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

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: January 3rd 2025

Phoenix skyline with digital tech icons representing high-paying tech jobs.

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Phoenix is emerging as a major tech hub by 2025, with high-paying tech jobs offering salaries from $65,000 to over $200,000. Cloud Architects top the list, earning between $155,000-$200,000, while AI Research Scientists enjoy salaries of $137,000. The city's tech workforce has grown 17.2% since 2018, bolstered by $20 billion investments from Intel and $600 million from Google. With affordable living costs—$1,574 average rent—and roles in AI, cybersecurity, and data science booming, Phoenix offers lucrative career opportunities for tech professionals.

Phoenix is absolutely crushing it in the tech world right now! As someone fresh out of school looking at career options, I'm blown away by how Phoenix's tech workforce has grown to over 108,380 professionals, with salaries ranging from $65,000 for entry-level positions to well over $100,000 for experienced roles.

The growth is seriously impressive - we're talking about a 13.4% job growth rate that pushed Phoenix to #10 among tech hubs! What makes this even better is that the city's becoming a magnet for major investments, with Google dropping $600 million and Intel investing a massive $20 billion.

The opportunities here are next level, especially with tech talent wages hitting $97,977 on average.

Plus, compared to places like San Francisco or Seattle, Phoenix offers way more affordable living costs - we're talking $1,574 for average monthly rent! The city's got everything from semiconductor manufacturing to AI development, and with companies like Intel, TSMC, and Lucid Motors expanding here, it's clear why everyone's talking about Phoenix as the next big tech destination.

For anyone starting their tech career, this is seriously the place to be right now!

Table of Contents

  • Methodology for Ranking Tech Jobs
  • 1. Cloud Architect: Pioneering Cloud Solutions
  • 2. Machine Learning Engineer: Innovating AI Development
  • 3. Data Scientist: Unveiling Data Insights
  • 4. Network Security Engineer: Safeguarding Infrastructures
  • 5. Software Engineer: Building Critical Systems
  • 6. Cybersecurity Engineer: Protecting Digital Spaces
  • 7. DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations
  • 8. Information Security Analyst: Securing Sensitive Data
  • 9. Penetration Tester: Identifying Vulnerabilities
  • 10. AI Research Scientist: Advancing Artificial Intelligence
  • Conclusion: The Future of Phoenix Tech Jobs
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology for Ranking Tech Jobs

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The tech scene in Phoenix is seriously taking off, and my research shows why it's the perfect time to jump into this field. Phoenix just ranked #18 among North American tech markets, with the tech workforce growing by 17.2% since 2018.

The average tech salary hit $97,977 in 2023, which is pretty amazing for someone starting their career. When looking at specific roles, Data Scientists are crushing it with average salaries of $160,617, while AI Architects can make over $200,000 - that's seriously impressive! The coolest part is how much investment is flowing into the city, with major players like Intel and TSMC putting in billions of dollars.

Cloud Architects, Cybersecurity Engineers, and AI specialists are the most in-demand roles right now, with entry-level positions starting around $65,000-$85,000.

The job market is super active too - companies created over 15,700 new tech jobs just from recent investments. For anyone looking to break into tech, these numbers show that Phoenix isn't just about the sunshine anymore - it's becoming a legit tech hub with real opportunities for making good money and building a solid career.

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1. Cloud Architect: Pioneering Cloud Solutions

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As a Cloud Architect in Phoenix, you're not just designing systems - you're shaping how companies operate in the digital space.

The role combines technical expertise with strategic thinking, requiring skills in cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, plus a solid grasp of security and infrastructure.

In 2025, Cloud Architects in Phoenix are earning around $155,000-$200,000 annually, making it one of the highest-paying tech roles in the region. The amazing part? The career path is totally achievable with the right mix of education, certifications, and hands-on experience.

Phoenix's tech scene is absolutely buzzing with opportunities for Cloud Architects.

The city's seeing a massive 17.2% growth in its tech workforce since 2018, with over 108,380 professionals now calling Phoenix home. It's mind-blowing to think that this sector contributes over $32.4 billion to Arizona's economy! Companies are investing heavily in cloud solutions, especially in healthcare, finance, and tech startups, creating tons of exciting projects to work on.

What makes this role so crucial is its direct impact on business success.

Cloud Architects are responsible for making sure companies can scale efficiently, protect their data, and stay competitive in a digital-first world. The coolest part is getting to work with cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and edge computing - areas that are reshaping how businesses operate.

Looking ahead, the future for Cloud Architects in Phoenix is incredibly bright.

With a projected industry growth of 9% by 2028 and a $12 billion investment influx into the tech sector, opportunities are everywhere. Whether you're interested in startups or enterprise companies, Phoenix's growing reputation as a tech hub means Cloud Architects will continue to be in high demand, offering amazing chances for career growth and innovation.

2. Machine Learning Engineer: Innovating AI Development

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As a Machine Learning Engineer in Phoenix's 2025 tech landscape, you get to be at the forefront of AI innovation, which is pretty exciting! These professionals develop new applications and processes to improve performance by reducing waste and inefficiency across various industries.

The role combines creative problem-solving with technical expertise, as Machine Learning Engineers build and fine-tune algorithms that enable machines to learn independently.

They break down complex challenges into manageable parts, tackling problems step by step to create innovative solutions that transform how businesses operate.

On the practical side, these engineers design, build, test, and deploy machine learning models, working closely with data scientists to turn raw information into actionable insights.

The average salary in Phoenix has reached $150,000 annually, with experienced professionals earning upwards of $200,000.

What makes this role especially cool is the variety - one day you might be developing fraud detection systems for banks, and the next, you could be working on self-driving car technology.

The job market in Phoenix is booming, with a projected growth rate of 20% over the next five years, thanks to major tech companies expanding their presence in the area.

For anyone interested in both programming and artificial intelligence, this career path offers real opportunities to create technology that shapes the future while earning a seriously competitive salary.

The role requires strong skills in Python programming, statistical analysis, and machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch, but the learning curve is totally worth it given the impact you can make.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

3. Data Scientist: Unveiling Data Insights

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Data scientists are changing the game in Phoenix's tech scene! These data pros are crushing it by turning massive amounts of information into smart business moves.

According to recent industry reports, healthcare data scientists are making between $108,020 to $126,430 annually, with their skills in high demand across multiple sectors.

They're the ones behind the scenes making magic happen with statistics, machine learning, and cutting-edge AI tools.

The salary outlook is incredible - Randstad's 2025 Salary Guide shows senior-level data scientists pulling in $127,981 to $141,082, with even better numbers in tech hubs.

The job market is absolutely booming too, with a projected growth of 73,100 new positions by 2033. What's really cool is that Phoenix's tech scene is growing super fast, with a 13.4% job growth rate and over 108,380 tech professionals already in the mix.

The impact these professionals are making is mind-blowing.

Recent studies show they're revolutionizing everything from personalized healthcare to fraud detection and airline route planning.

Companies are investing heavily in data science teams because they're seeing real results - better customer experiences, smarter operations, and innovative solutions to complex problems.

It's not just about crunching numbers; it's about using that data to make things better for everyone.

For anyone looking to jump into tech in Phoenix, becoming a data scientist is worth considering.

The combination of high pay, exciting work, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology makes it one of the most rewarding career paths out there.

4. Network Security Engineer: Safeguarding Infrastructures

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Network security has become absolutely essential in Phoenix's tech landscape, with current data showing 110 cybersecurity workers for every 100 jobs - way better than the national average.

Working as a Network Security Engineer in 2025 is exciting, especially since cyber threats keep getting more sophisticated. These professionals are the guardians of company networks, constantly watching for suspicious activity and making sure hackers can't get through.

They get to work with cutting-edge security tools and AI-powered systems to stop cyber attacks before they happen.

The money is pretty impressive too - experienced security pros in Phoenix can earn between $100,000 to $190,000, with some senior positions hitting $244,000.

Companies are totally willing to pay top dollar for engineers who know their stuff about threat detection, network monitoring, and security frameworks. It's not just about the technical skills though - you've got to be quick on your feet and ready to adapt since security threats are always changing.

Phoenix's tech scene is blowing up right now, especially in healthcare, aerospace, and financial services.

These sectors are driving massive growth in cybersecurity roles, making Phoenix one of the top 20 tech cities in the country.

With the rise of AI and cloud computing, network security engineers are getting more responsibilities and opportunities to work with innovative technologies. Companies are investing heavily in security infrastructure, knowing that one breach could cost them millions.

If you're into problem-solving and want to be at the forefront of protecting digital assets, this role is definitely worth checking out.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

5. Software Engineer: Building Critical Systems

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Software engineering is where the real action is happening in Phoenix's tech scene right now. As Phoenix's tech workforce grows beyond 108,380 professionals, software engineers are leading the charge in creating everything from AI systems to cloud platforms.

The role isn't just about coding - it's about solving real problems and building solutions that matter. According to recent data, software developers in Phoenix are earning an average of $115,520, with senior roles pushing well past that mark.

Major companies like Intel and Amazon are seriously investing in Phoenix, creating tons of opportunities for engineers who know their stuff. What's really cool is that software engineers get to work with cutting-edge tech across different areas - from building healthcare apps to creating fintech solutions.

The job involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, writing clean code, and staying current with the latest tech trends. For anyone thinking about getting into software engineering in Phoenix, the timing couldn't be better - the field is expected to grow another 9% by 2028, and companies are actively looking for talent in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

Plus, with the city's reasonable cost of living compared to other tech hubs, software engineers can actually enjoy the lifestyle their salary provides. Whether you're into frontend development, backend systems, or full-stack engineering, Phoenix's tech scene has room for all kinds of software engineering specialties.

6. Cybersecurity Engineer: Protecting Digital Spaces

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As a Cybersecurity Engineer in Phoenix, you're basically the guardian of the digital realm, protecting organizations from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

The role is super intense - you're designing security systems, implementing firewalls, and monitoring networks 24/7 to keep the bad guys out. The must-have skills include mastering security tools, understanding network protocols, and being incredibly sharp with problem-solving.

I've noticed that programming knowledge in Python is absolutely essential, especially when working with AI-powered security tools.

The salary situation is seriously awesome - we're talking about earning around $140,000 per year by 2025, with some positions offering even more when you factor in bonuses and stock options.

The coolest part? The demand keeps growing, with the global impact of cybercrime expected to hit $10.5 trillion annually by 2025.

That's exactly why companies are willing to pay top dollar for skilled professionals who can protect their assets.

Speaking from experience, getting into this field isn't just about having a computer science degree anymore.

While that's still important, what really matters is staying current with the latest security threats and solutions. The certifications like CISSP and CEH definitely help level up your career, but what's really crucial is hands-on experience with real-world security challenges.

Right now, the biggest trends shaping our work include cloud security (because everything's moving to the cloud), zero-trust architecture (basically trust no one, verify everything), and quantum-safe encryption (sounds like sci-fi, but it's totally real).

The field is constantly changing, which makes it incredibly exciting - there's always something new to learn and master, and you'll never get bored!

7. DevOps Engineer: Bridging Development and Operations

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As a DevOps Engineer in Phoenix's tech scene, you're looking at some seriously exciting opportunities in 2025. Top tech companies are offering salaries up to $170,000 for professionals who can bridge the gap between development and operations.

The role has become super important, especially with Phoenix's tech workforce growing by 17.2% since 2018. DevOps Engineers need to be skilled in cloud platforms, particularly AWS, and tools like Docker and Kubernetes.

Medical research companies in Phoenix are actively searching for DevOps talent who can handle both on-premises and cloud infrastructure, with expertise in Linux systems being a major plus.

The career path is pretty flexible, with tons of growth potential.

Companies are investing heavily in DevOps talent, and if you're just starting out, there are amazing internship opportunities. Lumen's summer 2025 internship program, running from May to August, offers hands-on experience with automation, cloud technologies, and real-world projects.

These internships can pay between $26 to $43 per hour, which is pretty sweet for someone getting started. The best part? Companies are investing in both entry-level positions and senior roles, creating a clear career progression path.

What makes DevOps particularly cool in Phoenix is how it's becoming central to every tech company's strategy.

Whether you're into healthcare tech, financial services, or startup culture, DevOps skills are in high demand. The role combines technical expertise with problem-solving, making it perfect for anyone who loves both coding and seeing immediate results of their work.

With Phoenix's tech scene continuing to expand and major companies setting up shop here, DevOps Engineers are set to remain key players in shaping the city's tech future.

8. Information Security Analyst: Securing Sensitive Data

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Information Security Analysts in Phoenix are stepping up as digital guardians in 2025, where protecting data is more critical than ever. Major employers like American Express are offering competitive salaries ranging from $70,000 to $135,000 for entry-level positions, making this career path seriously attractive for recent graduates.

These analysts handle everything from monitoring security events and responding to threats to developing machine learning models for identifying cyber risks. The role has evolved beyond basic security measures - now it's about being quick on your feet with threat intelligence and staying ahead of potential attacks.

Government agencies in Arizona are also jumping into the game, offering remote work options and comprehensive benefits packages that include tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 annually.

What's really cool is how the job combines technical skills with real-world problem-solving. Private sector companies like EMCOR Group are looking for analysts who can handle everything from encryption and firewall management to training users on security awareness.

The average salary now hits around $106,000 yearly, and with the constant evolution of cyber threats, this field isn't slowing down anytime soon. Plus, with flexible work arrangements becoming the norm and extensive benefits including paid parental leave and wellness programs, it's honestly one of the most forward-thinking careers in tech right now.

9. Penetration Tester: Identifying Vulnerabilities

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In 2025, penetration testing has emerged as one of the most exciting and crucial roles in Phoenix's tech scene. These digital security experts, known as pen testers, conduct ethical hacking operations focused on footprinting, reconnaissance, and network scanning to find system vulnerabilities before actual hackers do.

The field is absolutely blowing up right now - there are over 8,600 cybersecurity positions open in Phoenix, with nearly 1,600 specifically for penetration testers.

The average salary hits around $125,000 annually, with consistent 7% yearly increases as cyber threats get more complex. What makes this role super interesting is that you're basically paid to think like a hacker while helping protect organizations.

Getting certified as a Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT) is a game-changer for career growth, especially after obtaining the initial Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification.

The coolest part about being a pen tester is the hands-on work - you're not just running scans, you're actively trying to break into systems (legally!) to expose weaknesses.

Major companies in Phoenix, including PayPal and GoDaddy, are constantly looking for skilled pen testers. To really crush it in this field, you need to master enterprise-level penetration testing skills, including Azure cloud environments and modern infrastructure assessment.

The work is challenging but seriously rewarding - you're basically a digital security superhero, protecting companies from cyber threats while getting paid well to do it.

Plus, with Phoenix's tech scene growing so fast, there's tons of room for career growth and opportunities to work with cutting-edge security tools and technologies.

10. AI Research Scientist: Advancing Artificial Intelligence

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Phoenix has become a powerhouse for AI Research Scientists, with over 10,000 positions available across the metro area in 2025.

The average salary stands at $137,000, making it one of the most financially rewarding tech careers in the region. These scientists work on groundbreaking projects, particularly in healthcare innovations at Arizona universities, where they're developing advanced algorithms for early disease detection and personalized treatment plans.

The role requires expertise in Python, machine learning frameworks, and neural networks, with opportunities spanning across major employers like Deloitte, PwC, and CVS Health.

Career growth in this field is seriously amazing, with many professionals starting as AI specialists or data scientists and advancing to senior research positions.

According to recent job market data, the path to becoming an AI expert typically takes 3-5 years, but the investment is worth it.

Companies are actively recruiting for specialized roles in deep learning, computer vision, and natural language processing, with many positions offering flexible work arrangements, including remote options.

The collaboration between industry and academia, particularly through ASU and U of A, creates a perfect environment for pushing the boundaries of AI research.

The tech scene in Phoenix is absolutely buzzing with innovation.

Many research scientists here are working on cutting-edge projects that combine AI with real-world applications in autonomous systems, predictive analytics, and smart city initiatives.

The community is super supportive, with regular meetups, hackathons, and research symposiums where professionals can share ideas and advance their careers. What makes Phoenix extra special is how it's becoming a major tech hub while maintaining a lower cost of living compared to traditional tech centers like San Francisco or Seattle.

Conclusion: The Future of Phoenix Tech Jobs

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Phoenix is absolutely crushing it in the tech scene right now! The latest data shows a massive 13.4% tech job growth from 2021-2022, with over 108,380 tech professionals now calling the Valley home.

The numbers are seriously impressive - tech workers here are making 115% above the state's median wage, and major players like Google and Intel are dropping billions in investments.

Entry-level positions are starting between $65K-$85K, making it totally possible to start a solid career right out of the gate. The tech industry earnings have hit $32.4 billion, showing just how much potential there is here.

The job market is growing way faster than other cities, with an expected 9% increase by 2028. Plus, with AI specialists, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists being the most in-demand roles, there are tons of opportunities for anyone interested in tech.

The cost of living is way more manageable than other tech hubs too - you only need about $60K for a comfortable lifestyle, and the median home prices are around $449,900.

Whether you're into AI, cloud computing, or cybersecurity, Phoenix is seriously becoming the place to be for tech professionals!

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the average salaries for tech jobs in Phoenix in 2025?

In 2025, average salaries for tech jobs in Phoenix range from $65,000 for entry-level positions to well over $200,000 for experienced roles like AI Architects and Cloud Architects.

Which companies are investing in Phoenix's tech sector?

Major companies such as Google and Intel are investing heavily in Phoenix's tech sector, with Google investing $600 million and Intel committing $20 billion.

Why is Phoenix an attractive location for tech professionals?

Phoenix offers a booming tech job market, with major investments from significant companies, competitive salaries, and a lower cost of living compared to other tech hubs such as San Francisco and Seattle.

What is the job growth rate for tech positions in Phoenix?

Phoenix has experienced a tech workforce growth of 17.2% since 2018, with a projected 9% growth by 2028, making it a rapidly expanding tech hub.

What are some of the highest-paying tech roles in Phoenix?

Some of the highest-paying tech roles in Phoenix include Cloud Architects, earning between $155,000 and $200,000 annually, and AI Research Scientists, with average salaries of $137,000.

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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.