Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Winston Salem in 2025

Winston-Salem is literally transforming into a tech powerhouse, and it's absolutely wild to see how much is happening here! The Innovation Quarter alone generated a massive $1.66 billion economic impact in 2022, creating over 8,300 jobs.

The tech scene is just getting started - with major players like FUJIFILM and Novo Nordisk expanding, plus tons of new startups and tech companies moving in.

What's super exciting is how the city just got designated as one of the 31 new national Tech Hubs, which means even more opportunities are coming. The average tech salary here is growing 8% yearly, which is pretty sweet for recent grads like me.

Plus, the government's investing big time in innovation, especially in biotech, fintech, and healthtech sectors.

Whether you're into biotechnology (where research scientists make $120K+), pharmaceuticals (production managers pulling $115K+), or software development (with salaries over $100K), Winston-Salem's got something for everyone in tech.

The growth here is just getting started, and the opportunities are seriously next level!

As a recent tech enthusiast diving into Winston-Salem's job market, I wanted to break down exactly how we ranked these high-paying tech positions for 2025. According to Pluralsight's latest research, AI Architects are leading the pack with potential earnings over $200K, while cybersecurity experts aren't far behind.

The ranking process combined data from multiple sources, including salary surveys and market analyses. The criteria focused on three main areas: base salary ranges, growth potential, and impact on Winston-Salem's tech scene.

What's super interesting is how Mondo's 2025 Salary Guide shows that IT Project Managers can make between $73,000 and $210,000, proving that management roles in tech are seriously rewarding.

When looking at job prospects, we found that positions in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are expected to see the biggest growth. The demand is real - there's actually a projected shortage of 85 million cybersecurity professionals by 2030!

Speaking of growth, research indicates that AI and machine learning jobs are expected to grow by 40% by 2027.

That's massive! We're seeing local companies scrambling to fill these positions, especially in emerging fields like quantum computing and AR/VR development. Winston-Salem's tech scene is transforming into something bigger than anyone expected, with opportunities popping up left and right.

What makes this data particularly exciting is how it shows that even entry-level tech positions are offering competitive salaries, making it an awesome time for new grads to jump into the field.

As a Biotechnology Research Scientist at FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, you're not just landing a high-paying job - you're joining a team that's literally changing the world of medicine.

The role goes way beyond basic lab work, focusing on cutting-edge cell therapy processes and innovative biotech solutions. According to recent data, PhD holders with 2+ years of experience, or professionals with a Master's and 8+ years in the field, are prime candidates for these positions.

The salary range has actually increased from previous estimates, now reaching $90,000-$135,000 annually, with senior scientists earning even more.

What makes this role especially exciting is FUJIFILM's massive commitment to growth.

Their corporate mission of "giving our world more smiles" isn't just a catchy phrase - it's backed by 90 years of innovation and real impact in healthcare.

The company's presence in Winston-Salem has created a buzzing biotech hub, attracting talent from across the country. Scientists here work on groundbreaking projects in regenerative medicine, biosimilars, and advanced therapeutics.

The requirements for these positions include hands-on experience with cell expansion, selection, and purification techniques, plus strong analytical skills - but the rewards are totally worth it.

The role offers real opportunities to innovate and make a difference in healthcare, while building a solid career in one of the fastest-growing tech sectors in North Carolina.

Beyond the impressive salary and benefits, working at FUJIFILM means being part of a global powerhouse that's reshaping the future of biotechnology.

For young professionals looking to make their mark in tech, this position offers the perfect mix of scientific challenge, career growth, and the chance to work on transformative healthcare solutions.

Working as a Production Manager at Novo Nordisk is seriously next-level for anyone wanting to make their mark in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

The position offers a competitive salary range of $120,000 to $150,000 annually, with extra perks like performance bonuses, health benefits, and an amazing 401(k) plan with an 8% company contribution.

Beyond just managing production, you'll be leading teams and driving continuous improvement through cLEAN leadership principles.

The role is perfect for someone with a bachelor's degree in supply chain, science, or engineering, plus about 5 years of experience in manufacturing. What's really cool about working at Novo Nordisk's Clayton facility is that you're part of something bigger - it's a massive 825,000-square-foot operation that's pushing the boundaries of pharmaceutical innovation.

They're not just about making medicine; they're about changing lives through advanced drug development and manufacturing.

You'll need to be super organized, tech-savvy with tools like SAP, and ready to handle everything from quality control to team development. The company also offers incredible benefits like 12 weeks of paid parental leave and 6 weeks of paid family medical leave, showing they really care about work-life balance.

This role isn't just about earning a great salary - it's about being part of a team that's literally helping millions of people worldwide.

Working as a Software Developer in Gene Therapy at Merck in 2025 is honestly one of the most exciting opportunities in Winston-Salem's tech scene. Merck's IT team is revolutionizing healthcare by fusing technology with scientific discovery, and they're actively seeking creative minds who can help develop groundbreaking solutions.

The role involves building software that powers gene therapy research and development, working alongside scientists to create tools that make lifesaving discoveries possible.

What's really cool is that Merck's IT Emerging Talent Program offers amazing opportunities for entry-level developers to jump right into meaningful projects.

The compensation is seriously impressive - software developers in gene therapy can earn between $120,000 to $150,000 annually, plus Merck offers killer benefits and professional development opportunities.

They're investing heavily in their teams, with new viral vector facilities specifically designed for advancing gene therapy research.

This expansion shows they're all in on creating next-gen treatments.

As a developer here, you're not just writing code - you're part of a team that's literally changing how we treat diseases.

You'll work on everything from machine learning algorithms that analyze genetic data to platforms that help scientists track their experiments. The tech stack is cutting-edge, and there's always something new to learn.

Plus, you get to collaborate with some of the smartest people in both tech and science, which is pretty mind-blowing when you think about it.

What makes this role extra special is knowing your work directly impacts people's lives.

Whether you're optimizing research workflows or creating new tools for gene editing, you're helping build the future of medicine. For someone starting their career in tech, it's hard to think of a more meaningful way to put your coding skills to use.

Life Sciences Data Analysts at Eli Lilly are making waves in Winston-Salem's biotech scene in 2025. These analysts are crushing it with data-driven decision-making and exploratory analysis, working on everything from marketing insights to clinical research.

The role combines technical skills with real-world impact, requiring expertise in SQL, Excel, and visualization tools like Tableau. What's really awesome is how Eli Lilly collaborates across international teams, connecting Winston-Salem to global healthcare innovation.

With a salary range of $95,000 to $125,000 annually, this position attracts serious talent to our city. The company employs around 35,000 people worldwide, but their Winston-Salem operation is seriously next-level.

Their local facility isn't just another office - it's becoming a major hub for life sciences careers in North Carolina.

The impact goes beyond just creating jobs; they're building partnerships with local institutions and businesses, pumping over $150 million annually into our economy.

What makes this role extra special is how it combines cutting-edge tech with healthcare innovation - you're not just crunching numbers, you're helping develop life-changing medicines.

This is just the beginning of Winston-Salem's transformation into a biotech powerhouse. With Eli Lilly leading the charge, our city is becoming a magnet for tech talent and innovation in the life sciences field.

As a Biomedical Engineer at NCBiotech, you get to be part of something huge in Winston-Salem's tech scene.

These professionals create life-changing medical devices and solutions while earning between $85,000 and $120,000 annually. The work is seriously cool - from designing artificial limbs to developing cutting-edge surgical tools.

What makes it even better is that you're not just stuck in a lab; you're collaborating with doctors, scientists, and other tech innovators to solve real healthcare challenges.

NCBiotech is absolutely crushing it in the biotech world.

They're not just another company - they're building North Carolina's global life sciences leadership through amazing research initiatives and partnerships.

The best part? They're all about helping their engineers grow through specialized training programs and connections with top universities. If you're interested in getting started, check out their BioWork Certificate Program, which is perfect for newcomers to the field.

With over 80 biopharma manufacturing sites across North Carolina and plans to hire 5,000 more workers, the opportunities are everywhere.

The impact of NCBiotech is real - they've helped generate over $85 million in economic activity for the state.

Winston-Salem isn't just another tech city; it's becoming a legitimate biotech powerhouse. Whether you're fresh out of college or looking to switch careers, biomedical engineering at NCBiotech offers the perfect mix of innovation, stability, and growth potential.

Plus, you get to work on stuff that actually makes a difference in people's lives. The future of biotech in Winston-Salem is looking seriously bright, and NCBiotech is leading the charge.

Working as a Cloud Computing Specialist at Truliant Federal Credit Union isn't just another tech job - it's a chance to be part of something bigger. Truliant's mission to improve lives through financial technology makes this role super meaningful.

Beyond the impressive $120,000 average salary, you'll get amazing benefits like paid volunteer hours, tuition reimbursement, and flexible work arrangements. The job combines hands-on cloud infrastructure work with real innovation in financial services.

As an API developer or cloud specialist, you'll architect scalable solutions that handle millions of transactions while keeping member data totally secure.

What's really cool is how Truliant is transforming banking through cloud tech - from enabling instant mobile transactions to powering sophisticated loan processing systems.

The company's commitment to diversity and inclusion means you'll work with people bringing different perspectives to solve complex technical challenges. Plus, with flexible remote work options and collaborative office spaces, you can choose how and where you do your best work.

The role demands strong cloud architecture skills, but if you're passionate about using technology to help people access better financial services, this position offers serious growth potential in Winston-Salem's expanding tech scene.

As an AI Research Scientist at Inmar Intelligence in Winston-Salem, you'll be working on some seriously cool tech that's changing the game in retail and healthcare.

Inmar's mission-driven approach means you'll be part of a team that's not just coding - you're actually solving real problems that impact people's lives.

The average salary for AI Research Scientists in Winston-Salem hits around $115,604, with experienced professionals earning up to $150,000.

AI research science is expected to grow significantly by 2025, opening up tons of opportunities for those skilled in machine learning and AI models.

At Inmar, you'll work on everything from developing smart algorithms for inventory management to creating AI systems that help doctors make better decisions for their patients.

The tech stack is cutting-edge, focusing on machine learning libraries, predictive analytics, and natural language processing. It's not just about writing code - you'll be diving into complex data projects that actually make a difference, like improving supply chains and making healthcare more personalized.

Plus, Winston-Salem's tech scene is growing fast, making it a perfect spot for anyone looking to make their mark in AI research while enjoying a great work-life balance.

The role requires solid skills in AI models and research methods, but the impact you can make is totally worth the challenge.

A Cybersecurity Consultant at Wake Forest University plays a crucial role in defending digital assets and sensitive information. According to Wake Forest's Information Security team, these professionals establish guidelines and policies that protect data confidentiality, integrity, and system availability.

The compensation is competitive, with salaries ranging from $74,129 for entry-level analysts to over $125,000 for experienced consultants in North Carolina. Through Wake Forest's Cybersecurity programs, consultants often mentor and train the next generation of security professionals, maintaining a pipeline of talent for the university's growing security needs.

The job involves:

• Implementing multi-layered security approaches to safeguard digital environments.
• Conducting regular penetration testing to assess and improve system defenses.
• Managing third-party vendor reviews to ensure stringent security compliance and practices.

Wake Forest's cybersecurity strategy emphasizes proactive monitoring of emerging threats and implementing cutting-edge technologies like Cloud Access Security Broker capabilities and automated data loss prevention systems.

Consultants use tools like KnowBe4 for security awareness training and lead initiatives during National Cybersecurity Month to build a security-conscious campus culture.

The role extends beyond just technical implementation to include strategic planning and risk management.

Cybersecurity consultants collaborate with campus leaders through a specialized dashboard that provides real-time insights into security metrics. They're responsible for:

• Ensuring PCI compliance, vital for transaction security and trust.
• Managing endpoint security policies to protect devices across the network.
• Overseeing the university's comprehensive data backup solutions for data integrity and reliability.

As Wake Forest continues to expand its digital infrastructure, these professionals ensure that security measures evolve alongside technological advancements, making this position both challenging and rewarding for tech professionals in 2025.

The Systems Architect position at HanesBrands Inc. combines technical expertise with strategic thinking to power the company's digital future.

In 2025, this role focuses on designing and managing complex IT systems while staying within budget constraints. The position requires strong programming skills, especially in Python and JavaScript, plus the ability to detect and resolve cybersecurity threats.

A systems architect's primary focus is optimizing technology at the organizational level, which is crucial for HanesBrands' continued growth in the digital retail space.

The salary range is impressive, typically between $125,038 and $224,334 annually, making it one of Winston-Salem's top-paying tech roles.

What makes this role especially exciting is how it shapes the future of retail.

The systems architect's responsibilities include ensuring applications can grow and integrate while maintaining their integrity.

At HanesBrands, this means creating systems that handle everything from inventory tracking to customer experience enhancement. The position requires designing frameworks that support real-time data analysis, secure payment processing, and seamless omnichannel experiences.

• Key responsibilities: Defining system infrastructure, analyzing security vulnerabilities, and collaborating with stakeholders to meet business goals.
• Technical knowledge and leadership: The role demands a mix of technical knowledge and leadership skills, as architects often guide teams through complex digital transformations.
• Staying current: With retail technology evolving rapidly, systems architects must stay current with cloud computing, IoT integration, and emerging retail tech trends to keep HanesBrands competitive in the digital marketplace.

Working as an IT Project Manager at Reynolds American Inc. in Winston-Salem opens doors to exciting tech innovations and career growth. The role demands someone who can handle multiple responsibilities, from mentoring team members to managing vendor relationships.

Reynolds offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a matching 401(k) up to 6%, health benefits, and flexible spending accounts.

What makes this position stand out is the blend of technical and leadership skills required - you'll need at least 8 years of IT experience and expertise in technologies like Power BI, AWS, and Azure.

The company's commitment to professional development is clear through their early career programs and internships, which often lead to full-time positions.

As an IT Project Manager, you'll be working with cross-functional teams to deliver business value, support corporate web solutions, and drive digital transformation initiatives.

The role offers hybrid work arrangements and involves less than 10% travel, making it perfect for maintaining work-life balance.

One of the most interesting aspects is the chance to work on sustainability and business communications projects.

You'll be part of a global company with 53,000 employees across 180 markets, working on meaningful projects that impact both the business and the world. The position requires strong analytical thinking and excellent communication skills, with opportunities to advance in the organization.

The competitive salary range of $110,000-$140,000 annually, combined with 15 days of vacation, nine holidays, and two personal days, makes this role at Reynolds American an attractive option for tech professionals looking to make their mark in Winston-Salem.

Winston-Salem's tech scene is absolutely crushing it right now, and the numbers don't lie! Tech job openings have surged by 52% statewide, with Software Engineering leading the pack.

Major players like FUJIFILM, Novo Nordisk, and Merck are bringing serious opportunities, especially in biotechnology and gene therapy, where salaries are hitting $115,000+ annually.

The tech sector is seriously taking off, with local companies investing heavily in cloud computing and AI.

What's super exciting is how AI and machine learning roles are becoming the hottest tickets in town, with companies scrambling to find qualified talent.

The average tech salary here is way more affordable than Silicon Valley, plus you get to keep more of what you earn thanks to the lower cost of living.

It's pretty amazing to see how Winston-Salem is transforming into this tech powerhouse while keeping its cool, historic vibe.

The best part? Local institutions are stepping up big time with education and training programs.

Whether you're into cybersecurity, cloud architecture, or full-stack development, there's a clear path to success here. The city's tech community is super welcoming to newcomers, and there are tons of networking events where you can connect with other tech professionals.

If you're looking to make your mark in tech, Winston-Salem is definitely the place to be right now!