Technology hiring managers are looking for experience in AI-driven systems, cybersecurity, application development and cloud technologies. Most tech professionals expect starting salary increases, but organizations save pay hikes for the most highly skilled candidates who can best help meet core business needs.Skills gaps across tech companies and IT teams are a big issue for hiring managers, but upskilling staff and bringing in contract professionals helps alleviate some of their concerns. Leaders who offer flexible work can better attract new hires who have the needed experience.
Salary and Hiring Trends in Technology
Emerging technology is redefining the skills that managers seek. But hiring experienced professionals at the pay level they expect is difficult. Technology industry layoffs from early 2024 haven’t eased staffing challenges, keeping hiring managers in competition for skilled candidates.of technology managers will relax candidate experience requirements to accelerate hiring.
How much should I pay or earn?
of tech leaders are recruiting for different skills due to advancements in AI and automation.
Low unemployment and competitive hiring allow high-demand tech candidates to be selective about the jobs they pursue, putting the onus on managers to give compelling reasons to join their team. Almost half of technology managers are increasing starting salaries for hard-to-staff roles and professionals with specialized skills.of technology managers are increasing starting salaries to attract talent.are adding new perks and benefits.
AI and machine learningCybersecurityCloud computing, security and architectureSoftware and applications developmentAI and machine learningCybersecurityCloud computing, security and architectureSoftware and applications development
The hottest technology jobs, skills and industries
AI and machine learningAI and machine learningSecurity, privacy and complianceSecurity, privacy and complianceSoftware and applications development Software and applications development Data analytics, business intel and reportingData analytics, business intel and reporting
Upskilling employeesReskilling employees for new rolesEngaging skilled contract talentImplementing mentoring programsPaying for professional certificationsUsing managed servicesUpskilling employeesReskilling employees for new rolesEngaging skilled contract talentImplementing mentoring programsPaying for professional certificationsUsing managed services
Higher pay often given for in-office work
For jobs that can be done remotely, 78% of technology managers are willing to increase starting salaries for new hires to work in the office full or part time. Of those, 48% are offering workers up to 20% more pay to come in 4 to 5 days a week. Tech professionals’ ideal hybrid scenario is working in-office 3 days per week.Hiring managers in this field prefer to have employees on-site 4 days per week.
The salary benchmarks listed in the Salary Guide From Robert Half are the result of a rigorous, multistep process to ensure our projections accurately reflect the marketplace. They are based on actual compensation for professionals Robert Half has matched with employers across the country and third-party job posting data from Textkernel that we use to independently validate the salary ranges. Learn more about 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. Company size, industry and the availability of remote work options can influence salaries. 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 include hiring managers and workers from small (1-99 employees), midsize (100-999 employees) and large (1,000-plus employees) private, publicly listed and public sector organizations across the United States.
