March Madness: Boston Software Engineer/Computer Science JOB market explodes!

Happy Spring to everyone! Although the Mass. and national economy continues to slowly grow new jobs, the Boston/Mass. Software Engineering/Computer Science market has been red hot in Q1. We’ve seen over 50 new job openings in March, along with evidence from candidates, clients, and our colleagues in industry that the perception of the market and it’s reality are detached.
Simply put — if you are a top-notch, super-sharp, software engineer, ready to strut your stuff — the rest of your competition has not woke up the sharp increase in demand from clients for all levels of software engineering hires. Strongest demand is clustered in three distinct areas – Web 2.0/J2EE/Ruby , LAMP/PHP/MySQL and C#/.NET 3.5/4.0 from associate/junior software engineers to the Senior/Principal level.

We’ve not yet seen a recovery in the Principal+ market – as this cohort has been effectively marginalized over the past two recessions, with real, inflation-adjusted wages falling over the past decade by ~ 30% by my calculations.

That said, as this recovery has legs, and has been building momentum since last Fall, I fully expect by Q3/Q4 that the Principal+ market (Lead Software Engineer, Architect, Manager, Director, VP Engineering) to reach a more balanced market.

Some clients have not woke-up to the severe market shift, and are recruiting like it’s Oct 2008 — and many candidates are paying way too much attention to the headlines that sell newspapers — from recent accounts, the voluntary turnover or “quit rate” is at its lowest rate in the past decade — no doubt in large part due to the fear-mongering and partisan politics of the current time.

My best advice — put on your blinders and focus on making a change for the better!

I remain, Boston’s #1 Software Engineer/Computer Science Recruiter

Scott Dunlop – scott@biviumgroup.com

Happy New Year! 2010 MA Software Engineer/Computer Science/IT job market outlook – Positive

Happy New Year to everyone and I hope it was as wonderful and relaxing time as I was able to enjoy. As the ball dropped and the calendar moved over to 2010, the focus for millions across the country are on the job market.

Here in the Massachusetts software engineer/computer science/IT market we are seeing a very strong and sustained pickup in demand from clients and hearing & seeing much the same from our colleagues in the industry. Slowly, but surely the “slack” and shock from layoffs in the aftermath of the “great recession” have been cast-off and optimism is renewed – notwithstanding the insane travel nightmares between mother nature and the 9+ year war on terror — clients and candidates are ready, willing and able to execute on finding a great position, or adding to their staff.

At last count, I have over 50 open software engineering positions (most confidential searches and not publicly posted) scattered amongst Boston/Cambridge, 128, and 495 – across a variety of levels and vertical markets (from associate software engineers to Lead/Architect software engineers) – from stable, but fast-growing, agile public software companies to stealth startups and every conceivable size in-between.

Please get in touch to confidentially discuss how I can partner with you – scott@biviumgroup.com – Boston’s #1 software engineer recruiter!

Mass. Software/IT market job growth robust: Mass High Tech article

Adding to the growing consensus view that we’ve seen for months now, is the following Mass High Tech Article http://www.masshightech.com/stories/2009/12/07/daily7-Study-Software-leads-tech-growth-in-Mass.html squarely pointing towards a robust 2010 and beyond. Software engineering already employs more people in Mass  than during the .com boom times of 1999-2001. With software engineers/computer science jobs rated #1 or #2 (depending on nomenclature, study data) for job growth over the next decade – the momentum is aligned behind a very nice recovery in 2010. The complete study can be downloaded here - http://bit.ly/7ZkioS (PDF download link).

Some highlights:

Current unemployment and projected growth

The primary occupations associated with the IT industry have been resilient through 2008. Current Population Survey data indicates how well workers in IT occupations are coping with the current recession. Between 2002 and 2008, the computer and mathematical occupations have enjoyed much lower unemployment rates than the average unemployment rate,16 consistent with other management and professional occupations. As Figure 22 shows, in addition to being consistently lower than the overall unemployment rate for all occupations, the unemployment rate of the computer and mathematical occupational group also dropped more rapidly than the average between 2003 and 2007. This indicates that computer and mathematical occupations recovered robustly in the years following the bursting of the dot-com bubble.

Current point-in-time data

Recent data illustrate that IT workers have resilience, but are not completely immune to recession. The most recent available monthly data shows that although unemployment is rising, as of June 2009, the unemployment rate for mathematics and computer occupations remains much lower than the average for all U.S. occupations. In June 2008, the monthly unemployment rate for computer and mathematical occupations was about a third of the average. In June 2009, the monthly unemployment rate for computer and mathematical occupations was just over half the average rate. In Massachusetts, workers in IT occupations have been making fewer unemployment claims than their share of the workforce. Claimant data collected by the Massachusetts Office of Labor Workforce and Development indicate that IT workers in computer and mathematical occupations are filing for unemployment benefits at a lower rate than would be proportionate to their

Projected growth

Recent growth projections developed by the state suggest that demand for the most skilled IT professionals will remain very strong.17 Network systems and data communications analysts, as well as the two software engineering occupations, are forecast to experience the greatest gains in jobs by 2016. Alternatively, Computer Support Specialists and Computer Programmers are expected to grow at the slowest pace in the state (in the case of the latter, positions are actually expected to contract). Along with information collected during focus group sessions, the projections suggest that these particular IT occupations are being outsourced to workers abroad. With that said, these are the only two primary IT occupations that are projected to grow at a rate slower than the statewide average for all occupations. The table below features projected growth rates by occupation, and reveals that in many cases, jobs are expected to grow at more than three times the Commonwealth’s overall projected job growth rate. High wage jobs are projected to grow and educated workers (with at minimum a Bachelor’s degree expected) will be required for the vast majority of these jobs.

The Software sector includes firms that offer products and services in two subsectors:

• Systems and Applications:

Firms in this subsector develop and publish commercial systems software (including operating systems and platforms) on which computer applications run. These firms also develop and publish applications that enable users to complete particular tasks, such as text editing, email communication, and graphics and photo editing, as well as various tasks related to specialized business functions.

• Custom Computer Programming:

Firms and workers in this subsector are engaged in writing, modifying, testing, and supporting software to meet the specialized needs of customers—both corporate or commercial and consumer or residential. Custom programmers may be employed by small-, mid-, or large-size firms, or they may be self-employed or “freelance” workers.7

Employment and firm growth patterns in the Software sector

From 1998 to 2008, employment in the Software sector has grown by 34.6 percent, reaching 47,331 workers. Despite a substantial decline from dot-com bubble levels, Software has regained and surpassed 2000 employment and has shown consistent growth since 2004. The sector most recently accounted for 26.5 percent of all IT industry employment, nearly equal to the IT Services sector. Software firm counts have seen significant gains as well, with 2008 levels increasing by 53 percent above 1998 levels. Similar to the other core IT sectors, the number of software firms grew during those years when employment declined after the dot-com bust. The number of firms in the Software sector jumped substantially between 2000 and 2002 (by 16.6 percent) and again between 2002 and 2004 (by 10.3 percent). Many of these gains were lost by 2006, but the sector rebounded in 2008, ending the ten-year period with 53.0 percent more firms than in 1998. This may be a promising sign of future growth and the overall health of the sector in Massachusetts.

Throwing out the neo-classical job recovery in Massachussetts, aka we’ve got a job recovery in the software engineering field

So, with unemployment continuing the rise, but the Dow at it’s highest point in 2009, what’s a potential client to think?

Bottom-line, we all want to think/believe that “this time is different” about recent economic conditions – but that is a fallacy — yes, it’s tough in many geographical regions, yes, the job market for many cohorts is very tough — BUT – peaking unemployment is a GOOD thing, as it always signals an economy in recovery.

The actual path by which the national economy will recover is still subject to much variability — but, most important to us here in the MA software engineer/technology market – we have a shortage of qualified candidates. Not candidates who could “do the job”, but the key difference – people who are DOING THE JOB now that our clients needs.

I count at least 20 positions our clients have assigned, that have a real shortage of even remotely qualified candidates!!

Where are you? You’re scared about changing jobs during all the “Noise” out there — tune out the newspaper, and think like a contrarian – you want to be looking for a job when others are not. It still takes work, but clients who meet a highly qualified candidate are ready to hire you! NOW!

If you’d like to discuss the market, and opportunities for highly specialized and exceptional software engineer candidates (Computer Science degree and meaty experience) – drop me a line – scott@biviumgroup.com

Venture Capital Index (Confidence!) rises for 2nd straight quarter

According to this CNET article – http://news.cnet.com/8301-1001_3-10282905-92.html?part=rss&subj=news&tag=2547-1_3-0-5 , for the 2nd straight quarter, VCs are becoming increasingly optimistic about the nascent recovery in the economy. This survey is specific to West Coast/San Fran VCs, but the polling is from June — very recent and useful data.

This reflects  not only what we are hearing, but what we are seeing in the past 3-4 weeks here in the Boston, MA software engineering job market — that firms that put the brakes on hiring in the Fall, and/or budgeting for lean operations, are starting to thaw out their recruiting budgets and make strategic hires. It’s a great sign for all of us, when the VCs show optimism, as the money, brainpower, and infrastructure that entrepreneurs bring to bear on a situation are usually the catalysts that bring us out of such an economic tsunami.

Although the national economic picture is still awful, as is the Boston job market, the software/IT industry has better weathered this storm, and is showing signs of being the first-mover to the recovery phase. With the Nasdaq leading all major indices this year (around +10%) and recent M&A activity (EMC for Data Domain), I remain confident we’re on the recovery path. That said – I’ve got nearly a dozen unfilled, and “HOT” jobs that need to be filled — the requirements are very specific, but if you’re waiting for “better days” to make a move — beat the rush and snag one of these outstanding jobs — drop Boston’s #1 Software engineer recruiter a line – scott@biviumgroup.com

Mass adds 5000 jobs in May, unemployment up to 8.2%

Definitely a positive sign to read that Mass officially added job s in the month of May – led by the tech sector - http://www.boston.com/jobs/news/articles/2009/06/19/bay_state_gains_jobs_in_may/

Although we are still very much in “bear mode” overall, I am confident, barring any unexpected developments, that we are at an inflection point and that the market will steadily improve as the year moves into the 4th quarter – with a fairly robust recovery of the Boston/Massachusetts software engineering  job market in Q1 of 2010. We are starting to see companies that needed to hire over the 6-9 months gain confidence in “pulling the lever” on hiring.

Good candidates should take this opportunity to dust off the resume, and start proactively looking for the ‘right place’ now. Once every else is in “me too” mode, the noise will fall back the other way.

Possible Facebook IPO reminds me of Google in 2004 – inflection point of tech market turn – Boston software job market improving

With the ground being laid by Facebook for a possible IPO - http://bit.ly/facebookIPO – it’s eerily reminiscent of the market back in 2004 – IPOs were way down (in fact 2008 was the worst IPO market in an entire generation) – but along came a big-name, and after a successful IPO (in doubt leading up to that point remember, some didn’t want to pay the~ $80 price), the market psychology shifted along with a rockin IPO.

I firmly believe the tech market will be one of the leading edges of this next market recovery – and a high profile IPO like Facebook could be the fuel that ignites the nascent market forces. There are by some accounts several trillion in capital on the sidelines.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been seeing and hearing a lot of laid-off candidates getting rehired on contract to their old employers, and wisely so! Foolish firms that think they can post a job online and have the best talent flock to them, have been sorely surprised during the entire downturn, at least here in Boston.

Mass Tech layoffs – Molecular, and candidates resistive to cover letters

First, another mass tech layoff to report – www.molecular.com has trimmed some of the Boston office – have seen a least a dozen or so resumes in the past few days – not sure how many were affected, but that’s a very sharp shop, so it’s likely they are reigning in headcount to realign with projected workflow – anyone affected, let me know the details…

On another front, I’ve ALWAYS found that a well-written and strong/targeted cover letter to a client gets a much better response rate. What I have found strange in this recession is the complete lack of skill that most people have in their ability to read a job description and formulate their succint response as to why they are a fit for the job. That simple exercise can really help you sell yourself… if you want to break through the clutter out there, this is just one of the ‘best practices’ required to land the job you want.

Mass tech layoffs – Juniper Networks lays off Network Management group in Westford, MA

I heard that Juniper Networks closed down the  network management group in Westford, MA. Unsure of how many affected, but appears the office is still open, from several other engineers have said.  With several macroeconomic signs starting to point to us bouncing along bottom and billions and trillions of worldwide stimulus setting a foundation beneath the economy — it’s my belief that the local layoff picture and job market is pretty much at bottom. That said, the last recession’s recovery was a “jobless” recovery — it’s likely unemployment will continue to rise until this time next year, before slowly coming down.

New Mass Tech layoffs – Bullhorn layoffs, and CellExchange closing

A few new rumours to hit my desk in the past few days – that online recruiting ASP firm www.bullhorn.com had a layoff last week – not surprising given their clients are people like me!! Also heard that after multiple rounds of layoffs, consulting firm www.cellexchange.com and it’s remaining 27 employees, will be left out in the cold after tomorrow – they’ll be shutting their doors permanently.

Candidates leaving voicemails – get your “elevator pitch” ready, or be ignored!

As part of the recession, the volume of candidates responding to job ads has skyrocketed – not just here in MA, but everywhere (perhaps except for the Dakotas where unemployment is running <4%). Part of that is the incredible increase in follow-up voice-mails from candidates.

I’m the first to admit and believe in aggressively ‘selling yourself’ and pursuing a job lead. However, in this market, with 100 or more candidates applying daily for some of my positions, I, just like my clients, must sometimes set specific, and high thresholds by which to judge a candidate – simply to keep up with the avalanche of candidates.

So, if you’ve sent me (or any company or recruiter) a resume – be judicious about your voice-mail leaving – do you fit 95-100% of the job requirements ? (Locality, visa conditions, perm vs. contractor etc) If not, please don’t waste your time calling and pitching your background. However, if you legitimately can offer a value proposition, and feel you’ve been overlooked (it does happen more in this market) – by all means, leave me 1 quick and strong elevator pitch voice mail. Please don’t call 10x a day and never leave a msg – the hangups and constant calls of that nature can really detract from the good work ahead.

Tip #2 for Job Hunting in a Recession – Get interview feedback

As much as possible – follow up on all job rejections!  Always (politely) ask  to speak or exchange emails with the hiring manager and/or recruiter every time to get their constructive feedback and recommendations so you can mprove for the “next” opportunity.  My experience shows that it can take 3-5 interviews (phone or in-person) to truly master interviewing to the current market conditions. Attitude is everything – Each “no” puts you one step closer to a “yes”!!  Don’t take any feedback “personally” – you are still a good person, a good engineer, and good candidate – but, a better role is out there waiting to won!

Happy New Year! Tips for Job hunting during a recession

Well, I hope everyone had a great holiday & Happy New Year. Unfortunately for me, I’m just recovering from the godfather of all stomach bugs – it was great to finally have solid food after 5 days. Sheesh!

So, what does 2009 bring on the job hunting front in Mass, and especially on the technology/software engineering space? We’re still getting a lay of the land, but I suspect much of what we’re going to be dealing with is going to be similar to Oct/Nov – moderate activity, but highly selective. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, between the storms, holidays etc, there was a real quiet out there.

Today – Scott’s hot Tip #1 for Job Hunting During a Recession

You’ve heard this before but I can’t emphasize its importance.  Your interview will get you the job.  Your resume will only get you in the door.  Paper doesn’t get hired…you do!    Do whatever it takes to become the best interviewer you can! If you get nervous and know you are a poor interviewer – hire an interviewing coach – for about $85 you will get professional advice. A small investment that can really pay off (You’d be amazed how awful some people interview!)