Every year, we analyse the data from our job dashboards to pinpoint the most sought-after tech roles for the upcoming months. By reviewing employer demand, we gain insights into the positions organisations urgently need to fill and those that will soon become available. 

In 2023, employers faced a significant shift in priorities. The implementation of AI emerged as a critical challenge for organisations. Even with these changes though, the demand for professionals who can contribute to digital transformation remains strong. For jobseekers in technical roles, however, a strategic pivot toward upskilling in AI is advisable. Understanding how AI can augment daily responsibilities is key to staying competitive in an AI-driven landscape. 

If you’re keen on exploring tech job opportunities, read our top 10 below and check out our latest vacancies here. 

The top 10 in-demand tech jobs in 2024  

10. DevOps Engineer  

What does a DevOps Engineer do?
A DevOps engineer plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between development and operations teams. From development to deployment, they provide support for software applications. Not surprisingly they are a regular in our top 10. 
 

What skills does a DevOps Engineer need?
Experience in software development and cloud computing technologies are essential to the role. But strong collaboration and communication skills are also required, as you’ll be liaising with all areas of the business. 

9. .NET Developer  

What does a .NET Developer do? 
Developing and maintaining Windows-based applications remains an important role, even though the demand has decreased slightly since our last report on in demand tech jobs. Organisations continue to rely on skilled developers to create and enhance software that runs on the Windows platform.
 

What skills does a .NET Developer need?
All developer roles require strong technical skills and proficiency in multiple coding languages, and a .NET Developer is no different. And of course, .NET skills are essential. 

8. Solution Architect  

What does a Solution Architect do?
Solution Architects play a crucial role in bridging the gap between business requirements and technical implementation, finding and designing solutions for the business’ needs by working closely with stakeholders throughout the organisation. New to our list and likely to stay in the top 10 tech jobs in demand for a while. 
 

What skills does a Solution Architect need?
As a Solution Architect, a multifaceted skill set is essential for success in this dynamic and influential role. Experience in development and software design, together with analytical and problem-solving skills is the ideal blend. 

7. Software Engineer  

 

What does a Software Engineer do?
Software engineers play an ever more pivotal role in the tech industry, and have climbed up the ranks since our last list. These problem solvers work with areas of the organisation to create and maintain software systems, making technology more accessible and efficient for users. 

 

What skills does a Software Engineer need?
 It’s not just about writing code; it’s about crafting strong and elegant solutions for the business. But whether you’re building front-end interfaces, or optimising back-end systems, programming language fluency is still essential. You can find out more about what’s required to be a Software Engineer here.  

6. Cloud Engineer 

What does a Cloud Engineer do?
Cloud engineers work behind the scenes to ensure the seamless functioning of digital our services and applications, by maintaining the cloud-based infrastructure they rely on. Unsurprisingly, in an ever-increasing digital world, the Cloud Engineer plays a crucial role across businesses of all sizes.
 

What skills does a Cloud Engineer need?
Programming skills are essential for aspiring cloud engineers, and in particular cloud-based software. It’s also worth seeking out courses, reading and hands-on experience for this relatively new role. 

5. Data Engineer 

What does a Data Engineer do?
​​​​​​Data Engineers play a crucial role in overseeing, and monitoring data collection, storage, and distribution. They provide analysts with the information they need to create vital insights for the organisation.

What skills does a Data Engineer need?
You’ll need to understand data modelling, database technologies and processes such as ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) as part of your skillset as the data tech guru with your organisation. 

4. Java Developer  

What does a Java Developer do? 
As a Java Developer, the language’s widespread adoption ensures a steady and ongoing demand for software and application creators. Java developers are also likely to benefit from AI as a tool to enhance productivity and streamline workflows.
 

What skills does a Java Developer need?
As a Java Developer, mastering the foundational skills of the Java language and software development processes are obviously essential, but there are additional collaboration skills that can elevate your career. The ability to work with other tech colleagues enhance your role as a Java developer. 

3. Data Analyst  

What does a Data Analyst do?
Holding firm at number three in our list, Data Analysts play an ongoing crucial role in today’s data-driven world. The reliance on big data and predictive analytics to provide trends and insights for the business is here to stay. 
 

What skills does a Data Analyst need?
Analytical skills are of course fundamental in today’s complex business landscape, but equally important is the ability to communicate those insights simply and effectively. 

2. Project Manager  

What does a Project Manager do?
Down from the top spot, Project Managers retain a crucial role in all organisations. They are responsible for planning and managing projects to ensure successful execution of goals, on time and within budget.
 

What skills does a Project Manager need?
Project managers are the often the least technical tech people on this list, with organisation skills more important in running projects smoothly and with the desired outcomes. Whether liaising with internal teams or external partners, communication skills are also extremely important. And it helps if you know your way around a budget. 

1. Business Analyst  

What does a Business Analyst do?
Currently the tech industry’s most sought-after role, Business Analysts gather and analyse data to identify needs and recommend solutions to all areas of the business, including senior management. Their ability to bridge technical and business aspects makes them invaluable contributors to company success. Like Project Managers, a high level of technical knowledge is not essential to the role. 
 

What skills does a Business Analyst need?
As a Business Analyst, a combination of technical and interpersonal skills is vital. Successful Business Analysts combine analytical thinking with excellent communication and problem-solving abilities. 

Advice for employers

The skills shortage has remained ingrained in the market. So, consider these actions.  
  

  • Consider what else you’re offering employees that goes beyond just a higher salary. It’s critical to get the right mix of benefits, work-life balance, upskilling and personal fulfillment to ensure you’re in the right place to compete in such a tight market. 
     
  • Through reviewing of both financial and other beneficial offers, you can create a positive workplace culture that values employee wellbeing, satisfaction and growth that will all lead to improved performance and less chance of your employees keeping an eye on other opportunities.  
     
  • Employees still want to improve their skills on the job and advance their careers. Employees are 1.38 times more likely to stay with their current employer when a formal learning and development program is on offer. Training, ongoing learning and development and career progression opportunities are all important elements to be able to provide a successful learning program for employees.
      
  • Flexible working remains just as big of a drawcard as it was last year. While the debate continues around the benefits and challenges of flexible working, with only 33 per cent of employers saying staff can come in when it works for them, almost two-thirds of desk-based employees will look for a hybrid role when they next job search.  For more insights on how you can better your talent strategy, download the latest Hays Salary Guide: IT Edition.  

Advice for employees

If you’re thinking about your career trajectory in such a skills short market, consider:  
  

  • What are your long-term ambitions for your tech career? While making quick moves to take advantage of higher remuneration and increased demand can be tempting, consider if the move will help you achieve what you want. Before making any big moves, take a step back and reflect on your long-term goals and how this move could help or hinder your ability to achieve them.
      
  • While it’s imperative that organisations should be offering learning and development as part of the overall employment package, you also need to prioritise your ability to manage your own personal and professional growth to ensure your long-term career viability.
     
  • Don’t forget your soft skills development. When the tech market is tight, employers are more accepting of the fact that they will need to do some on-the-job training if a potential employee demonstrates great strength in their soft skills. For further insight on how you can make more informed decisions about your career, download the Hays Salary Guide: IT Edition.