The 7 most in-demand tech jobs of 2018 — and how to hire them

From data scientists to data security experts, the war for IT talent is set to rage next year. Here's what you should look out for when hiring for the seven most in-demand positions of 2018, and how much you should offer based on experience.

As companies rush to adapt to a modern workforce, they're doing everything they can to attract high-tech talent. For some companies, that could mean getting a head start on filling next year's most in-demand job openings, from data-focused positions to security-related roles, according to the 2018 IT Salary Report from Robert Half Technology. The survey also shows the average salary for each position based on experience.

While Robert Half Technology acknowledges that many things can influence a company's starting salary, including competition, location, corporate culture and budget, there are things you can do to ensure you're finding top talent. Here's a look at seven jobs expected to be the most in-demand in 2018, the skills and experience expected of you, and the average salary you'll need to pay to stay competitive.

The seven most in-demand tech jobs of 2018

• 25th percentile: Entry-level workers or those in less competitive industries
• 50th percentile: "average experience", jobs of average complexity, or jobs in moderately competitive industries
• 75th percentile: Above-average experience, strong skills, certifications, more complex positions, or working in a competitive industry
• 95th percentile: Significant experience, certifications, specialization, high skill level, working in a strategic and highly complex position or in an industry with high competition for talent

1. Business Intelligence Analyst

Business intelligence analysts need experience with database technology, analysis, and reporting tools; companies typically look for candidates with a bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or engineering. You'll want to hire someone with the right skills to understand your business data needs and then communicate that data to stakeholders. This is an increasingly important position because business needs will depend on the collection and understanding of data.

Desired skills and experience:

• Experience with database queries
• Writing stored procedures
• Online Analytical Processing (OLAP)
• Data Cube Technology
• Strong written and oral communication skills

2. Data Scientist

While you need a business intelligence analyst to help understand and communicate data patterns, a data scientist is someone who helps collect, process, and analyze data. A data scientist should also be skilled in communicating those findings and recommending them to others in the industry.

Desired Skills Experience:

• Programming languages ​​(especially Python and Java)
• Strong analytical skills
• Strong math skills
• Master's or PhD degree

3. Database Developer

When hiring a database developer, you need to look for someone with analytical and problem-solving skills. Since they will be responsible for developing and managing the enterprise database, it is important to have a clear understanding of what skills you expect and what type of developer will best fit the need.

Desired skills and experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or experience with databases
• Experience with enterprise database programs such as Microsoft's SQL Server, Oracle or IBM's DB2
• Certifications such as Microsoft Certified Database Administrator or Oracle Certified Professional Database Administrator

4. Help desk or support desk technicians

For customer-facing businesses, the help desk is an essential component of running an efficient business. As the first line of defense for customer service and troubleshooting, help desk staff need to have the right technical and soft skills. Robert Half Technology breaks down technical support staff positions into three levels because job descriptions and requirements can vary by business.

Desired skills and experience:

• First Class: Entry-level positions requiring at least two years of experience, an associate's degree or technical school coursework.
• Second Class: Positions requiring two to four years of experience, a two-year degree or associate's degree or related experience.
• Third Class: Four or more years of experience in a help desk setting and a bachelor's degree or professional certification in a related field.

5. Network Administrator

Network administrators deal with LAN/WAN protocols, software, and hardware. They spend a lot of time troubleshooting and are often on call in case of emergencies or outages. The experience you require will depend on how extensive your networking needs are, but there are certain skills and certifications that can help you find the best fit.

Desired Skills Experience:

• Troubleshooting and communication skills
• Analytical and diagnostic skills
• Available after get off work
• Bachelor's degree or more than five years of relevant work experience
• Professional Certificate

6. Data Security Administrator

Handling large amounts of data requires a focus on security to protect your business, employees, clients, and customers. A data security administrator is responsible for defining network security requirements, ensuring all security measures are up to date, monitoring security practices across the company, and enforcing security policies.

Desired Skills Experience:

• Critical thinking and complex problem solving
• Innovation and forward thinking
• Willing to continue learning new skills
• Strong programming, math, and general engineering skills
• Bachelor's degree, relevant certificate and computer science background

7. System Administrator

Like most jobs in IT, system administrators should demonstrate strong problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills. But system administrators also have a solid technical understanding of company-specific hardware and software. Your needs for system administrators depend on the services, hardware, and software you rely on.

Desired skills and experience:

• Experience with servers, backup, recovery, installation, patching, and software upgrades
• Experience troubleshooting and troubleshooting hardware, software, and networking
• Bachelor's degree, associate's degree or technical training diploma in computer science
• Microsoft Certified System Administrator (MCSA), Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), or SUN Certified System Administrator (SCSA) certifications