Globally, there has been a growing demand for IT/ICT professionals, which is likely to continue into the foreseeable future. We highlight five of the ICT/tech jobs that are likely to be in demand in 2021.

 

Without a doubt, 2020 emphasised the importance of technology, and more specifically ICT, in business and in our personal lives. The changes in how we live and work are unlikely to return to what they had been, and so the scramble to adapt, which was evident this year, is likely to be replaced with a  ‘new normal’, where organisations are likely to think more digitally.

However, in order to do so, having access to the right expertise will be crucial. In many countries, and for some roles, demand for certain skills has already exceeded supply – for example for cybersecurity professionals. However, below, we highlight five of the ICT/tech jobs that are likely to be in demand in 2021.

 

1. Information Systems Security Manager

The post is almost a no-brainer under the current circumstances, since we are relying even more on IT and ICT, and need to ensure that there is vigilance as it relates to maintaining the security of our systems and keeping sensitive data safe. Typically, the role includes ensuring security policies are fulfilled, keeping up with security trends and government regulations, and as a leadership position, individuals would also be required to manage a team, along with provide advice to senior management.

Such a position would be for professional with experience in system and network security. Additionally, candidates should have security-related certifications, such CompTIA Security+, or be a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

 

2. Network and Cloud Architect

To a considerable degree, the explosion in remote work that occurred this year, has been successful due to cloud computing. Many organisations had dabbled in the cloud, either in an ad hoc manner, or for very discrete services, such as email and data storage. However, going forward, a more structured, cogent and cohesive approach that better integrates with how an organisation functions, along with its internal systems, is likely to be necessary, in order to fully leverage more of the benefits that cloud computing offers, whilst realising a more seamless, efficient and effective digital space.

Key tasks of a Network and Cloud Architect includes planning, designing and supervising of networks, and the upgrading of those networks. He or she would also oversee an organisation’s cloud computing strategy, and would be responsible for deploying, managing and supporting cloud applications.

 

3. Network/Cloud Engineer

The role of the Network/Cloud Engineer tends to be closely aligned with the Network and Cloud Architect. Generally, the Network and Cloud Architect provides the overarching design and framework for the network and/or cloud system that must be developed, whilst the Engineer hones in on designing and implementing the network and/or cloud solutions that satisfy the client’s requirements.

As expected, the role of the Network/Cloud Engineer can vary, but typically, they would need to be experts in networking and cloud hardware and software. Additionally, and depending on the employer and job description, the Network/Cloud Engineer might also be required to maintain the systems and provide technical support.

 

4. Mobile Applications Developer

It may be surprising – and we may actually take for granted – how important mobile applications (apps) still are. Although mobile apps might seem to be a dime a dozen, the majority of them on the market could be considered basic and simple. The truth is that a high-functioning mobile app takes a lot of skill and experience, as the role tends to include, in addition to coding, testing, debugging, documenting and monitoring.  Hence, the demand is not for individuals who are just entering the field.

To that end, candidates would be expected to have deep experience in developing applications for popular platforms, such as iOS and Android. Additionally, they should be able to code in mobile frameworks and in mobile development languages.

 

5. Senior Web Developer

Once again, there are lots of people who have built websites, but a Senior Web Developer possesses a considerable depth and breadth of knowledge and experience, which make such a role among one of the highest paying today. The role tends to be client-facing, with these professionals gathering the client’s requirements and developing the specifications for web-based applications that will be built, and they will have a hand in the final look-and-feel of the site.

Having said this, Senior Web Developers must also be technically strong, as they tend to be required to support Web Administrators, and to integrate front- and back-end systems. As a result, they would also need to be experienced in using popular web development applications, along with being proficient in a variety of content management systems. However, the role also requires continual learning and professional development, since new languages and tools are being released all the time.

 

 

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