOps Engineers in Rochester are pulling in around $135,000 yearly, which is worth it considering the skills they bring to the table.

The job is all about making tech work better.

These engineers need solid project management skills and experience with release management tools, plus they have to stay on top of the latest cloud platforms and security protocols.

Key responsibilities include:

• Cloud Infrastructure: Setting up and maintaining cloud infrastructure
• Automation Pipelines: Building and running automated pipelines
• System Security: Making sure systems are secure and reliable

Major tech companies in Rochester are constantly looking for DevOps talent to level up their teams.

The role has transformed how software gets made - it's not just about coding anymore, it's about making everything work together perfectly. For anyone looking to get into this field, learning tools like Jenkins, Kubernetes, and AWS is essential.

If you're into both coding and problem-solving, becoming a DevOps Engineer is a solid career move that lets you work with cutting-edge tech while making bank.

As an Information Security Analyst, I protect organizations from cyber threats while earning competitive pay - we're talking about $120,000 annually in Rochester for 2025.

It's seriously intense work, but I get to be the superhero of the digital world, defending against hackers and keeping sensitive data safe. The coolest part? According to industry experts, the field is growing super fast, with a projected 33% growth by 2030, which means about 47,100 new jobs.

I spend my days hunting for vulnerabilities, running security tests, and making sure our systems are bulletproof. The best part is getting to work with cutting-edge tech while keeping people's information secure.

My daily responsibilities include:

• Security checks: Running security checks and monitoring network activity to ensure everything is secure.
• Testing vulnerabilities: Testing for weak spots in our systems to protect against potential threats.
• Updating protocols: Creating and updating security protocols to maintain strong defensive measures.
• Online safety education: Teaching others about staying safe online to promote better cybersecurity practices.

The tech giants are constantly looking for talented analysts.

I've noticed that major companies like Google, NVIDIA, and Meta offer amazing opportunities, with competitive salaries and chances to work on groundbreaking projects.

The field keeps evolving, so I'm always learning new things and staying updated with the latest security trends. There's never a dull moment when you're protecting against cyber threats!

Being an Information Security Analyst isn't just about the technical stuff - it's about being the guardian of digital trust.

If you're thinking about getting into this field, start building your skills in cybersecurity and networking with other professionals. Trust me, it's worth it!

In 2025, penetration testers are the digital defenders who keep organizations safe from cyber threats. As an ethical hacker working in cybersecurity, these professionals conduct authorized attacks on computer systems to find vulnerabilities before malicious hackers do.

The role requires a mix of technical expertise and creative problem-solving skills, with professionals needing to master tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Kali Linux.

Rochester's tech scene is particularly hot for pen testers, with salaries averaging $121,943 annually, reflecting both the high demand and specialized skills required.

Pen testing responsibilities include performing tests on applications and networks, assessing physical security measures, and conducting thorough security audits.

The real excitement comes from thinking like a hacker while staying on the right side of the law. Companies are seriously investing in security, with job growth projected at 32% through 2032.

The position requires strong technical skills in programming languages like Python and Bash, plus the ability to write clear reports explaining complex security issues to both tech teams and executives.

For anyone interested in starting this career, getting certifications like OSCP or CEH is crucial, but what's even more important is hands-on experience through bug bounty programs and practice environments.

The best part? Many roles are now remote-friendly, offering flexibility while protecting organizations from cyber threats.

AI Research Scientists are crushing it in 2025, with salaries hitting new heights - top companies like Google offering packages up to $692,500 for experienced researchers.

Here in Rochester, the opportunities are growing fast, with major tech players competing for talent. AI researchers spend their days developing cutting-edge machine learning algorithms and turning complex data into real-world solutions.

Even government agencies like FDNY are getting in on the action, offering positions between $106,117 and $137,639 for qualified scientists who can help improve city services.

Companies like IBM are focusing on human-centered AI, working on everything from visual data exploration to making AI systems more trustworthy and explainable.

The tech giants aren't just throwing money at researchers - they're offering incredible opportunities to work on projects that could literally change the world.

Check out these current market rates:

• Meta: Base salary around $190,000, focusing on social connectivity AI.
• Samsung Research America: Approximately $182,000, pioneering smart device innovation.
• Intel: Over $188,000, pushing boundaries in AI computing.

For anyone interested in becoming an AI Research Scientist, the path usually requires a master's or Ph.D. in computer science, statistics, or a related field.

But the investment in education totally pays off - you get to be at the forefront of tech innovation while earning serious money. Plus, you're not just coding all day - you're solving real problems and creating solutions that impact millions of people.

It's literally the perfect mix of challenging work and awesome rewards.

Rochester's tech scene is absolutely exploding right now! CBRE just ranked Rochester as the #10 up-and-coming tech talent market in North America, which is huge for job seekers like me.

The numbers are impressive - tech jobs are growing at 12.6% through 2030, way faster than other fields. What's really cool is that the average tech salary here hits $95,490, and major players like Paychex, Datto, and Xerox are always on the lookout for fresh talent.

Want to break into tech? Here's what's working in 2025:

• Start with the basics: Python, JavaScript, and cloud platforms are must-haves.
• Build your portfolio through real projects - companies want to see what you can actually do.
• Get involved with Rochester's tech community through meetups and hackathons.

The best part? The tech field is expected to add over 356,700 job openings annually, and many companies are loosening their experience requirements to fill positions faster.

Whether you're into AI, cybersecurity, or software development, Rochester's tech ecosystem has room for everyone. The key is to stay current with tech trends and keep building your skills.

With multiple learning paths available through bootcamps, college programs, and online courses, there's never been a better time to launch a tech career in Rochester.