Colorado Career Planning & Job Market

Leverage Colorado's diverse and growing economy to launch your successful career in technology, aerospace, energy, and emerging industries.

Colorado's Thriving Industries

Explore the major industry sectors driving Colorado's economy and creating opportunities for college graduates.

High Growth
Technology & Software

Thriving tech ecosystem with major companies and startups

Median Salary Range
$85,000 - $130,000

Major Employers:

Google
IBM
Oracle
Lockheed Martin

Common Roles:

Software Engineer
Data Scientist
Cybersecurity Analyst
UX Designer
Stable Growth
Aerospace & Defense

Major aerospace hub with leading defense contractors

Median Salary Range
$75,000 - $120,000

Major Employers:

Boeing
Lockheed Martin
Raytheon
Ball Aerospace

Common Roles:

Aerospace Engineer
Systems Analyst
Project Manager
Quality Assurance
Moderate Growth
Energy & Utilities

Leading renewable energy sector and traditional energy companies

Median Salary Range
$70,000 - $110,000

Major Employers:

Xcel Energy
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Suncor Energy

Common Roles:

Energy Engineer
Environmental Scientist
Operations Manager
Research Scientist
High Growth
Healthcare & Biotechnology

Growing biotech sector and established healthcare systems

Median Salary Range
$65,000 - $115,000

Major Employers:

UCHealth
National Jewish Health
Pfizer
Amgen

Common Roles:

Biomedical Engineer
Healthcare Administrator
Research Scientist
Nurse Practitioner

Career Development Resources

University Career Centers

Professional career guidance and job placement services

Services:

  • Career counseling
  • Resume and interview prep
  • Job placement assistance
  • Alumni networking

Key Organizations:

  • University of Colorado
  • Colorado State University
  • Colorado School of Mines
Professional Networks

Industry associations and networking opportunities

Services:

  • Professional meetups
  • Industry conferences
  • Mentorship programs
  • Job fairs

Key Organizations:

  • Denver Metro Chamber
  • Colorado Technology Association
  • Young Professionals
Internship Programs

Hands-on experience with leading Colorado employers

Services:

  • Summer internships
  • Co-op programs
  • Research opportunities
  • Industry partnerships

Key Organizations:

  • NREL
  • IBM
  • Lockheed Martin
  • Startup companies
Entrepreneurship Support

Resources for students interested in starting businesses

Services:

  • Startup incubators
  • Business plan competitions
  • Mentorship networks
  • Funding opportunities

Key Organizations:

  • Foundry Group
  • Techstars Boulder
  • Innovation Pavilion
  • University programs

Colorado Salary Expectations

Bachelor's Degree

Entry-level positions across various industries

$55,000
Early Career
$85,000
Mid Career

Master's Degree

Advanced positions with specialized skills

$70,000
Early Career
$105,000
Mid Career

STEM Fields

Engineering, technology, and science careers

$65,000
Early Career
$95,000
Mid Career

Business/Finance

Business, finance, and management roles

$60,000
Early Career
$90,000
Mid Career

Why Build Your Career in Colorado

Quality of Life

Enjoy outdoor recreation, healthy lifestyle, and work-life balance in beautiful mountain settings.

Innovation Hub

Access to cutting-edge technology companies, research institutions, and startup ecosystems.

Economic Growth

Strong job market growth, competitive salaries, and diverse industry opportunities.

Getting Started with Career Planning

During College

  • Participate in internships and co-op programs
  • Build professional network through events and organizations
  • Develop relevant skills through projects and coursework
  • Utilize university career services and resources

After Graduation

  • Leverage alumni networks and professional connections
  • Continue professional development and skill building
  • Stay connected with industry trends and opportunities
  • Consider advanced degrees or certifications as needed

Complete Your Colorado College Planning Journey

You've explored all aspects of Colorado college planning. Ready to take the next step?