Texas has emerged as a national tech superpower, with cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio forming the cornerstones of a booming industry. This silicon prairie lures tech professionals with its winning combination of high pay, low taxes, affordability and vibrant culture.
As per the Comptroller of Public Accounts, tech jobs account for 9.3% of all private sector jobs in Texas, employing over 765,000 people across the state. The Lone Star state continues to attract tech giants and startups alike with its business-friendly policies, skilled workforce and high quality of life.
This rapid expansion has opened the floodgates to a multitude of lucrative career opportunities for tech professionals in Texas. But what exactly are the highest paying tech jobs in the state, and how can you land one? Let‘s find out.
What Does the Tech Industry Look Like in Texas?
With marquee companies like Dell, IBM, Oracle and Tesla anchoring their national or global headquarters in the state, Texas has secured its place as a premier tech hub.
The state is home to over 5,200 tech companies spanning industry verticals like aerospace, biomedicine, energy, finance and telecommunications. Austin in particular has carved an identity as an innovation epicenter, bearing the unofficial title "Silicon Hills". The capital city brims with tech startups and incubators alongside established giants.
Dallas-Fort Worth also emerges as a magnet for technology talent, notable for its high concentration of telecom corporations. Houston too is catching up as a rising star through its expertise in energy tech.
As the second largest state economy after California, Texas offers unmatched access to investment capital and Fortune 500 partners, allowing businesses to scale rapidly. With top-ranking engineering and computer science programs across its universities, the state boasts a skilled young workforce to boot.
Factors like the lack of a state income tax, lower cost of living compared to traditional tech hubs and abundance of cultural amenities have further sweetened the deal for tech companies setting up shop in Texas.
The 9 Best Paying Tech Jobs in Texas
1. Software Architect – $129,000 – $211,000 per year
The software architect plays the lead role in envisioning, defining and evolving the architecture of complex, large-scale software systems. With an intimate understanding of business needs, technology landscapes and software development, they create high-level system design models and make pivotal technical decisions.
Software architects are the vision holders who ensure software solutions align with business goals. They lead teams of developers and engineers towards building secure, scalable systems that are easy to understand, update and maintain.
The typical salary range for this role falls between $129,000 – $211,000 per year. According to recruitment site Indeed, the average base pay for a Software Architect in Texas is $148,632 per year.
With businesses relying increasingly on custom software applications, architects who can lead development of innovative digital solutions are highly sought-after. Their specialized skills also enable them to command premium salaries.
Key skills – Expert programming knowledge, software design methodologies, development lifecycle processes, analytical ability, communication and leadership.
Qualifications – Bachelor‘s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering or related field. 5+ years’ hands-on experience in architecting and developing software systems.
2. Senior Software Engineer – $111,000 – $172,000 per year
Senior software engineers are advanced programming professionals who lead software builds, set coding standards and mentor junior developers. With strong problem-solving skills coupled with extensive knowledge of tools, languages and methodologies, they bring complex software projects from requirement gathering to launch.
By eliminating technical obstacles, optimizing application design and enhancing software quality and speed, senior engineers directly impact business success. They typically specialize in domains like front-end, back-end, full-stack or mobile application development.
According to ZipRecruiter data, senior software engineers in Texas earn an average annual pay of $137,174. Salaries exceed $172,000 for engineers with specialized experience in high-demand skills like cloud computing and AI.
The exponential demand for software integration across products, services and processes fuels growth for senior engineering roles. Developing expertise in new technologies can further boost salaries.
Key skills – Proficiency in programming languages like Java, Python, JavaScript, C#, niche expertise, software design and architecture, debugging, optimization and testing skills.
Qualifications – Bachelor‘s degree in CS or similar field. 5-8 years’ proven experience as a software developer or engineer.
3. Machine Learning Engineer – $103,000 – $166,000 per year
Machine learning engineers integrate complex algorithms into product experiences to enable systems to learn from data, identify patterns and make optimal decisions with minimal human input. They develop ML systems end-to-end, from preparing data to monitoring models.
With machine learning becoming essential across industries, skilled ML engineers can enjoy pay packages of $103,000 – $166,000 per year in Texas. The Indeed average stands slightly lower at $115,763 per year.
Experts in AI/ML tools like TensorFlow, PyTorch and cloud platforms like AWS and GCP are highly sought after for their specialized expertise. Understanding business contexts also allows them to build impactful data models aligned to company goals.
Key skills – Programming languages like Python and R, ML frameworks, data science, statistical modeling, algorithms, AI/ML platforms and tools.
Qualifications – Master‘s degree in Computer Science, Data Science or related quantitative field preferred. 2-4 years’ experience in development and deployment of machine learning systems.
4. IT Manager – $102,000 – $173,000 per year
IT managers spearhead technology initiatives within organizations. They provide both technical guidance and administrative leadership to IT teams, ensuring optimal performance of systems and infrastructure that enable business operations.
With cyberthreats also on the rise, IT managers are increasingly responsible for bolstering data and network security while keeping costs under control. Top performers manage sizable budgets while aligning their department‘s goals to overall corporate objectives.
According to Payscale estimates, IT managers in Texas earn an average salary of $112,553 per year.
As more business functions become digitized, demand for qualified tech leaders will only intensify across sectors. Developing credibility through certificates and training in areas like data security and project management can propel your career as an IT manager.
Key skills – Infrastructure, networking, cybersecurity, budgeting and vendor management. Strong communication and leadership capabilities.
Qualifications – Bachelor‘s degree in information systems, computer science or engineering. 5+ years’ experience managing full-cycle IT initiatives and teams required.
5. Engineering Project Manager – $96,000 – $157,000 per year
Engineering project managers collaborate with cross-functional product teams to steer complex technology projects on-time and within budget. Leveraging excellent technical knowledge along with project planning and execution skills, they coordinate engineers, developers, QA professionals etc. to build innovative products.
With an average salary of $122,750 per year according to Indeed data, this role allows technology project professionals to make a substantial impact while earning generous compensation.
Project management skills like budgeting, resource allocation, team coordination and strategic thinking enable candidates to qualify for this role. Hands-on engineering experience allows them to gain stakeholder buy-in and make more informed decisions driving project success.
Key skills – Stakeholder engagement, team leadership, project planning and tracking tools like Gantt charts andProduct lifecycle processes.
Qualifications – Bachelor‘s degree in Engineering, Computer Science or related discipline. PMP certification preferred. Minimum 5 years’ experience leading technical projects and people.
6. Data Scientist – $95,000 – $154,000 per year
Data scientists turn complex data into actionable insights that inform business strategy and innovation. Using advanced analytics techniques and AI/ML capabilities, they reveal trends, opportunities and threats that can significantly impact an organization’s performance and growth.
The national average salary for data scientists falls around $117,288 per year. However in Texas, average compensation goes up to $130-140K for data science managers and senior roles according to recent Payscale estimates.
With data transforming all aspects of business in the digital era, demand for analytics talent continues to massively outstrip supply. Learning tools like Python, Tableau, TensorFlow and SQL can help launch a lucrative data science career even if you come from a non-technical background.
Key skills – Statistical modeling, machine learning, programming languages like Python and R, data visualization and storytelling.
Qualifications – Master‘s degree in data science, statistics or computer science fields. 3-5 years’ experience in statistical modeling and working with large, complex data sets.
7. AI Engineer – $91,000 – $150,000 per year
AI engineers develop and execute system architectures that enable machines to sense, comprehend, act and learn to improve human-AI interfaces in products. Using datasets and ML algorithms, they train AI agents by teaching them to replicate human tasks.
According to recruitment platform Hired, AI engineering ranks among the highest-paid software specializations in Texas, with average salaries rising above $130,000 per year.
As consumer appetite for ‘smart’ AI-powered experiences grows exponentially, AI skills offer a ticket into the big tech leagues and most coveted R&D teams. With leading research happening in autonomous vehicles, predictive analytics, personalized retail and precision medicine, AI engineers enjoy varied career pathways while commanding premium pay.
Key skills – Machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow, neural networks, data analysis and modeling, Python, Java
Qualifications –MS in Computer Science or related technical field focusing on AI. Proven skills in statistical analysis and programming.
8. Full Stack Engineer – $83,000 – $137,000 per year
Full stack engineers possess the end-to-end expertise to handle all phases of software development, from database architecture to user interface design. By bridging the front-end and back-end stacks, they can build responsive and scalable web or mobile apps aligned to business needs.
According to recent data, the average full stack developer salary in Austin lands around $105,769 per year. Experience with high-demand programming languages and frameworks allows candidates to access even more lucrative opportunities in Texas‘ big metro areas.
Full stack skills are coveted within startups and SMBs looking to quickly prototype and launch digital experiences on tight budgets. Learning UI frameworks like React and data layer technologies like MongoDB can expand your full stack career prospects.
Key skills – JavaScript, Node.js, Angular, React, database languages like MySQL, SQL
Qualifications – Bachelor‘s degree in CS, plus 2-3 years’ hands-on experience coding both front-end and back-end interfaces.
9. Cybersecurity Engineer – $79,000 – $128,000 per year
Cybersecurity continues to be a critical focus area for Texas-based enterprises as threats become more sophisticated. Cyber engineers implement and monitor defense systems like firewalls, encryption and analytics tools to protect networks, computers, programs and data from attack.
According to recruitment portal Hired, cybersecurity engineers in Texas net an average salary of $122,000 per year – substantially higher than the national average.
With cyber attacks growing in frequency and impact, qualified security engineers are in hot demand. Expanding your skills in domains like ethical hacking, perimeter defense tools or industry-specific protocols can further boost your earning ability.
Key skills –Threat monitoring and analysis, security protocols and architectures, vulnerability testing, OS concepts
Qualifications – Bachelor‘s degree in cybersecurity, information systems or computer engineering. Certifications like CEH or CISSP. 3-5 years’ experience in security administration or engineering.
Transitioning into a High-Paying Tech Role
Beyond formal education, texas employers seek candidates with demonstrable experience and a hunger for continuous skills development in emerging technologies.
Bolstering your profile with the following initiatives can fast-track your candidacy for high-pay roles:
Showcase your work – Develop side projects on GitHub highlighting your programming skills and development techniques using various languages, tools and frameworks.
Pursue certifications – Relevant certs in cybersecurity, cloud platforms and methodologies (PMP,Scrum) make you market-ready.
Grow your network – Attend Texas tech conferences and meetups to connect with industry minds and hirers.
Ace the interview – Prepare for technical assessments testing your hands-on coding, analytics or security knowledge.
Keep learning – Continuously expand your tech skills matrix through online programs, bridge courses and self-learning platforms.
With top-notch colleges, research hubs, accelerators and corporations defining its booming tech landscape, Texas offers well-paid, dynamic career pathways for technologists. Targeting specialized roles in high-growth domains can be your ticket to a six-figure tech position in the Lone Star state.
FAQs on Texas Tech Jobs:
Q: Is the job market currently good for tech professionals in Texas?
A: Yes, Texas offers a thriving job market for tech roles currently, spanning industry sectors and company sizes. Cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio abound with opportunities across both established and emerging players for software, hardware and security professionals.
Q: Which technology skills are most in-demand by Texas employers right now?
Some skills that are highly coveted right now include software development (full-stack, mobile, UI/UX), cybersecurity, data science & analytics, machine learning and AI capabilities.
Q: Do I need a 4-year college degree to land a high-paying tech job in Texas?
A: Most of the senior, high-pay roles highlighted in this article require at least a Bachelor‘s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems or a related engineering stream. However some companies do consider experienced programmers without traditional degrees. Having strong enough technical projects and networking can help circumvent degree requirements.
Q: As an out-of-state tech specialist, how easy is it to find jobs in Texas?
A: Texas recruiters actively welcome out-of-state applicants to fill talent gaps in niche technologies. You are often valued for the specialized expertise or experience you possess. Being flexible to relocate to cities like Austin helps, as does having demonstrable experience and connections with the state‘s key industries like financial technology, cybersecurity, energy tech and life sciences.
Q: Which Texas metro area offers the highest salaries for tech professionals?
A: According to recent salary surveys, the Austin metro area reports the highest salaries for tech workers in Texas – surpassing national averages. However, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio also offer lucrative tech careers across both corporate and startup spaces.
