Software developers in demand
Software developers are in high demand due to:
- organisations shifting services and systems online
- the need for user-friendly websites and apps
- more use of mobile devices such as phones and tablets.
Shortage of experienced software developers
There are not enough experienced software developers to meet demand. Nearly two thirds of IT employers report skills shortages, and there aren't enough information technology (IT) trainees.
As a result, web developer, analyst programmer, developer programmer, other software and applications programmers and software engineer, (all software developers or related jobs), appear on Immigration New Zealand's long-term skill shortage list. This means the Government is actively encouraging skilled software developers from overseas to work in New Zealand.
According to the Census, 15,174 software developers worked in New Zealand in 2018.
How to get your first IT job
You can improve your chances of getting a job through:
- internships like Summer of Tech
- graduate programmes offered by IT companies
- mentoring programmes.
Types of employers varied
Software developers can work for a wide range of organisations, including:
- private companies
- specialised website development companies
- software and web development companies that work with film, games and animation
- large retailers or marketing and advertising companies
- government departments and educational institutions.
Fifteen percent of software developers are self-employed.
