As companies scramble to adapt to a tight IT job market, they’re doing whatever they can to attract top tech talent, CIO reported. For some, that means getting a head start in filling this year’s most in-demand roles, ranging from data-focused to security-related positions, according to Robert Half’s recent survey, which also reveals the average salaries for each role based on experience.
Recruiting in the tech industry is on the rise — with companies reporting they are hiring “at or beyond pre-pandemic levels”, according to Robert Half Technology’s 2022 IT salary report. Of those surveyed, 52% said they planned to add new positions in 2022, and 80% said turnover has increased in their company over the past year. To persuade new talent to join and help retain current talent, companies offer signing bonuses and cash incentives, upgrading hardware and software, offering perks such as unlimited paid time off, and offering remote or hybrid work arrangements.
While Robert Half Technology acknowledges a lot will impact a company’s starting salary, including competition, location, corporate culture, and budgets, there are certain things you can look for to make sure you land the talent you want. What jobs are in high demand in Ontario? Here are ten jobs that remain in demand for 2022, the skills and experience you should look for and the average salary.
| Job | 25th percentile | 50th percentile | 75th percentile |
| Database administrator and architect | $82,750 | $107,750 | $124,500 |
| Information security analyst | $115,000 | $141,000 | $166,750 |
| Software developer | $100,500 | $122,250 | $142,750 |
| Network and computer systems administrator | $79,750 | $97,500 | $115,650 |
| Computer programmer | $90,750 | $112,500 | $133,750 |
| Web developer | $87,750 | $111,000 | $131,500 |
| Computer and information systems manager | $112,000 | $137,750 | $164,500 |
| Systems analyst | $83,000 | $99,500 | $120,250 |
| Help desk and desktop support professional | $36,500 (tier 1); $42,740 (tier 2); $52,000 (tier 3) | $44,000 (tier 1); $51,750 (tier 2); $62,500 (tier 3) | $48,750 (tier 1); $58,000 (tier 2); $74,250 (tier 3) |
| Network/cloud architect | $125,250 | $153,750 | $180,500 |
· 25th percentile: new to the type of role, still acquiring relevant skills
· 50th percentile: average experience, has most of the necessary skills
· 75th percentile: above average experience, has all needed skills
We elaborate on some of the roles, the skills and experience requirements below.
Database administrator and architect.
A database administrator or architect is responsible for building and maintaining the software used to manage a database and ensuring the data is easily accessible to those who need it. Architects typically focus on designing and creating databases, while administrators concentrate on the daily operations of database systems. The roles do have a lot of cross-over — both administrators and architects are tasked with ensuring servers remain efficient and operational while overseeing data security, implementation, replication, backup, storage, access, and partitions. You’ll want to hire someone who can not only design, build, and monitor your servers but who will also be able to optimize performance and remain on call in case of emergency.
Skills and experience to look for:
· Bachelor’s degree in CS or an associate’s degree in database administration
· Background in IT work or database administration
· Oracle, Linux, and SQL skills
· Data analysis and management and reporting skills
Network and computer systems administrator.
Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for handling the enterprise’s daily operations of computer networks. These IT pros typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and should be knowledgeable in LAN/WAN protocol, software, and hardware. This position involves a lot of time spent troubleshooting, and network and computer systems administrators typically need to be on call in case of an emergency or failure. What you look for in experience will depend on how extensive your network needs are, but there are specific skills and certifications that can help you find the most qualified workers.
Skills and experience to look for:
· Troubleshooting and communication skills
· Analytic and diagnostic skills
· A willingness to be on call after hours
· Professional certifications
Help desk and desktop support professional.
The help desk is an essential part of running an efficient business for customer-facing businesses. As the first line of defence for customer service and troubleshooting, help desk workers need to have the right technical and soft skills. Robert Half Technology breaks out the role of help desk technician into three tiers, given that the job description and requirements can vary significantly based on the business.
Skills and experience to look for:
· Tier 1: For entry-level positions that require less than two years of experience, an associate degree or coursework at a technical school
· Tier 2: For positions requiring two to four years of experience, a two-year or bachelor’s degree, and relevant work experience
· Tier 3: Four or more years of experience in a help desk setting, a bachelor’s degree in a related field, and professional certifications.
Network/cloud architect.
A network/cloud architect is responsible for planning, designing, deploying, managing, and upgrading an organization’s network and cloud projects and applications. Network/cloud architects typically have a strong understanding of multiple operating systems and networking, programming, and security skills. Businesses should look for individuals with a strong knowledge of cloud services such as Amazon Web Services and experience with ITSM, networking, I&O, governance, automation, and vendor management.
Skills and experience to look for:
· Knowledge of state-of-the-art cloud technologies and architectural principles
· Several years of experience with network and cloud technologies
· Experience with scaling cloud applications
· Understanding of cost, performance, and architecture of cloud systems
· Collaboration and communication skills
Computer and information systems manager.
Computer and information systems managers oversee a business’s information technology goals. You’ll typically see this role listed as IT manager or IT project manager. These IT pros are tasked with analyzing the organization’s technology needs and will recommend upgrades or new technology to executives. They oversee the planning, implementation, and maintenance of computer hardware and software. They’re also expected to stay on top of their IT security and budget while managing IT professionals in the organization. Candidates for this role typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer or information science with related work experience.
Skills and experience to look for:
· Experience with database management system software, ERP software, web platform development software, and related tools
· Knowledge of hardware, software, engineering, and mathematics.
· Knowledge of business management principles, general business operations
· Customer service, communication, and management skills
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