It's no secret that IT careers are some of the most in-demand and highest-paying out there. But the breakneck pace of digital transformation and constant innovation means professionals with certain skills can demand even greater compensation than others, whether at "pure" technology companies or in IT roles within other industries.
"Tech positions are needed everywhere, but some can command a premium in pay based on the skills. And the boost in compensation we're seeing for these skills encompasses almost all industries, especially traditional places like manufacturing and finance where IT professionals might need an extra motivation to consider a role. We expect these kinds of premiums for tech skills to continue into 2017, too, as basic skills continue to be in high demand, and specialized skill sets become even more important," says Katie Bardaro, vice president of data analytics for cloud compensation services company PayScale.
Here, using a methodology similar to The PayScale Index, PayScale's data team measured the change in wages for hot IT skills in the first half of 2016, all else equal, as well as the median pay for an example role in which that skill could be used. Finally, PayScale data shows just how much of a boost you'll see in your paycheck if you currently have or will add these skills to your resume.
