The US technology and financial services sectors in 2026 are experiencing cautious but steady growth. Following political and regulatory shifts in previous years, such as the GENIUS Act for stablecoin regulation and the proposed American Privacy Rights Act (APRA), companies are balancing compliance pressures with system modernization and innovation initiatives. Investment in cloud, artificial intelligence, real-time data and cyber security remains high, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Our analysis of the market shows that these dynamics have shaped hiring practices: employers are prioritizing cross-functional skills, careful selection processes, and candidates who can navigate both technical and regulatory requirements. Remote and hybrid working models continue to influence hiring and compensation decisions, and companies are aligning salaries with market expectations.
Brian Van Aken, Senior Vice President and Head of Nicoll Curtin US, explains:
“Firms that align compensation with market conditions, streamline hiring processes and update their systems will be well-positioned for growth. Those that hesitate may find themselves outpaced by competitors better able to attract top tech specialists and keep projects on track.”
Most in-demand tech contract roles
To keep projects moving without increasing permanent headcount, US companies are turning to contract professionals across key technical areas. Here are the most in-demand tech contract roles in 2026:
1. DevOps Engineer
Operating at the intersection of development and operations, these professionals keep software delivery smooth and reliable. The financial services and fintech sectors are prioritizing the automation of complex workflows and the coordination of cross-functional teams to boost efficiency while maintaining regulatory compliance. To achieve this, they are seeking DevOps Engineers with strong problem-solving abilities, infrastructure management expertise, and coding skills.
2. Fullstack Developer
Building applications that work seamlessly across frontend and backend systems, Fullstack Developers help businesses turn ideas into user-friendly digital solutions. Expertise in coding, database management, and responsive design will be some of the top skills businesses will look for in 2026, as they ensure customer experience and company requirements are met. Additionally, individuals who stay flexible to product demands and collaborate confidently across mixed-location teams will be in strong demand within healthcare, e-commerce and SaaS.
3. Data Engineer
Data Engineers design and optimise large-scale data systems, developing pipelines, managing databases, and using cloud platforms, SQL, and Python to make information accessible for analytics and AI. Recruiting these professionals will remain a priority in 2026 hiring strategies, particularly within data-mature organisations and companies advancing cloud adoption. Established global firms will look for sizeable teams to maintain scalable infrastructure, while startups and mid-size businesses will focus on hiring talent that can automate processes and support growth.
4. Change and Transformation Project Manager
Delivering change is no longer just a project task. Organisations will hire Change and Transformation Project Managers to ensure initiatives actually improve performance and support growth. Strategic thinking, leadership, and digital expertise will be in demand, and those who can translate complex systems into actionable steps will stand out.
Most in-demand tech permanent roles
While contract roles offer flexibility, permanent positions continue to attract talent across the US, particularly in areas where long-term expertise and strategic impact are valued for driving projects and business outcomes. Here are the most in-demand tech permanent roles in 2026:
1. Cloud Architect
Cloud Architects are continuing to be highly sought after as organizations modernize IT systems with secure and scalable infrastructure. Technology specialists with hybrid and multi-cloud experience, along with strong problem-solving and database skills, will play a crucial role in delivering reliable, high-performing systems and helping teams meet evolving infrastructure needs.
2. AI/Machine Learning Engineer
Companies in the US will increasingly rely on AI in 2026 to streamline operations, anticipate trends, and support complex decision-making. AI and Machine Learning Engineers with expertise in software development, algorithms, and domain-specific applications will be essential in delivering reliable, scalable, and impactful AI solutions.
3. Cyber Security Engineer
To protect company assets, they implement security solutions, monitor threats, and ensure their systems remain resilient. Skills in network security, risk management, compliance, and incident response help them bridge technical and regulatory teams. High-stakes sectors such as financial services and critical infrastructure rely on their expertise to mitigate evolving threats.
4. AI Ethics and Governance Lead
As AI adoption expands, businesses are facing growing regulatory and ethical challenges in deploying these technologies. To address this, AI Ethics and Governance Leads help translate complex standards into practical governance frameworks, audit systems, and policies. In 2026, hiring for this role will become a strategic priority for finance, healthcare, and other regulated sectors, enabling responsible AI deployment and mitigating operational risk.
5. Quantitative Software Engineer
Quantitative Software Engineers are in demand among investment banks, fintech firms, and hedge funds for their ability to develop software that supports complex financial calculations and predictive models. Individuals with strong skills in programming, analytical thinking, and mathematical modeling will have a competitive edge in 2026, enabling them to excel in data-intensive, mission-critical environments.
Nicoll Curtin 2026 Technology Talent Market Report
Gain deeper insights into the technology growth outlook in the US. Here’s what you’ll find in the report:
- Market Outlook 2026: How political and economic shifts are shaping the US technology labor market.
- Salary Benchmarks: Permanent and contract rates across leadership, architecture, cyber, cloud, software, and data functions.
- IT Skills Matrix: The most valuable technical and soft skills defining hiring success in 2026.
- Top Roles in Demand: From AI engineers and cloud architects to cyber leaders and data scientists.
- Regional and Sector Insights: Key hiring dynamics in financial services, fintech, and enterprise technology.
- Expert Commentary: Practical guidance from Nicoll Curtin’s US leadership team on building resilient, high-performing teams.
