Navigating 2024: Tech Employment Trends

As we bid farewell to 2023, we note that the tech industry experienced a significant surge in layoffs, affecting nearly a quarter of a million individuals employed by renowned tech giants such as Google, Meta, and Microsoft, along with numerous burgeoning tech start-ups.

The aftermath of these substantial layoffs led to a surprising turn of events – a windfall for companies beyond the Silicon Valley boundaries, actively vying for the cream of the tech talent crop. 

Remote and hybrid work has emerged as a dominant theme in tech hiring over the past few years. Approximately 40% of employees, as reported by Forbes last year, engaged in remote work at least part-time, with tech and IT professionals leading the charge in embracing this flexible work arrangement. What once disrupted traditional work environments has now seamlessly integrated into the new normal.

With the advent of 2024, we welcome the era where generative AI has become an integral aspect of our daily lives and workplaces. Its impact on hiring practices is noteworthy – while AI and automation are displacing certain roles, they are concurrently giving rise to new opportunities. AI is poised to play a pivotal role in various job profiles in 2024.

According to AI consultant Dan Diasio, the ability to utilise AI will become a fundamental skill for individuals in diverse roles. He remarked to Technical.ly that:

"Everybody's job will probably involve knowing how to work with AI in some way, shape, or form."

Predictions for Key Hiring Trends for 2024

Cloud Computing Dominance

Cloud computing jobs took the global job market by storm in 2023, surpassing all other job types in terms of listings. Positions related to a company's remote infrastructure and storage system, such as cloud engineer, cloud application architect, and cloud computing specialist, continue to be abundant on tech job boards. These high-paying roles typically offer starting salaries exceeding $100,000.

Non-Tech Industry Tech Jobs

Following the wave of Big Tech layoffs, a considerable pool of talent found its way into non-tech industries. Companies in finance, healthcare, and hospitality are actively seeking software developers and tech professionals. While these roles may lack the glamour associated with Big Tech, they compensate with enhanced job security and versatility. The decentralisation of top tech jobs is evident as technology becomes an integral part of nearly every industry.

DEI Prioritisation

Despite challenges from right-wing activists, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) remains a hiring priority for 75% of decision-makers across various sectors, as reported by Forbes. The influence of Generation Z, constituting about a third of the talent pool, has been instrumental in ensuring DEI is valued in workplaces. An EY survey indicates that 63% of job seekers, across age groups, seek employment in workplaces prioritising DEI.

Green Computing Awareness

The proliferation of cryptocurrency and the rise of generative AI have heightened awareness of the environmental impact of digital technology. Green computing is set to gain prominence in 2024, focusing on eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and carbon-neutral practices in the manufacturing and maintenance of hardware, software, and clouds.

Continuous Learning Imperative

Tech job seekers in 2024 must not only possess requisite skills but also demonstrate the ability to evolve with the rapidly changing tech landscape. Continuous learning, including regular upskilling, is an inherent part of the tech job description, as highlighted by Steve Williamson, Director of Software Development for Tapp Network and a 2023 RealLIST Engineer.

Hot Sectors in Focus

Apart from AI, cloud computing, and green computing, noteworthy sectors to watch in 2024 include data science, cybersecurity, augmented and virtual reality (including "metaverse" jobs), DevOps, and full-stack software development. These sectors are expected to shape the employment landscape and offer exciting opportunities in the coming year.

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Special thanks to TECHNICAL.LY. insight from PATHWAYS TO TECH CAREERS MONTH 2024