Montana, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, is also home to a growing tech industry. As the demand for skilled tech professionals continues to rise, Montana has become an attractive location for those looking to combine their love of technology with a high quality of life. In this article, we'll explore five in-demand Montana tech jobs to consider, along with the skills and education required to succeed in these roles.
The tech industry in Montana is thriving, with major hubs in cities like Bozeman, Missoula, and Helena. The state's tech sector is driven by a diverse range of industries, including software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, and more. Whether you're a seasoned tech professional or just starting out, Montana offers a unique blend of opportunities and lifestyle that's hard to find elsewhere.
1. Software Engineer
Software engineers are in high demand across Montana, with major companies like Oracle, IBM, and Microsoft having a presence in the state. As a software engineer, you'll design, develop, and test software programs for a wide range of industries, from gaming and mobile apps to enterprise software and operating systems.
To become a software engineer, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Proficiency in programming languages like Java, Python, and C++ is also essential. Montana State University and the University of Montana offer strong computer science programs that can help you get started in this field.
Median Salary:
$105,000 per yearJob Outlook:
24% growth rate (much faster than average)2. Data Scientist
Data scientists are in high demand across Montana, with companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft looking for professionals who can analyze and interpret complex data sets. As a data scientist, you'll use machine learning algorithms, statistical models, and data visualization techniques to help organizations make informed business decisions.
To become a data scientist, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, statistics, or mathematics. A master's degree or Ph.D. in data science or a related field can also be beneficial. Montana State University and the University of Montana offer data science programs that can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this field.
Median Salary:
$118,000 per yearJob Outlook:
14% growth rate (faster than average)3. Cybersecurity Specialist
Cybersecurity specialists are in high demand across Montana, with companies like Raytheon Technologies, Northrop Grumman, and Lockheed Martin looking for professionals who can protect their networks and systems from cyber threats. As a cybersecurity specialist, you'll design and implement secure computer systems, networks, and protocols to prevent cyber attacks.
To become a cybersecurity specialist, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or a related field. CompTIA Security+ or CISSP certifications can also be beneficial. Montana State University and the University of Montana offer cybersecurity programs that can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this field.
Median Salary:
$102,000 per yearJob Outlook:
32% growth rate (much faster than average)4. UX Designer
UX designers are in high demand across Montana, with companies like IBM, Oracle, and Google looking for professionals who can create user-centered designs for software applications and websites. As a UX designer, you'll use human-centered design principles to create intuitive and engaging user experiences.
To become a UX designer, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in design, human-computer interaction, or a related field. Proficiency in design tools like Sketch, Figma, and Adobe XD is also essential. Montana State University and the University of Montana offer design programs that can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this field.
Median Salary:
$95,000 per yearJob Outlook:
13% growth rate (faster than average)5. DevOps Engineer
DevOps engineers are in high demand across Montana, with companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and IBM looking for professionals who can bridge the gap between software development and operations teams. As a DevOps engineer, you'll use tools like Jenkins, Docker, and Kubernetes to automate software development and deployment processes.
To become a DevOps engineer, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Proficiency in programming languages like Java, Python, and C++ is also essential. Montana State University and the University of Montana offer computer science programs that can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in this field.
Median Salary:
$115,000 per yearJob Outlook:
22% growth rate (much faster than average)Conclusion
Montana's tech industry is thriving, with a wide range of job opportunities available for skilled professionals. Whether you're interested in software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, UX design, or DevOps engineering, there's never been a better time to explore a career in tech in Montana. With its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and growing tech industry, Montana is an attractive location for anyone looking to combine their love of technology with a high quality of life.
Gallery of Montana Tech Jobs
What are the most in-demand tech jobs in Montana?
+The most in-demand tech jobs in Montana include software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, UX design, and DevOps engineering.
What skills do I need to succeed in a tech career in Montana?
+The skills you need to succeed in a tech career in Montana vary depending on the job, but common skills include programming languages like Java, Python, and C++, as well as proficiency in design tools like Sketch, Figma, and Adobe XD.
What is the average salary for tech jobs in Montana?
+The average salary for tech jobs in Montana varies depending on the job, but common salaries range from $95,000 to $118,000 per year.