The state of Illinois, particularly the city of Chicago, has become a hub for technology and innovation in recent years. With many top companies and startups calling the state home, the demand for skilled tech professionals is on the rise. If you're looking to start or advance your career in tech, here are 10 top Illinois tech jobs that are in high demand.
Why Illinois is a Great Place for Tech Careers
Before we dive into the top tech jobs in Illinois, let's take a look at why the state is an attractive place for tech professionals. Illinois is home to a thriving tech industry, with many major companies and startups calling the state home. Chicago, in particular, has become a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, with many resources available for startups and small businesses.
In addition, Illinois is home to many top-ranked universities and institutions, providing a steady pipeline of talented and educated tech professionals. The state also offers a high quality of life, with many cultural and recreational opportunities available.
Top Illinois Tech Jobs
Now, let's take a look at the top 10 tech jobs in Illinois that are in high demand.

1. Software Engineer
Software engineers are in high demand in Illinois, with many top companies and startups looking for skilled professionals to develop and maintain their software systems. According to Indeed, the average salary for a software engineer in Illinois is around $114,000 per year.
2. Data Scientist
Data scientists are also in high demand in Illinois, with many companies looking for professionals who can collect, analyze, and interpret complex data sets. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a data scientist in Illinois is around $118,000 per year.
3. Cybersecurity Specialist
As technology continues to advance, cybersecurity threats are becoming more and more common. As a result, cybersecurity specialists are in high demand in Illinois, with many companies looking for professionals who can protect their networks and systems from cyber threats. According to Indeed, the average salary for a cybersecurity specialist in Illinois is around $120,000 per year.
4. Product Manager
Product managers are responsible for developing and launching new products and features, and are in high demand in Illinois. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a product manager in Illinois is around $125,000 per year.
5. DevOps Engineer
DevOps engineers are responsible for bridging the gap between development and operations teams, and are in high demand in Illinois. According to Indeed, the average salary for a DevOps engineer in Illinois is around $115,000 per year.
6. UX Designer
UX designers are responsible for creating user-friendly and intuitive interfaces, and are in high demand in Illinois. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a UX designer in Illinois is around $95,000 per year.
7. Artificial Intelligence Engineer
Artificial intelligence engineers are responsible for developing and implementing AI and machine learning systems, and are in high demand in Illinois. According to Indeed, the average salary for an AI engineer in Illinois is around $141,000 per year.
8. Network Architect
Network architects are responsible for designing and building computer networks, and are in high demand in Illinois. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a network architect in Illinois is around $130,000 per year.
9. Database Administrator
Database administrators are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining databases, and are in high demand in Illinois. According to Indeed, the average salary for a database administrator in Illinois is around $110,000 per year.
10. IT Project Manager
IT project managers are responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and delivery of IT projects, and are in high demand in Illinois. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for an IT project manager in Illinois is around $122,000 per year.
Skills and Qualifications
To be successful in these top Illinois tech jobs, you'll need to have a combination of technical and soft skills. Here are some of the key skills and qualifications required for each job:

Education and Training
To get started in these top Illinois tech jobs, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as computer science, engineering, or mathematics. Many employers also require or prefer candidates with advanced degrees, such as master's or Ph.D.s.
In addition to formal education, many tech professionals also pursue certifications and training to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends.
Job Outlook and Salary
The job outlook for tech professionals in Illinois is strong, with many jobs expected to experience significant growth in the coming years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of software developers, for example, is projected to grow 21% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Salaries for tech professionals in Illinois are also competitive, with many jobs offering six-figure salaries and comprehensive benefits packages.

Conclusion
If you're looking to start or advance your career in tech, Illinois is a great place to be. With many top companies and startups calling the state home, there are plenty of opportunities for skilled tech professionals. By developing the right skills and qualifications, you can increase your chances of landing one of these top Illinois tech jobs and enjoying a successful and rewarding career.






What are the top tech jobs in Illinois?
+The top tech jobs in Illinois include software engineer, data scientist, cybersecurity specialist, product manager, DevOps engineer, UX designer, artificial intelligence engineer, network architect, database administrator, and IT project manager.
What skills and qualifications are required for these jobs?
+The skills and qualifications required for these jobs vary, but many require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as computer science, engineering, or mathematics, as well as certifications and training in specific technologies and tools.
What is the job outlook and salary for these jobs?
+The job outlook for these jobs is strong, with many expected to experience significant growth in the coming years. Salaries for these jobs are also competitive, with many offering six-figure salaries and comprehensive benefits packages.