Technology Jobs to See Largest Salary Gains in 2012

According to the study, technology positions are projected to see the largest gains among all fields researched, with a 4.5% increase in base compensation. Systems and networking engineers are in particularly strong demand as businesses look to expand their capabilities and transition to cloud computing. Mobile applications developers also are seeing demand for their services, given the proliferation of mobile devices.  

Accounting and finance professionals can expect starting salaries to rise an average of 3.5%. Companies are hiring professionals who can identify and support growth opportunities, such as financial analysts and business systems analysts. Tax accountants who can help firms navigate complex corporate tax laws also are in demand.

Professionals in creative fields can expect average starting salary gains of 3.5%in 2012, the research suggests. Those with interactive skills, such as user experience (UX) designers, are especially sought after as firms look to improve their Web presence and transition many of their marketing programs online.

In the legal field, starting salaries are anticipated to rise 1.9%, on average, in the coming year. Lawyers with four to nine years of experience in high-growth practice areas — such as litigation, labor and employment, real estate, and corporate law — are seeing greater demand, the research shows.

Overall starting salaries for administrative professionals are expected to rise 3.4%in 2012. Companies that had streamlined support staff are now adding experienced executive and administrative assistants who can increase efficiencies, support key company projects, and provide excellent customer service. Growth in the health care industry also is fueling demand for administrative personnel with experience in this sector.

The 2012 Salary Guides can be accessed at http://www.rhi.com/SalaryGuides.