Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in San Diego

The tech scene in San Diego is absolutely crushing it right now, with over 3.2 million square feet of new lab and research space coming online by 2025.

The city's not just riding the tech wave - it's creating tsunamis of opportunity with nearly 2,000 tech companies calling it home. The median income for tech workers has jumped to $135,000, making it seriously attractive for anyone looking to break into tech.

What's really cool is that San Diego's tech salaries are rising faster than anywhere else in the country, with a 9.1% increase that's turning heads nationwide.

Major players like Qualcomm, Illumina, and ServiceNow are leading the charge, creating an ecosystem that's pumping $56 billion into the local economy. Whether you're into AI, cybersecurity, or cloud computing, San Diego's got something for everyone.

This blog breaks down the highest-paying tech roles in America's Finest City, perfect for anyone ready to level up their career game.

Let me break down how we ranked the highest-paying tech jobs in San Diego. First, we looked at CBRE's latest tech talent report, which shows San Diego's tech workforce is growing at 12.5%, with software developers making up more than half of new tech employment.

The average tech salary here is $105,316, ranking 9th highest nationally. We also analyzed job market demand - currently there are over 11,000 tech companies in San Diego, and they're expected to create 16,000 new jobs by 2030.

When evaluating positions, we checked the skills that companies actually want. According to recent talent demand reports, Python, computer science, and data analysis are among the top 10 most requested skills in engineering job postings.

The growth potential is seriously impressive - cybersecurity roles saw a 19% increase in demand from 2019 to 2022, while software development and IT support grew by 11%.

Beyond just the numbers, we looked at how these jobs fit into career development. Companies here value both technical skills and soft skills like communication, dependability, and problem-solving.

We also considered the city's unique tech ecosystem - San Diego isn't just about traditional tech; it's got a mix of biotech, defense, and telecommunications opportunities.

The combination of these factors gives us a clear picture of which tech jobs offer the best compensation and future prospects in San Diego's growing tech scene.

ServiceNow, recently ranked number one in five technology workflow markets, is totally changing the game in enterprise tech.

As a Principal Technical Program Manager (TPM) at ServiceNow, you get to manage complex release programs that shape the future of work. The salary range is even better than previously reported - coming in at $187K to $326K annually, making it one of the most rewarding roles in tech.

The company's impressive growth to $10.93B in revenue for 2024 shows they're seriously crushing it in the market.

TPMs here work with cutting-edge AI and automation technologies, leading projects that transform how businesses operate.

The position offers way more than just a great paycheck.

ServiceNow's market cap has reached $233.12B, and they're constantly innovating with AI-powered solutions.

As a TPM, you'll be working on projects that include generative AI capabilities, advanced security operations, and digital workflow automation. The company's expansion means tons of opportunities for career growth, especially with their 98.5% customer renewal rate and presence in 85% of Fortune 500 companies.

What's really cool is that you get to work with teams across the globe, managing projects that actually make a difference in how companies work.

This role isn't just about project management - it's about being at the forefront of tech innovation.

With ServiceNow's focus on AI and automation, TPMs get to shape how these technologies are implemented in real-world scenarios. The company's strong market position and continuous growth make it an ideal place for ambitious tech professionals looking to make their mark in the industry.

PwC is transforming the tech game with their massive $1 billion investment in AI and GenAI technologies.

The company has unleashed ChatPwC, their own AI tool, and they're not just talking about innovation - they're actually making it happen. As an AI & GenAI Data Scientist-Manager, you get to work with amazing tech while managing global teams and developing cutting-edge models.

88% of their clients are already seeing returns on AI investments, which means you're working on stuff that actually matters.

The role involves everything from reviewing complex models to diving deep into data analytics, and you're right at the center of it all.

The compensation package is super competitive, ranging from $130,000 to $180,000 annually, plus there are tons of opportunities to level up your career.

What's particularly interesting is that 95% of PwC employees are engaged in their AI upskilling program, and they're seeing productivity gains of 20-40% for regular users.

This isn't just another corporate job - you're getting hands-on experience with the latest AI tech while working with some of the biggest companies globally.

The best part? They're not just focused on the tech - they're big on responsible AI practices and making sure everything they do creates real value.

Their data scientists report high job satisfaction, and there's a genuine emphasis on professional development. For anyone looking to make their mark in San Diego's tech scene, PwC offers that perfect mix of innovative work, great pay, and solid career growth opportunities.

Plus, you get to work with a team that's actually shaping the future of AI in business.

Cox Enterprises is making serious moves in the tech world, especially with their innovation initiatives through Engage Ventures, which partners with 16 leading corporations and Georgia Tech.

The Lead Data Scientist role at Cox comes with a salary range of $117,000 to $196,000 annually, making it one of the most attractive positions in the field. Cox isn't just your average company - they're focused on building sustainable technology solutions and investing in clean tech innovations that actually make a difference.

The company's commitment to innovation shows in their hybrid work environment and their mission to empower people to build a better future.

Data Scientists at Cox work across multiple sectors, including automotive, greentech, and information technology, giving them exposure to diverse challenges and learning opportunities.

What sets Cox apart is their enterprise-level technology solutions, where data scientists can work on everything from cloud services to IoT applications.

This means you're not just crunching numbers - you're helping shape the future of technology across multiple industries. The role involves managing teams, coaching other professionals, and working directly with business partners to drive data-driven decisions.

Plus, working at Cox means being part of a company that's actively investing in emerging technologies and startups, giving you front-row access to the latest innovations in the field.

• Professional Development: Cox is serious about professional development, ensuring their tech talent stays ahead of the curve in this fast-moving industry.

Schrödinger, Inc., founded in 1990 by Richard Friesner and William Goddard III, has grown into a major player in computational chemistry and drug discovery software.

The company just reported $217 million in revenue for 2023, showing serious growth in the biotech space. With over 1,015 employees worldwide and headquarters in New York, they're making waves in both materials science and life sciences.

Their advanced computational platform is transforming how drugs are discovered, making the whole process faster and more cost-effective.

• Account Directors focusing on the Chinese market work with cutting-edge technology that's changing healthcare. This role is hands-on, encompassing account management and contributing to the mission of improving drug development.
• Account Managers earn between $100K-$150K annually, with Directors earning more based on experience and performance. These roles involve managing client relationships and collaborating with Product Managers and Support teams.
• Working at Schrödinger comes with solid benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans, plus the chance to collaborate with smart professionals pushing boundaries in drug discovery.
• If you're into tech and want to make a real impact, this role at Schrödinger could be your next big move. It offers the opportunity to build a rewarding career in computational chemistry.

According to recent job postings, beyond just managing client relationships, you'll be working with internal Product Managers and Support teams, collecting market insights, and helping to shape the company's direction in one of the world's biggest markets.

Samsara's incredible growth in 2025 is making major waves in tech, with Q3 revenue hitting $322 million, showing a mind-blowing 36% year-over-year increase.

As a leader in IoT solutions, they're totally crushing it with over 2,300 customers generating more than $100K in annual recurring revenue. The Mid-Market Account Executive role here is seriously exciting - you're not just selling tech, you're helping transform how businesses operate.

When you're working as a Mid-Market Account Executive at Samsara, you're right in the middle of all the action.

Real customer success stories show the impact - like helping companies cut vehicle safety incidents by 85% and reduce speeding by 72%.

Your job includes:

• Creating custom solutions for clients across construction, field services, and transportation
• Hitting quarterly targets in a fast-growing market
• Working with AI and cutting-edge tech to solve real business problems
• Building relationships with decision-makers who control major budgets

The money is seriously good - base salaries start at $85K and can go way above $120K, plus commission.

But what's really cool is Samsara keeps beating market expectations, which means tons of room for growth.

They're not just about making money either - they're using AI and data analytics to make operations safer and more sustainable. If you're looking to start a career that combines tech innovation with real business impact, this role is basically perfect.

Motorola Solutions is making waves in tech with their focus on safety and security innovations. As a leading employer in tech development, they're not just offering jobs - they're providing opportunities to create technology that actually saves lives.

The company's software development roles, especially in areas like cybersecurity and systems engineering, come with competitive salaries ranging from $90,000 to $150,000 annually.

• Internship program: Their internship program runs for 12 weeks and lets students work on real projects with meaningful impact.
• Benefits package: Their benefits package is pretty sweet too, including flexible work arrangements, health care, and stock options.
• Global wellness: Beyond the basics, they offer global wellness resources and employee assistance programs that actually make a difference in work-life balance.
• Innovation support: Their approach to innovation - they've got people like Elizabeth Lopez, who holds 25 patents, showing how they support creative thinking.
• Software Engineer Internship: For students and recent grads, there's a seriously exciting Software Engineer Internship program that focuses on cutting-edge tech like AI, cybersecurity, and big data analytics.
• Commitment to DEI: The company's commitment to DEI isn't just talk - they're actively building diverse teams and supporting career changes within the company.

Whether you're into coding, cybersecurity, or systems development, Motorola Solutions offers clear paths for growth while working on technology that makes a real difference in public safety and security.

BAE Systems is making waves in defense and aerospace tech, offering real opportunities for software engineers to work on projects that matter. As a Software Engineer II, you'll dive into complex embedded software development, working directly with hardware teams to create innovative solutions.

The role involves hands-on experience with coding, debugging, and system integration - perfect for those who love solving technical puzzles. What's exciting is that BAE Systems is actively seeking fresh talent, including entry-level software engineers who are ready to jump into coding, testing, and integration of complex software/hardware systems.

Career growth at BAE Systems is straightforward and rewarding.

Moving up to become a Principal Software Engineer means taking on more complex challenges, particularly in C++ development and systems integration.

The company offers competitive salaries starting at $85,000 for entry-level positions, with senior roles commanding upwards of $130,000 annually. Benefits include comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Beyond the basics, BAE Systems invests in professional development through mentorship and training programs, helping engineers stay current with emerging technologies.

The work environment at BAE Systems emphasizes collaboration and innovation.

Engineers get to contribute to projects that directly impact global security and defense capabilities. The company culture supports continuous learning and professional growth, with opportunities to work on diverse projects across different domains.

Whether you're interested in embedded systems, software architecture, or systems integration, BAE Systems offers a solid platform to build a lasting tech career.

ZS, founded in 1983 and now boasting over 13,000 employees across 35+ offices worldwide, has evolved into a powerhouse in management consulting and technology solutions.

As a leading force in life sciences and healthcare technology, ZS combines data science, technology, and human expertise to tackle complex business challenges.

Strategy Consultants at ZS dive into multiple industries, from biotechnology to financial services, working on projects that directly impact global healthcare outcomes and business performance.

The role demands sharp analytical skills and innovative thinking.

Strategy consultants partner with clients in emerging markets to craft growth strategies and bring innovative solutions to life.

Key responsibilities include defining project scope, leading execution, and ensuring measurable results. The company's ZAIDYN® platform and Max.AI technology demonstrate ZS's commitment to cutting-edge solutions, with clients seeing 15-30% increases in sales performance.

Beyond the impressive base salary range of $120,000 to $150,000, ZS offers comprehensive benefits and performance incentives.

Strategy Insights and Planning teams work on diverse projects, from market analysis to digital transformation initiatives.

The role particularly appeals to those who enjoy combining analytical problem-solving with practical business strategy. What makes ZS stand out is its focus on health equity, data security, and sustainability - important factors for young professionals looking to make a meaningful impact while building a rewarding career.

Monte Carlo is making waves in the tech world with their data observability platform, which helps companies find and fix data issues quickly.

Their mission focuses on eliminating data downtime, giving data teams the tools they need to succeed. Based in San Francisco (not San Diego as previously stated), Monte Carlo hires data analysts who are crucial in maintaining data reliability.

According to recent findings, data quality analysts spend 85% of their time identifying issues and 65% resolving them, making these positions essential for business operations.

The competitive salary range for data analysts remains strong at $90,000 to $120,000 annually, reflecting the high value companies place on data reliability.

The impact of data analytics is real - Monte Carlo's platform helps companies reduce data downtime by 80% and saves teams 30% of their time.

Through their Insights feature, data teams can track incidents, measure reliability levels, and optimize performance across their data systems.

This innovation has earned Monte Carlo recognition as a leader in data observability, with users reporting value creation within the first week of implementation.

The company's growth aligns with the increasing demand for data expertise, especially as organizations aim to build trust in their data systems and improve operational efficiency.

What makes Monte Carlo stand out is their commitment to creating an inclusive workplace.

The company was recently named one of America's Most Loved Workplaces, highlighting their dedication to fostering an environment where every team member's voice matters.

For professionals looking to make an impact in data reliability, Monte Carlo offers a chance to work with cutting-edge technology while being part of a collaborative and forward-thinking team.

Brilliant Earth stands out in 2025 as a tech-forward jewelry company making serious moves in sustainability and innovation. Their commitment to using 96% recycled gold and 97% recycled silver shows they're not just talking about sustainability - they're actually making it happen.

The company's expanding tech department is creating roles that perfectly blend coding skills with environmental consciousness. They're scaling up blockchain-verified diamonds and transitioning to renewable energy sources, which opens up exciting opportunities for developers to work on cutting-edge projects.

The compensation is seriously competitive, with tech positions ranging from $90,000 to $130,000 annually, plus the satisfaction of working for a company that actually cares about its impact.

Their recent market success, with $446.4 million in net sales, proves that doing good and doing well can go hand in hand.

They're actively hiring for positions like software engineers who'll work on their blockchain verification systems, data analysts focusing on sustainability metrics, and UX designers creating seamless digital experiences.

As a tech professional, you get to be part of something bigger - building solutions that help both the planet and the bottom line. It's basically the perfect spot for anyone who wants to code with a conscience while building a solid career.

The tech scene in San Diego is seriously taking off! According to recent job market data, software engineers are seeing total compensation packages averaging $170,000, with entry-level positions starting at $83,778.

The opportunities are everywhere, from established companies like ServiceNow and Motorola Solutions to exciting startups. What's really cool is that entry-level positions are abundant across various sectors, including high-tech and biotech manufacturing.

I'm particularly excited about the city's projected growth of 16,000 new tech jobs by 2030! For anyone looking to break into tech, the most in-demand programming languages are JavaScript (65% of job listings), Python (58%), and Java (46%).

Plus, with remote work opportunities increasing by 20% over the past year, there's so much flexibility in how and where you work.

Companies are actively recruiting for roles in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, with competitive benefits packages that include things like 401(k) matching and equity options.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your career, San Diego's tech market is absolutely ready for new talent!