Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in St Paul
Last Updated: December 26th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
The top 10 high-paying tech jobs in St. Paul highlight opportunities like Software Engineers earning up to $129,000 and Cloud Solutions Architects with salaries exceeding $200,000. The tech sector sees a 12% job growth from 2019-2024, adding 8,000 positions. Average tech salaries hit $92,500 in 2024, nearly double the private sector's. As the industry grows, roles like Data Scientists and Cybersecurity Analysts remain crucial, offering competitive salaries and significant opportunities for skilled professionals. This vibrant tech hub in Minnesota offers rewarding careers and substantial earning potential.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Tech jobs in St. Paul are where it's at! This city is blowing up as a major tech hub, and the demand for skilled techies is off the charts. Check out these mind-blowing stats:
- Massive growth in tech jobs from 2019 to 2024, with the Minneapolis-St. Paul area adding 8,000 tech jobs, marking an insane 12% spike!
- High salary benchmarks in 2024, with the average tech salary in St. Paul reaching $92,500, nearly double the overall private sector average of $51,600.
- According to surveys, Software Engineers in St. Paul can rake in a whopping $129,000 annually.
With fat paychecks and endless opportunities, pursuing a tech career in St. Paul is a total no-brainer. Tech jobs are all about solving problems and driving innovation, which keeps things fresh and exciting.
As Bill Gates said,
"If you think your teacher is tough, wait 'til you get a boss."
This blog breaks down the top 10 high-paying tech gigs in St. Paul to help you land that dream job and call the shots with your new boss. Check out Nucamp's complete guide to scoring a sweet tech role in this booming city!
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Selecting the Top 10 Tech Jobs
- 1. Software Engineer at 3M
- 2. Data Scientist at Ecolab
- 3. Cloud Solutions Architect at U.S. Bank
- 4. IT Manager at Medtronic
- 5. Cybersecurity Analyst at Target Corporation
- 6. Database Administrator at H.B. Fuller
- 7. UX Designer at Hubbard Broadcasting
- 8. Network Engineer at Xcel Energy
- 9. AI Specialist at St Jude Medical
- 10. Hardware Engineer at Smiths Medical
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Discover the vibrant tech industry in St Paul, where innovation meets opportunity.
Methodology for Selecting the Top 10 Tech Jobs
(Up)Ranking the top 10 highest-paying tech gigs in St. Paul ain't no walk in the park. We gotta be on point with our methodology, ya dig? That's why we're tapping into legit sources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, Glassdoor salary reports, and specialized job boards like Dice and CWJobs.
These bad boys give us the real scoop on tech salaries, job duties, and the skills employers are thirsty for.
Here's what we're looking at:
- Average annual salaries: We're all about those jobs with the fattest paychecks, based on the latest BLS data for the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington area and Glassdoor estimates.
- Job growth potential: We want careers that are blowing up over the next decade, according to BLS projections.
- Skill demand: Huge demand occurs when employers are going crazy trying to find folks with specific expertise; those roles are moving up our list.
- Industry significance: We're giving props to jobs that are driving innovation and keeping major St. Paul industries like healthcare, finance, and manufacturing at the top of their game.
Our process is like a well-oiled machine.
We start by compiling a massive list of tech jobs in the St. Paul area. Then, we analyze the salaries, growth projections, skill demand, and industry relevance for each one.
We've got a scoring system that assigns points to these factors, and the jobs with the highest total scores make the cut for our top 10 list. As that Google legend Laszlo Bock once said,
"Pay aside, the most lasting relationships with employees start with a great decision up front."
Our methodology is all about helping you make informed choices that align with your career goals and bank account ambitions.
1. Software Engineer at 3M
(Up)Let's talk about the sickest tech gig in St. Paul - being a Software Engineer at 3M.
The Twin Cities is lit when it comes to tech, and the demand for devs who can code is through the roof. We're talking an 18% year-over-year growth in software engineering roles, leaving the national average in the dust.
At the innovative giant 3M, these coding wizards are leading the charge in creating game-changing solutions across mad disciplines.
The pay range is insane, from $95K to $135K per year. But if you're a total boss with niche skills, you could be raking in over $150K easily.
To slay it as a Software Engineer at 3M, you gotta have these skills on lock:
- Coding ninja levels in Java, Python, C++
- Experience with agile methods that keep projects moving
- Crazy problem-solving abilities to tackle any challenge
- Knowing all the software design patterns and best practices like the back of your hand
Your work will span dope projects from building enterprise apps and data-crunching tools to pioneering cutting-edge tech in areas like:
- Internet of Things (IoT) that connects everything
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) that makes machines smarter
- Cloud computing that keeps data accessible anywhere
- Cybersecurity to protect against hackers
As a 3M engineer put it,
"You'll work on innovative projects that truly matter."
With an epic salary, challenging work, and limitless career growth, this role tops the list of St. Paul's highest-paying tech jobs.
2. Data Scientist at Ecolab
(Up)Let's talk about the second highest-paying tech gig in St Paul - Data Scientist at Ecolab.
This role is fire, especially if you're all about using data to solve real-world problems. Ecolab is a massive player in the water, hygiene, and infection prevention game, so they need data wizards to help them stay ahead of the curve.
As a Data Scientist at Ecolab, you'll be doing some seriously cool stuff like collecting and analyzing data from multiple sources, building predictive models using machine learning, and working with teams to turn those insights into game-changing strategies.
It's all about using data to drive innovation and keep Ecolab at the top of their game.
According to the research, the average base pay for a Data Scientist at Ecolab is a solid $112,000 per year.
But that's just the starting point - with the right skills and experience, you could be looking at salaries ranging from $90,000 to $140,000 or even higher. Not too shabby, right?
Of course, to land this kind of role, you'll need to bring some serious skills to the table.
We're talking a strong foundation in statistics, programming languages like Python and R, and a deep understanding of data mining techniques. Ecolab wants candidates with a master's degree in a quantitative field like Computer Science, Statistics, or Mathematics, plus at least 3 years of experience in data science, machine learning, or advanced analytics.
3. Cloud Solutions Architect at U.S. Bank
(Up)Here's the deal - U.S. Bank is straight-up killing it when it comes to cloud solutions in the financial world.
As the third top-paying tech gig on our list, being a Cloud Solutions Architect at this banking giant is a total score. These tech wizards are the masterminds behind designing and implementing the bank's entire cloud system, ensuring data stays secure, scalable, and cost-effective.
It's a crucial role in today's digital landscape.
According to the latest pay reports, a Cloud Solutions Architect at U.S. Bank in St. Paul can rake in an average annual salary between $125,000 to $175,000, and top performers are even pulling in over $200,000.
That's some serious cash flow, reflecting just how valuable cloud expertise is in the banking industry.
But landing this gig isn't a walk in the park.
You gotta have a diverse skill set that blends technical prowess with business savvy. We're talking expertise in major cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, the ability to design secure and scalable cloud architectures, mastery of DevOps methodologies and automation tools, and a solid grasp of security practices and compliance requirements in finance.
Oh, and let's not forget killer communication and problem-solving skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams and align cloud strategies with business goals.
4. IT Manager at Medtronic
(Up)Coming in at number four on our list of the top high-paying tech gigs in St. Paul is the IT Manager role at Medtronic, that super-dope medical tech company. This job is all about leading the charge and keeping those tech teams aligned, driving innovation and smashing goals.
With an average paycheck ranging from $120K to $180K per year according to Glassdoor in 2024, it's a sweet deal that'll have you living large.
Being an IT Manager at Medtronic is no joke – you gotta bring that leadership sauce to the table.
These tech bosses are tasked with steering the ship, fostering that team spirit, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. They need to be tech-savvy masterminds who can keep their squad motivated and crushing it like champs.
According to CIO Magazine, the key ingredients for a successful IT Manager include:
- Vision and Strategic Thinking: Ability to keep the team's efforts locked and loaded with the company's game plan, while staying ahead of the tech curve.
- Communication and People Skills: Translating complex tech jargon into a language everyone can vibe with and keeping that team dynamic tight.
- Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Tackling challenges head-on and making calls backed by solid data insights.
To score the IT Manager role at Medtronic, you'll need a bachelor's degree in a tech-related field like computer science or IT, plus at least 5-7 years of progressively more intense experience in IT leadership roles.
Knowing the ins and outs of the healthcare industry is a major plus. According to a report by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, IT Manager salaries in the state have been on a steady rise, projected to grow by 8% by 2026, solidifying this role as a lucrative career move.
5. Cybersecurity Analyst at Target Corporation
(Up)The retail game is getting crazy with all this tech stuff, and Target Corporation is right in the mix.
With so many customers' personal info and financial deets flying around, they need some serious cyber muscle to keep that data locked down tight.
These cybersecurity analysts at Target are like digital bodyguards, protecting the company from cyber punks trying to hack their way in.
They're building security systems, monitoring the networks 24/7, and shutting down any threats that come knocking.
The demand for these cyber warriors is skyrocketing! According to the Retail Cybersecurity Intelligence Sharing Center, the need for skilled cybersecurity pros in retail is expected to jump by 18% by 2026.
That's huge!
If you're looking to score one of these gigs at Target in St. Paul, you better bring your A-game. We're talking salaries ranging from $85,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on your skills and experience.
Not too shabby for keeping the cyber crooks at bay, right?
- Security Protocols: You'll be designing security protocols, assessing risks, monitoring network traffic, and jumping into action when a breach goes down.
- Team Collaboration: You'll also need to collaborate with different teams to ensure everything is legit and compliant.
To land this role, you'll need some serious tech chops – coding skills in Python, Java, and C++, knowledge of network security protocols, and familiarity with tools like Nessus, Metasploit, and Wireshark.
Plus, you gotta be a problem-solving genius and able to explain complex cyber stuff in plain English.
As the Online Trust Alliance CEO, Richard Wilson, puts it, "Cybersecurity is no longer an option but a necessity for businesses of all sizes." With the rise of cyber threats, Target and other retailers are doubling down on their security game, making this cybersecurity analyst role a hot ticket for tech-savvy peeps looking for an adrenaline-pumping career.
6. Database Administrator at H.B. Fuller
(Up)In this data-driven age, being a Database Admin (DBA) is where it's at, especially at a company like H.B. Fuller that relies heavily on managing massive amounts of data.
As a DBA at this leading adhesive manufacturer, you'll be the gatekeeper of their databases, ensuring the integrity, security, and peak performance of these crucial data vaults.
To rock this role, you'll need to be a SQL wizard, with mad skills in database management systems like Oracle, SQL Server, or PostgreSQL. But that's just the start – you'll also need to have a deep understanding of database architecture, security protocols, and backup/recovery procedures.
Essentially, you'll be a problem-solving machine, troubleshooting database issues, optimizing performance, and implementing killer data storage strategies.
Here's a snapshot of what you'll be doing as a DBA at H.B. Fuller:
- Designing: Building out database systems from scratch.
- Monitoring: Ensuring high availability and performance 24/7.
- Developing: Implementing bulletproof data backup and recovery plans.
- Securing: Keeping data compliant with industry regulations.
- Collaborating: Working with developers and data analysts to optimize data usage.
According to recent salary surveys, the average annual salary for a DBA in St. Paul is around $93,000. But if you're an experienced DBA with specialized skills and certifications, you could be pulling in over $120,000 easily.
And as you level up, you could even advance to senior roles like Data Architect or Chief Data Officer, where salaries can reach upwards of $150,000 or more.
With H.B. Fuller's data-driven operations expanding rapidly, the demand for skilled DBAs in St. Paul is only going to keep growing. If you've got the skills to manage and protect their data vault, this could be a seriously lucrative and rewarding career path.
7. UX Designer at Hubbard Broadcasting
(Up)Let me tell you about this sweet gig as a UX Designer at Hubbard Broadcasting. In today's digital world, creating a dope user experience is crucial for any tech company to stay on top.
At Hubbard, these designers are the ones making sure all their digital products not just look fire but also provide a smooth and engaging experience for users.
To crush it as a UX Designer at Hubbard, you gotta have that perfect blend of creative and technical skills.
On the creative side, you need to have a sharp eye for design principles, color theory, and typography. You should be a pro at wireframing, prototyping, and conducting user research to understand how people interact with your designs.
But that's not all, you also need to be skilled in design tools like Sketch, Adobe XD, and Figma, and know your way around coding languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
According to the latest salary surveys, the average annual pay for a UX Designer at Hubbard Broadcasting ranges from $85,000 to $120,000.
Not too shabby, right?
"In today's competitive digital scene, providing an exceptional user experience isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a must-have. As UX Designers, we have the power to shape how users interact with our products, and that's both exciting and rewarding."
The career path for UX Designers at Hubbard is diverse and full of potential.
You start off working on specific design projects under the guidance of senior designers like Barbara Jones. But as you gain experience and build a killer portfolio, you can level up to roles like Lead UX Designer, UX Architect, UX Manager, or even Head of User Experience.
These leadership roles not only pay more but also let you mentor junior designers, contribute to strategic product decisions, and drive innovation within the company.
8. Network Engineer at Xcel Energy
(Up)Coming in at number 8 on the list of high-paying tech jobs in St Paul is the role of Network Engineer at Xcel Energy.
This job is crucial for keeping the company's network running smoothly, ensuring all departments and operations stay connected without any hiccups. Being one of Minnesota's biggest utility providers, Xcel Energy needs skilled network pros to manage and optimize their important systems.
To crush it as a Network Engineer at Xcel Energy, you need a well-rounded skillset, including knowing how to design, set up, and troubleshoot networks.
You'll need expertise in areas like routing protocols, network security, and virtualization tech. According to job postings, the company values certifications like Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and experience with cloud networking solutions.
The financial rewards for Network Engineers at Xcel Energy are pretty sweet.
Industry salary surveys show the average annual pay for this role in St Paul is $85,000 to $120,000, with the potential for even higher compensation if you have advanced skills and lots of experience.
Some key factors that affect the salary range:
- Educational background: Your degree level (Bachelor's or Master's) is crucial.
- Years of experience: More experience equates to higher compensation.
- Certifications: Specialized training enhances salary potential.
- Network management skills: Ability to handle complex architectures is valued.
Moreover, the demand for skilled Network Engineers in Minnesota is on the rise, driven by the state's booming tech and utility industries.
"As organizations increasingly rely on cloud-based solutions and remote work setups, the need for robust and secure network infrastructures has skyrocketed,"
says Lisa Anderson, a career counselor at the University of Minnesota.
Xcel Energy, being a leader in sustainable energy, knows how crucial Network Engineers are for facilitating smooth operations and meeting industry-specific demands.
9. AI Specialist at St Jude Medical
(Up)The world of healthcare is getting a serious upgrade thanks to artificial intelligence (AI), and it's creating some sick job opportunities.
Companies like St. Jude Medical in St. Paul are leading the charge, and they need AI Specialists to take things to the next level. If you've got the skills, you could be raking in some serious cash while making a real difference.
To be an AI Specialist in the medical field, you need to be a multi-talented professional.
You need to know your way around machine learning algorithms, data analysis, and coding languages like Python and R. But that's not all – you also have to understand the intricacies of medical elements like imaging, electronic health records, and drug discovery.
And let's not forget communication skills, because you'll be working closely with doctors, researchers, and software engineers.
Now, let's talk about the bread – the salaries for AI Specialists in Minnesota are no joke.
We're looking at an average range of $90,000 to $130,000 per year, but for the real hotshots with proven success, it can skyrocket above $150,000.
Check out these juicy numbers:
- Entry-level AI Specialist: $80,000 - $95,000
- Mid-career AI Specialist: $100,000 - $125,000
- Senior AI Specialist: $120,000 - $160,000+
- AI Specialist Manager/Director: $150,000 - $200,000+
With AI transforming healthcare, companies like St.
Jude Medical are hungry for talented AI Specialists to drive innovation and create mind-blowing solutions. If you've got the right skills and passion, you could land a career opportunity that's not only lucrative but also makes a real impact on people's lives.
10. Hardware Engineer at Smiths Medical
(Up)Being a hardware engineer in the medical field is sick. At Smiths Medical in St. Paul, these tech wizards design the physical guts that make life-saving devices work their magic.
From building circuit boards to coding microchips that power equipment, their job is all about ensuring medical tech operates smoothly and safely. To rock this role, you need skills like circuit design, embedded systems know-how, prototyping, and project management chops.
We're talking about combining electrical engineering, computer skills, and mechanical talents all in one boss package.
Becoming a medical device engineer means being paid the big bucks too.
These tech gurus at Smiths rake in around $85K to $120K yearly, depending on experience. That's a solid paycheck while doing work that directly improves patient care.
As the demand for data-savvy roles grows, hardware engineers have a promising future designing tech that revolutionizes healthcare.
This cutting-edge career path should be on your radar.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What is the growth and salary trend for tech jobs in St. Paul?
Between 2019 to 2024, the Minneapolis-St. Paul area is expected to add 8,000 tech jobs, a 12% increase. The average tech salary in St. Paul in 2024 is $92,500, nearly double the private sector average of $51,600.
What skills are required for a Software Engineer at 3M in St. Paul?
A Software Engineer at 3M requires strong coding skills in Java, Python, and C++, experience with agile methods, problem-solving abilities, and expertise in software design patterns. The salary range is from $95K to $135K, with potential earnings over $150K for senior positions.
What does a Data Scientist at Ecolab do and how much can they earn?
A Data Scientist at Ecolab uses data to drive innovation, build predictive models, and develop strategies. They need expertise in statistics, programming languages like Python and R, and a master's degree in a quantitative field. Their salary ranges from $90,000 to $140,000 per year.
What is the role and compensation for a Cloud Solutions Architect at U.S. Bank?
A Cloud Solutions Architect at U.S. Bank designs and implements cloud systems. The role requires expertise in AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, DevOps methodologies, and financial compliance. Compensation ranges from $130K to $200K annually.
How is the demand for cybersecurity professionals, and what are the earning prospects at Target Corporation?
The demand for cybersecurity analysts in retail is expected to grow by 18% by 2026. At Target Corporation, cybersecurity analysts earn between $85,000 and $120,000 annually, with responsibilities including designing security protocols and risk assessments.
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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.