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Firms Looking to Hire Linux Talent Have Tough Job

Demand for Linux Talent SkyrocketsDemand for Linux Talent Skyrockets

Investments in open source are way up. A full 97% of hiring managers reported that they will bring on Linux talent in the next six months.

Demand for Open-Source Cloud Expertise GrowsDemand for Open-Source Cloud Expertise Grows

42% of hiring managers said that experience in OpenStack and CloudStack will have a major influence on their hiring decisions.

Security and Network Skills Are at a PremiumSecurity and Network Skills Are at a Premium

Nearly a quarter (23%) reported security is a sought-after area of expertise and 19% are looking for Linux talent with software-defined networking (SDN) skills.

Certifications Matter to HRCertifications Matter to HR

44% said they are more likely to hire a candidate with Linux certification, and 54% expect either certification or formal training of their systems administrators.

Drivers of Linux HiringDrivers of Linux Hiring

The economy plays a big role. The current economic environment prompted 44% of hiring managers to hire more Linux talent this year.

Difficulty Finding Linux TalentDifficulty Finding Linux Talent

A full 88% reported that it’s very or somewhat difficult to find these candidates. That bodes well for IT solution providers with Linux expertise.

Linux Retention IncentivesLinux Retention Incentives

The majority of hiring managers (70%) said their companies have increased incentives to retain Linux talent, including 37% that are offering more flexible work hours and telecommuting and 36% that are increasing salaries.

Linux Professionals Know Their WorthLinux Professionals Know Their Worth

The majority of Linux professionals surveyed (55%) indicated that it will be very or fairly easy to land new opportunities in 2015. In fact, 72% reported receiving at least one call from recruiters in the past six months and 28% said they received six or more calls within the same time period.