Employment and Career

Quick Look: Key Industries

Colorado Springs has a robust and growing economy driven by several key industries:

• Aerospace and Defense: Home to numerous military installations, including Peterson Space Force Base and NORAD, the city is a hub for aerospace and defense companies such as Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman.
• Technology and Cybersecurity: Nicknamed “Silicon Mountain,” the city is a growing tech hub, hosting companies like Cherwell Software and key cybersecurity firms.
• Healthcare: Leading healthcare providers, such as UCHealth and Penrose-St. Francis Health Services, offer a wide range of medical career opportunities.
• Tourism and Hospitality: With iconic attractions like Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs supports a vibrant tourism and hospitality industry.
• Education and Research: Renowned institutions like the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) and the U.S. Air Force Academy contribute to education, research, and innovation.

Job Market Highlights

Colorado Springs has consistently low unemployment rates and offers competitive salaries in many fields. The city’s strong economy is supported by local government initiatives, workforce training programs, and a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Why Choose Colorado Springs?

• Work-Life Balance: The city offers short commutes, a family-friendly atmosphere, and abundant outdoor recreational activities.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: With resources like the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center, the city fosters innovation and supports startups.
• Community Growth: A welcoming and collaborative community makes it easy to network and build meaningful professional connections.

Whether you’re drawn by the city’s booming industries or its commitment to quality of life, Colorado Springs is a destination where careers can flourish against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty.

Aerospace and Defense

Colorado Springs is a cornerstone of the nation’s aerospace and defense infrastructure. The city’s strategic location and proximity to military installations have made it a magnet for defense-related enterprises. Key highlights include:

• Military Installations: The area hosts several critical facilities, including Peterson Space Force Base, Fort Carson, Schriever Space Force Base, and NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command). These installations contribute significantly to the local economy and provide a foundation for defense and aerospace activities.
• Industry Leaders: Aerospace giants like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Technologies, and Boeing have a strong presence in Colorado Springs. These companies specialize in advanced technologies such as satellite systems, missile defense, and space exploration.
• Space Industry: With the establishment of the U.S. Space Force, Colorado Springs is positioned as a hub for space-related research, development, and operations, fueling innovation and job growth.

Technology and Cybersecurity

Known as “Silicon Mountain,” Colorado Springs is rapidly establishing itself as a leader in technology and cybersecurity. Its tech ecosystem is characterized by:

• Growing Tech Presence: Companies like Cherwell Software, Formstack, and Quantum Metric are leading the way in software development and tech innovation.
• Cybersecurity Excellence: The city is home to the National Cybersecurity Center, a premier organization focused on advancing cybersecurity knowledge and practices. The Department of Defense’s investment in cybersecurity also drives the growth of this sector.
• Supportive Infrastructure: Organizations like the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce & EDC and various tech accelerators provide resources to nurture startups and scale established businesses.

Healthcare

The healthcare industry in Colorado Springs is thriving, driven by a growing population and a focus on innovation in patient care and medical technology:

• Major Healthcare Providers: Institutions like UCHealth Memorial Hospital and Penrose-St. Francis Health Services are among the region’s largest employers, offering a range of opportunities in clinical, administrative, and research roles.
• Specialized Care: Facilities like Children’s Hospital Colorado and the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System cater to specific community needs, enhancing healthcare access and quality.
• Medical Research and Innovation: Partnerships with educational institutions foster advancements in medical research and training, creating a robust healthcare ecosystem.

Tourism and Hospitality

As a gateway to some of the nation’s most iconic natural wonders, Colorado Springs supports a thriving tourism and hospitality sector:

• Key Attractions: Landmarks such as Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and the Broadmoor Resort draw millions of visitors annually, contributing significantly to the local economy.
• Outdoor Activities: The city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, climbing, and other recreational activities that bolster businesses like adventure tour companies and outdoor gear retailers.
• Hospitality: Luxury hotels, boutique inns, and restaurants cater to the influx of tourists, creating a dynamic job market in hospitality management, culinary arts, and customer service.

Education and Research

Education and research are foundational pillars of Colorado Springs’ economy, supporting innovation and workforce development:

• Renowned Institutions: The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) and Colorado College are prominent higher education providers, offering programs in engineering, business, and the arts.
• U.S. Air Force Academy: As one of the nation’s premier military academies, the U.S. Air Force Academy contributes to leadership development and research in aerospace, defense, and engineering.
• Research Initiatives: Collaborative efforts between academia, government, and private companies drive research in fields like healthcare, technology, and environmental science.

Each of these industries plays a vital role in shaping Colorado Springs’ economic landscape. From the defense and tech sectors fueling innovation to the healthcare and tourism industries supporting the community’s well-being and cultural appeal, the city offers a unique blend of opportunities for career growth and business development. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a skilled professional, or a new graduate, Colorado Springs is a place where talent thrives and industries flourish.

To work legally in Colorado Springs, individuals must comply with U.S. federal immigration laws, which require appropriate work authorization. The specific requirements depend on your citizenship status and the nature of your employment.

Understanding typical salaries across various sectors in Colorado Springs is essential for job seekers and employers alike. Below is an overview of average annual salaries in key industries within the region:

1. Aerospace and Defense

Colorado Springs is a significant hub for the aerospace and defense industry, hosting numerous military installations and defense contractors. Salaries in this sector are generally competitive:

• Aerospace Engineers: Average annual salary of approximately $120,000.
• Defense Contractors: Salaries vary widely based on role and experience, with many positions offering six-figure incomes.

2. Technology and Cybersecurity

Known as “Silicon Mountain,” Colorado Springs has a growing tech scene, particularly in cybersecurity:

• Software Engineers: Average annual salary around $90,000.
• Cybersecurity Analysts: Average annual salary approximately $96,912.
  Payscale

3. Healthcare

The healthcare sector is robust, with various roles offering competitive compensation:

• Registered Nurses (RNs): Average annual salary of $91,217.
  SalarisExpert
• Pharmacists: Average annual salary around $147,506.
  SalarisExpert

4. Tourism and Hospitality

Given the city’s attractions, this sector provides numerous employment opportunities:

• Hotel Managers: Average annual salary of approximately $60,000, varying with the establishment’s size and prestige.
• Chefs and Head Cooks: Average annual salary around $50,000.

5. Education and Research

Educational institutions offer a range of positions with varying salaries:

• Postsecondary Teachers: Average annual salary of $70,000, depending on the subject area and institution.
• Research Scientists: Salaries vary widely based on specialization, with many earning between $60,000 and $90,000 annually.

Overall Salary Insights

• Average Salary: The average salary across all professions in Colorado Springs is approximately $65,577 per year.
  SalarisExpert
• Median Household Income: As of 2022, the median household income in Colorado Springs was $78,568.
  City Data