Hays, the global leader in workforce solutions and specialist recruitment, analysed hiring trends data to reveal the top ten most in-demand tech jobs for 2024.
The emergence of generative AI posed a new challenge for organisations in 2023, as they started to explore implementing the technology into their business’s. However, the potential role of AI within organisations did not reduce the need for tech professionals who could help organisations transform digitally.
The importance of digital infrastructure has increased greatly in recent years, becoming a necessity for all organisations. This has led to a rapid increase in the number of available tech jobs, as demand for tech professionals outpacing supply across the globe.
Business analyst topped the list of most wanted tech jobs for the second consecutive year, followed by project manager, data analyst, and Java developer. This year’s most in-demand jobs highlighted hard skills such as Java and .NET, with 70% of job roles within the top ten being developers or engineers.
The top 10 most in-demand tech jobs include:
- Business Analyst
Business Analysts are invaluable to organisations, they use data to spot trends and deliver recommendations to the wider business. The role doesn’t rely heavily on technical experience, making it easier to transition from other fields. Alongside critical and analytical thinking, employers want problem solvers who can communicate to a diverse spectrum of stakeholders.
- Project Manager
Project Manager are responsible for planning projects and monitoring progress so that any deliverables arrive on time and goals are met. Technical skills are less necessary, instead, professionals need impeccable organisational skills. Its’s a role for excellent communicators who are comfortable liaising with multiple parts of the business, and often external stakeholders too.
- Data Analyst
Data Analysts take the data that organisations collect and look for trends that will allow them to provide actionable insights. Strong analytical skills are needed but, just as importantly, professionals need to be able to effectively communicate insights in a digestible format.
- Java Developer
Java programmers are expected to continue to be in demand for the foreseeable future as the language is widely used to create applications and software. There is the potential for AI to impact Java Developers in the future as the technology continues to evolve rapidly, however, there is scope for it to be potentially integrated into frameworks and processes.
- Data Engineer
Data Engineers facilitate the collection and analysis of data through the creation of scalable frameworks. Data Engineer’s need experience with data modelling and an understanding of database technologies and processes (such as ETL).
- Cloud Engineer
Digital transformation has led to cloud computing becoming increasingly important for organisations of all sizes. Cloud Engineers manage the maintenance of the cloud-based infrastructure that allows businesses to run their applications and services. Programming skills are vital and professionals also need a strong grasp of cloud-based software.
- Software Engineer
The role of Software Engineer has climbed the list since last year, reflecting today’s market. Software engineers are responsible for designing software applications. Fluency in programming languages is key.
- Solution Architect
Solution Architect is new to the list for 2024. They are responsible for creating and implementing solutions that meet business needs and work with stakeholders to understand business requirements and develop the right solutions. Strong analytical skills and problem-solving skills are hugely beneficial, and employers want experience with software design and development.
- .NET Developer
While the role of .NET Developer has appeared on the list previously, demand has dropped over the past year. Nonetheless, organisations still need developers to design and maintain Windows based applications.
- DevOps Engineer
DevOps engineers work between Development and Operations and are responsible for supporting the software applications, from development to deployment. Working with different parts of the organisation, the role requires strong collaborator and communicator skills. Experience with software development and knowledge of cloud computing technologies are also required.
James Milligan, Hays Global Head of Technology Solutions, comments:
“Once again, employers have proven that the tech industry is open to people who don’t necessarily boast technical skills. This highlights to those who are seeking new jobs or are looking for a promotion that soft skills are still incredibly important to the tech world of work.
“With upskilling being the key to the AI revolution in 2024, reviewing the skills you have and looking for room for improvement can be a great starting point to boost your CV and career progression. It’s no lie that all-rounders are more attractive than a specialist in one aspect of the job, and this is no exception to the tech world. Make sure you make use of training courses at work and invest your time in upskilling, whether it may be a workshop on building resilience, how to present well, or even how to communicate effectively.”