As a SQL Server Recruitment Consultant for Rullion Computer Personnel, I specialise in SQL Server and Database Professionals for a multitude of different clients throughout the UK. I am writing this article to give an honest reflection and hopefully cast a more positive light on the current economic situation, and reassure those candidates who are searching that 2009 has not been the total ‘damp squib’ that many have stated. Indeed, we are already witnessing an increase in demand for key skills such as SQL Server co we are predicting that the upturn has begun.
Average SQL salaries have remained fairly constant throughout 2009, and are currently at the same level as September 2008. This average salary of £37,500 ($60,000) varies slightly depending on given locations, but across the board it is an accurate representation. Senior roles have seen a slight decrease of £2,000 ($ 3,200), a sign that the market has remained reasonably strong when compared against other positions in different industry sectors, which has seen senior positions being hit the hardest. DBA positions have also remained reasonably constant with an average salary of £40,000 (down only £2,000 on this time last year).
In Quarter 3 2009, SQL again remained the skill most in demand, but with quarter on quarter demand down by 7.6%. In general the top ten skills cover products used primarily by developers3. With the economy on the upturn, 2010 promises to be a very exciting year of growth and development in this area. In 2009, a number of Microsoft Gold Partners have upgraded to the latest SQL Server 2008, and in 2010 no doubt more will follow. In my experience IT managers are already increasing their budgets for 2010, meaning that there will be an increased demand for highly skilled professionals.
As for advice to those considering a career change, current market conditions have had a direct impact on current SQL vacancies. During the last 12 months, there has been an increasing tendency for clients demanding that candidates possess experience in more than one database eg. Oracle and SQL. Also, there has been a need to demonstrate both administration and development competencies. In my opinion the DBA job title is increasingly becoming more ‘well rounded’ and incorporating more and more development. Knowledge of reporting services such SSIS, SSRS and SSAS are always extra strings to your bow, and in my own opinion, should be mentioned on all CVs.
Given current market indications the future certainly looks bright for SQL server and IT recruitment in general. There are signs of an improvement within the economy, and this will undoubtedly lead to more projects and opportunities for all. Current market predictions suggest that SQL Server will continue to grow as a product in 2010 which is good news for all concerned.
______________________________________
Richard Baden
Richard Baden has been working as a SQL Server Specialist Recruitment Consultant at Rullion Computer Personnel for the last 3 years. He holds a BA (Hons) degree in Modern History & Politics from the University of Liverpool.
Contact him at: http://tinyurl.com/ycxyroj
Rullion Computer Personnel
Rullion Computer Personnel are a Sunday Times Top Track 250 listed recruitment consultancy with over 20 years’ experience in placing high calibre SQL professionals into blue chip organizations.
www.rullion.co.uk/rcp