It’s a good time to be a talented technologist, whether a designer, developer or engineer. After all, as we’ve chronicled many times in the past, there’s a serious war for talent going on in tech hotbeds such as Seattle and Silicon Valley.
But what are the hottest jobs in tech right now? Robert Half Technology has listed its top picks as part of its recently released 2013 Salary Guide. For those companies who believe the hiring climate may get easier in 2013, think again. The authors of the study say that technology talent is only going to become tougher to find in the year ahead.
“The pool of available candidates continues to shrink, while the demand for technology experts is climbing,” the report says. “Competition is expected to be particularly fierce for professionals who can support mobile, big data, cloud and virtualization initiatives.”
Without further ado, here’s a look at the top picks for tech jobs in 2013, with estimates on salary range.
Mobile applications developers: As companies strive to reach consumers on smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices, they need professionals who can develop for the small screen. Average starting salaries for mobile applications developers are expected to rise 9 percent, with compensation ranging from $92,750 to $133,500.
Business intelligence analysts: These individuals assist firms in making critical business decisions by gathering and analyzing data to better target marketing efforts. Business intelligence analysts should see a gain of 7.3 percent, with starting salaries ranging from $94,250 to $132,500.
Network architects: These individuals provide the backbone of a company’s communication infrastructure. They assess business and applications requirements for corporate data and voice networks, making it possible for data to be shared. Network architects are forecast to receive a 7 percent starting salary boost, to between $102,250 and $146,500, on average.
Interactive creative directors: As companies of all sizes add interactive roles, they seek professionals with superb leadership skills and digital expertise to manage these growing teams. Interactive creative directors can anticipate a 4.9 percent bump in base compensation, with average starting salaries ranging from $95,500 to $160,000.
Interaction designers: The best interaction designers step into the shoes of a company’s customers and maximize their online experiences. These professionals understand the connections between people and products. Those with one to five years of experience should see a gain of 4.9 percent, to between $52,250 and $77,500.
User experience (UX) designers: Since so much customer interaction happens online, companies are looking for workers who can create positive digital experiences. UX designers can expect a 4.8 percent salary increase, with starting compensation of $73,750 to $110,500.
Meanwhile, here’s a look at other trends in technology jobs for 2013 from the study.
Previously on GeekWire: Map: Here’s where tech jobs are concentrated in the U.S.
