Expect salary growth in tech and creative jobs this year

TORONTO How much does a data ninja or coding wizard make? Significantly more than they did last year, according to the 2017 Salary Guides from staffing specialists Robert Half Technology and The Creative Group. The 2017 Salary Guides from staffing specialists Robert Half Technology and The Creative Group show that base salaries in the technology and creative fields are expected to increase 3.2 per cent and 3.1 per cent, respectively, in the coming year. And some roles are projected to see even bigger gains.

“Finding professionals for in-demand roles remains a challenge, particularly in these top growth positions. Companies continue to expand their digital and creative initiatives, resulting in greater demand for employees with the skills necessary to drive business success,” said Deborah Bottineau, senior regional manager of Robert Half Technology and The Creative Group. “Employers need to be decisive in their hiring. Managers should have enticing offers prepared that include competitive pay and benefits options ready for when they find a good fit for their organization.”

The following eight jobs are expected to see substantial increases in average starting salary in 2017, according to the Robert Half Salary Guides*:

(Job, salary increase from 2016,average starting salary)

6.5 per cent, $63,000 – $93,750

Interaction Designer, User Experience (UX) Designer

(3-5 years of experience), 6.0 per cent, $71,000 – $120,000

Systems Security Administrator,

5.8 per cent, $96,750 - $135,250

Senior IT Auditor,

5.4 per cent, $125,000 – $194,500 (1-3 years of experience), 5.4 per cent, $52,000 – 64,750

Copywriter Network Security Engineer,

5.1 per cent, $110,750 $150,250

Big Data Engineer,

5.0 per cent, $123,000 - $158,000

(3-5 years of experience), 4.9 per cent, $61,000 – $79,500

*All salaries listed are Canadian national averages based on data published in the 2017 Salary Guides from Robert Half Technology and The Creative Group. Actual projected salary ranges may vary depending on location.

Graphic Designer