S.i. Systems ULC, Canada’s largest provider of IT contract staffing, direct hire services, outsourced contractor payroll services, and IT Project Solutions, released its annual report on hiring and salary trends for Canadian IT workers. The 2024 Canadian IT Hiring Trends & Salary Guide for Employers analyzes the various factors impacting the Canadian IT talent market and gives employers insight on how to successfully navigate a candidate-driven market.

“The need for quality tech talent remains vital in today’s digital world,” said S.i. Systems President, Leonie Tyler. “Hiring the right IT talent is more important than ever, and we have carefully curated our 2024 guide to help Canadian businesses navigate the evolving hiring climate in the year ahead. It’s a one-of-a-kind report, invaluable to employers who hire key IT specialties.”

While the threat of a recession has passed, the economic turbulence of past years has left residual effects. Wage inflation, for example, remains an issue for some specialties, such as data science and cloud, which have been increasing wages by 20+% for crucial roles.

The report also indicates the shift from a focus on tech advancement to tech refinement. Niche skills are needed to support the rapid adoption of leading technologies. Research found that 9% of IT leaders in Canada believe their existing IT infrastructure is not fully prepared for the demands of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and that 32% are seeking AI and machine learning expertise.

“Skills are the most valuable currency an employer can have in today’s market,” said Chief Revenue Officer of S.i. Systems, Jeff Cartwright. “The demand for these skills directly impacts IT project outcomes and has led to marked growth in agile POD team structures. Sourcing for skills should remain top-of-mind for employers in 2024, as it will be increasingly crucial to successfully support their IT initiatives and bottom line.”

The 2024 guide also indicates an increased trend towards IT upskilling and reskilling, both within the same industry and within industries where workers may have complementary skill sets.