a man and a woman looking at computer monitor together

The technology industry is moving at lightning speed, and hiring trends are shifting just as quickly. In 2025, companies are navigating a competitive market shaped by rapid AI adoption, growing cybersecurity needs, and the push for hybrid and remote work models. For both employers and job seekers, staying ahead of these changes is a necessity.

As we look toward 2026, understanding the skills, roles, and strategies that will define the tech job market is critical. In this post, we’ll explore the most in-demand positions, key hiring trends, skills and certifications worth pursuing, and how both businesses and professionals can prepare for the future.

The 5 Most In-Demand Tech Jobs

1. AI Engineer

AI engineers create intelligent systems that organizations use to power automation, analytics, and decision-making.

  • Primary duties: Design, build, and deploy scalable AI systems and applications; data preprocessing; training and refining algorithms; working closely with data scientists and engineers; monitoring AI model performance.
  • Required skills include: Knowledge of programming languages (particularly Python), machine learning frameworks, data science, cloud computing, natural language processing (NLP), and creative problem-solving
  • Outlook and demand: The field of AI engineering is booming, with over 500,000 estimated open roles globally and a strong growth trajectory.
  • Average salary: $101,752

2. Machine Learning Engineer

Machine learning (ML) engineers are responsible for building and deploying the predictive models that power AI systems.

  • Primary duties: Develop, train, and optimize ML models, integrate ML pipelines; monitor performance; collaborate with data scientists, software developers, and other technical teams; data preprocessing
  • Required skills include: Fluency in programming languages such as Python and Java, deep knowledge of ML frameworks, MLOps, data science and statistics, problem-solving, data modelling, and cloud computing
  • Outlook and demand: According to a recent Statista report, the future of the machine learning sector is bright, with the market expected to reach a volume of $568 billion by 2031. Just last year, the industry added 219,000 new roles.
  • Average salary: $128,769

3. Cloud Architect

Cloud architects design, implement, and oversee the infrastructure that supports an organization’s cloud computing systems.

  • Primary duties: Design and manage cloud computing systems, ensure cloud infrastructure aligns with business objectives, oversee migrations, optimize and update systems to maintain security and compliance standards, collaborate with IT teams and other technical and executive stakeholders
  • Required skills include: Understanding of cloud computing concepts, familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS and Azure, knowledge of integration techniques, networking, strategic thinking, problem-solving and troubleshooting, and ability to communicate technical concepts
  • Outlook and demand: There continues to be a strong demand for this career, driven by continued cloud adoption across industries.
  • Average salary: $147,236

4. Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity analysts protect organizations against cyberattacks, a mission growing more critical as bad actors turn to more advanced methods.

  • Primary duties: Monitor networks for suspicious activity, respond to and investigate incidents as they arise, create incident reports, implement and maintain firewalls and other security measures, patch vulnerabilities, perform penetration tests and risk assessments
  • Required skills include: Knowledge of networking and network security, programming, familiarity with data security best practices, strong endpoint management, intrusion detection, attention to detail, communication, and critical thinking
  • Outlook and demand: This role is expected to experience rapid growth as cyber threats escalate and attacks become more sophisticated. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that employment will grow 29% by 2034.
  • Average salary: $99,400

5. Data Engineer

Data engineers build the pipelines and infrastructure that feed analytics and AI systems the information they need to operate.

  • Primary duties: Oversee data collection, ensure smooth flow of information, select and maintain databases, maintain data quality and integrity, design ETL pipelines, prepare data for use by data scientists and analysts, work closely with data technologies such as Hadoop or Spark
  • Required skills include: Programming, thorough understanding of databases, knowledge of ETL and ELT frameworks, cloud computing, data warehousing, data modeling, current knowledge of data governance best practices, adaptability, collaboration, and troubleshooting
  • Outlook and demand: There will continue to be a strong demand for data engineers and similar positions. The BLS projects that the demand for data science-based careers will grow 34% over the next decade.
  • Average salary: $129,716

Note: Salary information is sourced from ZipRecruiter in August of 2025. Exact compensation will depend on several factors, including employer, location, and years of experience.

Tech hiring strategies are shifting as organizations adapt to new technologies, workforce expectations, and competitive pressures. In 2026, employers won’t just be looking to fill seats, meaning that they’re rethinking the way they evaluate talent, structure roles, and retain top performers. The following trends are what we expect to shape hiring across IT and tech in the coming year.

Prioritization of Remote and Hybrid Work

Despite some widely publicized return-to-office mandates, remote and hybrid models have moved from temporary solutions to long-term strategies. Without geographic restrictions, companies benefit from expanded talent pools, while offering flexibility to workers — a perk that they increasingly expect as a baseline.

Why this trend matters: Employers who embrace flexible work gain access to a wider talent pool and improve retention, while those who resist risk losing candidates to more adaptable competitors.

Demand for Multi-Skilled Professionals

The lines between roles are blurring. Employers increasingly want professionals who can cross traditional boundaries: For example, data engineers who understand cloud security or software developers with AI integration experience. Multi-skilled talent reduces hiring costs and brings agility to teams, enabling companies to adapt faster as new technologies emerge. For workers, cultivating a diverse skill set is becoming a direct path to higher pay and job security.

Why this trend matters: Companies that hire adaptable, cross-trained professionals are better equipped to pivot quickly and stay competitive in fast-changing markets.

Skills-First Hiring

Degrees are no longer a make-or-break requirement for tech jobs. Now, employers are placing greater emphasis on demonstrated abilities and project portfolios. This shift broadens opportunities for self-taught developers, bootcamp graduates, and career changers, while helping companies address persistent talent shortages. For organizations, skills-first hiring can shorten recruitment cycles and improve retention by aligning roles more closely with candidates’ capabilities.

Why this trend matters: By focusing on skills over credentials, employers can fill roles faster and tap into a more diverse talent pool.

Offering Competitive Salaries

Tech talent shortages are pushing employers to refine their approach to compensation. Beyond base salary, benefits such as signing bonuses, stock options, wellness stipends, and professional development budgets are being used to attract and retain top talent. Competitive pay and benefits are especially important in high-demand roles like AI engineering, cloud architecture, and cybersecurity, where talent can be selective. Organizations that lag in compensation risk higher turnover and longer hiring timelines.

Why this trend matters: Competitive compensation ensures employers can attract top-tier candidates and reduces the long-term costs of turnover and rehiring.

Skills and Certifications in High Demand

Moving into 2026, hiring managers will likely target professionals who can blend technical depth with adaptability. As a result, these skills will be some of the most sought-after:

  • Knowledge of programming languages: Mastery of core languages such as Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, and Go is essential for building software solutions, AI systems, and scalable infrastructure.
  • Quantum computing: An emerging specialty with applications in cryptography, optimization, and complex simulations
  • Ethical hacking: Critical for strengthening cybersecurity defenses by proactively identifying vulnerabilities
  • Data engineering: The backbone of analytics and AI initiatives, ensuring data is reliable, structured, and accessible
  • AI engineering/LLM integration: Key for developing AI-powered tools and embedding large language models into business applications
  • Cloud computing: Essential for building, scaling, and securing modern applications across cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

In addition to developing these skills, earning certain certifications can help tech job seekers stand out. Top credentials include:

Where the Technology Job Market Is Headed

In the coming year, the technology job market is expected to enter a period of transformation. Demand for advanced technical roles will continue to grow, while automation and AI reshape what work looks like at nearly every level. Some positions are evolving, others are disappearing, and entirely new opportunities are emerging. Here’s what to expect:

  • Focus on Automation and Cybersecurity: Automation will streamline everything from IT support to code generation, but it also raises new risks. Cybersecurity remains one of the fastest-growing job categories as organizations work to defend against increasingly sophisticated AI-driven threats. Roles tied to security engineering, ethical hacking, and risk management will be in high demand.
  • Shifts in Entry-Level Tech Roles: AI tools are taking on routine tasks once handled by junior developers, QA testers, and IT support staff. While this reduces the number of traditional entry points into tech, it opens doors for early-career professionals who have skills that can complement AI’s capabilities.
  • Prioritization of Skills That Complement AI: The most future-proof careers will be the ones that combine technical know-how with distinctly human capabilities. Critical thinking, empathy, communication, and creative problem-solving are areas where AI struggles. Professionals who can harness AI as a tool, instead of competing with it, will stand out in the job market.
  • The 2026 Rehiring Wave: Are 2025’s AI-driven layoffs set to backfire? As the limitations in AI become more apparent with a slimmed-down workforce, organizations may seek to bring back human talent to make up for where it falls short — setting off a “rehiring wave” into 2026.

How Companies Can Prepare

  • Prioritize hybrid workforce models: Balance AI-driven efficiency with human creativity and decision-making
  • Create responsible AI policies: Set ethical guidelines for AI use that protect employees, customers, and brand trust
  • Consider long-term impacts: Look beyond cost savings when adopting AI systems, also think about customer experience, employee engagement, and sustainable competitive advantage
  • Hire for complementary skills: Onboard candidates who bring empathy, creativity, and judgement to offset AI’s shortcomings

How Job Seekers Can Prepare

  • Develop AI fluency: Learn how AI tools work, where they’re used, and how to integrate them into your work
  • Build human-centered skills: Focus on areas that AI struggles with, such as creativity, empathy, and innovative problem-solving
  • Adopt a continuous learning mentality: Demonstrate your adaptability by pursuing certifications, honing new skills, and taking part in professional development activities

Top Tips for Tech Job Seekers

So, what does this all mean for job seekers? In 2026, breaking into (or advancing within) the tech industry requires more than just technical ability. With high competition and changing hiring practices, job seekers need to be strategic about how they present themselves and connect with employers.

Here are some steps to take to improve your chances of landing a role:

  • Work with a tech-focused recruiting agency. Specialized recruiters understand industry trends, salary benchmarks, and often have contacts at top companies. Partnering with experts, like the team at Alexander Technology Group, can give you a head start and perks like access to unlisted opportunities and personalized guidance for your job search.
  • Revisit your resume. With skills-first hiring on the rise, your resume should highlight your capabilities, not just job titles or credentials. Tailor your resume for each application you send to showcase how your skills and experience meet the role’s requirements.
  • Tap into your professional network. Many tech jobs are filled through referrals. Stay active on LinkedIn, join professional associations, and reconnect with past colleagues to uncover opportunities that can’t be found on online job boards.
  • Take an active approach to applications. When it comes to applications, your job isn’t done once you hit “submit.” After applying, reach out to the hiring manager or recruiter who posted the role to express your interest and start a conversation. A proactive approach shows initiative and can move your application to the top of the pile.
  • Brush up on your interview skills. Practice explaining your work clearly, walking through projects you completed, and research top interview questions to help you prepare for your conversations with HR representatives and hiring managers.

Preparing for the Tech Market of the Future

With AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity shaping future oportunities, roles like AI engineers, cloud architects, and cybersecurity analysts are already in high demand. That demand will only increase as businesses adapt to automation, hybrid work models, and a skills-first hiring mindset. Job seekers who focus on building both technical expertise and human-centered skills will be well-positioned to thrive.

At the same time, employers must also look ahead, balancing AI and human strengths, offering competitive compensation, and adopting responsible technology policies to stay ahead of the curve.

Whether you’re a professional exploring your next opportunity or an organization looking for top-tier talent, Alexander Technology Group can help you navigate the market with confidence.

For job seekers: Submit your resume to connect with a staffing specialist and explore opportunities.

For employers: Request talent to find the skilled, local professionals your team needs to succeed in 2026 and beyond.

FAQs

What tech jobs will be most in demand in 2026?

Roles in AI engineering, cybersecurity, cloud architecture, and data engineering are expected to lead the way in the tech job market as companies increasingly prioritize automation efforts, security, and advanced data capabilities.

How is AI changing the tech job market?

The adoption of AI is automating routine tasks, shifting demand toward higher-level roles that require an understanding of AI systems and their applications. Additionally, due to the inherent limitations of AI, uniquely human skills such as creative problem-solving, critical thinking, and empathy will become more important.

What’s the best way to prepare for a career in tech?

In addition to having strong technical abilities, job seekers should adopt a continuous learning mindset, strengthen their skills in areas where AI falls short, and stay current with certifications, emerging technologies, and industry trends.

What are the key technology hiring trends going into 2026?

Employers are shifting toward skills-first hiring, valuing multi-skilled professionals, and offering competitive salaries to attract top talent. Remote and hybrid work also remain high priorities among candidates.

Shannon Herrmann