Minneapolis CIOs Reveal Increased Hiring For Second Half Of 2017

MINNEAPOLIS, June 22, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Minneapolis-area technology hiring is on the rise for the second half of 2017, according to the Robert Half Technology IT Hiring Forecast and Local Trend Report. Twenty-four percent of CIOs say they plan to add full-time technology professionals to their teams — up four points from December's report. In addition to hiring plans, the report also highlights technology skills in demand, CIOs' top concerns and factors contributing to local hiring growth.

"There's been strong momentum for IT hiring going into the second half of the year," said Kathy Northamer, District President of Robert Half Technology in the Twin Cities. "Client-facing applications have been driving the hiring process for many employers as of late, while some of the hottest roles include .Net and Java web developers, as well as database developers."

Hiring Plans and Challenges

According to the report, 24 percent of CIOs in the Twin Cities plan to bring on more IT talent during the next six months, and an additional 60 percent expect to maintain staff levels by filling vacant roles. An active hiring environment is contributing to a competitive market for IT talent: 63 percent of Twin Cities hiring leaders say that it's somewhat or very challenging to find skilled IT professionals in today's market.

Factors Leading to Tech Hiring in Twin Cities

When asked what factors are most contributing to local hiring, nearly a third (32 percent) of respondents said that more businesses are moving to the area and creating jobs in technology.

Other factors impacting tech hiring in the Twin Cities include:

• Increased cloud and big data initiatives (29 percent) 
• Increased digital marketing initiatives (21 percent)
• Increased mobile initiatives (14 percent)

Skills in Demand

According to respondents, the skills in greatest demand within their organizations include:

1. Desktop support (57 percent)
2. Windows administration (53 percent)
3. Database management (50 percent)
4. Telecommunications support (49 percent)
5. Business intelligence/reporting services (48 percent)
6. Web development/website design (48 percent)

Top Concerns

When asked to name their top priority for the next six months, more than a quarter of Twin Cities CIOs (26 percent) said they will be focused on upgrading existing systems for business efficiency. Other priorities will include:

• Maintaining security of IT systems and safeguarding company information (22 percent)
• Technology innovation and investing in new technologies (18 percent)
• Innovation and helping to grow the business (17 percent)
• Staff retention (17 percent)

"Right now, new tools — such as Angular JS — are having a profound impact on IT hiring in the Twin Cities," added Northamer. "Employers are seeking professionals who are skilled in the latest and greatest JavaScript libraries."

About Robert Half Technology

With more than 100 locations worldwide, Robert Half Technology is a leading provider of technology professionals for initiatives ranging from web development and multiplatform systems integration to network security and technical support. Robert Half Technology offers online job search services at roberthalf.com/technology. Visitors can also request a copy of the Robert Half Technology 2017 Salary Guide, which includes a wide range of IT job descriptions.

Survey Methodology

The survey was developed by Robert Half Technology and conducted by an independent research firm. To ensure that companies from all segments were represented in the study, the sample was stratified by number of employees. Robert Half Technology has been tracking IT hiring activity in the United States since 1995.

SOURCE Robert Half Technology

Related Links

https://www.roberthalf.com/technology