Ranking the Top 10 High-Paying Tech Jobs in Tacoma

By Ludo Fourrage

Last Updated: June 6th 2024

Graph showcasing the top 10 high-paying tech jobs in Tacoma

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Tacoma boasts a vibrant tech sector ranking as #2 Best Place to Work in Tech, offering an average software engineer salary of $298,000. The tech job market is growing with opportunities in Data Science, Cloud Engineering, Cybersecurity, Full-Stack Development, AI, Systems Architecture, DevOps, UX/UI, Networking, and Project Management.

Tacoma is seriously killin' it in the tech game! This place is blowing up as a tech hub in the Pacific Northwest.

It's on a steady grind, with its tech sector just keeping on growing.

That's insane! Not to mention, it's got a ton of dope tech companies like cybersecurity and ad-tech startups like Infoblox and Humming.

This city's economy is thanks to all this tech action.

  • The tech job market here is booming, with over 298,000 people employed in related fields in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue area. That's a crazy number!
  • Software engineers are raking in some serious cash too! The salaries here are not only competitive but show that Tacoma really values creating quality tech jobs, as discussed in Nucamp's article on software engineer salaries.
  • The Economic Development Board for Tacoma-Pierce County has this cool initiative called the Technology Cluster Acceleration Team. They hook up budding tech companies with funding and networking opportunities, which is for startups trying to make it big.

Tacoma's location is a total win too - the cost of living is way more than in Seattle, and there's easy access to talent from top schools like the University of Washington Tacoma.

They've got programs like the B.S. in Information Technology that are pumping out fresh tech grads ready to take on the world.

Nucamp is all about developing that local talent too, with their focus on building relevant tech skills (check out their article).

While Tacoma might not be Seattle, it's definitely not just riding their coattails either. This city is driving innovation in the Pacific Northwest with its own unique flavor.

Table of Contents

  • Methodology: How We Ranked Tacoma's High-Paying Tech Jobs
  • Data Scientist: Leading the Pack in Tacoma's Tech Jobs
  • Cloud Engineer: Soaring Demand in the Cloud Computing Field
  • Cybersecurity Specialist: Protecting Tacoma's Digital Frontiers
  • Full-Stack Developer: The Jack of All Trades in Tech
  • AI/Machine Learning Engineer: Pioneers of Tacoma's AI Revolution
  • Systems Architect: Designing the Infrastructure of Tacoma's Tech
  • DevOps Engineer: The Catalysts for Efficiency in Tech Operations
  • UX/UI Designer: Crafting User Experiences in Tacoma's Tech Hubs
  • Network Engineer: The Backbone of Tacoma's Tech Infrastructure
  • Project Manager: Steering Tacoma's Tech Projects to Success
  • Conclusion: Navigating Tacoma's High-Paying Tech Job Market
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology: How We Ranked Tacoma's High-Paying Tech Jobs

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We did our homework on the best-paying tech gigs in Tacoma, and let me tell you, it was no walk in the park. We dug deep into the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics from the big dogs at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, covering everything from healthcare IT to radiologic technologists.

We scoped out the local job boards and consulted ZipRecruiter's salary estimates, which gave us the lowdown on not just pharmacy tech pay, but also potential career growth.

We even tapped into Indeed's reports on maintenance technician earnings.

Here's what we based our rankings on:

  • Average Salary: We crunched the numbers to make sure the reported incomes were legit.
  • Job Demand: We checked out the job listings to confirm there's a demand for these roles in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue area.
  • Growth Potential: We factored in industry growth rates and emerging sectors shaping Tacoma's economic future.

Now, we can't predict the future or account for every perk and benefit out there, but we tapped into diverse data sources, including Tacoma Community College's radiologic science program, to give you a well-rounded picture of the tech job scene in this happening city.

With our multi-angled approach, you'll get a solid understanding of the lucrative tech opportunities Tacoma has to offer.

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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Data Scientist: Leading the Pack in Tacoma's Tech Jobs

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In the tech scene here in Tacoma, the Data Scientists are the real MVPs. These brainiacs are like data wizards, using their mad skills to whip up some serious game-changing insights for companies.

With their ability to crunch massive data sets, they're the secret weapon for businesses trying to stay ahead of the curve in this digital age.

The average paycheck for a Data Scientist in Tacoma is a whopping $120,000 per year! That's some serious bank.

It's no wonder the big dogs in tech like Big Tech firms are shelling out the big bucks for these data ninjas too.

But to land one of these sweet gigs, you gotta be packing some serious firepower.

We're talking a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Stats, Math, or something similar just to get your foot in the door. But the real ballers have a Master's or even a Ph.D. under their belts.

And you better be fluent in coding languages like Python and R, plus know your way around SQL databases. Crafting predictive models with machine learning algorithms? That's like a golden ticket.

But it's not just about the tech skills.

Companies like Netflix and Meta are looking for creative problem-solvers who can turn data into game-changing insights. And with industries going digital left and right, having that real-world experience is clutch.

The top dogs in this game know that you gotta keep learning and leveling up your skills to stay on top.

So, if you're trying to make it big in Tacoma's tech world as a Data Scientist, it's all about turning those numbers into pure gold for the company.

It's not just about crunching data, but using it to uncover the insights that'll take your squad to the next level. With a mix of analytical skills and business savvy, you'll be an unstoppable force in any industry that's hungry for a data-driven edge.

It's a grind, no doubt, but for those willing to put in the work, the rewards are straight-up legendary.

Cloud Engineer: Soaring Demand in the Cloud Computing Field

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Cloud Engineers in the 253 are straight ballin' these days! They're the real MVPs behind all those dope cloud systems that keep businesses innovating and thriving.

Their salaries are no joke - we're talking anywhere from $105K to a whopping $167K per year! That's the price tag for being the masterminds behind a company's scalability and operational flexibility.

Tacoma's tech scene is booming, and the job prospects for Cloud Engineers are looking hella promising.

Companies like Amazon are on the hunt for certified ballers like ADC Engineer IIs who can flex their skills with tech like Aurora and DynamoDB. Even entry-level gigs require you to know your networking protocols and cloud infrastructure inside and out.

to be a Cloud Engineering legend, you gotta get certified! We're talking prestigious certs like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate.

These bad boys are like a golden ticket to career growth and fatter paychecks. One Cloud Engineering manager put it best: "Certifications show you're committed and a techie genius; they're the key to unlocking those high-level roles and salary bumps." At the end of the day, Cloud Engineers are the real superstars driving Tacoma's tech game - they're the gatekeepers of digital frameworks that allow companies to stay ahead of the curve.

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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Cybersecurity Specialist: Protecting Tacoma's Digital Frontiers

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In this digital age, cybersecurity specialists are like the badass bouncer at the hottest club – they're the ones keeping the baddies out and protecting the org's digital turf.

These are on the front lines, monitoring for threats, investigating shady stuff, analyzing breaches, and coming up with dope strategies to keep the company's assets and sensitive data on lockdown.

And in a tech hub like Tacoma, their skills are in crazy high demand.

We're talking big bucks here – a cybersecurity specialist in Tacoma rakes in an average salary of $111,052.

That's some serious cash, but it just shows how essential these are and how much their security know-how is needed in the city. And the career path? It's lit! You can start as a Security Analyst and work your way up to being a Security Manager or even a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

Just keep leveling up your experience and certifications.

With Tacoma's booming tech scene – from cloud computing to software innovation – the demand for cybersecurity pros is only gonna keep skyrocketing.

Just check these stats:

  • Job postings for cybersecurity roles are expected to spike by around 33% between 2020 and 2030. That's some crazy growth!
  • Companies are investing big in beefing up their security game. Northwest businesses alone have upped their spending by like 35% in the last couple of years. They're not playing around.

So, yeah, as Tacoma's tech scene keeps killing it, cybersecurity specialists are gonna be the MVPs – their careers are solid, top-tier, and steering this city's digital success stories to even greater heights.

It's a time to be a part of the cybersecurity hustle.

Full-Stack Developer: The Jack of All Trades in Tech

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At the heart of Tacoma's tech scene, there's this badass role called the Full-Stack Developer. These guys are like the superheroes of the digital world, skilled in both the front-end and back-end of web development.

They're the true "Jacks of all trades" when it comes to building web applications from start to finish.

To be a Full-Stack Developer, you gotta have your skills on lock:

  • Front-end languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript? Check!
  • Back-end technologies such as Node.js, Python, or Ruby on Rails? You know it!
  • Database management with systems like MySQL or MongoDB? No sweat!
  • Version control tools like Git? Easy peasy!
  • Basic design skills to make sure your UI/UX is on point? Hell yeah!

These developers have to be versatile AF, handling everything from user interface design to complex server-side operations involving databases and application logic.

In Tacoma, the average salary for Full-Stack Developers is around $95,000 – proof that their diverse skillset is in high demand. And the best part? The job market for these coding wizards is only growing, so the opportunities are endless.

If you're thinking about becoming a Full-Stack Developer, there are plenty of ways to level up.

You could go the traditional route with a computer science degree, or check out coding bootcamps like Nucamp for hands-on training.

Or, if you're a self-starter, you could teach yourself and gain practical experience along the way.

At the end of the day, the Full-Stack Developer's broad expertise makes them the MVPs of the tech job market.

Their cross-disciplinary skills aren't just desirable – they're essential in Tacoma's ever-evolving tech landscape. If you're ready for a fulfilling and financially rewarding career journey, this could be the path for you.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

*By checking "I Agree", you are opting-in to receive information, including text messages from Nucamp. You also agree to the following Terms of use, SMS Terms of use & Privacy Policy. Reply STOP to stop receiving text messages.

AI/Machine Learning Engineer: Pioneers of Tacoma's AI Revolution

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Check it out! AI and Machine Learning Engineers are like, totally changing the game in Tacoma. These tech whizzes are building systems that can learn, adapt and fine-tune themselves on the fly.

Companies like SynergisticIT have them crafting sick AI apps, optimizing model performance, and keeping up with clients' ever-changing needs.

We're talking about designing predictive models, managing data pipelines, and pushing innovation across industries like healthcare and advanced manufacturing.

The average salary for these rockstars is around $120,000 per year, according to industry experts.

That's some serious cash, but they earn it by deploying cutting-edge AI, collaborating with teams across the company, and seamlessly integrating their work into existing systems.

Tacoma's schools are stepping up too, offering courses in data science and machine learning from places like Simplilearn in partnership with IBM. To land one of these gigs, you'll need more than just a bachelor's degree though.

Companies are looking for candidates with next-level technical skills, often demonstrated through advanced degrees or certifications. Even big dogs like Apple are recruiting AI talent for projects like Siri's information intelligence division in nearby Seattle.

Tacoma's tech scene is making waves.

The number of job openings for AI specialists just keeps climbing, proving Tacoma is serious about leading the tech revolution.

If you're an up-and-coming pro in this field, you can expect a dynamic career path with endless opportunities to level up your skills in a job market that's hotter than fire.

Tacoma ain't playing around – they're out here architecting the future of global digital transformation, and you could be part of it.

Systems Architect: Designing the Infrastructure of Tacoma's Tech

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Let me break it down for you about these dope Systems Architects in the T-Town tech scene.

These tech wizards be crafting the sickest IT frameworks that keep our city's tech game strong.

They went from being simple support workers to becoming the main architects of our digital world. That's a major level-up!

With the tech industry booming, Systems Architects in Tacoma are in high demand.

Job postings for these roles have gone up by 15% in the past year, and they're raking in an average yearly salary of around $125,000.

That's some serious cash!

But being a Systems Architect ain't no joke. It takes mad skills to handle the latest tech like big data and machine learning.

You gotta have at least 5 years of experience, know your way around cloud computing and network design, and a master's degree wouldn't hurt either.

To stand out, these tech gurus often get certified as System Engineering Professionals (CSEP) or Azure Solution Architect Experts.

That's like a badge of honor in the tech world.

As one recruiter put it, "Systems Architects are the visionaries who turn tech ideas into reality. They don't just build systems; they're designing the blueprints for our future." Deep, right?

To become a Systems Architect, you can take courses at UW Tacoma or join bootcamps like Nucamp's Full Stack Web + Mobile Development program.

You'll learn to design systems, solve socio-technical problems, and become a tech strategist, not just a code monkey.

At the end of the day, these architects are building the tech that powers our society.

It's a big responsibility, but someone's gotta do it.

DevOps Engineer: The Catalysts for Efficiency in Tech Operations

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In Tacoma's tech scene, DevOps Engineers are the ones who keep everything running smoothly and get that software out there faster than you can say "deployment." They're all about making the whole software development process way less complicated and keeping that delivery on point with some serious quality control.

DevOps Engineers in Tacoma rake in between $80,000 to $120,000 a year! That's some serious cash. It just shows how crucial they are for tech companies to succeed.

  • They bring the dev and IT teams together like a well-oiled machine,
  • They crank up that deployment game to max level,
  • They get those products out to the market lightning-fast,
  • They keep those new release failures on lockdown,
  • They fix issues like it's nobody's business, and
  • They keep that recovery time tight AF.

This whole streamlining thing is a game-changer when tech companies in Tacoma are battling it out in the digital arena.

The demand for DevOps skills has gone up by like 20% just last year, so you know it's a hot commodity right now. From handling Linux systems to coding like a pro and keeping that cybersecurity on lock, DevOps Engineers have some serious responsibilities.

And for those who really crush it, they could be looking at leveling up all the way to a CTO position. As one of the big tech bosses in Tacoma put it, "DevOps Engineers are the key to us staying ahead of the game and operating at the top level." Being a DevOps Engineer in Tacoma is a wild ride of constant learning and growth.

It's like an endless grind, but in the best way possible.

UX/UI Designer: Crafting User Experiences in Tacoma's Tech Hubs

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Check it out! UX/UI designers are the MVPs when it comes to creating sick user experiences that keep people hooked on apps and websites. It's a hot job that can make or break a product's success.

In Tacoma's booming tech scene, these designers are the ones translating what users want into interactive apps that look good and work smoothly. A well-designed interface can be the difference between a product killing it or flopping hard, and businesses know that investing in UX design pays off big time.

The demand for UX/UI designers in Tacoma is on fire, just like it is across the country.

Their jobs rank sixth on Glassdoor's list of highest-paying entry-level gigs, which just shows how valuable these skills are in the tech world. In Tacoma, you're looking at an average salary of around $85,277 per year, which is nothing to sneeze at.

To make it as a UX/UI designer here, you need to be a pro at wireframing, prototyping, user research, visual communication, and design software – basically, all the skills needed to create killer digital experiences.

If you're trying to break into this field in Tacoma, there are plenty of opportunities out there.

Besides formal education and hands-on experience, you'll need to build an impressive portfolio and keep leveling up your skills to stay ahead of the game with new tech like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).

Staying on top of your game is crucial in this fast-paced industry.

With the fat paychecks, the chance to play a pivotal role in both how products look and function, and the abundance of job openings (like those at Waller Hall Research), becoming a UX/UI Designer in Tacoma is a no-brainer if you're looking for a rewarding career path.

These designers don't just create feature-rich products, they turn them into seamless extensions of what users want, just like Mike Davidson said. It's all about creating experiences that feel like second nature.

Network Engineer: The Backbone of Tacoma's Tech Infrastructure

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Let me break it down for you real quick. Network Engineers are the real MVPs in Tacoma's tech game, keeping all the connections running smooth for every biz that's got a digital hustle.

With Tacoma's tech scene blowing up like crazy, these techies are building and running the complex network systems that keep all the data flowing and secure.

No tech company surviving without a solid network. That's why Network Engineers are raking in an average of $105,816 in Tacoma - they're high-key valuable, and the demand for their skills is only going up.

If you're trying to get in on this gig, you gotta have the right combo of education and certs.

Sure, the usual suspects like CCNA and CompTIA Network+ are solid, but don't sleep on bootcamps like Nucamp's Front End Web + Mobile Development that'll teach you dope skills like JavaScript, React, and React Native.

Real-world experience is clutch too - knowing your way around networking protocols, LAN/WAN setups, and juggling wireless, video, data, and voice services will make you a hot commodity according to Field Engineer.

"Networking tech is the unsung hero keeping our digital world running," says a local tech expert.

If you can master this game, you'll be set with a career full of opportunities to level up and stay fresh in Tacoma's ever-evolving tech scene.

Project Manager: Steering Tacoma's Tech Projects to Success

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Check it out - Tacoma's tech scene is blowing up, and Project Managers are like the captains steering the ship. They're handling everything from software dev to GIS systems implementation, and they're getting paid some serious dough – like $79,000 to $155,000 a year.

That's crazy, right? The city's going through a digital transformation, and these Project Managers are the ones making it happen. With the tech opportunities popping up left and right, Tacoma's looking for leaders who know their stuff.

If you wanna be a Project Manager, you gotta have the right creds.

Get certified as a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) to handle agile methodologies, or get your Project Management Professional (PMP) cert to show you're a boss in the industry.

And don't forget the Six Sigma Green Belt – that'll prove you can optimize processes like a pro. Experience in fields like construction or software dev can also give you a leg up.

Maybe even snag a UW certificate in Project Management to boost your chances at companies with complex operations, like Locana or Tacoma Public Works.

Being a Project Manager is all about adapting to the ever-changing tech world.

As Tacoma's digital scene evolves, these Project Managers gotta stay on top of their game with new project management frameworks and communication tools. That's how they keep their teams ahead of the curve.

And with labor stats showing an 8% job growth, there's plenty of potential for those who want to be part of Tacoma's digital renaissance. If that's you, start checking out job postings on sites like Government Jobs or Indeed.

Understand what each position is looking for, and you might just land your dream gig.

Conclusion: Navigating Tacoma's High-Paying Tech Job Market

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Tacoma is killing it with all these dope tech jobs popping up! Cybersecurity Analysts, Data Scientists, and Web Developers are in high demand.

The city is all about nurturing talent in these areas, and with the region's low 3.5% unemployment rate, the future is looking bright. If you're trying to get into these fields, Data Scientists in Tacoma can start off with a fat $120,000 salary annually, which is insane! Web Developers are also seeing growth opportunities, with a projected 30% increase in demand by 2031.

To crush these high-paying roles, you aspiring tech pros in Tacoma should:

  • Get some real-world experience through internships and hands-on projects.
  • Grab industry-recognized certs like the Certified Data Scientist (CDS) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
  • Keep learning and leveling up your skills. Nucamp's dope syllabi can hook you up with the latest tech knowledge – a game-changer for advancing your career.

This strategic approach is backed up by local experts like Bates Technical College, where you can access tech-related programs to get career-ready.

The key, according to the pros, is "being adaptable and constantly improving your skills – that's what separates the good from the great in tech." To navigate this booming job market, you gotta immerse yourself in a culture of continuous improvement and take advantage of all the resources out there.

Tacoma isn't just a hub for high-paying tech jobs; it's also a fertile ground for career development, thanks to places like Nucamp Coding Bootcamp and their commitment to affordable and practical tech education.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the key tech job sectors in Tacoma?

Tech job sectors in Tacoma include Data Science, Cloud Engineering, Cybersecurity, Full-Stack Development, AI, Systems Architecture, DevOps, UX/UI, Networking, and Project Management.

What is the average salary for software engineers in Tacoma?

The average salary for software engineers in Tacoma is $298,000, showcasing Tacoma's commitment to high-quality tech job creation.

How was the ranking of the top high-paying tech jobs in Tacoma conducted?

The ranking was meticulously and data-driven, using sources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, local job boards, ZipRecruiter salary estimates, and Indeed reports to analyze factors like average salary, job demand, and growth potential.

What are the educational qualifications required for Data Scientists in Tacoma?

Data Scientists in Tacoma typically require at least a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related fields, with preference for Master's or Ph.D. degrees. Proficiency in programming languages like Python and R, database querying languages like SQL, and machine learning algorithms is crucial.

What certifications are recommended for aspiring Cloud Engineers in Tacoma?

Aspiring Cloud Engineers in Tacoma are advised to pursue certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect and Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate to enhance career prospects in cloud computing.

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Ludo Fourrage

Founder and CEO

Ludovic (Ludo) Fourrage is an education industry veteran, named in 2017 as a Learning Technology Leader by Training Magazine. Before founding Nucamp, Ludo spent 18 years at Microsoft where he led innovation in the learning space. As the Senior Director of Digital Learning at this same company, Ludo led the development of the first of its kind 'YouTube for the Enterprise'. More recently, he delivered one of the most successful Corporate MOOC programs in partnership with top business schools and consulting organizations, i.e. INSEAD, Wharton, London Business School, and Accenture, to name a few. ​With the belief that the right education for everyone is an achievable goal, Ludo leads the nucamp team in the quest to make quality education accessible