Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in St Paul in 2025
Last Updated: December 26th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
In 2025, St. Paul's tech industry will feature over 211,000 jobs, contributing $31 billion to Minnesota's economy. High-paying roles include Cloud Architects ($146K), Network Security Engineers ($115K), and AI Specialists ($180K). Skills in AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity are in demand, while traditional degrees become less critical. Companies prioritize skills and certifications, offering complex roles with growth opportunities. Rapid industry growth and competitive salaries promise a golden era for tech professionals in St. Paul.
The tech scene in St. Paul is seriously taking off, with projected growth hitting 20% across various tech roles by 2025.
The numbers are pretty wild - we're looking at over 211,000 tech positions, contributing a massive $31 billion to Minnesota's economy. Cloud Architects are crushing it with salaries reaching $180K annually, while AI specialists and cybersecurity experts aren't far behind.
What's super interesting is that the job market is shifting towards AI integration - about 60% of tech managers are specifically hunting for AI engineering talent.
Companies are getting way more selective in their hiring process, focusing on quality over quantity.
For anyone looking to break into tech, the most in-demand skills include cloud services, machine learning, and cybersecurity. The best part? You don't always need a traditional degree - companies are more focused on actual skills and certifications.
Whether you're into coding, cloud architecture, or AI development, St. Paul's tech scene is ready to welcome new talent with competitive salaries and tons of growth opportunities.
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Ranking High-Paying Jobs
- 1. Cloud Architect: Leading the Pack
- 2. Network Security Engineer: Safeguarding Networks
- 3. Data Scientist: Harnessing the Power of Data
- 4. Machine Learning Engineer: Driving Innovation
- 5. Software Engineer: Building the Future
- 6. Cybersecurity Engineer: Protecting Organizations
- 7. Penetration Tester: Ethical Hacking for Security
- 8. AI Research Scientist: Innovating in AI
- 9. DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations
- 10. Information Security Analyst: Securing Information
- Conclusion: Preparing for a Future in Tech
- Frequently Asked Questions
Check out next:
Explore Minnesota's advantages for tech jobs and how the state's ecosystem supports technological innovation.
Methodology for Ranking High-Paying Jobs
(Up)As a tech enthusiast diving into the St. Paul job market, I've found some seriously impressive data about high-paying positions for 2025. According to recent market research, the average tech salary in St. Paul has hit $92,500, which is nearly double what other private sector jobs pay.
The methodology for ranking these positions involves analyzing multiple data points, including real salary data from major employers like 3M and Target Corporation.
What's really interesting is that emerging roles in AI and cloud computing are pushing salaries even higher, with some positions offering $200K+ for experienced professionals.
The rankings also factor in the massive tech talent shortage - we're looking at a projected deficit of 85 million tech professionals by 2030, which is definitely driving up those salaries.
Living in St. Paul, I've noticed that local tech companies are competing hard for talent, especially in areas like cybersecurity and cloud architecture.
They're not just throwing money at the problem either - they're looking at the whole package, from education requirements to growth potential. What makes this really exciting for someone starting out is that many companies are now loosening their experience requirements and focusing more on actual skills.
Whether you're into coding, cybersecurity, or AI, there's never been a better time to jump into tech in St. Paul.
1. Cloud Architect: Leading the Pack
(Up)Cloud Architects are absolutely crushing it in St. Paul's tech scene, leading the pack with seriously impressive salaries and career growth. As a Cloud Architect, you're basically the mastermind behind an organization's entire cloud strategy, making sure everything runs smoothly while keeping costs in check.
The latest data shows Cloud Architects in St. Paul are pulling in around $146,071 annually, with potential bonuses pushing that number even higher. What's really cool is that this field is growing super fast - we're talking about a 21.2% growth rate through 2030, which is seriously amazing for job security.
Cloud Architects need to know their stuff when it comes to platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, but it's totally worth the effort to learn these skills.
The role is pretty intense and requires you to be on top of multiple things.
Cloud Architects have to handle everything from designing scalable solutions to making sure security is tight.
You'll be working with different teams, solving complex problems, and basically being the go-to person for anything cloud-related. The coolest part? Companies are investing heavily in cloud tech, and they need skilled pros who can handle it all.
What makes this role even more exciting is that you get to work with cutting-edge tech while making a real impact on how businesses operate.
It's not just about technical skills - you need to be good at communicating and problem-solving too. With more companies in St. Paul jumping onto the cloud bandwagon, there's never been a better time to dive into this field.
Sure, you need to stay on top of new developments and keep learning, but that's what makes it such an exciting career choice in 2025.
2. Network Security Engineer: Safeguarding Networks
(Up)As a Network Security Engineer in St. Paul, you're basically the guardian of the digital realm. These professionals handle everything from implementing and maintaining corporate networks to enforcing security policies that keep cyber threats at bay.
The role requires a mix of technical know-how and problem-solving skills, especially when dealing with LANs, WANs, and server architectures. A typical day involves analyzing security needs, setting up hardware and software, and making sure everything runs smoothly.
Network Security Engineers spend their time maintaining firewalls, running security protocols, and keeping an eye on potential threats - it's like being a digital detective who's always one step ahead of the bad guys.
The career path is pretty solid - you'll need a four-year degree in a technical field and about five years of hands-on experience.
Cybersecurity certifications like CISSP or CompTIA Security+ can give you an edge in the job market.
The best part? The field is growing fast, with plenty of opportunities in St. Paul's tech scene. You'll need to master things like vulnerability assessments, incident response, and disaster recovery planning.
The salary is competitive, and companies are always looking for skilled professionals who can protect their digital assets. It's an exciting field where you're constantly learning and adapting to new challenges - perfect for someone who loves both technology and problem-solving.
3. Data Scientist: Harnessing the Power of Data
(Up)Data Scientists in St. Paul are crushing it in 2025! According to recent job postings at major tech companies, these professionals are driving all key business decisions through data analysis.
The field is seriously growing - companies like PwC, CVS Health, and Deloitte are actively recruiting data scientists in the Twin Cities area, with positions ranging from entry-level to senior management.
The demand is real - over 10,000 data science positions are currently open in the region.
Saint Paul College's Data Science program teaches essential skills in data collection, management, and analysis.
You'll need to master Python and R programming languages, plus get solid at statistical modeling. The program preps you for roles in business intelligence, data mining, and advanced analytics.
The money's looking good too.
Entry-level positions start around $85,000, with experienced pros making $150,000+. Most data scientists in St. Paul are landing around $127,000 annually, but it really depends on your skills and experience.
Companies like Motorola and Jostens are offering amazing internship opportunities that can lead to full-time positions. Plus, with the rise of AI and machine learning, the job outlook is only getting better.
If you're into solving complex problems and working with cutting-edge tech, this career path is definitely worth checking out!
4. Machine Learning Engineer: Driving Innovation
(Up)Machine Learning Engineers are crushing it in St. Paul's tech scene. These pros are the real deal, working on everything from designing advanced ML systems to optimizing algorithms for performance and scalability.
What's super cool about this role is that you get to be right at the intersection of data science and software engineering, turning complex algorithms into real-world solutions.
The latest data shows that ML Engineers are making bank, with salaries ranging from $78,190 for newcomers to over $232,010 for the experienced folks - not bad at all for doing what you love!
Machine Learning Engineers work closely with data scientists and business analysts, building data pipelines and maintaining models that help companies make smarter decisions.
The field is growing like crazy, with a 71% compound growth expected through 2025. Plus, you're not just stuck in one industry - you can work in manufacturing, finance, marketing, or pretty much anywhere that needs smart tech solutions.
- Role Variety: You're not just stuck in one industry; ML Engineers can work in manufacturing, finance, or marketing.
- Technical Skills: Mastery in programming languages like Python, Java, and R is crucial for success.
- Growth Opportunities: The field is expanding rapidly with a 71% compound growth rate expected.
These roles are all about developing new applications and processes that make everything work better.
You'll need to stay on top of your game with programming skills in Python, Java, and R, but the payoff is worth it. Companies in St. Paul are actively searching for ML Engineers who can bring fresh perspectives to their tech challenges.
If you're thinking about getting into this field, now's literally the perfect time - the demand is sky-high, and the opportunities are seriously endless. Just make sure to keep learning and stay current with the latest ML technologies, because this field moves fast!
5. Software Engineer: Building the Future
(Up)In 2025, software engineers are crushing it in St. Paul's tech scene, with the tech sector contributing $31 billion annually to Minnesota's economy.
The field is absolutely booming, with companies like Medtronic and Boston Scientific leading the charge. As a software engineer, you're not just writing code - you're building solutions that make a real impact.
The best part? The job market is looking seriously promising, with 380,263 tech positions and growing.
Starting salaries are looking sweet, with entry-level positions beginning around $86K and experienced devs pulling in way more.
The skills that will get you noticed include:
- Expertise in Python and JavaScript (especially for cloud-based development)
- Proficiency in Java and C# for enterprise applications
- Cloud services expertise (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
What's super interesting is that companies are shifting their focus to quality over quantity in hiring, with a 12% increase in technical interview score requirements.
They're not just looking for coders anymore - they want problem-solvers who can handle AI integration and cloud architecture. The competition is real, but if you're ready to level up your skills and stay current with tech trends, especially in areas like machine learning and cloud computing, you're set for an amazing career.
The market's got room for fresh talent, especially if you're willing to dive into emerging technologies and keep pushing your skills forward.
6. Cybersecurity Engineer: Protecting Organizations
(Up)The role of a Cybersecurity Engineer in St. Paul continues to evolve rapidly in 2025. According to current job market data, there are over 168 cybersecurity positions available in the Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul area, spanning roles from entry-level analysts to senior engineers.
Key responsibilities include conducting threat model analysis, performing security risk assessments, and implementing robust defense systems. The field offers diverse opportunities, from specialized positions paying $67-$77 per hour to senior roles at major corporations like Sleep Number, Wells Fargo, and Honeywell.
For aspiring cybersecurity professionals, the essential skills include proficiency in security protocols, data encryption, and risk management.
What's really cool about this field is the hands-on experience you get with cutting-edge tools. Recent job postings show that entry-level positions for 2025 graduates start at $80,000-$96,000 annually, with comprehensive benefits packages.
The role often includes exciting responsibilities like evaluating new cybersecurity products, working with NIST-based standards, and setting up security test configurations.
The average salary for Cybersecurity Engineers in St. Paul now reaches $115,000, with experienced professionals earning over $140,000.
Many companies offer flexible work arrangements, including hybrid options, making it an attractive career choice for tech-savvy individuals who want to make a real impact in the digital security space.
The field's rapid growth means there's always something new to learn, and the opportunities for advancement are pretty much endless.
I've noticed that cybersecurity isn't just about technical skills anymore - it's about being part of a team that protects critical digital assets and helps organizations stay ahead of emerging threats.
Whether you're interested in incident response, threat detection, or security architecture, there's a path for everyone in this dynamic field.
7. Penetration Tester: Ethical Hacking for Security
(Up)In 2025, Penetration Testers are essential security professionals who identify and fix system vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them.
The role involves running authorized simulated attacks on networks, applications, and cloud infrastructures to test their defenses. According to recent studies, the average base salary for pen testers in St. Paul is around $103,600, with potential for additional earnings through bonuses and commissions reaching $12,000+.
The demand for these skills continues to grow, especially as organizations face increasingly complex cyber threats and regulatory compliance requirements.
Looking ahead, penetration testing is becoming more sophisticated with the integration of AI and machine learning tools.
These technologies help detect vulnerabilities faster and simulate more realistic attack scenarios. The field now encompasses various specialties, including cloud security, IoT device testing, and social engineering assessments.
For anyone interested in this career path, getting started requires solid knowledge of programming languages like Python and C, plus hands-on experience with security tools such as Metasploit and Burp Suite.
The projected 32% job growth through 2032 makes this an incredibly stable career choice, with plenty of opportunities to work remotely or in-house for major tech companies.
The constant evolution of cyber threats means penetration testers must stay current with new attack methods and defense strategies.
Companies are investing heavily in security testing, particularly in areas like cloud infrastructure and IoT devices. This creates awesome opportunities for career advancement and specialization, whether you're interested in web application security, network testing, or cloud security assessment.
The role perfectly combines technical skills with creative problem-solving, making it an exciting choice for anyone passionate about cybersecurity.
8. AI Research Scientist: Innovating in AI
(Up)In 2025, AI Research Scientists are absolutely crushing it in St. Paul's tech scene. According to recent industry data, these tech innovators are pulling in seriously competitive salaries ranging from $100,000 to $150,000 for mid-level positions, with senior roles breaking past $150,000.
The role demands sharp skills in cutting-edge areas like neural networks, reinforcement learning, and natural language processing. Career progression data shows that success in this field requires mastery of Python, deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch, and the ability to publish groundbreaking research.
Minneapolis-St. Paul employers are offering 70% of AI-focused positions above $60,000 even at entry level, making it an amazing career choice for tech graduates.
These positions aren't just about coding - they involve collaborating with cross-functional teams, developing innovative AI solutions, and staying current with emerging technologies.
Companies are seriously investing in their AI talent, offering comprehensive benefits packages, professional development opportunities, and the chance to work on projects that are literally shaping the future of technology.
For anyone looking to make their mark in tech, AI Research Science is definitely where it's at in 2025.
9. DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations
(Up)DevOps Engineers in St. Paul are the ultimate tech bridge-builders, connecting software development with IT operations in ways that make the whole system run smoother.
As a DevOps Engineering professional, you'll be working across departments to improve IT systems, using languages like Python, Java, and Ruby to make everything click.
The role goes beyond just coding - it's about making sure different teams can work together effectively and automating processes to save time and reduce errors.
What makes this career path super interesting is how it combines technical skills with problem-solving.
DevOps engineers spend their days researching, designing, and developing specialized programs while keeping an eye on user needs.
The average salary hitting $130,000 in St. Paul speaks to how valuable these skills are. Plus, with a projected 22% growth rate, job security is pretty much guaranteed.
Entry-level positions and internships are opening up everywhere, with companies offering hands-on experience in cloud infrastructure, containerization, and automation tools.
You'll need to know your way around CI/CD pipelines and cloud platforms like AWS or Azure, but the learning curve is totally worth it. Companies are desperate for people who can handle both the technical side and the human side of tech operations, making this role perfect for anyone who likes variety in their work day.
The field is constantly evolving, so there's always something new to learn and explore.
10. Information Security Analyst: Securing Information
(Up)As a fresh grad looking at the tech scene in 2025, I can tell you that Information Security Analysts are absolutely crushing it in St. Paul's job market. These digital guardians do way more than just watch computer screens - according to recent research, they need to master both technical skills and essential workplace abilities like communication and critical thinking.
The latest data shows their role is expanding fast, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting an incredible 32% growth rate through 2032!
What makes this career path super interesting is the mix of responsibilities.
Security analysts get to dive into everything from investigating hacking trends to implementing cutting-edge security measures.
The best part? The pay is seriously competitive, hitting around $107,517 annually. Plus, with major companies like Target and Visa actively hiring in St. Paul, there's no shortage of opportunities.
The coolest thing about this field is how dynamic it is.
Day-to-day tasks include performing security audits, making smart recommendations for system upgrades, and tackling real security threats.
It's perfect for anyone who loves solving puzzles and staying ahead of the curve. With the massive shift toward cloud computing and remote work, the demand for these skills is only going up.
Whether you're into coding, risk assessment, or both, there's a space for you in this field - and St. Paul's tech scene is ready to welcome fresh talent with open arms.
Conclusion: Preparing for a Future in Tech
(Up)St. Paul's tech scene is absolutely crushing it right now! According to recent industry reports, the tech sector accounts for over 380,000 jobs and contributes a massive $31 billion annually to Minnesota's economy.
The opportunities are seriously stacking up, especially in emerging fields like IoT, fintech, and cybersecurity. For anyone looking to get into tech, the timing couldn't be better - major companies are actively hiring, and the Career and Technical Education programs are expanding like crazy to meet the demand.
What's really exciting is how the job market is evolving with AI integration across all sectors.
Companies aren't just looking for basic coding skills anymore - they want people who can work with AI tools, handle data science, and tackle cybersecurity challenges.
The average salaries are pretty sweet too, with senior tech positions hitting up to $180K annually. If you're thinking about getting started, there are tons of options - from 4-week coding bootcamps starting at $458 to comprehensive 22-week full-stack programs.
Plus, there are scholarships specifically for women in tech, high school grads, and various other groups to make it more accessible.
Looking ahead to 2025, St. Paul's tech industry is set to grow even more, especially with the upcoming Minneapolis Technology Summit bringing together the biggest names in the industry.
The key to success? Stay flexible, keep learning, and don't be afraid to dive into new technologies. Whether you're into AI, cloud computing, or cybersecurity, there's definitely a spot for you in St. Paul's booming tech scene.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the top high-paying tech jobs in St. Paul in 2025?
The top high-paying tech jobs in St. Paul include Cloud Architect, Network Security Engineer, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, and Software Engineer. These roles offer competitive salaries and strong growth potential.
How much do Cloud Architects earn in St. Paul?
Cloud Architects in St. Paul earn around $146,071 annually, with additional bonuses potentially increasing this amount. The field is expected to grow by 21.2% through 2030.
What is the projected job growth for Machine Learning Engineers in St. Paul by 2025?
The job market for Machine Learning Engineers in St. Paul is expected to grow by 71% through 2025, highlighting significant demand and opportunities in this field.
What skills are in demand for tech jobs in St. Paul?
In-demand skills for tech jobs in St. Paul include cloud services, machine learning, cybersecurity, programming languages like Python, Java, and R, as well as expertise in data science and AI integration.
Are traditional degrees required to enter the tech industry in St. Paul?
Traditional degrees are not always required for tech roles in St. Paul. Companies are increasingly valuing actual skills and certifications over formal education, opening opportunities for candidates with non-traditional backgrounds.
You may be interested in the following topics as well:
Find out about low-cost or free resources available for coders in St Paul.
Discover the transformations driven by ServiceNow's AI and cloud initiatives shaping the future.
Seize the unique opportunities presented by the MinneBar conference to network and immerse yourself in St Paul's tech culture.
Identify the skills needed for successful project managers in leading today's tech-driven projects.
Meet the dynamic startups in the St Paul tech scene leading the charge in innovation and technology.
Learn how Center is Revolutionizing Employee Spending Management with its cutting-edge fintech solutions.
The high-demand for cybersecurity specialists makes it a promising career path in 2025.
Discover the evolving tech industry in St Paul and its welcoming nature for beginners.
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.