Washington, D.C. CIOs Reveal A 7-Point Increase In Hiring For Second Half Of 2017

WASHINGTON, June 22, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Washington-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-three percent of CIOs say they plan to add full-time technology professionals to their teams — up 7 percent from a survey conducted in December 2016. In addition to hiring plans, the report also highlights technology skills in demand, CIOs' top concerns and factors contributing to local hiring growth.

"Local businesses continue to move forward with new IT projects and are optimistic about hiring," said Chris Brinkman, regional manager for Robert Half Technology in Washington D.C. "Cybersecurity continues to be a driver in the D.C. market as many companies are looking to optimize and upgrade their infrastructure and operating systems to combat cyber criminals."

Hiring Plans and Challenges
In addition to the plans to bring on more IT talent during the next six months, an additional 61 percent expect to maintain staff levels by filling vacant roles. An active hiring environment is contributing to a competitive market for IT talent: 68 percent of Washington 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 Washington
When asked what factors are most contributing to local hiring, nearly a third (31 percent) of respondents said that more businesses are moving to the area and creating jobs in technology. Other factors impacting tech hiring in the district include:

• Increased digital marketing initiatives (29 percent)
• Increased cloud or big data initiatives (24 percent) 
• Increased mobile initiatives (16 percent)

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

1. Business intelligence/reporting services (64 percent)
2. Desktop support (61 percent)
3. Telecommunications support (61 percent)
4. Network administration (59 percent)
5. Wireless network management (55 percent)

Top Concerns
When asked to name their top priority for the next six months, 27 percent of Washington CIOs said they will be focused on maintaining security of IT systems and safeguarding company information. Other priorities will include:  

• Upgrading existing systems for business efficiency (23 percent)
• Staff retention (19 percent)
• Innovation or helping grow the business (18 percent)
• Technology innovation and investing in new technologies (13 percent)

"Unemployment rates in Washington D.C. for skilled IT labor are among the lowest in the country," Brinkman added. "Because of that, skilled IT professionals with a well-rounded background will have multiple offers to choose from. For companies looking to hire, speed is key so that you can ensure you're landing the best person for your specialized projects."

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