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Technology Contractors - the most in-demand jobs | 2024

technology contractors | 2024

Most in-demand jobs: Roles in Cloud computing, SAP & DevOps

Salary ranges:

  • DevOps and Cloud: €500 - €650 per day

  • SAP: €600 - €850 per day

What qualifications and experience are employers seeking in candidates?

In 2024, those looking for professional technology contractors are seeking candidates with a blend of technical skills, relevant experience, and soft skills. There are three roles that we are seeing high demand for – Cloud Computing, SAP and DevOps.

For these roles, there are a number of technical skills needed, alongside soft skills.

Employers favour those with a proficiency in several languages including Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, & Go. Experience with frameworks such as React, Angular, and Vue for front-end development; and Node.js, Django, or Spring Boot for back-end development are also preferred.

Experience in cloud computing is becoming a non-negotiable. They prioritise candidates who have substantial experience with leading cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and Microsoft Azure. The demand for cloud computing proficiency reflects the growing reliance on cloud services to drive business innovation and efficiency.

In DevOps positions, those with knowledge of CI/CD pipelines, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), and infrastructure as code (Terraform, Ansible) are at an advantage. These skills are essential for streamlining development processes, ensuring efficient deployment, and maintaining robust and scalable infrastructure.

In the contract field, employers want to see project experience, work history, industry-specific experience and problem-solving skills that prove them to be the right fit for the role.

In several cases, soft skills are becoming just as important as hard skills in securing projects with employers. Some soft skills that are needed include communication, adaptability, time management and team collaboration.

What length of contracts are on offer for contractors in 2024?

In 2024, the length of tech contracts varies widely based on project requirements, company needs, and the nature of the work required. However, some common trends in contract lengths are emerging and include more short-term contracts varying from 3-6 months.

What are the top 3 reasons contractors choose a contract over another?

Contractors typically choose one contract over another based on a variety of factors. Here are some key reasons:

  • Competitive Pay: Contractors often select contracts offering higher rates or better overall compensation packages, including bonuses and perks.

  • Financial Stability: Contracts with reliable payment schedules and minimal risk of payment delays or issues are preferred.

  • Contract length & Flexibility: As the market changes contractors are more likely to take on a project with a longer length (8-12 months) which allows them to work remotely.

Conclusion

DevOps, Cloud and SAP professionals are the most in-demand contractors in Ireland’s technology sector for 2024. With these roles, however, employers know exactly what qualifications and expertise they require. Relevant experience and soft skills are crucial in giving the contractor an extra edge amongst others.

For more information on professional contracting, visit our Professional Contracting Hub. View our live jobs and take the next step in your career.