One of the most important questions you’ll ask when looking at career options is…….. how much money can I earn?
People with ICT skills can earn from $40,000 to over $400,000* however there are many things that affect the amount of money you are paid, such as:
Economic Environment
Skills shortages, demand for ICT and the National Broadband Network are important factors that have contributed to a 3% to 4% increase in overall last year ICT salaries. Similar increases are forecast for next year. When there are skills shortages, salaries and incentives can become more competitive to attract and keep quality workers. Skills that are in-demand sometimes allow for negotiation of salaries. Businesses also offer flexible work arrangements, training, career planning, bonuses and performance related pay to attract and keep staff. The current global shortage of ICT professionals means even more opportunities for those wishing to experience other cultures and lifestyles.
The Industry
People with ICT skills can work in lots of different industries including marketing, multimedia, aviation/aerospace, agriculture, mining, finance, health, and of course the ICT industry. As an example, ICT salary increases have recently occurred in the insurance industry (5.7%), education sector (4.3%) and private sector (4.2%). With major mining and gas projects underway in Queensland and other private sector employers recruiting heavily, competition for skilled employees (particularly project managers, business analysts, software developers and change management professionals) remains high.
Job Location
Sometimes the amount of money you earn will be linked to where you choose to work – overseas, near the beach, or in the city. ICT is considered to be a global industry where skilled people are able to work all over the world and have the opportunity to move from job to job, project to project and location to location.
Type of Career/Organisation
You can work with a multinational corporation, operate as an independent contractor or consultant, or join one of the many small-medium businesses in Queensland/Australia. Different types of organisations can offer different benefits. For example, a job with a government department may offer flexible work arrangements, job security, study assistance and generous leave entitlements.
Skills in Demand
Cloud computing is an area of ICT that has created a lot of interest recently, along with a short-fall of employees with relevant skills. It is expected that skills shortages are likely to continue in cloud computing and support areas such as security, storage and data centre. Expertise in this area is likely to be rewarded with salary increases of between 25% and 45%. Skills related to mobile systems, content delivery and management are also in demand.
Experience/Qualifications
Organisations sometimes offer programs designed for graduates in ICT. These are industry-based learning programs that provide hands-on, full-time paid work experience. For example, the Queensland Government offers a graduate program which provides opportunities for you to work in different departments. The starting salary package for this program is approx. $59,612 (incl. super and leave loading).
These are some of the things to think about when you are planning your ICT career. Further detailed information and salary (comparison) tables can be found in the links provided, below.
Links to information sources:
2011 ICT Salaries Snapshot
2012 ICT Salary & Employment Insights (downloadable report)
Hudson's ICT Salary Guide for 2011
Hays ICT Salary Guide for 2011
Hudson's press release - 13 Feb 2012 - Rising Salaries place onus on ICT candiates to prove their abilities
(*) Hudson Information, Communication and Technology 2011 Salary Guide, Australia
