As one of Europe’s leading tech hubs, Switzerland continues to adapt to the changing demand for specialised talent, shaped by digital innovation and shifts in the labour market.
In response, the Swiss government is opening its doors to more international workers, issuing thousands of additional work permits for non-EU professionals. Businesses are also recognising that staying competitive requires experts who can drive digital transformation forward. At the same time, individuals who continuously upskill will play a key role in this process, ensuring that companies stay ahead.
Top in-demand IT skills
1. Cloud computing
The growing adoption of multi-cloud and hybrid cloud environments has emphasised the need for professionals skilled in cloud architecture, migration, and infrastructure management.
Proficiency in platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud has become a must-have for roles such as Cloud Architects, Cloud Infrastructure Engineers, and DevOps Specialists. Companies are hiring these experts to design and manage cloud ecosystems, ensuring smooth integration across platforms and optimising performance.
As businesses seek innovative ways to streamline their digital operations, the ability to automate cloud workflows, implement cost-effective strategies, and manage cloud governance will remain top skills.
2. Cyber security
With 67% of Swiss companies planning to increase their cyber security budgets, it’s clear that companies are taking digital threats more seriously than ever.
Organisations are actively recruiting Cyber Security Engineers, Cyber Security Analysts, and Ethical Hackers to identify vulnerabilities, strengthen network defences, and respond to sophisticated cyber threats. To excel in these positions, knowledge in penetration testing, risk management, identity and access management (IAM), and incident response is needed.
3. Data management
Data has become one of businesses' most valuable assets, enabling them to make informed decisions, optimise processes, and improve customer experiences. To keep up, companies must ensure they have the right talent in place—both by developing internal capabilities and leveraging better hiring solutions to find individuals with the needed expertise.
Skills in data analytics, engineering, and database management are highly sought after, with roles such as Data Analysts, Data Engineers, and Database Administrators requiring proficiency in SQL, Python, R, and big data technologies.
As AI-driven initiatives take centre stage, companies are also looking for professionals who can develop data pipelines, clean and organise datasets, and ensure seamless data integration across cloud and on-premise systems. This result reinforced the significance of strong skills in data governance, data security, and business intelligence tools, including Power BI and Tableau.
4. Advanced machine learning techniques
The rise of artificial intelligence and automation has created a significant market for specialists in machine learning and AI development. Businesses across various industries—including finance, healthcare, and manufacturing—are leveraging AI to improve efficiency, reduce operational costs, and improve decision-making.
Those with expertise in deep learning, neural networks, natural language processing (NLP), reinforcement learning, and predictive analytics are well-suited for jobs such as Machine Learning Engineers, AI Researchers, and Data Scientists. In addition to these technical skills, success in these positions also requires proficiency in frameworks like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Scikit-learn, as well as a strong understanding of AI ethics, bias mitigation, and explainable AI.
