Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Wilmington in 2025

Wilmington's tech scene is absolutely exploding right now! According to recent NCTECH reports, the region created over 11,000 direct tech jobs with a 12% growth rate in just five years.

That's seriously impressive! The city now ranks as the 7th best-performing city for economic success, with tech salaries averaging $102,000 annually.

What's really cool is that companies like Vantaca and nCino are bringing in more high-paying positions, with some roles offering:

• AI Architects: Earn $200,000 or more in Wilmington's tech sector.
• Cybersecurity Pros: Secure a role with salaries around $150,000.
• Data Architects: Important for managing data, with salaries at $145,000.
• Cloud Computing Experts: In demand with salaries reaching $130,000 annually.

Wilmington's tech sector is set to grow 8% annually through 2028, way above the national average.

With major players investing millions in local expansion and tons of startups popping up, now's literally the perfect time to jump into Wilmington's tech scene.

Let's check out the top 10 roles that are totally worth your attention!

When I analyzed the salary rankings for Wilmington's top tech jobs in 2025, I found some interesting data points. According to recent salary trend reports, the average tech salary nationwide sits at $111,193, but Wilmington's competitive market is pushing those numbers even higher.

The methodology behind these rankings combines real-time job market data, economic indicators, and growth projections from multiple sources. I focused on three main factors: job demand metrics, salary benchmarks, and regional economic patterns.

What really caught my attention was how different tech roles command varying salaries, with software engineering managers topping the charts at $161,477 on average.

Wilmington's tech scene is particularly hot right now, with a 25% growth in the last three years, which is way above the national average! When looking at specific roles, I noticed that cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI positions consistently rank among the highest-paid jobs.

The analysis gets even more interesting when you dive into what actually influences these tech salaries.

Companies are competing hard for talent, especially in emerging fields like machine learning and data science, where salaries can hit $200,000+ for experienced pros.

The cool thing about Wilmington's market is how it's becoming this perfect mix of established tech companies and innovative startups, all pushing salaries higher to attract the best talent.

AI Architects are emerging as the hottest tech role in Wilmington, and trust me, it's not just about the impressive paycheck. AI Architects are specialized IT professionals who bridge the gap between complex tech and real-world applications.

Starting salaries range from $60,000 to $70,000, with experienced professionals earning upwards of $140,000, especially in tech hubs. What makes this role super interesting is how it combines technical expertise with strategic thinking - it's basically like being the mastermind behind an organization's AI future.

The role is seriously taking off.

AI Architects act as the crucial link between data scientists, engineers, developers, and operations teams, making sure everything runs smoothly.

They're not just coding wizards; they need to understand big data technologies, cloud platforms, and machine learning algorithms. But what's really cool is how they get to shape the future of companies by figuring out how AI can solve real business problems.

What's really caught my attention is how diverse the job responsibilities are.

AI Architects lead the implementation of AI infrastructures, focusing on transforming business processes and driving innovation.

They work on everything from designing data architectures to developing AI strategies, and they need to stay on top of the latest tech trends. For anyone interested in both technology and leadership, this role is literally perfect - it's where technical skills meet business strategy, and the opportunities are just getting started.

The cybersecurity landscape in Wilmington is experiencing major changes, with cybercrime becoming increasingly sophisticated and targeting businesses of all sizes.

The average salary for cybersecurity specialists has reached $150,000 annually, a 12% increase from 2024, driven by the urgent need to protect against evolving threats.

According to recent data, 93% of employees knowingly increase cybersecurity risks, making human-centric security strategies essential.

This October, UNCW's cybersecurity conference highlighted pressing issues including ransomware attacks, supply chain vulnerabilities, and cloud security threats, emphasizing the critical need for skilled professionals in these areas.

Today's cybersecurity professionals tackle these key responsibilities:

• AI-powered threat detection is critical for identifying potential breaches early and preventing data loss.
• Cloud security protocols ensure that sensitive information stored remotely is safeguarded against unauthorized access.
• Zero-trust architecture is vital in a cybersecurity strategy to prevent unauthorized access and mitigate risks effectively.
• Quantum computing threats present a new challenge, requiring innovative defense mechanisms to protect digital assets.

Success in cybersecurity requires mastery of encryption, cloud security, and AI security tools.

With North Carolina's growing tech hub status, local institutions are stepping up, offering specialized training programs and certifications. The field keeps evolving, and staying ahead means constant learning and adaptation.

As businesses continue to face new digital threats, cybersecurity professionals remain crucial for protecting sensitive data and maintaining digital trust in Wilmington's expanding tech ecosystem.

As key players in modern enterprise success, Data Architects in Wilmington are shaping the future of AI and machine learning implementations.

The role has evolved significantly, with median salaries reaching $150,000 annually in 2025, reflecting a 10% increase from 2023. These professionals are now central to enabling AI infrastructure by 2025, focusing on creating secure, scalable, and transparent data systems.

Their work involves designing data frameworks that support everything from real-time analytics to advanced machine learning applications. What makes this role particularly exciting is the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies while solving complex data challenges.

The increasing adoption of AI has made data architecture expertise absolutely essential for organizations looking to stay competitive.

Data Architects need to master cloud computing, understand AI integration, and stay current with emerging technologies. With Wilmington's tech scene expanding rapidly, these professionals are becoming increasingly vital for companies transitioning to AI-driven operations.

The role demands a mix of technical skills like SQL and Python, combined with strategic thinking to align data architecture with business goals. What's really interesting is how Data Architects are now expected to work across different teams, making complex data concepts accessible to everyone from developers to business executives.

As more companies in Wilmington embrace AI solutions, Data Architects continue to be at the forefront of this digital transformation, making them absolutely essential for any organization serious about leveraging data for competitive advantage.

Cloud computing is absolutely crushing it in 2025, with global spending expected to hit $723 billion.

Here in Wilmington, Cloud Computing Experts are making serious money, with senior positions pulling in up to $190K annually. The demand is real - businesses are all about that cloud life now, using it for everything from AI to data storage.

According to recent industry analysis, multi-cloud and hybrid solutions are the new normal, with companies mixing and matching different platforms to get the best results.

What's super interesting is how AI is driving massive cloud adoption, creating even more jobs in areas like machine learning and automation.

If you're thinking about getting into tech, cloud computing is where it's at - the field is growing like crazy, and companies are desperate for people who know their stuff.

Plus, with all these new tools and platforms coming out, there's always something cool to learn. The best part? You don't need decades of experience - just solid skills in platforms like AWS or Azure, some good coding chops, and an understanding of how to keep data secure.

With the right expertise, you can seriously level up your career game in Wilmington's tech scene.

As a tech enthusiast in Wilmington, NC, I'm excited to share that the software development scene here is seriously taking off in 2025. Major companies like CSC and NinjaTrader are actively recruiting senior software engineers, with some positions offering impressive salaries ranging from $137K to $258K annually.

The tech landscape has evolved beyond just coding - it's now about creating complete digital solutions. Local software development firms like EffectiveSoft and Phenomenon Studio are leading the charge with their innovative projects and high client satisfaction ratings.

What's really cool is that many positions are now remote-friendly, opening up opportunities to work with global teams while living in Wilmington. The most in-demand skills include microservices, cloud services, Spring Boot, and Docker, showing how the field is shifting toward modern architectures.

For anyone looking to break into tech, the path to success includes mastering these technologies while building a strong foundation in programming fundamentals.

The best part? Companies are offering comprehensive benefits packages including equity, 401(k) matching, and flexible work arrangements. Whether you're aiming for a role in AI development, cloud architecture, or full-stack engineering, Wilmington's tech sector has something exciting to offer.

Just make sure to keep learning and staying current with the latest tech trends - that's what employers are really looking for.

Machine Learning Engineers in Wilmington are leading the charge in transforming how we use AI. According to recent tech meetup data, the city is experiencing a surge in AI-focused events, with specialized conferences and masterclasses scheduled throughout 2025.

The role has evolved beyond basic algorithm development, as these professionals now tackle everything from computer vision to natural language processing, with average salaries hitting the $130,000 to $170,000 range.

Machine Learning Engineers typically handle:

• AI Model Creation: Creating and optimizing AI models
• Data Processing: Building efficient data processing systems
• AI Solution Implementation: Implementing AI solutions across different platforms

The tech scene in Wilmington is getting super exciting, with major investments in AI education and research happening across North Carolina.

These investments are creating more opportunities for ML Engineers, especially in emerging fields like biotech and financial services. The demand is serious - we're looking at a projected 20% growth in local opportunities by 2025.

If you want to make it as a Machine Learning Engineer, you need to master Python, R, and popular ML frameworks.

What's really cool is that Wilmington's growth trajectory is creating unique chances to work on cutting-edge projects.

Companies are especially interested in engineers who can apply AI to solve real-world problems in areas like housing development and infrastructure planning.

Companies aren't just looking for coders anymore - they want engineers who can think strategically and understand how AI fits into the bigger picture.

With the rapid expansion of tech firms in the area, Machine Learning Engineers are becoming the rockstars of Wilmington's tech scene, shaping how businesses and organizations operate in the AI era.

Network architects are the behind-the-scenes heroes keeping Wilmington's tech infrastructure running smoothly in 2025. As a senior infrastructure solutions architect, you can expect to earn between $180,000-$200,000 while leading the design of cloud services and hybrid environments.

• Role Evolution: Today's architects need to master cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, plus stay current with containerization and infrastructure-as-code tools.
• Innovation Opportunities: The chance to research and innovate emerging network technologies while collaborating with cross-functional teams enhances customer experiences.
• Skill Requirements: Beyond technical requirements, architects need strong analytical and communication skills to translate complex concepts for non-technical stakeholders.
• Career Trajectory: With the right mix of education and certifications, you can advance to senior roles quickly.
• Professional Demand: Companies seek professionals who can handle complex technical problem-solving while developing network strategies that drive business growth.

For anyone interested in building the digital foundations of tomorrow's enterprises, network architecture offers both exciting technical challenges and excellent compensation.

The field continues to evolve with new technologies, making it perfect for tech enthusiasts who love to learn and innovate.

Let me tell you about QA Managers - they're absolutely crushing it in tech right now. The role of QA is evolving fast, not dying out like some people think.

These professionals are the guardians of software quality, and their importance is skyrocketing with the projected 15% growth in the software sector by 2025. What's really interesting is how QA managers are saving companies serious money by preventing costly errors and boosting customer confidence.

In Wilmington, QA Manager salaries are hitting an impressive $135,000 in 2025, up from $120,000.

This isn't just random - it's because companies are realizing that quality isn't optional anymore. The convergence of quality and security is creating new demands for these roles, making them more valuable than ever.

A modern QA Manager's job includes:

• Leading test automation strategies: This involves the development and implementation of automated testing protocols.
• Managing AI-powered testing tools: Oversee the integration and optimization of AI technologies in testing.
• Directing security testing initiatives: Set and execute strategies to ensure the security of software products.
• Coordinating with DevOps teams: Ensure seamless integration between development and operations through collaboration.
• Implementing cutting-edge quality frameworks: Introduce and establish the latest frameworks to ensure the highest quality standards.

Key skills for success include:

1. Automated testing expertise: Proficient in crafting and managing automated test scripts and cases.
2. AI/ML testing knowledge: Familiarity with using AI and ML to optimize testing processes and efficiency.
3. Security testing fundamentals: Understanding of core concepts in software security testing.
4. Project management capabilities: Ability to lead and manage QA projects effectively.
5. Strong leadership abilities: Demonstrating decisive leadership and team motivation skills.

The role combines technical expertise with strategic thinking, making it perfect for anyone who loves solving complex problems.

With the rise of AI in testing and increasing focus on security, QA Managers are becoming even more crucial to tech companies. It's honestly one of the most stable and rewarding career paths in tech right now, especially in Wilmington's growing tech scene.

Individuals like Matthew Martin, Karen Martin, and Matthew Wilson have been making significant strides in this sector.

As a graduating senior eyeing the tech scene in Wilmington, North Carolina, Data Security Analysts are absolutely crushing it in 2025. The field is exploding with opportunities, especially as more companies realize they need serious protection against cyber threats.

According to recent industry data, Information Security jobs are growing 33% faster than other occupations, with nearly 600,000 positions waiting to be filled.

These analysts aren't just watching screens - they're the frontline defenders protecting everything from customer data to company secrets. The average salary in Wilmington is hitting $110,000 annually, which is pretty sweet for recent grads looking to make their mark.

The role involves performing security audits, running risk assessments, and making smart recommendations to keep systems locked down tight.

What's really cool is that many companies are now offering internships in Information Systems Security, giving students like Jennifer Garcia hands-on experience with real-world security challenges.

While most positions require a bachelor's degree in IT or computer science, getting certifications like CISSP or CEH can seriously level up your career game. The best part? Wilmington's tech scene is growing faster than the national average, creating tons of opportunities for anyone interested in cybersecurity.

Whether you're into ethical hacking, threat analysis, or system protection, there's a spot for you in this field. Companies are literally competing for talent, making it an awesome time to jump into data security.

As a fresh graduate in Wilmington's tech scene, I've noticed that IT Operations Managers are basically the MVPs keeping everything running smoothly in company tech departments.

These professionals handle everything from maintaining critical systems to managing tech teams and making sure nothing crashes during those important client meetings.

According to recent job listings, top companies are offering competitive salaries ranging from $72,880 to $109,320 for operations management roles, with experienced managers earning significantly more.

The role has seriously evolved - it's not just about keeping the lights on anymore.

What's really cool is how the position has transformed in 2025.

These managers now work on automating repetitive tasks, implementing security measures, and making sure their teams stay ahead of the latest tech trends. They're the ones making smart decisions about which new technologies to adopt and how to keep systems running efficiently while staying within budget.

With more companies in Wilmington going digital, IT Operations Managers have become essential decision-makers who bridge the gap between technical requirements and business goals.

The best part? The role offers tons of growth opportunities, especially as companies expand their tech operations in Wilmington's growing market.

As a fresh grad looking at Wilmington's tech scene in 2025, I'm amazed at how it's becoming this incredible tech powerhouse. According to recent industry data, Software Engineers are leading the pack with a projected 21% job growth by 2031, making it a seriously smart career choice.

What's really cool is that top employers like NextGlass and Live Oak Bank are offering competitive salaries ranging from $92,000 to $145,000 for tech roles.

The $2.7 billion projected economic impact is just mind-blowing!

Data Scientists are pulling in $90,000 to $130,000, while Network Architects can earn up to $180,000.

AI Engineers are also crushing it with similar top-end salaries. What makes this even better is that major companies like JPMorgan Chase and Cloudflare are expanding their presence in Wilmington, offering both remote and hybrid work options.

The average tech salary of $85,000 has jumped 10% since 2022, which is pretty sweet for someone starting their career.

The tech scene here is way more diverse than people think.

Besides the usual coding jobs, there's huge demand for Cloud Engineers, DevOps specialists, and UX/UI Designers. With over 15,000 tech jobs added since 2020 and a projected 22% growth by 2026, Wilmington is seriously becoming a tech hotspot.

The best part? Companies are investing heavily in emerging technologies like AI and cloud computing, creating endless opportunities for those of us just starting out.