Raleigh CIOs Optimistic About Hiring And Tech Projects In Second Half Of 2017

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

"Many of Raleigh's tech leaders appear optimistic and plan to continue to hire skilled technology professionals," said Anthony Fernandez, branch manager for Robert Half Technology. "More companies are relocating to the area and need to hire; we are also seeing increased demand for IT talent from startups." 

Hiring Plans and Challenges
According to the report, 19 percent of Raleigh's CIOs plan to bring on more IT talent during the next six months; an additional 68 percent expect to maintain staff levels by filling vacant roles. An active hiring environment is contributing to a competitive market for IT talent: 62 percent of Raleigh 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 Raleigh
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 Raleigh include:

• Increased digital marketing initiatives (26 percent)
• Increased big data initiatives (21 percent)
• Increased mobile initiatives (19 percent)

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

1. Telecommunications support (VoIP) (50 percent)
2. Network administration (48 percent)
3. Database management (47 percent)
4. Wireless network management (47 percent)
5. Windows administration (45 percent)
6. Cybersecurity (45 percent)

Top Concerns
When asked to name their top priority for the next six months, nearly a quarter of Raleigh CIOs (24 percent) said they will be focused on upgrading existing systems for business efficiency. Other priorities will include:  

• Innovation or helping grow the business (23 percent)
• Staff retention (20 percent)
• Maintaining security of IT systems and safeguarding company information (17 percent)
• Technology innovation and investing in new technologies (14 percent)

"Companies are upgrading and investing in their infrastructure and beefing up security, in light of the recent high-profile security and data breaches," Fernandez added. "Organizations are continuing to upgrade their software and dive into full stack development, JavaScript and cloud technologies. We're also seeing more project-based hiring with data visualization and business intelligence initiatives."   

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

http://www.roberthalf.com/technology