5 Most in-demand tech roles in Singapore for 2019

Recruiting within the fields of AI, digital and data strategy is becoming increasingly competitive within Singapore’s IT sector as more companies are competing for a limited pool of professionals who are equipped to lead their company into the digital future. According to the 2019 Robert Half Salary Guide, digitization, automation, and technology disruption are placing mounting pressure on companies to attract sought-after IT professionals.

Matthieu Imbert-Bouchard, Managing Director of Robert Half Singapore says, “Singapore’s accelerating IT sector, combined with the city-state’s aspiration to become a global and regional technology hub, is placing increasing pressure on employers contending with the limited supply of available IT candidates. The growing disconnect between the jobs required and the skills available means IT employers need to focus on becoming more responsive to economic and digital transformation – which can be achieved through hiring staff with the right skill sets.”

“And while the true strength of any organization lies with its people – top talent deserves to be well compensated. Offering a competitive salary is a tangible way for employers to demonstrate their commitment to their staff, and proactive employers should adjust their remuneration policies to ensure their offers match or exceed what their competitors are offering.”

“IT professionals across functional areas who are in a favorable position when negotiating starting salaries are those with the most wide-ranging experiences, up-to-date skills, an aptitude for new technologies and a high degree of emotional intelligence for managing and working with different personalities.”

The newly-released Robert Half Salary Guide has identified the top five technology positions in demand in Singapore for 2019.

Cybersecurity analyst: As awareness of cyber-security threats continues to rise throughout 2019 alongside the introduction of new regulatory processes to combat these threats, there is a growing trend towards enhancing Singapore’s ‘cyber-hygiene’, with demand surging for cyber-security professionals. Indeed, according to LinkedIn, cyber-security specialists are one of the top five emerging jobs in Singapore across all industries.

Technology Risk Manager: As a result of increasing cyber-attacks, the Cyber-Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) and the Financial Services Information Sharing and Analysis Center (FS-ISAC) are working together to advance security threat intelligence sharing while conducting joint initiatives to protect the financial services sector. This has resulted in greater demand in the fields of technology risk and RegTech (Regulatory Technology) to comply with regulations and safeguard organizations against external risks.

Data Scientist: The growth of big data has led many organizations to categorize data scientists as a crucial role within their technology department, hence why data scientists who can aptly apply mathematical and analytical skills, as well as business acumen, are highly sought-after in today’s market.

Project Manager: Many Singaporean employers seek to benefit from the gig economy by gaining immediate access to high-demand skillsets, filling skills gaps and managing unique projects, resulting in continuous demand for project managers to lead and implement short to medium-term IT projects.

Software Developer: Software development is a key staple of any organization’s future-proofing as businesses adapt their software to the changing needs of their customers and clients, increasing demand for skilled professionals who can develop and implement consumer-facing technology and improve internal processes.