IT & Computing : Top 10 most in-demand freelance skills in 2024

In the UK, many talented professionals are drawn to the independence of freelancing in the IT, tech, and digital sectors. And each year more experts in these fields take the leap into freelance life.

While freelancing isn’t without its challenges, the benefits remain appealing. As an

Independent IT consultant you have the autonomy to choose your projects, have flexibility in your schedule, and the freedom to work from anywhere.

What’s more, there are management companies, like Hightekers UK, who provide tailored support for IT contractors and freelancers. We take time-consuming admin and accounting off your plate, plus much more. This means you can stay focused on your clients and freelance projects, knowing your business management is in safe hands.

In this article, we aim to either inspire or enhance your self-employed journey. With this in mind, let’s explore the most in-demand freelance skills in the IT and tech spaces today. 

Why is Freelancing taking the lead in IT and Computing?

In the UK, the freelance landscape shows a strong leaning towards the IT and tech industries. 

In fact, after the construction industry, findings from Statista show that self-employed people working in professional, scientific and technical roles numbered around 598,000, making it the second-most common industry for contractors and freelancers.

What’s more, research from  LinkedIn states: “As the shift towards digital transformation and remote work continues, the demand for flexible, skilled IT professionals is only set to grow, presenting a wealth of opportunities for those with the right skills and expertise”. 

An increasing demand for freelance projects

Growing and nurturing your client list is the key to a successful freelance career.

As businesses increasingly focus on digital transformation and online presence, the demand for specialised IT consultants has surged and continues to grow. In the UK, experienced

IT consultants have several options and platforms to choose from to land freelance projects.

Some freelancers also join networks like Hightekers to boost opportunities and potential referrals by connecting with peers.

Embracing professional freedom as an IT freelancer

The vast majority of self-employed IT consultants agree on one thing: once you’ve experienced the independence of freelancing, it’s tough to consider going back to traditional employment. The ability to choose your clients, work to a schedule that suits you, and pick your projects is something many employees don’t have the luxury to experience.

On the flip side, this freedom depends on having enough clients and projects in the pipeline, so you’re not forced to take the first job that comes along. As you gain more experience as an independent IT consultant, you often become more in demand and as a result, get closer to, or even achieve, your desired level of freedom.

Joining a network like Hightekers can help you accelerate your professional growth and find freelance opportunities faster.

A more appealing income

Freelancing often pays more than traditional jobs, especially in IT and tech, where UK supply and demand for specialist skills usually favours IT contractors and freelancers over employees.

However, when calculating your true net income, it’s important to consider the overheads and indirect expenses associated with freelancing. This includes unpaid holiday days and extras like accountancy fees, administration time/costs, pension contributions, and professional insurance.

A growing trend for self-employed professionals is to partner with a managing company like Hightekers, who handle these tasks for you. Our services save you time on business admin, freeing you up to focus on your clients and projects, with the scope to log more billable hours and boost your earnings each month.

A more varied and fulfilling career

Freelancing in the IT and digital space means having a mix of projects, clients, and work environments, leading to greater job satisfaction and fantastic opportunities to improve your skills and boost your career.

For instance, a Full-Stack developer might lead the launch of an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) software for one client and then move on to work on a SaaS (Software as a Service) application for another.

Unlike many traditional jobs, this variety keeps your day-to-day work interesting and mentally stimulating.

The top 10 most in-demand freelance skills in computing

1. Scrum Master

The Scrum Master is a key player in agile project management, helping to make software development smoother by improving communication and solving problems. 

Trends and projections: Since 2018, the demand for Scrum Masters has seen significant growth, a trend expected to continue throughout 2024 and beyond, driven by the exponential adoption of agile methods in the industry.

2. UX/UI designer

Designing a smooth and engaging user interface is crucial in today’s digital world. Moreover knowing how to design for mobile and responsive platforms is now essential for businesses.

Trends and projections: The focus on user experience, seen in Google’s algorithm and new digital projects, indicates this trend will continue to grow for many years to come.

3. Data Scientist

As a Data Scientist you turn complex data into useful insights, helping businesses make smart decisions and predict market trends.

Trends and projections: The growing need for these skills due to the data boom highlights the importance of Data Scientists in tactical planning. Their numbers are predicted to grow by circa 30% by 2032.

4. Data Engineer

Data Engineers are the backbone of managing and organising data. They ensure that data is available and ready for analysis. Their skills in handling databases are essential for businesses to use data effectively.

Trends and projections: The demand for Data Engineers is skyrocketing because companies need strong and reliable data systems. This high demand has surpassed the number of available Data Engineers and is only expected to keep growing.

5. Back-end & Full Stack Developer

Back-end and Full Stack Developers are crucial for businesses because they build and integrate complete web solutions. Their skills in programming and database development help create effective and secure web projects.

Trends and projections: Over the last decade,  the demand for Full Stack Developers has been growing by circa 35% each year. This trend is expected to keep rising, showing just how important these developers are for creating web solutions that meet all business needs.

6. React JS Developer

React JS developers are highly sought after as they create engaging and responsive user interfaces. Using the popular JavaScript framework, React, they help businesses improve the interactivity and user experience of their websites. This is crucial in today’s digital landscape.

Trends and projections: The need for React JS developers is continuously increasing. The React.js development services market is expected to reach $28.6 billion globally by 2027, signalling great career prospects in this field.

 7. Expert in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity experts are critical for protecting company data and systems from the growing threat of cyberattacks. As these attacks become more frequent and complex, the role of cybersecurity professionals has become paramount.

Trends and projections: The demand for skills in cybersecurity, risk analysis, and incident management is higher than ever and is only expected to grow. This surge highlights the essential need for these experts to keep corporate data secure and maintain its integrity.

8. Infrastructure Engineer

Infrastructure engineers are essential for designing,  setting up and maintaining the backbone of computer systems. They ensure that IT systems run smoothly, securely, and efficiently, which is especially important as more businesses move to cloud-based solutions.

Trends and projections: The need for infrastructure engineers is stable and is expected to stay strong. This trend shows how crucial it is for businesses to have reliable and scalable IT infrastructures.

9. Functional testers and automation engineers

Software testers play a vital role in ensuring the quality and reliability of software products. They catch bugs and issues before the software reaches the end-users, making sure everything runs smoothly. Their importance has grown even more with the rise of new development methods like continuous integration and deployment.

Trends and projections: As competition heats up in the software industry, the need for skilled testers is on the rise. Companies want to release flawless and efficient software, which pushes the demand for quality testers even higher. This trend is expected to continue growing.

 10. Cloud Architect

Cloud architects are key players in digital transformation. They design cloud systems that are flexible, efficient, and scalable, ensuring businesses have the tech foundation they need to succeed.

Trends and projections: As more companies move to the cloud, the need for skilled cloud architects is booming. Their ability to navigate tech challenges and integrate systems smoothly makes them invaluable. Expect their demand to keep rising as cloud solutions become even more crucial to business strategies.

How to become a freelancer in IT and computing?

The leap from wanting to freelance to becoming an IT freelancer can be daunting for many consultants.

The administrative headaches of running your own company – accounting, invoicing, follow-ups, managing insurance and other provisions – can be overwhelming.

But there is an easier way. A specialised management company for IT freelancers and self-employed tech pros can help to bridge this gap.

Since 2016, Hightekers has been a leader in this field, supporting thousands of independent IT consultants to focus on projects and grow their freelance careers. 

We take care of business management and invoicing, so you can stay focused on your work while keeping your independence. Plus, partnering with Hightekers means joining an expert community, with chances for networking, training, and sharing opportunities with fellow IT pros.

Find out how Hightekers can enhance your freelance IT journey today