Demand for Tech Talent Surges in Vietnam: Insights from a Comprehensive Survey
A recent survey conducted by Navigos Group through the job search platform VietnamWorks has shed light on the current landscape of IT job seekers and business needs across Vietnam. With nearly 2,000 participants, this survey provides a detailed snapshot of the rising demand for tech talent, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI).
The Surge in AI Expertise Demand
As reported by Thanh Nien, the survey reveals a robust increase in the demand for AI skills in the Vietnamese job market. Backend and frontend developers are at the forefront of this hiring wave, collectively making up 22.5% of projected recruitment needs. Following closely behind are product owners and managers, along with project managers at 15.7%, while roles specifically relating to quality control, quality assurance, and AI engineering each account for 13.1%. This statistic underscores a clear trend: businesses are prioritizing roles that harness advanced technological skills, particularly those aligned with AI applications.
AI’s Central Role in IT Operations
Phan Thanh Hien, the director of product and technology at Navigos Group, emphasizes that “AI is now a critical tool” within the IT sector. The survey data supports this statement, showing that over 80% of surveyed IT firms utilize AI in their operations, while nearly 60% integrate it into their daily workflows. This widespread adoption reflects a transformative shift in how companies approach technology and talent acquisition.
The focus on AI is evident, with more than half of the companies surveyed prioritizing the hiring of individuals skilled in AI tools. Specifically, 26.6% view AI proficiency as a priority, whereas 14.1% categorize it as a top priority. Such developments indicate that candidates with AI skills are likely to find themselves in high demand.
Competitive Salaries for AI Professionals
The value placed on AI expertise is also reflected in the salary offerings across the industry. A staggering 43.7% of companies reported that they offer pay that is 10-20% higher than for other IT roles. Furthermore, 18.4% indicated that AI professionals could earn between 20-50% more than their counterparts in different sectors. Phan Thanh Hien explains, “This reflects AI’s growing value in the technology job market,” further emphasizing the lucrative opportunities awaiting tech professionals who specialize in AI.
Global Competition for High-Tech Professionals
Assoc. Prof. Phan Thanh Duong, head of engineering at Vietnam-Germany University, notes the growing demand for high-tech professionals driven by digital transformation and the advent of new technologies. As developed nations grapple with tech talent shortages, companies are increasingly looking toward emerging markets like Vietnam and India to meet their staffing needs. Duong predicts that “the demand for AI professionals will keep rising in 2025,” indicating a sustained trend in hiring practices.
Bridging the Skills Gap
Despite the increasing interest in tech graduates, there remains a significant challenge: many graduates are not equipped with the skills or experience necessary to satisfy industry demands. Duong warns that “university programs must keep pace with technological advancements.” He advocates for integrating industry-relevant AI training into academic curriculums, alongside foundational knowledge to ensure that graduates are prepared for the evolving job landscape.
Nguyen Hoang Hieu, director of the Center for Labor Market Information and Workforce Demand Forecasting, echoes this sentiment. She urges universities to modernize their programs to blend technology with essential disciplines such as economics, engineering, healthcare, and environmental science. This blending of fields is crucial for fostering a workforce capable of tackling the multifaceted challenges presented by the modern job market.
Fostering Essential Skills
Hieu also emphasizes the necessity of embedding soft skills and digital competencies within academic coursework. Programs need to align with evolving fields, such as the green economy and sustainable development. By cultivating a curriculum that incorporates both technical and interpersonal skills, universities can better equip students to navigate the complexities of an AI-driven market.
Furthermore, she encourages students to keep a pulse on labor market trends. Setting clear career goals and developing relevant professional skills will enhance their employability. “Students should plan their education and career paths strategically, leveraging industry insights to strengthen job prospects,” she advises.
Emphasizing Practical Learning Approaches
To thrive in the competitive AI-driven job market, Hien stresses the importance of adopting a practical, application-focused learning strategy. Beyond mere theoretical knowledge, engaging in regular hands-on practice is essential for developing the industry-relevant expertise that employers seek. This approach prepares students not just to understand concepts, but to apply them effectively in real-world scenarios.
With the need for tech professionals continuing to evolve, those who invest in tailored education and practical experiences will find themselves well-positioned in Vietnam’s booming IT landscape. As businesses increasingly seek candidates with specialized skills, particularly in AI, the future appears promising for tech-savvy individuals ready to meet the challenges ahead.