While many fields are seeing their share of growth (check out recent research citing a 3.1 per cent average rise in salaries for 2017), some of the most sought-after professionals are those with a background in technology. As IT tools and applications continue to integrate with so many aspects of life and work, companies are looking for help supporting and evolving these projects. Businesses are especially focused on establishing and building IT infrastructure, setting the framework for strong security protocols, and data management.

And with more than half of Canadian CFOs reporting difficulty finding and hiring the right professional talent, and 89 per cent of CIOs looking to hire in 2017, there’s no better time to capitalize on these new opportunities.

Here are some fast-growing tech jobs that are seeing higher salaries in 2017:

Systems security administrator

  • 5.8 per cent average increase in salary from 2016 (2017 salary range: $96,750 – $135,250)
  • Systems security admins are the main point-person for troubleshooting all things IT security, particularly everything concerning the company’s online security.

Senior IT auditor

  • 5.4 per cent average increase in salary from 2016 (2017 salary range: $125,000 – $194,500)
  • Senior IT auditors do just that – they audit and investigate IT systems to ensure that security is upheld, and make essential recommendations for improvements or upgrades.

Network security engineer

  • 5.1 per cent average increase in salary from 2016 (2017 salary range: $123,000 – $158,000)
  • As more businesses digitize sensitive information, network security engineers are brought on to ensure data is protected from cyber threats. They have a strong working knowledge of both data storage, and IT security infrastructure.

Big data engineer

  • 5 per cent average increase in salary from 2016 (2017 salary range: $135,000 – $196,000)
  • Big data engineers help companies figure out how to gather, integrate and evaluate new data. They design new databases to optimize storage and data processing.

Although these positions require highly specialized technical skills, remember, you don’t have to be in tech to take advantage of an overall demand for talented workers beyond the IT field. All companies are looking for people who are quick learners, who’ve kept up with trends (i.e., done their research), and who can put that knowledge to immediate use.

It’s important to keep in mind that although hard skills are necessary to be considered for certain roles, it’s ultimately your soft skills that help you connect with potential employers and then articulate your value. Enthusiasm and positivity go a long way with hiring managers. So get excited about the opportunities out there — you just might find the right fit for you!

 

Nima Mirpourian is a branch manager at Robert Half Technology,  a leading provider of technology professionals for initiatives ranging from web development and multi-platform systems integration to network security and technical support. Robert Half Technology offers online job search services at roberthalf.ca/technology. Follow blog.roberthalf.ca, and @RobertHalf_CAN on Twitter for additional workplace advice and hiring trends.