The most in-demand IT jobs of 2023

In terms of top talent in the IT jobs market, demand is still far outpacing supply. Companies that want to get ahead on recruitment this year need to know where to focus their efforts. So, what are the most in-demand IT jobs of 2023?

Is it cloud engineer or front-end developer jobs? Cybersecurity specialists or software engineers?

Let's take a look at the tech jobs that many companies are facing major competition to recruit for already this year:

The most in-demand IT jobs of 2023

1) Software developer jobs

Sometimes referred to as software engineers (though there are technically some differences between the two), software developers build, install, design, test, and maintain software applications, programs, platforms, and systems.

The ability to code (most commonly today in languages like C++ or C#, Python, Java, Javascript, or SQL) is usually the most vital requirement when hiring for software developer jobs. But the ability to understand and often interpret client requirements and think critically are also important.

2) Data scientist jobs

Data science remains a relatively new and growing field. For data scientist jobs, you will be looking for someone with the ability to analyse and interpret large sets of data, excellent mathematical and statistical skills, and critical thinking.

The ability to code and use some Machine Learning and AI tools can also be an advantage. As can an understanding of predictive modelling and broader concepts relating to business, markets, and technology.

3) Machine Learning engineer jobs

Machine Learning jobs involve designing and developing AI and ML tools and technologies. This is another effectively brand-new field.

Coding skills – especially in Python – are often seen as an advantage in relevant candidates. So are knowledge and experience of algorithms, NoSQL design, relational database systems, and functional and object-oriented design principles.

4) IT manager jobs

Most companies have some kind of IT manager. It's the manager's role to cover the organisation's current – and often more importantly – future technology needs.

This might involve planning upgrades to key systems and software, ensuring the company uses the latest cybersecurity practices and professionals, or planning for expansion or further updates to the way the company's information systems are structured.

Being an IT manager requires the same kind of leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills as any medium to senior leadership or project management role. It also calls for someone with extensive knowledge of a broad swathe of current and forthcoming technologies and trends.

5) Cybersecurity jobs

Cybersecurity attacks were already on the rise back in 2018. But the COVID-19 pandemic saw them reach for the stratosphere in terms of the sheer number of attacks (and of high-profile successful data breaches suffered by major organisations).

This has awoken many business leaders to the risks posed by antiquated information security systems as well as by hastily instituted remote working infrastructure following lockdown orders.

From malware to ransomware to ever more sophisticated social engineering techniques, cyber attacks continue to grow more common and more costly to those on the receiving end.

This means that cybersecurity specialists with experience in networks, cyber threats and security are finding themselves in growing demand too.

6) Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) jobs

The job of a Site Reliability Engineer involves maintaining the smooth and speedy operation of business websites and platforms. They might design and test new features, be responsible for scaling the website to match increasing demand, or make sure everyday operation is free from bugs.

Someone you hire for an SRE job needs to be highly experienced in software engineering – these days, frequently cloud and software – as well as networking, servers, storage, how different Operating Systems and browsers work, and much more besides.

“Keeping your website running” sounds simple. But for businesses reliant on a smooth and functional online platform and services, this is a vital and highly responsible job. Hence why SREs are called for by so many different organisations.

Don't rush IT recruitment because of the talent crunch

With such high demand, it's not uncommon for organisations to rush their IT recruitment. Other businesses are accepting hiring an inexperienced person for the role, simply because they fear they can't find anyone better.

As always, the best plan is to focus on creating a sensible, well-thought-out recruitment process. This means having a good interview strategy and making sure your hiring process isn't too long.

Finally, in what is often called a candidate-led market, it can be a mistake to overlook the importance of having – and communicating – your strong offering to potential candidates right from the outset.

Want access to the best IT professionals? How about having a market-leading AI recruitment tool search an extensive talent pool for the candidate you need?

Reach out to us today. Ernest Gordon is a specialist IT recruitment agency. Every day our open, honest, transparent process matches the talent of tomorrow with the needs of organisations today.