As a software engineer (or similar), there are quite a few options for Europe. First, you need to understand that your salary will likely be lower, but your overall quality of life will probably not chage. Second, look into national visa programs which are oriented on demand, often in the "EU Blue Card" category: Often, if the job title is right, and the salary is high enough, you can get priority access.

Other than that, try and enjoy the adventure. I've been in Germany for almost ten years now...

Either you marry someone, find an employer happy to sponsor you or buy a residency - the cheapest is Latvia at 300k$ (you invest in real estate). Once you spend 5 years in the country you can become a citizen and you can move wherever you want in EU or get a job without visa sponsorship.

It's generally easier than going EU -> US, from my peers' experience.

From which country? US citizen get special priority when they move to Germany, in reality that means that I never heard of any US citizen having any kind of problem emigrating to Germany (and my wife is an immigration attorney).

Unless you go to Ireland you might have to learn a second language if you don't already. (which I would recommend!)

And get a visa, which depending on which country in europe you target will have different rules

Just apply for a Visa :)