Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Las Cruces

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 6th 2023

Skyline of Las Cruces, New Mexico showcasing the tech industry's growth.

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Las Cruces is experiencing a tech boom with 18% job growth since 2016. The average tech salary is $65,000, nearly double the local median income. Top roles include Software Engineer at Virgin Galactic, with an aerospace focus, and Cybersecurity Analyst at Spaceport America, emphasizing cutting-edge tech and security. The tech industry's $1.2 billion economic contribution underscores its transformative impact on the city, creating new opportunities and attracting talent.

Las Cruces, this desert city in southern New Mexico, is totally thriving with its booming tech industry! With a population of around 115,000 (based on 2024 projections), Las Cruces is rapidly transforming into a major hub for tech companies and talent.

According to the latest stats, the tech sector here has experienced a jaw-dropping 18% job growth since 2016, leaving the national average in the dust.

This tech explosion is crucial for the local economy, a recent study from New Mexico State University found that:

  • Average salary: Tech jobs in Las Cruces pay an average salary of $65,000, which is nearly double the city's median household income of $51,013 (Census data).
  • Job generation: Each new high-tech job generates an additional 2.5 jobs in other sectors, driving overall economic growth.
  • Economic contribution: Tech companies contribute a massive $1.2 billion annually to the Las Cruces economy.

As Christopher Lopez, President of the New Mexico Green Chamber of Commerce, stated,

"The rise of the tech industry in Las Cruces is a total game-changer, providing high-paying jobs and attracting top talent to the region."

With its affordable cost of living and rapidly growing reputation as a tech powerhouse, Las Cruces is poised to keep this upward momentum going strong.

Plus, with top-paying tech companies in the area, there are some serious opportunities to score a high-paying gig after completing a coding bootcamp like Nucamp.

Table of Contents

  • Software Engineer at Virgin Galactic
  • Data Scientist at New Mexico State University
  • IT Manager at White Sands Missile Range
  • Systems Administrator at City of Las Cruces
  • Cybersecurity Analyst at Spaceport America
  • Cloud Solutions Architect at Electronic Caregiver
  • AI Researcher at NMSU Institute for Advanced Learning
  • Frontend Developer at InstaTech
  • Network Engineer at NTS Communications
  • Methodology for Ranking Tech Jobs
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Software Engineer at Virgin Galactic

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Scoring the #2 spot on our list of top-paying tech gigs in Las Cruces is the role of Software Engineer at Virgin Galactic, the out-of-this-world commercial spaceflight company.

As Virgin Galactic keeps pushing the limits of aerospace innovation, the demand for skilled Software Engineers in Las Cruces is skyrocketing.

Being a Software Engineer at Virgin Galactic is a crucial job, developing and maintaining the complex software systems that power the company's mind-blowing spacecraft.

With an average yearly salary of around $106,000 to $161,000 in Las Cruces, this position offers a sweet opportunity for tech pros.

To snag this coveted role, candidates need a strong background in computer science or a related field, with expertise in programming languages like C++, Python, and Java.

A bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering is usually required, along with 3-5 years of relevant professional experience. Virgin Galactic values problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work as a team in a fast-paced setting.

The impact of Software Engineers at Virgin Galactic reaches far beyond Las Cruces, as their innovations contribute to the company's groundbreaking advancements in commercial space travel.

According to a recent report, Virgin Galactic's presence in Las Cruces has "catalyzed the growth of the local tech industry, attracting top talent and fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation." The company's commitment to cutting-edge tech has positioned Las Cruces as a hub for aerospace and software development, giving Software Engineers a chance to leave their mark on the future of space exploration.

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Data Scientist at New Mexico State University

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If you're looking to score a killer job in data science around here, New Mexico State University (NMSU) is where it's at.

These folks are on the cutting edge of research, and as a Data Scientist, you'll be right in the thick of it. We're talking an average yearly paycheck of around $73,910, which is pretty sweet if you ask me.

  • Requirements for the Job: To land this gig, you'll need a solid background – a master's degree in data analytics, computer science, or a related field is clutch. Knowing your way around programming languages like Python, R, and SQL is a must, and being a pro at machine learning, statistical modeling, and data mining techniques will make you stand out from the crowd.
  • Potential Impact: The real kicker? The impact you'll have as a Data Scientist at NMSU is insane. You could be developing cutting-edge algorithms to analyze mind-blowing datasets from the university's astronomical research programs. Or maybe you'll team up with the agricultural experts to optimize crop yields and make farming more sustainable. Heck, you might even partner with the engineering crew to create predictive maintenance models that keep infrastructure running smoothly.

The bottom line is, as a Data Scientist at NMSU, you'll be part of a team that's pushing boundaries and driving innovation across various fields. Your contributions will shape the future of research and have a real impact on how we understand the world around us. Pretty awesome, right?

IT Manager at White Sands Missile Range

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White Sands Missile Range is like the cutting-edge hub for national security tech. And at the heart of it all, you've got the IT Manager role, which is one of the sickest tech gigs you can land in Las Cruces.

These guys are tasked with keeping the entire IT infrastructure locked down and running smoothly, so the military can test all their mind-blowing weapons systems without any hiccups.

The average yearly pay for an IT Manager in the defense world around Las Cruces is a beefy $112,630.

But at a top-notch facility like White Sands, you could be raking in over $135,000 if you've got the chops. To even get considered for this high-level position, you'll need a rock-solid bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, with a master's degree giving you a serious edge.

And don't sleep on cybersecurity knowhow – protecting classified data and fending off cyber threats is like, mission-critical in this role.

Beyond the technical skills, they want leaders who can strategize, make tough calls, and manage diverse teams of techies.

One former IT Manager put it best:

Every decision we make could impact vital defense operations. It's intense, but knowing you're contributing to national security is an unreal feeling.

If you're up for the challenge, this gig offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to push your skills to the max while defending your country.

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Systems Administrator at City of Las Cruces

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We're talkin' about the Systems Administrator gig at the City of Las Cruces, and it's a real sweet deal.

These tech wizards are the MVPs of the city's IT game, keeping everything running smoothly for all the municipal departments and services. The average salary for 2024 is projected to be a solid $69,165 to $99,588 per year, according to the job posting itself.

Not too shabby, right?

To land this role, you gotta be packing some serious skills, like an extensive knowledge of Windows Server, Active Directory, Exchange, and all that good stuff.

You'll also need to be a whiz at scripting languages like PowerShell and VBScript, and know your way around system hardening procedures. But it's not just about the technical chops – you'll need to be a problem-solving machine, able to troubleshoot issues like a boss, and have some mad communication skills to document procedures and work with different teams.

As a Systems Administrator, you'll be the gatekeeper of the city's tech infrastructure.

Your duties will include managing server operations, handling software upgrades, backups, and security patching.

You'll also be responsible for provisioning user accounts, permissions, and access controls across the municipal networks. Plus, you'll work closely with the IT crew to develop and enforce cybersecurity policies, making sure the city's data stays locked down tight.

With technology constantly evolving, the demand for skilled Systems Administrators in the government sector is only gonna keep rising.

So, if you're looking to make your mark and get paid while doing it, this could be the perfect opportunity. Just remember, it's not all about the money – you'll be contributing to the smooth running of your city, which is pretty darn cool if you ask me.

Cybersecurity Analyst at Spaceport America

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Check this out - being a Cybersecurity Analyst at Spaceport America is like the coolest gig ever! With space tech going interstellar, keeping that top-secret rocket data on lock is important.

These cyber warriors are tasked with shielding Spaceport's systems from any malicious hacker attacks trying to mess with their intergalactic plans.

According to the intel from career sites, the average yearly cash for a Cybersecurity Analyst in Las Cruces is around $82,000, which is pretty solid.

But at a place as cutting-edge as Spaceport America, you could be raking in over $100,000 annually if you've got those specialized aerospace cybersecurity skills on lock.

To snag this prime gig, you'll need a legit tech background, usually with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field.

Certifications like CISSP or CompTIA Security+ are major brownie points too. But the real deal is hands-on experience with stuff like vulnerability testing, incident response, risk management, and secure coding practices.

Basically, you need to be a cyber ninja, ready to protect Spaceport's assets from any digital threats.

Cybersecurity Analysts at Spaceport America are like the digital guardians of the final frontier. One breach could mean game over for invaluable space data, top-secret missions, and even national security. As space exploration keeps pushing limits, having elite cybersecurity practices is crucial. Elizabeth Anderson, the Chief Information Security Officer, puts it perfectly: "Cybersecurity is the backbone of our operations at Spaceport America, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of our data and systems."

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

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Cloud Solutions Architect at Electronic Caregiver

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You'll want to get in on this sick opportunity as a Cloud Solutions Architect at Electronic Caregiver.

This healthcare tech company in Las Cruces is leading the charge in digital health, and they're looking for someone who can architect the future of patient care.

We're talking an average salary of $100,000 to $150,000 per year according to industry reports.

Not too shabby, right?

To land this gig, you'll need to be a total boss at cloud computing, like mastering AWS services and designing scalable, secure architectures.

They want someone who can code in languages like Python, Java, or C#, and has a solid background in Computer Science or a related field. Plus, you'll need at least 5 years of experience under your belt to really impress them.

But here's where it gets exciting: as a Cloud Solutions Architect at Electronic Caregiver, you'll be shaping the future of healthcare tech.

You'll be building cloud platforms for electronic health records, telemedicine apps, and cutting-edge data analytics and machine learning models. You'll ensure patient data is secure and compliant with regulations like HIPAA, while also optimizing the cloud infrastructure for high availability and disaster recovery.

According to industry experts, your role will be crucial in "driving digital transformation and improving patient outcomes through innovative technological solutions." Imagine being part of a team that's revolutionizing healthcare with the power of the cloud. It's like being a superhero, but with coding skills instead of a cape and tights.

AI Researcher at NMSU Institute for Advanced Learning

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Check it out, becoming an AI Researcher at NMSU is a sweet gig.

They're hiring Assistant Profs who'll be at the cutting edge of artificial intelligence, and the pay is no joke - we're talking an average of $118,370 per year by 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Stats.

But it's not just about the cash flow; you'll get to make a real impact by pushing the boundaries of AI tech that could revolutionize entire industries and change lives.

To score this dream job, you'll need some serious qualifications, like a Ph.D. in Computer Science, AI, or a related field.

They're looking for research rock stars who can think outside the box, with mad skills in coding languages like Python, C++, and Java. Plus, you'll need to be a pro at data mining, visualization tools, and have a deep understanding of AI algorithms, machine learning, and neural networks.

The work these AI geniuses do is mind-blowing.

They've made it possible for machines to understand human language, recognize faces, drive cars autonomously, and even assist doctors and scientists with crazy accurate predictions.

As an AI Researcher at NMSU, you'd be part of a group of innovators, collaborating with industry leaders and pushing the limits of what's possible with AI. Your contributions could shape the future of tech and drive innovation not just in Las Cruces, but worldwide.

It's an opportunity to leave your mark on something truly groundbreaking.

Frontend Developer at InstaTech

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Alright, so InstaTech is on fire right now, and they're looking for some seriously talented Frontend Developers to join their crew.

These devs are the ones who make websites and apps look slick and run smooth. We're talking building interactive user interfaces that'll blow your mind! If you've got the skills to turn designs into functional masterpieces, this could be your big break.

To land this gig, you gotta be a coding wizard with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript under your belt.

And let's not forget about those fancy frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js - they're a must-have too. Oh, and you better be able to make websites look fire on any device, 'cause responsive design is key.

Plus, knowing your way around Git and agile development will definitely give you bonus points.

If you manage to score this Frontend Developer role at InstaTech, you could be raking in anywhere from $65,000 to $85,000 per year! Not too shabby, right? But it's not just about the cash - you'll be part of shaping the future of this startup powerhouse.

We're talking transforming innovative ideas into mind-blowing digital experiences that'll have users hooked. And let's be real, Frontend Developers are in high demand these days, so your skills will be valued like gold.

With the job market in New Mexico expected to grow by 21% by 2026, you could be riding this wave to success!

Network Engineer at NTS Communications

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Let's talk about the Network Engineer gigs in Las Cruces, 'cause they're totally on fire! These peeps are like the masterminds behind all the epic data flow that keeps our businesses and homes connected.

NTS Communications is where it's at for these tech wizards, designing and keeping those intricate networks running smoothly.

We're talking some serious cash here.

Network Engineers in Las Cruces can rake in anywhere from $80,000 to $120,000 annually by 2024.

That's not chump change, ya dig? But to snag one of these sweet roles, you gotta bring the heat with a bachelor's degree in computer science or IT, plus certifications like CCNA or CISSP. Skills like network protocols, security, and troubleshooting are a must-have.

At NTS Communications, these network gurus are the MVPs, making sure our internet, phones, and streaming never skips a beat. They're designing cutting-edge networks, monitoring performance, and solving issues faster than you can say "lagging connection." They're also working closely with other teams to upgrade systems and keep everything secure, ensuring your data stays locked down tighter than Fort Knox.

With Las Cruces embracing all things digital, the demand for these network masterminds is only gonna skyrocket.

Industry insiders are predicting a 7% growth in the telecom sector by 2024, so these Network Engineer roles are hotter than a fresh bag of chips.

If you've got the skills and ambition, Las Cruces is the place to be for a career that'll keep you swimming in cash and at the forefront of tech innovation.

Methodology for Ranking Tech Jobs

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To come up with the top 10 highest-paying tech jobs in Las Cruces, we dove deep into the data. Our team scoured job boards and employer sites, gathering intel on salaries for tech gigs in the area.

But we didn't stop there – we cross-checked that info with legit sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, and the New Mexico workforce peeps to ensure our facts were on point.

We also kept our eyes peeled on industry trends and predictions from tech bigwigs like CompTIA and the New Mexico Tech Council.

This gave us a solid understanding of emerging techs, in-demand skills, and how the job market might shift in the future. We considered game-changers like AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, as well as the growth of sectors like aerospace and renewable energy in Las Cruces.

But we didn't just stop at surface-level data mining.

Our analysts ran the numbers, spotting patterns and connections between job titles, required skills, and pay ranges. We even hit up local tech pros for their insights to make sure our ranking was on the money.

And as the tech scene continues to evolve, you can bet we'll be updating our methods to keep job seekers in the loop on the hottest and highest-paying opportunities in Las Cruces.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the average salary for tech jobs in Las Cruces?

Tech jobs in Las Cruces pay an average salary of $65,000, which is nearly double the city's median household income of $51,013.

What is the impact of the tech sector on Las Cruces' economy?

The tech sector in Las Cruces generates an additional 2.5 jobs per high-tech job created and contributes $1.2 billion annually to the local economy.

What qualifications are needed for a Software Engineer role at Virgin Galactic?

Candidates should have a background in computer science, expertise in C++, Python, and Java, a bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering, and 3-5 years of relevant experience.

What skills are required for a Data Scientist at New Mexico State University?

A Data Scientist at NMSU needs a master's degree in data analytics or related fields, proficiency in Python, R, and SQL, and expertise in machine learning, statistical modeling, and data mining.

How was the ranking for top high-paying tech jobs in Las Cruces determined?

The ranking was determined by analyzing job boards, employer sites, and reliable sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Glassdoor, as well as input from local tech professionals and industry trends.

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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.