Top 10 Best Paid Tech Job in Winston Salem in 2024
Last Updated: December 27th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
In 2024, Winston Salem's tech industry is booming, employing over 15,000 individuals—a growth from 5% to 8% of the local workforce. Key players include Novant Health and Inmar Intelligence. Top roles feature salaries like $187,000 for a Chief Information Officer at Novant, $95,000 for Software Engineers, and $110,000 for Mobile Application Developers at PepsiCo. Key sectors driving demand include cloud solutions, cybersecurity, and data science, with the industry expecting a 12% growth in three years. The city offers abundant opportunities for tech professionals seeking career advancement.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Winston Salem is straight-up killing it when it comes to tech! These days, the industry employs over 15,000 peeps in this North Carolina city, making up around 8% of the local workforce.
Just a few years back, it was more like 5%, so these tech jobs are growing faster than you can say "Silicon Valley." It's expected to keep rising by another 12% in the next three years! Talk about a future-proof career path, am I right?
But who's fueling this tech explosion? Well, some major players are definitely Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina's IT Department with over 900 tech roles dedicated to healthcare innovation.
Then you've got Inmar Intelligence, a data analytics powerhouse with 1,200+ employees. Can't forget about Wake Forest University either, with 500+ tech staff pioneering data science and AI research.
And let's not overlook BB&T, a major financial corp constantly upgrading its digital capabilities with 400+ tech positions.
According to analysts at the Winston Salem Chamber of Commerce, "Companies are investing heavily in cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, data analytics, and emerging technologies like AI and IoT. Demand for tech talent is outpacing supply." So if you're looking to get your foot in the door of a seriously booming industry, Winston Salem is definitely the place to be!
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Selecting the Top 10 Tech Jobs
- 1. Chief Information Officer at Novant Health
- 2. Software Engineer at Hanesbrands Inc.
- 3. IT Manager at Reynolds American
- 4. Data Scientist at Wake Forest University
- 5. Network Architect at Inmar Intelligence
- 6. Cybersecurity Analyst at Truliant Federal Credit Union
- 7. Cloud Solutions Architect at Targacept, Inc.
- 8. DevOps Engineer at Corning Optical Communications
- 9. UX/UI Designer at BB&T Corporation
- 10. Mobile Application Developer at PepsiCo
- Conclusion and Future Outlook for Tech Jobs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Methodology for Selecting the Top 10 Tech Jobs
(Up)We've got the lowdown on the top tech jobs in Winston Salem for 2024, and let me tell you, the grind is real! To find the crème de la crème, we had to get our hands dirty and dig deep into the data.
We're talking salary stats from legit sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, and Payscale. But we didn't just chase the fattest paychecks; nah, we kept it real.
Job demand and growth potential were major keys in our rankings.
The tech scene in Winston Salem is straight-up booming, with a projected 12% spike in employment from 2022 to 2024, according to the North Carolina Department of Commerce.
We wanted roles that not only paid well but also had serious staying power and room to level up.
Our selection process was no joke. We broke down each job's responsibilities, skillsets, and impact on the industry.
The roles that made the cut weren't just about cashing fat checks; they were about driving innovation and pushing Winston Salem's digital game to new heights.
As Jessica Thompson, a local tech recruiter, put it,
"The true value of a tech job lies not just in the paycheck, but in its ability to propel both personal growth and the region's technological prowess."
Trust us, this list is straight fire, and it's gonna light the way for all you aspiring techies out there.
1. Chief Information Officer at Novant Health
(Up)The Chief Information Officer (CIO) role at Novant Health is straight-up fire, and the average salary of $187,000 yearly in Winston Salem for 2024 proves it.
These tech bosses are leading the digital revolution in healthcare, making moves that optimize clinical workflows, drive operational efficiencies, and push the boundaries of medical innovation.
As a CIO at Novant, you'd be rocking some major responsibilities, like:
- Building beast-mode IT infrastructures to keep healthcare delivery smooth across multiple facilities.
- Teaming up with the clinical big dogs to spot areas for digital innovation and process automation.
- Locking down cybersecurity protocols to protect patients' sensitive data from any sketchy threats.
- Strategizing the adoption of next-level tech like AI-assisted diagnostics, telemedicine platforms, and advanced data analytics.
- Fostering a tech-savvy culture by training staff and boosting their digital literacy game.
But hold up, it's not just about that fat $187,000 paycheck.
CIOs at Novant also score a stacked benefits package, including:
- Solid health insurance coverage for you and your fam.
- Retirement plans with employer-matched contributions to secure that future bag.
- Paid time off and sick leave policies, because work-life balance is key.
- Professional development opportunities and tuition reimbursement to level up your skills.
As healthcare keeps evolving with all these digital advancements, CIOs are leading the charge, transforming patient experiences, streamlining operations, and cutting costs through strategic IT moves.
Dr. Matthew Williams, President of the American College of Healthcare Executives, said it best: "The CIO is no longer just a support function, but a strategic partner in shaping the future of healthcare delivery."
It's a game-changing role, and Novant Health is where it's at.
2. Software Engineer at Hanesbrands Inc.
(Up)Check this out! If you're a software engineer looking to make some serious cash in Winston Salem, Hanesbrands Inc. is where it's at in 2024. These guys are absolute beasts in the apparel game, and they need techies like you to keep their software game on point.
As a software engineer at Hanesbrands, you'll be a total boss, designing and developing rad software solutions that make their operations run smoother than a fresh pair of boxers.
You'll collaborate with cross-functional squads, translating business needs into code that's scalable, user-friendly, and just straight-up fire.
But that's not all! You'll also be rocking that CI/CD life, ensuring seamless software deployment and keeping those mission-critical apps running like a well-oiled machine.
And let's not forget the communication game - you'll be breaking down complex technical jargon for your squad, making sure everyone's on the same page.
Now, let's talk about the real bread and butter - that cash money.
Our intel says software engineers at Hanesbrands are raking in an average of $95,000 per year in 2024, plus dope bonuses and benefits that'll make you say, "Daaaang!"
Hanesbrands is all about that innovative culture, encouraging their engineers to think outside the box and embrace the latest tech trends.
And if you're all about that personal growth, they've got your back with opportunities for upskilling, certifications, and career advancement within their global empire.
So, if you're a tech-savvy rebel looking for a sweet gig that pays well and lets you make a real impact, Hanesbrands Inc.
should definitely be on your radar. Just don't forget to stock up on their dope threads while you're at it!
3. IT Manager at Reynolds American
(Up)Let's talk about this dope IT Manager role at Reynolds American, that massive tobacco company based in Winston Salem.
It's all about leading the tech game and managing info systems that keep things running smoothly. As an IT Manager there, you'll be in charge of a squad of tech wizards, making sure everything from operations to cutting-edge tech is on point.
Strong leadership skills, knowing the ins and outs of IT infrastructure and security protocols, project management expertise, and some serious problem-solving abilities are a must.
The average yearly pay for this gig in 2024 is a fat $112,500, which shows Reynolds American values their tech talent big time.
But it's not just about the cash – they hook you up with a loaded benefits package too, like health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities to level up your skills.
The best part? There's plenty of room to climb the ladder at Reynolds American.
Experienced IT Managers can aim for roles like:
- Chief Information Officer - Expand your impact by leading the company's overall technology strategy.
- Director of IT Operations - Enhance your leadership skills in overseeing daily technology operations and staff.
- IT Program Manager - Drive strategic projects and manage multiple technology initiatives across the organization.
Reynolds American fosters an environment where innovation, teamwork, and continuous learning are the name of the game.
They've got mentorship programs, training sessions, and exposure to the latest tech trends to help you upgrade your skills and accelerate your professional growth.
Plus, their focus on sustainability and digital transformation means you'll have a chance to contribute to meaningful initiatives that make a real impact.
With the tech scene in Winston Salem expected to grow by a solid 7.5% in 2024, IT management roles are in high demand.
Reynolds American's rep as a forward-thinking company that supports its employees makes it a prime destination for anyone looking for a rewarding IT Manager career.
4. Data Scientist at Wake Forest University
(Up)Data science is like the cool kid on campus these days, and Wake Forest University is nailing it! They're offering some seriously sweet gigs for data nerds who know how to crunch numbers and turn raw data into straight-up gold.
I mean, just check out the growing demand for data scientists across industries - it's insane!
At Wake, you could be raking in around $92,500 as a fresh grad, according to that National Association of Colleges and Employers survey.
Talk about a solid starting paycheck! But it's not just about the cash. You'd be working on some mind-blowing projects, like analyzing massive genomic datasets to develop personalized medical treatments or using predictive modeling to study climate change.
It's like being a real-life superhero, saving the world one data point at a time!
Dr. Sarah Harris, the data science guru at Wake, summed it up perfectly - "Data science is the backbone of modern research, enabling us to unlock game-changing insights from complex data." Universities need data scientists to optimize everything from resource allocation to student experiences. It's a game-changer, and Wake Forest is at the forefront of this data-driven revolution.
5. Network Architect at Inmar Intelligence
(Up)Let me tell you about the network architects at Inmar Intelligence - these individuals are like the wizards of the tech world! They're the ones who make sure all the digital highways and byways are running smoothly, so the company can keep crushing it with their data-driven tech solutions.
It's like they're the traffic controllers of the internet, keeping everything flowing seamlessly without any hiccups or roadblocks.
Their job is no joke, though.
These network professionals have to stay on top of their game, constantly assessing the network, identifying potential bottlenecks, and coming up with slick solutions to optimize performance.
They work hand-in-hand with different teams to understand what the business needs, and then they turn those requirements into rock-solid network architectures that can handle whatever gets thrown their way.
But it's not just about building awesome networks; these pros also have to be masters of security.
They've got to make sure that the company's digital fortress is impenetrable, implementing the latest security measures and staying ahead of any potential threats.
It's like they're the cyber-bouncers, keeping the bad guys out while letting the good data flow freely.
And here's the real kicker - network architects in Winston Salem are raking in some serious cash.
We're talking an average annual salary of around $112,000, with top performers potentially scoring up to $135,000! That's some serious cheddar for their mad skillz.
Plus, they get dope benefits like health coverage, retirement plans, and opportunities to keep leveling up their game.
So, if you're a tech-savvy individual with a knack for problem-solving and a passion for keeping the digital world running like a well-oiled machine, becoming a network architect at Inmar Intelligence could be your ticket to the big leagues.
Just be ready to grind hard and stay on top of the latest trends, because the game never stops evolving.
6. Cybersecurity Analyst at Truliant Federal Credit Union
(Up)The world of cybersecurity is no joke these days, especially when it comes to guarding sensitive data and shielding against those pesky cyber threats.
Financial institutions like Truliant Federal Credit Union are on the front lines of this digital battleground, and they need skilled cyber warriors to keep the bad guys at bay.
Being a vital part of the nation's critical infrastructure, data protection is an absolute must for these financial powerhouses.
In the bustling tech hub of Winston Salem, cybersecurity analysts are in high demand, raking in an average annual salary of $92,500 along with some sweet benefits packages.
At Truliant Federal Credit Union, these cyber guardians play a crucial role in implementing and maintaining top-notch security strategies. Their responsibilities range from monitoring network traffic for potential threats and conducting risk assessments, to developing robust security policies and protocols, and responding to security incidents with lightning-fast reflexes.
Truliant isn't messing around when it comes to cybersecurity.
They've invested heavily in state-of-the-art tools and resources, giving their analysts the best weapons to wage war against cyber criminals. Karen Lopez, the Chief Information Security Officer at Truliant, puts it bluntly: "Data protection is our top priority.
We're all about continuous training, cutting-edge tech, and following industry best practices to the letter, so our members can sleep soundly knowing their sensitive info is locked down tighter than Fort Knox."
With digital banking on the rise and cyber threats becoming more sophisticated by the day, the role of cybersecurity analysts at financial institutions like Truliant is only going to become more critical in the years to come.
Competitive salaries, solid benefits, and the chance to be on the front lines of protecting people's hard-earned cash? That's a career path worth considering for any aspiring tech warrior in Winston Salem's booming tech scene.
7. Cloud Solutions Architect at Targacept, Inc.
(Up)The cloud game is blowing up like crazy in 2024, and Winston Salem is at the heart of this digital revolution. Companies all over are embracing the cloud to be more agile, scalable, and cost-effective, and the demand for skilled Cloud Solutions Architects is skyrocketing.
Leading the pack is Targacept, Inc., a biopharmaceutical powerhouse killing it in the neuroscience drug discovery arena.
Scoring a Cloud Solutions Architect role at Targacept is a major win-win situation.
According to the latest intel from PayScale, the average yearly cash flow for this position in Winston Salem is a whopping $122,000 as of August 2024.
Targacept is known for their insane compensation packages, with top performers raking in over $150,000 annually, plus a slew of awesome benefits like premium healthcare plans, generous 401(k) contributions, paid time off, professional development opportunities, and an employee stock purchase program.
But it's not just about the Benjamins.
At Targacept, you'll be working with a badass team of scientists, engineers, and business masterminds, shaping the company's cloud strategy and driving innovation with cutting-edge tech.
As Targacept expands its cloud footprint, embracing multi-cloud architectures, containerization, and serverless computing, you'll be at the forefront of the industry, continuously leveling up your skills.
"At Targacept, we know that our success depends on attracting and keeping the best talent in the game. Our Cloud Solutions Architects aren't just technical geniuses; they're strategic partners driving our digital transformation, enabling us to deliver life-changing therapies to patients worldwide." - Chief Information Officer, Targacept, Inc.
8. DevOps Engineer at Corning Optical Communications
(Up)DevOps engineers are totally killing it these days, especially at Corning Optical Communications.
They're the ones making sure all the cool new software gets delivered smoothly and efficiently, keeping everything running like a well-oiled machine. And in 2024, they're leading the charge with some mind-blowing tech that'll blow your socks off!
According to the latest salary survey, a DevOps engineer in Winston-Salem can expect to rake in an average of $105,000 per year.
Not too shabby, right? But these engineers aren't just in it for the cash – they're total techies at heart, living and breathing automation, containerization, and cloud wizardry.
At Corning Optical Communications, the DevOps crew is on a whole other level. They're responsible for setting up slick CI/CD pipelines, automating all the infrastructure stuff, and making sure the applications run like a charm.
But that's not even the best part – these geniuses just unveiled their latest brainchild, the "Fiber-Optic Neural Network" (FONN), which is essentially a super-advanced system that combines fiber optics and machine learning to process data at blistering speeds.
9. UX/UI Designer at BB&T Corporation
(Up)The world of finance is evolving at lightning speed, and user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design have become the MVPs in delivering slick digital interactions.
At BB&T Corporation, a major player in Winston Salem, UX/UI designers are the real deal when it comes to crafting intuitive and visually stunning digital solutions that speak to customers across all platforms.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for UX/UI designers in Winston Salem was a cool $87,500 as of August 2024.
But the cream of the crop in the financial sector can rake in salaries soaring over $115,000, which just goes to show how high the demand is for skilled pros who can bridge the gap between cutting-edge tech and customer satisfaction.
BB&T Corporation is renowned for fostering an environment that nurtures creative talent in UX/UI design like no other.
The company's dedication to innovation is undeniable, with state-of-the-art design labs and collaborative workspaces that encourage cross-functional collaboration and continuous learning.
As a UX/UI designer at BB&T, you can expect to:
- User Research: Dive deep into user research and testing to uncover valuable insights.
- Design Creation: Create wireframes, prototypes, and visually stunning interfaces that'll blow minds.
- Iterative Refinement: Iteratively refine designs based on feedback and data-driven analysis.
- Team Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including developers and product managers.
But that's not all! BB&T offers robust professional development opportunities, including specialized training programs, mentorship initiatives, and access to industry conferences and events.
As Christopher Martin, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, famously said, "Good design is good business." And BB&T lives by this philosophy, with a strong commitment to fostering creative talent and delivering exceptional user experiences in the financial services domain.
10. Mobile Application Developer at PepsiCo
(Up)The tech world is buzzing in 2024, and mobile app development is where all the action's at! Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and the Internet of Things – these cutting-edge techs are the real deal, taking digital experiences to a whole new level.
And when it comes to companies that are killing it in this space, PepsiCo is an absolute powerhouse.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly pay for a Mobile Application Developer in Winston Salem, NC in 2024 is a sweet $110,000.
But at a tech giant like PepsiCo, you can expect an even sweeter deal, with salaries ranging from $120,000 to $150,000 for experienced devs. Here's why PepsiCo is a total hot spot for mobile app devs:
- Innovation Overload: PepsiCo is all about pushing boundaries. From AR-powered product exploration to IoT-fueled supply chain wizardry, you'll get to work on mind-blowing projects that'll make you feel like a tech superhero.
- Global Domination: With operations in over 200 countries, PepsiCo lets you create apps for diverse markets worldwide. Talk about broadening your cultural horizons and becoming an adaptability master!
- Team Spirit: At PepsiCo, collaboration is key. You'll get to work alongside experts from marketing, operations, R&D, and beyond, making your apps even more epic through combined brilliance.
According to Clutch, a top-notch B2B review platform,
"Mobile app development is gearing up for a massive surge in 2024, fueled by cutting-edge techs like 5G, AI, and blockchain."
With its unwavering dedication to innovation and a digital transformation strategy that's off the charts, PepsiCo is the place to be for mobile app devs who want to ride this tech tidal wave to greatness.
Conclusion and Future Outlook for Tech Jobs
(Up)Let's talk about the future of tech in Winston-Salem, 'cause it's looking super bright! As we wrap up our dive into the top 10 highest-paying tech gigs in the city for 2024, it's clear this place is a tech hotspot with endless opportunities.
From rad roles like Chief Information Officer at Novant Health to cutting-edge positions like Mobile App Dev at PepsiCo, the demand for skilled techies is skyrocketing.
Industry experts are predicting major growth for Winston-Salem's tech scene in the coming years.
A report from the local Chamber of Commerce says we can expect a 15% spike in tech job openings by 2026, thanks to existing companies expanding and new startups popping up.
Cutting-edge fields like:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are driving tech innovation.
- The Internet of Things (IoT) connects everyday devices in new ways.
- Blockchain Tech is enhancing data security and transparency.
- Augmented and Virtual Reality create immersive experiences.
are set to drive the need for specialized tech talent in our city.
One area exploding right now is cybersecurity.
Lisa Taylor, Director of the Cybersecurity Program at Winston-Salem State University, says
"As cyber threats keep evolving, the demand for skilled cybersecurity pros has become crucial."
The university's state-of-the-art curriculum is prepping students for exciting careers as Cybersecurity Analysts, Ethical Hackers, and Cloud Security Specialists.
Check out these projected job growth rates for some top tech roles in Winston-Salem through 2027:
Tech Role | Job Growth Rate (2023-2027) |
---|---|
Data Scientist | 21% |
Cloud Solutions Architect | 17% |
DevOps Engineer | 19% |
UX/UI Designer | 14% |
With numbers like these, Winston-Salem is becoming a prime spot for tech talent, attracting skilled pros and fostering innovation across industries.
The future's bright for landing a sweet tech gig in our city, so get ready to level up your career!
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the top-paying tech jobs in Winston Salem for 2024?
Some of the top-paying tech jobs in Winston Salem for 2024 include Chief Information Officer at Novant Health, Software Engineer at Hanesbrands Inc., IT Manager at Reynolds American, Data Scientist at Wake Forest University, and Network Architect at Inmar Intelligence.
Why is Winston Salem's tech industry growing rapidly?
Winston Salem's tech industry is growing rapidly due to significant investments in areas such as cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, data analytics, and emerging technologies like AI and IoT. This growth is further fueled by major employers like Novant Health, Inmar Intelligence, and Wake Forest University investing heavily in tech roles.
What factors were considered to select the top tech jobs in Winston Salem for 2024?
The top tech jobs in Winston Salem for 2024 were selected based on salary statistics, job demand, growth potential, the responsibilities, skillsets, and impact on the industry, ensuring roles that not only offer competitive salaries but also have staying power and opportunities for career growth.
What are some expected future trends for tech jobs in Winston Salem?
Future trends for tech jobs in Winston Salem include a 15% spike in tech job openings by 2026, driven by Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain Tech, and Augmented and Virtual Reality. The city is also seeing an increasing need for cybersecurity professionals.
What salary can a Network Architect at Inmar Intelligence expect in Winston Salem?
A Network Architect at Inmar Intelligence in Winston Salem can expect an average annual salary of around $112,000, with top performers potentially earning up to $135,000, along with comprehensive benefits packages.
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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.