In demand technology skills for 2026
Staying ahead in tech isn't about chasing every new tool that launches. It's about knowing which skills actually move the needle and which ones are just noise.
Last updated, July 2026
The in-demand tech skills for 2026 look different from even a year ago. AI has moved from experimental to expected. Cyber security is now a board-level concern. And employers are hiring for capability more than for job titles. Whether you’re a candidate planning your next move or a hiring manager building a team, knowing where demand is heading matters.
This guide covers the technical and IT skills employers are actively hiring for in 2026, the roles those skills unlock, and how the market is shifting. It draws on insight from Salt’s recruiters across cyber security, cloud, AI, data and software engineering, the people speaking to hiring managers every day.
If you are reading this, you know that tech skills go beyond simple coding and web development. From automation and software engineering to cybersecurity and cloud computing, there are a variety of ways technology continues to drive business growth and transformation.
The biggest benefits for job seekers are for people who have ‘advanced technology skills’. For example, cloud architecture or maintenance, software or application development, artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Regardless of industry, businesses are constantly undergoing digital transformations, creating a growing demand for digital tech skills even in traditional sectors.
Technology skills in AI, big data and cybersecurity are expected to see the fastest growth in demand of any skill category over the next five years, with 170 million new jobs created globally by 2030. World Economic Forum, Future of Jobs Report 2025
The most in-demand tech and IT skills in 2026
Most in-demand Tech skills
- Java
- Python
- SQL
- JavaScript
- Linux
- AWS
- Agile project management
- C/C++
- Software development
- APIs
- Data analysis
- HTML5
- REST
- DevOps
- Cloud technologies
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Machine learning (ML)
Artificial intelligence and machine learning skills
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a skill that sets a handful of specialists apart. In 2026, it’s expected. Most businesses have moved beyond pilots and proofs of concept, and the question hiring managers ask has shifted from “do you understand AI?” to “can you make it work here?”
That shift is changing what employers hire for. The strongest demand is for people who can take artificial intelligence (AI) from experiment to production. That means building and fine-tuning models, integrating AI into existing systems and workflows, managing the data that feeds them, and making sure they run reliably, securely and responsibly once they’re live.
It’s also widening who needs AI skills. Software engineers, data analysts, product managers and IT leaders are increasingly expected to work confidently with AI as part of their day job rather than handing it off to a separate team. For candidates, AI literacy is now the baseline and hands-on implementation experience is the differentiator. For employers, it means hiring for practical delivery, and for leaders who can guide their teams through adoption.
AI and ML skills employers are prioritising
- Python and core machine learning frameworks
- Building applications on large language models and generative AI
- MLOps: deploying, monitoring and maintaining models in production
- Data engineering and data quality
- AI integration with existing platforms, APIs and workflows
- AI governance, risk and responsible AI practices
“When speaking to clients, it has been clear there is a vast need and skill gap in many businesses around AI and Machine learning. Companies want to introduce and adopt more AI but need to source leaders who can take them through this evolution.” Software & Data Engineering experts – Salt UK
Popular job titles for AI talent
- AI Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer
- MLOps Engineer
- Data Scientist
- AI Solutions Architect
- AI Product Manager
- AI Governance / Responsible AI Lead
- Computer Vision Engineer
- AI Consultant
Understanding the IT skills gap: what employers and candidates need to know
The IT skills gap is the growing distance between the technology skills businesses need and the skills currently available in the workforce. As industries adopt AI, cloud infrastructure, and automation faster than talent pipelines can keep up, this gap is becoming one of the biggest barriers to digital transformation.
For employers, the skills gap shows up as longer time-to-hire, roles sitting open for months, and increased competition for a shrinking pool of specialists. For candidates, it means opportunity. Professionals who invest in in-demand skills now are positioning themselves ahead of a market that is only getting more competitive.
Closing the gap isn’t just about upskilling individuals. It requires businesses to rethink how they source talent, build training pathways, and structure teams around skills rather than fixed job titles.
Networking skills
Networking remains a foundational IT skill, even as cloud computing reshapes how infrastructure is built and managed. Every business, regardless of size, depends on secure, reliable networks to keep systems, teams, and customers connected.
As hybrid and remote work become permanent fixtures, demand for professionals who can design, secure, and troubleshoot complex network environments, spanning on-premise and cloud, continues to grow. Networking skills are also increasingly intertwined with cyber security, as network architecture is often the first line of defence against threats.
Popular job titles for Networking talent
- Network Engineer
- Network Administrator
- Network Architect
- Systems Administrator
- Infrastructure Engineer
- Network Security Engineer
- Telecommunications Specialist
Project Management skills
Technical skills alone don’t deliver technology projects. Someone has to keep them on time, on budget, and aligned to business goals. Project management has become one of the most consistently in-demand skills across tech, as businesses run increasingly complex, cross-functional digital transformation initiatives.
Employers are looking for project managers who understand both the technical landscape and the commercial pressures driving a project, with Agile and Scrum methodologies now considered baseline expectations rather than a bonus.
Popular job titles for Project Management talent
- IT Project Manager
- Scrum Master
- Agile Delivery Manager
- Programme Manager
- Product Owner
- Technical Project Coordinator
Cyber Security skills
Cyber security is an essential skill for businesses to have in-house. It safeguards internal systems, networks, and programs from cyberattacks, which aim to compromise users’ personal data or program functionality through hacking or unauthorized access. Qualified candidates possess extensive expertise in data encryption, malware prevention, and implementing security measures and protocols.
As well as IT and Tech industries Cyber security as a skillset is in demand across industries including Higher Education and Telecommunications. Cyber security demand is highest in cloud services, financial services and fintech, and telecoms, with telecom organisations valuing cyber security skills at approximately twice the global average of other industries (World Economic Forum, Future of Jobs Report 2025).
“It’s essential for candidates in this industry to ensure they’re fully prepared to not only be a technology expert, but also develop communication and people skills. Cyber Security is no longer an ‘IT issue’ – it is far more of a business issue which can affect every aspect of an organization.”
Head of Cyber Security Recruitment – Salt USA
Popular job titles for Cyber Security talent
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Cyber Security Engineer
- Malware Analyst
- Security Architect
- Information Security Manager
- Incident Responder
- Cyber Security Consultant
- Cryptographer
- Network security engineer
- Compliance manager
Data Science skills
Data Science is an essential skill for employers. It involves the analysis and interpretation of large sets of data to extract valuable insights and make informed decisions. Qualified candidates possess extensive expertise in statistical analysis, machine learning algorithms, and data visualisation techniques.
The field offers numerous opportunities for career growth and advancement, making it an attractive choice for individuals looking to enter or excel in the world of analytics and data-driven insights with growth in Education, Public Sector and Retail.
“The value Data Science brings to a business can be priceless: from allowing for data-driven decision-making and predictive analytics, to identifying opportunities like personalisation based on customer insights. This skillset gives businesses a competitive advantage.” Salt UK experts in Software and Data
Popular job titles for Data Science talent
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Data Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Research Assistant
- Data Science Manager
- Data Specialist
Cloud Computing skills
Cloud computing is a hot trend in the tech industry, and acquiring skills in this area is highly beneficial for tech professionals. It not only opens up a wide range of career opportunities but also enables professionals to drive innovation, contribute to digital transformation, and ensure long-term job stability in an increasingly cloud-centric world.
Industries that have been advancing their cloud computing and infrastructure skills include the military, e-learning, aviation and banking.
“The Cloud market, more so than any other, comes with a high volume of technologies that essentially do the same thing. When looking to plan your career or next career move think less about your experience with specific technologies and more about your attitude to learn comparable technologies that you have worked with already.” Practice Director in Software & Cloud – Salt UK
Popular job titles for Cloud Computing talent
- Cloud Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Solutions Architect
- Chief Technology Officer
- Cloud Architect
- Dev Ops Engineer
- System Engineer
IT Support and Maintenance skills
As businesses layer more tools, systems, and platforms into their operations, the demand for reliable IT support hasn’t gone away, if anything, it’s grown more specialised. IT support and maintenance professionals keep the fundamentals running: hardware, software, systems access, and the day-to-day issues that can otherwise bring a business to a standstill.
This area is also evolving. Support roles increasingly require familiarity with cloud-based systems, automation tools, and basic cyber security awareness, making it a strong entry point into a broader tech career.
Popular job titles for IT Support and Maintenance talent
- IT Support Technician
- Help Desk Analyst
- Desktop Support Engineer
- IT Systems Administrator
- Technical Support Specialist
- IT Service Desk Manager
Blockchain skills
Blockchain technology has evolved dramatically over the years since its first association with cryptocurrencies. It has evolved into a transformative force that has the potential to disrupt traditional systems and empower individuals and businesses alike.
Blockchain has moved beyond cryptocurrency into mainstream enterprise use, with the global blockchain technology market projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 90.1% from 2025 to 2030. Financial services continue to lead adoption, followed by healthcare, supply chain and government (Grand View Research, Blockchain Technology Market Report 2026).
Popular job titles for Blockchain talent
- Blockchain developer
- Software Engineer
- Blockchain project manager
- Full Stack Engineer
- Blockchain solution architect
- Blockchain UX designer
People skills tech employers want in 2026
One important thing to remember for both employee and employer is that essential skills including people skills are as important as technical skills in today’s job market. It is vital to recognise and prioritise the development of both to excel in today’s competitive job market.
Professionals in all fields must look at these essential skills:
- Communication
- Leadership
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving skills
- Time management
- Flexibility
- Motivation
- Emotional intelligence
Employers know the importance of these powerful skills alongside technical expertise. So, while AI, machine learning, digital marketing, and cyber security are highly sought-after skills, it is equally essential to develop and showcase skills like communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities.
“People skills have proven to be the number 1 skill set for our clients in scale-up mode: looking to identify a positive attitude towards learning and candidates that are inquisitive about the product and business they work within. This is especially aligned to explosive growth at the junior and mid-level end that allows businesses to grow and scale their teams at speed.”
Salt UK hiring experts in Software and Cloud
If you’re just starting out or making a career change, people skills are as valuable to employers in tech: interest, capability to learn and self-teach, communication and ability to work with feedback. Dom Selvon, CTO of Apply Digital, explains more in this interview.
Tech skills in demand: FAQs
AI and machine learning, cyber security, cloud computing, and data science remain the most sought-after technical skills in 2026, with networking, project management, and IT support continuing to see steady, consistent demand across industries.
Core IT skills cover foundational knowledge, like basic troubleshooting, networking, and system administration, that most technology roles require. Advanced IT skills, such as cloud architecture, AI/ML engineering, or DevOps, typically demand deeper specialisation and command higher salaries.
Both matter. Technical skills get candidates through the door, but employers consistently rank people skills, communication, adaptability, problem-solving, as equally important, especially for junior and mid-level roles where potential and learning ability often outweigh existing technical depth.
The IT skills gap is the shortfall between the technology skills businesses need and what’s available in the current workforce. It matters because it slows down digital transformation, extends hiring timelines, and increases competition for a limited pool of specialised talent.
AI and machine learning continue to show the steepest demand growth, driven by businesses rapidly adopting AI tools and needing skilled talent to lead that adoption though cyber security is close behind as boards prioritise security expertise at leadership level.
Hiring for these skills?
The skills above are the ones Salt’s specialist recruiters are placing candidates into right now. If you’re looking to build or grow a technical team, our recruitment solutions team works across AI, cloud, cyber, data and software engineering to help you hire faster and better.
