Professionals with in-demand skills seeking IT jobs still have plenty of options across Canada, even given the mixed economic news. The 2026 Canada Salary Guide shows that nearly all tech teams at technology companies and IT teams across industries are planning major transformation projects over the next two years, requiring more skilled professionals to deliver them.And most employers know they’ll need to pay a premium for advanced tech skills. That’s why starting salaries for tech jobs are projected to rise by about 2% on average in 2026, with even stronger gains for roles in AI, machine learning and data science. Around 73% of technology leaders say professionals with high-level skills are paid more than others with the same job title.Because of the scarcity of specialized talent for many IT jobs in Canada, candidates with the right mix of technical depth and business awareness often have room to negotiate—whether that means higher pay, better benefits or more flexible work. Many employers are also turning to contract talent to fill critical roles and bridge short-term skills gaps, which can provide tech professionals with additional opportunities to gain experience with new tools and projects.To help you plan your next move, we’ve highlighted 15 of the best tech and IT jobs for 2026 below the director or executive level. For each role, you’ll find a link to its dedicated Robert Half Canada page, where you can see current salary ranges by experience level, explore open jobs and learn more about what the position involves.
1. Software architectSoftware architects are senior technical leaders who design and guide the development of large software systems to ensure they are reliable, secure, and able to grow with the business. They turn the firm’s goals into clear technical designs and work closely with product, business and development teams. Strong candidates bring deep hands-on experience in software development, including time in senior or lead roles, plus a solid track record in system design and mentoring other engineers. Most employers look for a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering or a related field, and value experience creating solutions for Canadian organizations and customers. That mix of leadership and deep technical work makes this one of the best tech and IT jobs for 2026 for developers who enjoy big-picture design.See full salary range and open roles for software architect2. Cloud architectThese professionals design and manage an organization’s cloud setup to keep applications and data secure, reliable and scalable across platforms like AWS, Azure or Google Cloud. Cloud architects shape strategy, lead migrations and work closely with tech teams to build smart, efficient solutions. Strong candidates usually have hands-on experience with cloud infrastructure and networking, along with a relevant degree and certifications.See full salary range and open roles for cloud architect3. Data engineerBusinesses rely on data engineers to turn large amounts of raw data into clear information for decisions and ideas. These professionals design and build data pipelines, storage systems and frameworks that enable the collection, processing and retrieval of information. Most roles require a degree in computer science or a related field, plus skills in databases and programming. As one of the most in-demand tech jobs, this role is often listed among the best tech and IT jobs for 2026.See full salary range and open roles for data engineer4. Senior software engineerThese experts analyze and translate business requirements into technical solutions. They work on the end-to-end software development cycle or on more complex platform components, often communicating complex technical ideas across teams and maintaining documentation of software specifications. A bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering or a related discipline, and many senior software engineers have a post-graduate qualification, such as a master’s degree. Specific programming language knowledge is required for this position, as are strong communication skills.See full salary range and open roles for Senior Software Engineer5. Network architectIn this senior networking role—one of the top IT jobs for 2026—professionals design and oversee an organization’s network and cloud connectivity so systems stay secure and reliable as the business grows. They develop high-level network plans and lead the implementation of hybrid environments, choosing the right mix of on-premises and cloud services to support current and future needs. The job means working side by side with security, cloud and infrastructure teams to segment traffic, manage access and keep systems performing well while managing costs and meeting compliance obligations, including Canadian data privacy and telecom rules. Most employers look for a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering or a related field, plus significant experience with complex enterprise networks and certifications such as CCNP, CCIE or cloud architect credentials.See full salary range and open roles for network architect
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6. Information systems security managerNow more than ever, employers need skilled IT security professionals to help keep sensitive data and systems safe. Successful candidates for this job possess a technical background in systems and network security and have great interpersonal and leadership abilities. Analytical and problem-solving skills are key, as are excellent communication abilities. These IT pros also need to keep up with security trends and government regulations. In addition to a bachelor’s degree in information systems, computer science or a related discipline, employers often request certifications such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or CompTIA Security+. This is one of the most critical IT jobs today and is projected to remain among the best tech and IT jobs for 2026.See full salary range and open roles for information systems security manager.7. Data security analystData security analysts must thoroughly understand computer and network security, including firewall administration, encryption technologies and network protocols. The job also requires excellent communication and problem-solving skills and knowledge of trends in security and government regulations. In addition to a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, a professional certification, such as a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) designation, is beneficial for this role.See full salary range and open roles for data security analyst8. Senior consultantIn this senior advisory role, consultants lead complex technology projects and initiatives, helping companies turn business goals into practical plans and measurable results. They set out timelines, coordinate cross-functional teams and keep leaders up to date on progress, risks and outcomes while also coaching team members and improving internal ways of working. Strong candidates pair solid subject-matter expertise with clear communication and people skills, plus a good understanding of the Canadian IT services market. Most employers look for a bachelor’s degree in computer science, management or an IT-related field, along with several years of experience leading complex, team-based projects.See full salary range and open roles for senior consultant9. Data architectThese professionals design the structures and standards that turn data into usable insight for decision making. They translate business requirements into data models and databases, and oversee how data is stored and organized across data centres, cloud platforms and data lakes. Protecting that data through strong security and privacy controls is a key part of the job. The role calls for excellent analytical and creative skills plus deep knowledge of data systems, database design and modelling. Employers typically look for a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field and experience with platforms such as Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server.See full salary range and open roles for data architect10. ERP developerDevelopers in this role shape and customize an organization’s enterprise resource planning (ERP) system so it actually matches how the business works day to day. They analyze business and user needs, then design, build and roll out changes such as custom code, reports and workflows, often linking the ERP to other key systems. Alongside strong programming skills and a solid grasp of ERP architecture, they provide ongoing support, documentation and training so teams can use new features with confidence. Most employers look for experience in at least one major ERP platform, and time working in Canadian business environments is a welcome advantage.See full salary range and open roles for ERP developer11. ERP/CRM architectAs one of the best tech and IT jobs for 2026, ERP/CRM architects design and oversee the overall structure of a company’s ERP and CRM platforms so finance, operations, sales and service teams are all working from the same reliable, connected data. They set the technology roadmap, choose platforms and integration patterns, and make sure systems scale, stay secure and support new features such as AI-driven forecasting and customer insights. Strong candidates bring deep experience with major ERP and CRM systems, solid knowledge of data and integration design and typically hold a degree in computer science, information systems or a related field.See full salary range and open roles for ERP/CRM architect12. Security architectA security architect is responsible for designing, building, testing and implementing security systems within a company’s IT network. They are expected to have a thorough understanding of complex IT systems and stay up to date with the latest security standards, systems and authentication protocols, as well as best practice security products. A bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science or related field is highly desirable, and some employers may require additional advanced security qualifications such as SABSA (Sherwood Applied Business Security Architecture) or CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) certifications.See full salary range and open roles for security architect13. AI architectOne of the most future-focused tech jobs in the market, AI architects design, build and oversee secure, reliable artificial intelligence solutions, from classic machine learning models to generative AI systems that support day-to-day work. Rather than experimenting for its own sake, they connect AI ideas to clear business goals and measures of success, then choose tools, frameworks and cloud services that fit. Much of the role is collaborative, working with engineers and data specialists to turn prototypes into real applications and to keep those systems accurate, safe and manageable over time. Employers typically look for a master’s degree in computer science, data science or AI, strong experience in data engineering, analytics and model development, and solid communication, problem-solving and change management skills.See full salary range and open roles for AI architect14. Software and applications managerManagers in this role direct all aspects of software and applications development processes, as well as hiring, training and guiding development staff. Designing development and systems analysis to create new applications or install and implement software purchased from vendors is a key responsibility, as well as evaluating programs for efficiency and documentation. They also help businesses establish software development standards and processes to implement best practices for scalable and high-quality software implementation. Considered one of the best tech and IT jobs for 2026, this role typically requires a bachelor’s degree in the technology field, four years of IT experience and two to three years of experience managing a development team.See full salary range and open roles for software and applications manager15. IT Operations ManagerIT operations managers keep an organisation’s day-to-day technology running smoothly, leading a team of IT specialists who look after networks, servers, applications and data storage. They work with departments across the business to support new initiatives and training, set and enforce IT policies, and respond quickly when issues arise to reduce downtime. The role often includes managing vendor relationships and budgets, and calls for strong organisational, interpersonal and communication skills. Like other tech leader roles, this tech job requires great organizational, interpersonal and communication skills.See full salary range and open roles for IT operations manager
Need help finding your next job in tech in 2026? At Robert Half Canada, our talent solutions professionals are here to help. Connect with our team of experts today.
