Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Wilmington in 2025

The tech scene in Wilmington is absolutely taking off! According to recent reports, over 11,000 direct tech jobs were created in the last five years, with a solid 12% growth rate.

What's really exciting is that Wilmington now ranks 11th in the U.S. for tech talent growth, competing with bigger cities.

The money's seriously good too - we're talking salaries ranging from $120,000 to $200,000+ for roles like Cloud Architect and Data Scientist. Companies are desperately looking for people who know their stuff in AWS, Python, and AI. The coolest part? The local tech industry is projected to keep growing through 2025, with thousands of new opportunities opening up.

If you're thinking about getting into tech, now's literally the perfect time to start learning these skills. Whether you're into cloud computing, data science, or software engineering, Wilmington's tech scene is ready for fresh talent who can bring their A-game!

The tech job landscape in Wilmington is transforming rapidly, and our research draws from multiple reliable sources to paint an accurate picture. According to CompTIA's latest workforce report, tech jobs are growing twice as fast as the overall job market, with projections showing an increase from 6 million to 7.1 million jobs by 2034.

Our salary analysis combines data from leading platforms while factoring in that the average tech professional now earns $88,448 nationally, with higher figures in specialized roles.

According to a report, data analytics has emerged as a major growth area, with tools like Power BI, Tableau, and Python becoming essential skills for high-paying positions.

The tech talent shortage is real - recent job reports indicate that 95% of tech leaders struggle to find skilled workers, creating excellent opportunities for those with the right skill set.

The most in-demand skills include Python, AWS, Oracle, Java, and JavaScript, with AI-related positions showing particularly strong growth. Companies are prioritizing upskilling, with 48% of organizations focusing on developing existing talent rather than new hiring.

This shift means that demonstrating continuous learning and adaptability is crucial for landing these high-paying roles. For those entering the field, many employers are now loosening experience requirements and increasing pay to attract talent, making this an ideal time to pursue a tech career in Wilmington.

As a Cloud Architect in Wilmington, you're looking at some serious earning potential in 2025. The average systems architect salary in Wilmington sits at $145,500, but with cloud specialization, the ceiling gets higher.

Mid-level cloud architects can expect salaries ranging from $149,615 to $176,666, making it one of the top-paying tech roles in the area.

The demand keeps growing as companies rush to move their operations to the cloud, and honestly, that's where the future is headed. Cloud Architects don't just build systems - they're the masterminds behind the digital transformation that companies need to stay competitive.

Experience level, location, and company size all factor into the final paycheck, but the trajectory is definitely upward.

What makes this role extra attractive is the mix of technical and strategic work - you're not just coding, you're designing the future of how businesses operate.

To really crush it in this field, you need to know your way around AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud platforms. It's not just about certifications either - employers want someone who can translate complex tech solutions into real business value.

The cloud architecture field is perfect for tech enthusiasts who love solving complex problems and want to make bank while doing it. If you're considering this career path, now's the time to jump in - the market's hot and the paychecks reflect that.

Machine Learning Engineering has become super exciting in Wilmington's 2025 job market, with salaries reaching up to $135,000 annually. According to recent industry analysis, successful ML Engineers need to master seven key skills, including architecture design, integration expertise, and product thinking.

The role has evolved way beyond just coding - it's about creating real solutions that make a difference.

Looking at current job listings, major companies like eClinical Solutions and Wasabi Technologies are actively hiring ML Engineers in Wilmington, with many positions offering flexible remote work options.

The essential technical toolkit includes Python for model development, experience with TensorFlow and PyTorch for deep learning, and a solid understanding of MLOps practices.

What's really interesting is that companies are now prioritizing ML Engineers who can think about the bigger picture - those who understand both the technical side and business impact of their work.

• Core skills include Python programming and practical ML algorithms.
• Experience with cloud platforms like AWS and Azure is a must.
• Understanding of ML model deployment and monitoring.
• Strong problem-solving and communication abilities.

The best part about becoming an ML Engineer right now is that companies aren't just looking for people who can build models - they want professionals who can solve real problems.

Whether it's improving healthcare systems or creating better customer experiences, ML Engineers are making things happen. The field is growing fast, and getting in now means being part of some seriously transformative projects.

Data Science roles in Wilmington are absolutely crushing it in 2025! According to recent job listings, major companies like PwC and SharkNinja are offering seriously competitive salaries, with entry-level positions starting at $75K and senior roles reaching up to $265K annually.

The city's becoming a hotspot for remote data science opportunities, with companies like Upstart and Instacart actively recruiting talent.

Many positions now come with amazing perks - we're talking 401(k) matching, company equity, and flexible remote work options. For students just getting started, internship opportunities at companies like nCino offer hands-on experience with real-world data projects and starting rates of $22-27 per hour.

The tech stack requirements typically include Python for data manipulation, R for statistical analysis, and machine learning expertise - but what's really exciting is how companies are now emphasizing practical experience over traditional credentials.

With the surge in AI and GenAI projects, Data Scientists are getting to work on cutting-edge stuff like predictive modeling and algorithm development. Plus, with most positions offering remote work options, you can live in Wilmington while working for tech giants across the country.

The field is seriously taking off, and the combination of high salaries, flexible work arrangements, and constant learning opportunities makes it one of the most exciting career paths in tech right now.

Software Engineering in Wilmington is seriously taking off, with major players like JP Morgan Chase offering entry-level positions starting at $75K-$119K for their 2025 Software Engineer Program.

The field is incredibly diverse - you can work on anything from creating mobile apps to building complex financial systems. What's really cool is how the tech industry is pushing for diversity through special fellowship programs and mentorship opportunities.

Beyond just coding, companies are looking for engineers who can collaborate on global teams and contribute to social impact projects. The demand is huge across multiple sectors, with banks, healthcare providers, and tech startups all competing for talent.

Required skills include Python, JavaScript, Java, and C++, plus knowledge of cloud computing and AI. What's particularly exciting is the two-year career development programs many companies offer, providing both technical training and professional growth.

For new graduates or career switchers, Wilmington's tech scene is becoming a prime spot for launching a software engineering career, with opportunities for hybrid work and competitive benefits packages.

The key to success? Stay current with emerging technologies while building a strong foundation in core programming concepts.

Wilmington's cybersecurity landscape is experiencing major changes, with Network Security positions projected to grow 33% by 2024.

The role demands a mix of technical expertise and collaboration skills, as these professionals work across teams to implement critical security measures. According to recent data, Network Security Engineers in Wilmington earn competitive salaries averaging $125,000 annually, making it one of the most financially rewarding tech careers in the region.

The surge in remote work and cloud adoption has created over 25,000 cybersecurity positions statewide, with 72% of local companies planning to increase their cloud security budgets.

Essential skills include mastering cloud security protocols, implementing AI-driven security solutions, and managing IoT security frameworks. Organizations are specifically seeking professionals skilled in incident response, threat detection, and risk assessment.

UNCW and Cape Fear Community College are stepping up to meet this demand through comprehensive cybersecurity programs, while local tech meetups provide networking opportunities.

Cross-functional collaboration abilities are becoming just as crucial as technical skills, as security teams work closely with various departments to protect digital assets.

The field offers incredible growth potential for those ready to take on the challenge of protecting organizations from evolving cyber threats.

In 2025, Cybersecurity Engineers are absolutely crushing it in Wilmington, NC, as digital guardians against an ever-growing wave of cyber threats. According to recent industry reports, there's a massive shortage with 3.5 million cybersecurity positions expected to be unfilled globally by year's end.

Here in Wilmington, these pros are busy protecting everything from cloud systems to IoT devices, and the demand is seriously intense. The coolest part? UNCW's cybersecurity program reports over 23,500 positions are needed just in North Carolina, making this career path totally worth checking out.

The work is super hands-on - you're basically playing digital defense 24/7, monitoring for sketchy activity and keeping the bad guys out.

Cybersecurity Engineers in Wilmington are pulling in around $125,000 yearly, up from $110,000 in 2023.

What's driving these killer salaries? The rising complexity of cyber threats means companies need serious talent and they're ready to pay for it.

The job requires staying on top of the latest security tools, mastering things like penetration testing, and being able to spot trouble before it hits. It's not just about technical skills though - you've got to be quick on your feet and ready to adapt because cyber threats are constantly evolving.

If you're into problem-solving and want a career that's both challenging and rewarding, this is definitely where it's at in 2025.

DevOps Engineers are absolutely crushing it in Wilmington's tech scene right now! These tech wizards can earn between $90,000 to $175,000 depending on experience level, making it one of the most rewarding career paths in 2025.

What makes this role so amazing is how it brings together development and operations - it's basically like being the ultimate problem-solver in tech. DevOps Engineers spend their days making sure everything runs smoothly by automating processes, monitoring systems, and keeping the development pipeline flowing.

The role requires mastery of tools like Docker, Kubernetes, and various cloud platforms, plus strong coding skills in Python, Ruby, or Java.

The coolest part? You get to work with cutting-edge technology while making systems more efficient.

When it comes to day-to-day work, DevOps Engineers are constantly innovating.

They're the ones creating technology standards, analyzing user requirements, and making sure systems are running at peak performance.

The job market in Wilmington is particularly hot for DevOps talent, with companies like Charter Communications and Lumen Technologies actively recruiting for these positions.

If you're thinking about getting into this field, focus on building skills in cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), containerization, and automation tools. The demand is real, and companies are offering sweet benefits packages along with competitive salaries to attract top talent.

Plus, with the rise of digital transformation, this role is only going to become more crucial in the years ahead.

In Wilmington's tech scene, Information Security Analysts are the frontline defenders against cyber threats in 2025. These professionals do way more than just monitor networks - they're actively hunting down vulnerabilities and keeping sensitive data locked down tight.

According to recent job postings, analysts are expected to design and implement secure systems while running regular vulnerability scans to spot potential weaknesses.

The work is seriously hands-on, involving everything from setting up security infrastructure to conducting deep-dive investigations when incidents occur.

The career path is looking pretty solid, with Wilmington University's cybersecurity program preparing students for essential certifications like CISSP and CEH. The real-world experience is crucial - you'll need to master tools like Splunk for log analysis and get comfortable with both Windows and Linux systems.

What's really cool is that many positions, like the security internships at major companies, offer flexible schedules and amazing networking opportunities while you learn the ropes.

The skills you'll need are pretty specific: strong analytical abilities, experience with security tools, and knowledge of current threats.

But it's not just about technical stuff - you've got to be good at explaining complex security issues to people who aren't tech-savvy. Companies are looking for analysts who can think on their feet and stay cool under pressure, especially when dealing with active security threats.

The field keeps changing, so being ready to learn new things constantly is super important. If you're into solving puzzles and protecting people's data, this could be your perfect career move.

In 2025, Penetration Testers are earning an average of $118,002 annually, with top performers reaching up to $156,000.

These cybersecurity professionals conduct pre-authorized attacks on computer systems to find weak spots before real hackers do. The job market is super hot right now - the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a massive 31% growth in information security positions through 2029, which is wild compared to other tech roles.

In Wilmington, companies are scrambling to hire these digital security experts.

The day-to-day work involves simulating real-world attacks on networks, apps, and systems, then writing detailed reports about any vulnerabilities found.

It's basically getting paid to think like a hacker while staying on the right side of the law. The cool thing is you're constantly learning new tricks and techniques since cyber threats are always evolving.

Plus, Wilmington's universities are stepping up with specialized programs in cybersecurity and ethical hacking, making it easier to break into the field.

To crush it as a Penetration Tester, you need to know your way around programming languages like Python and understand network protocols inside and out.

The most successful pros also get certifications like CompTIA PenTest+ or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). What makes this career extra exciting is that no two days are the same - you're always facing new challenges and finding creative ways to break through security systems (legally, of course).

With more companies moving their operations online, the demand for these skills is only going to get bigger.

As a fresh grad looking at the AI research field in Wilmington, I'm excited to share that according to recent industry analysis, AI Research Scientists are becoming absolute game-changers in tech innovation.

These brilliant minds aren't just working in labs - they're revolutionizing everything from healthcare diagnostic tools to financial prediction systems. What's really interesting is how they're using both fundamental AI knowledge and creative problem-solving to push boundaries in ways I never thought possible.

Let's talk money because it matters! New data shows that AI researchers are pulling in seriously impressive salaries, with some positions reaching up to $225,000 annually.

That's actually higher than previously expected, especially for those with specialized expertise in areas like deep learning and natural language processing. The compensation reflects just how valuable these skills are becoming in the marketplace.

The coolest part about this role is how diverse the skill requirements are.

Recent research indicates that successful AI researchers need to master not just traditional programming and statistics, but also emerging fields like retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) and custom enterprise AI models.

It's mind-blowing to see how these technologies are evolving! As someone who's passionate about tech, watching these developments happen in real-time is incredibly exciting.

For anyone considering this career path in Wilmington, the opportunities are absolutely massive.

The field is growing super fast, with AI publication numbers hitting 220,000 in 2023 alone. Between the competitive pay, the chance to work on cutting-edge technology, and the potential to make a real impact, becoming an AI Research Scientist in Wilmington looks like an amazing career choice.

The future is seriously bright for anyone ready to dive into this field!

As a rising tech hub in 2025, Wilmington's tech scene is absolutely crushing it with some impressive growth numbers. The local tech industry has created over 11,000 direct tech jobs, showing a solid 12% growth rate in just five years.

What's even better is that North Carolina ranks second nationwide for women in tech, with 35.4% of the workforce being female.

For anyone looking to break into tech, the timing couldn't be better - the state's tech industry is projected to grow by 8.1% through 2025. Getting started is pretty straightforward: sign up for practical training in hot areas like cloud computing or AI, start networking at local tech meetups, and keep your skills fresh through online courses and bootcamps.

Wilmington's startup scene is especially exciting, ranking 22nd in the U.S. for startup ecosystems.

The key to making it big here? Stay adaptable, keep learning, and jump on opportunities when they come up. With major players like nCino and Apiture already established here, and more companies moving in, the future's looking seriously bright for tech careers in Wilmington.