In the ever-evolving field of IT, certain skills are commanding significant premiums in terms of cash bonuses. Risk analytics/assessment skills, smart contracts skills, and security architecture and models are among the top skills earning employees bonuses worth 24%, 23%, and 21% of their base salaries, respectively. Employers are valuing skills that involve judgment, risk ownership, and architectural thinking, moving away from execution-level work that can be automated.
AI operations are reshaping the IT landscape, with Foote Partners tracking 144 AI-related skills, up from 57 just eighteen months ago. Certified and noncertified AI skills are both in demand, with certifications seeing a premium increase of nearly 6% in the past year. Top AI and automation skills include Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations (AIOps), AI engineering, and AI productivity, all commanding premiums of 22-23%. Azure AI/ML services, Large Language Model Optimization (LLMOps), and machine learning are also highly valued in the market.
Overall, the IT industry is placing a high value on skills related to AI, automation, and security. Employees with expertise in these areas are seeing significant bonuses and premiums, reflecting the industry’s shift towards more strategic, high-level thinking and decision-making roles. As technology continues to advance, staying current with these in-demand skills will be crucial for IT professionals looking to excel in their careers.
