Many of the world's major multinational technology firms were founded in Seattle and still have their headquarters there. Since the founding of Amazon and the relocation of Microsoft in 1979, Seattle has nurtured many startups that have become major tech players today. Google, Apple, Oracle, and Meta all have headquarters there. The tech sector represents about 14% of Seattle's workforce. The main industries hiring tech professionals are artificial intelligence and machine learning, cloud computing, cybersecurity, bio and medtech, real estate, and financial services.
Information Technology Careers in Seattle
While the cost of living in Seattle is high among U.S. cities, it is lower than in Silicon Valley, and tech salaries in Seattle are higher than the national average. Here are some common tech job titles and salary levels in Seattle.
- Software Engineer: Software Engineers develop and maintain computer programs and operating systems to meet the needs of customers. Software Engineers in Seattle earn around $142,000 a year, according to Indeed.com.
- Data Analyst: Data Analysts use statistical techniques to summarize, analyze, and visualize large amounts of data. They use this analysis to develop insights and make recommendations. Indeed reports a yearly salary of about $100,000 for Data Analysts in Seattle.
- DevOps Engineer: DevOps means "development and operations, " and that is the responsibility of a DevOps Engineer. They lead and coordinate different teams to create and maintain a company's software and systems. Seattle-area DevOps Engineers make around $134,000, according to Indeed.com.
- Cybersecurity Analyst: Cybersecurity Analysts monitor company networks to ensure data security and prevent breaches and intrusions. In Seattle, ZipRecruiter reports an annual salary of around $110,000 for Cybersecurity Analysts.
- Cloud Architect: Cloud Architects are in charge of a company's cloud-based systems. They design systems, assess security, and analyze the performance of cloud infrastructure. Salary.com lists a yearly salary of about $144,000 for Cloud Architects in Seattle.
- IT Project Manager: Project Managers are responsible for the entire life of a project from launch to wrap-up, overseeing the budget, scheduling, and risk management. IT Project Managers in Seattle earn around $111,000 annually, according to Indeed.com.
Seattle Industries Hiring for Information Technology Jobs
Tech firms are some of the biggest employers in the Pacific Northwest. Here are some industries that are doing most of the hiring.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: As artificial intelligence and machine learning are incorporated into more and more systems, AI firms are leading the tech job market in Seattle. Some companies hiring for AI jobs include Amazon, Microsoft, Open AI, Rokt, Anduril, PwC, Saykara, Tignis, Docugami, Icertis, and Imperative.
- Cloud Computing: As cloud storage replaces physical data storage for businesses and individual users, more and more firms offer the service and hire tech professionals as engineers and managers. Some Seattle-based cloud computing companies include Amazon, Microsoft, Atlassian, Snap, Attentus Technologies, Oracle, Skytap, and CoreWeave.
- Cybersecurity: Keeping data and information safe from hacking and cyberattacks is an important focus for today's businesses. Some companies offering cybersecurity products and services in Seattle include CodeBru, Accenture, F5, Goji Labs, ExtraHop Networks, andCloudflare.
- Bio and MedTech: Seattle is also a leader in bio and medical technology. Local companies are involved in projects likehome diagnostic testing, gene therapy, and medical imaging. Some major Seattle biotech firms include Tasso, Sana Biotechnology, bluebird bio, Lightspeed Microscopy, Plasmidsaurus, and InBios International.
- Real Estate: Seattle is home to two groundbreaking companies in online real estate services. Redfin is an online real estate brokerage company based in Seattle that helps customers buy or rent a home and get a mortgage. Zillow is another Seattle company with real estate listings.
- Financial Services: Seattle tech firms are also involved in financial services like international money transfers, online banking, payroll and human resources, and cryptocurrency. Some Seattle area financial services companies include Remitly, SoFi, Toast, Gusto, and Coinbase.
Trends Affecting Information Technology Jobs in Seattle
Nucamp.com reports that the tech job market in Seattle is booming, and this strong demand represents good opportunities for tech graduates. The areas seeing the most job growth are AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. With more than 1,300 local startups and tech companies in the area, people with the right training and experience will have no trouble finding a solid position.
Salaries in Seattle are some of the highest in the country, coming in third behind San Francisco, California, and New York, NY. The average tech salary in Seattle is around $148,000 a year.
Seattle ranks high in terms of life-work balance, with many companies offering flexible schedules, generous vacations, and professional development grants. Seattle offers breathtaking scenery and easy access to fantastic hiking and skiing. The city has many green spaces, and Seattle offers convenient public transit and many bike lanes. There is a thriving food culture centered on the world-famous Pike Place Market, with amazing fresh seafood and Starbucks' flagship store.