Employers in the technology space struggle to find candidates with the technical and soft skills they require. The most in-demand candidates are typically snapped up fast and often have multiple offers to consider.Robert Half’s research shows many companies in Canada are willing to increase technology salaries in 2025 for candidates with skills in areas like data science, cybersecurity, and AI and machine learning. Employers are bringing in skilled contract professionals to address skills gaps and complete projects, and they recognize the need to grow talent internally to support AI and other future-forward initiatives.
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Technology Hiring Trends in Canada
Agility and vigilance are key to meeting tech hiring goals
Companies may find it difficult to address tech priorities in 2025 due to the shortage of skilled talent, budget constraints and the fact that technology itself changes so fast.To compete for candidates with skills in emerging technology such as AI and machine learning, employers must move with speed to identify and attract this talent.58% of tech employers say they’d relax experience requirements if the candidate otherwise demonstrates all the required skills for the open role.
Machine learning and data scienceCybersecurityAI and automationCloud (e.g., security, architecture)Software and app developmentMachine learning and data scienceCybersecurityAI and automationCloud (e.g., security, architecture)Software and app development
High demand for AI-related skill sets in 2025
Robert Half’s research shows that over half of IT departments have AI and machine learning skills gaps.Many firms are accelerating efforts to hire data science professionals, while some are focused on recruiting data engineers and data analysts to help organize their data environment.To staff up for new projects and those previously on hold, employers are using a mix of strategies, including hiring high-potential talent and embracing a scalable talent model.
Shift in high-demand skillsMore contract workers or consultantsIncreased hiringOutsourcing of projectsShift in high-demand skillsMore contract workers or consultantsIncreased hiringOutsourcing of projects
Upskill staff for current jobReskill workers to take on different rolesHire contract professionalsFinancially assist with new credentialsWork with managed services providersUpskill staff for current jobReskill workers to take on different rolesHire contract professionalsFinancially assist with new credentialsWork with managed services providers
Higher recruitment costsHigh turnover due to heavier workloadsDelayed or cancelled projectsLosing potential hires to other offersHigher recruitment costsHigh turnover due to heavier workloadsDelayed or cancelled projectsLosing potential hires to other offers
How do we determine our salary figures and benchmarks? See our methodology.The salaries listed in the salary tables represent starting compensation only, meaning pay for someone new to a company in the position listed. Our estimates do not include bonuses, benefits or perks. We report salaries in percentiles and ranges, recognizing that professionals join companies at varied experience levels.Non-salary data referenced in this Salary Guide is based on online surveys developed by Robert Half and conducted by independent research firms. Respondents included hiring managers and employees from small (1-99 employees), midsize (100-999 employees) and large (1,000-10,000 or more employees) private, publicly listed and public sector organizations across Canada.
