The city of Columbus, Ohio, is rapidly becoming a hub for technology and innovation, with a growing number of startups and established companies setting up shop in the area. As a result, there is a high demand for skilled tech professionals to fill a wide range of roles. Here, we'll explore seven in-demand tech careers in Columbus, including their job descriptions, required skills, and average salaries.
The Rise of Tech in Columbus
Before we dive into the in-demand tech careers in Columbus, let's take a look at why the city is becoming a hotspot for tech talent. Columbus is home to a number of major industries, including healthcare, finance, and education, all of which rely heavily on technology. Additionally, the city is investing heavily in initiatives to support startups and entrepreneurs, such as the Columbus Innovation District and the Ohio State University's Innovation Gateway.
1. Software Engineer
Software engineers design, develop, and test software programs for a wide range of industries. In Columbus, software engineers are in high demand, particularly in the healthcare and finance sectors.
- Required skills: Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, and C++, as well as experience with software development methodologies like Agile.
- Average salary: $114,140 per year.
Top Companies Hiring Software Engineers in Columbus
- IBM
- Oracle
- JPMorgan Chase
2. Data Scientist
Data scientists collect and analyze complex data to help businesses make informed decisions. In Columbus, data scientists are in high demand, particularly in the healthcare and finance sectors.
- Required skills: Proficiency in programming languages such as R and Python, as well as experience with data analysis tools like Tableau and Excel.
- Average salary: $118,370 per year.
Top Companies Hiring Data Scientists in Columbus
- Nationwide Insurance
- Cardinal Health
- State of Ohio
3. Cybersecurity Specialist
Cybersecurity specialists protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats. In Columbus, cybersecurity specialists are in high demand, particularly in the finance and healthcare sectors.
- Required skills: Proficiency in operating systems like Windows and Linux, as well as experience with security tools like firewalls and antivirus software.
- Average salary: $112,670 per year.
Top Companies Hiring Cybersecurity Specialists in Columbus
- JPMorgan Chase
- Nationwide Insurance
- IBM
4. DevOps Engineer
DevOps engineers bridge the gap between software development and operations teams, ensuring the smooth operation of software systems. In Columbus, DevOps engineers are in high demand, particularly in the finance and healthcare sectors.
- Required skills: Proficiency in programming languages like Python and Java, as well as experience with DevOps tools like Jenkins and Docker.
- Average salary: $115,120 per year.
Top Companies Hiring DevOps Engineers in Columbus
- JPMorgan Chase
- Nationwide Insurance
- Cardinal Health
5. UX Designer
UX designers create user-centered design solutions for software applications and websites. In Columbus, UX designers are in high demand, particularly in the finance and healthcare sectors.
- Required skills: Proficiency in design tools like Sketch and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as experience with user research and testing.
- Average salary: $95,450 per year.
Top Companies Hiring UX Designers in Columbus
- Nationwide Insurance
- Cardinal Health
- State of Ohio
6. Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Engineer
AI/ML engineers design and develop intelligent systems that can learn and adapt to new data. In Columbus, AI/ML engineers are in high demand, particularly in the finance and healthcare sectors.
- Required skills: Proficiency in programming languages like Python and R, as well as experience with machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch.
- Average salary: $141,800 per year.
Top Companies Hiring AI/ML Engineers in Columbus
- IBM
- Oracle
- JPMorgan Chase
7. Cloud Engineer
Cloud engineers design and develop cloud computing systems for businesses. In Columbus, cloud engineers are in high demand, particularly in the finance and healthcare sectors.
- Required skills: Proficiency in cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, as well as experience with cloud migration and deployment.
- Average salary: $118,350 per year.
Top Companies Hiring Cloud Engineers in Columbus
- IBM
- Nationwide Insurance
- Cardinal Health
In conclusion, Columbus is a city with a thriving tech industry, offering a wide range of in-demand tech careers. From software engineering to AI/ML engineering, there are many opportunities for tech professionals to find fulfilling and well-paying careers in Columbus.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the tech industry in Columbus. If you're looking to start or advance your tech career in the city, we encourage you to explore the many resources available to you, including job boards, career counseling services, and professional networking groups.
FAQs
What are the top tech companies in Columbus?
+Some of the top tech companies in Columbus include IBM, Nationwide Insurance, Cardinal Health, and JPMorgan Chase.
What are the most in-demand tech skills in Columbus?
+Some of the most in-demand tech skills in Columbus include proficiency in programming languages like Java and Python, experience with cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, and knowledge of machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch.
What is the average salary for tech professionals in Columbus?
+The average salary for tech professionals in Columbus varies depending on the specific job and industry, but some of the highest-paying tech careers in the city include software engineering, data science, and AI/ML engineering, with average salaries ranging from $100,000 to over $140,000 per year.