If, on one hand, the job search can be complex and time-consuming, on the other, many companies have found it difficult to fill positions. The skilled workforce in areas such as cybersecurity and data engineering is scarce and highly sought after
According to the research "Talent Shortage 2025", carried out by Manpower Group, 81% of Brazilian companies face obstacles in hiring qualified professionals. The study surveyed more than 40 thousand companies in 42 countries and ranks Brazil among the top positions inrankingof countries with the greatest talent shortage. In the Information Technology sector, the scenario is even more critical: 84% of organizations report a shortage of qualified professionals
For the coordinator of theUniversity Positivo Information Technology School, Kristian Capeline, areas such as cybersecurity and data engineering are in the spotlight due to the rapid digital transformation of companies. With the growth of the use of artificial intelligence and cloud computing, protecting sensitive data and ensuring the integrity of systems has become a priority, explain. Therefore, courses focused on training in these fields have high employability rates. "From the second semester, 92% of students from the Information Technology School of Universidade Positivo are already in the job market, relates
Furthermore, new data protection regulations have come into effect in different parts of the world – how the LGPD, in Brazil, and the GDPR, in Europe. This increases the demand for specialized professionals to ensure compliance and avoid the risk of information leaks. In data engineering, the explosion of the volume of information generated daily requires skilled professionals to operate tools that organize, structure and make this data usable for strategic decision-making, complement
How much do cybersecurity and data engineering professionals earn
Driven by regulations aimed at information security, the cybersecurity field offers attractive salaries, that range from R$ 5 thousand to R$ 20 thousand. In the case of data engineering, the remuneration can easily exceed R$ 13 thousand. The variation depends on the level of specialization, of the company's door and career plans
Why is it so difficult to find skilled labor in these areas
Skilled professionals are the frontline against increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks. In the current context, in whichransomware, phishingand vulnerabilities in AI are on the rise, the lack of specialized skills can lead to inadequate responses, increasing the impacts of attacks, explain Fábio Mostafe, information security specialist at Tecnobank.
The company, that processes thousands of vehicle financing contract data in various states, bet on continuous qualification and the hiring of specialized information security professionals, one of the pillars that keeps it at the forefront of the market. Investing in ongoing training and attracting qualified talent are essential steps to ensure the protection of complex systems, conduct vulnerability assessments and develop robust security policies. In a scenario of global talent scarcity, this priority also strengthens organizational resilience, Mostafe score
Capeline observes that traditional academic training, that usually takes at least three years, does not keep up with the speed at which new technologies emerge. Despite the good salaries, the market still attracts few candidates. Cybersecurity and data engineering require advanced technical knowledge, that combines mathematics, programming and mastery of IT infrastructure, among others. These factors often deter a significant portion of potential students, clarifies
The coordinator adds that there is still little discussion about the large number of opportunities available today – and about the trend of growth of this demand in the coming years. These areas require constant updating, high level of self-directed learning and specific certifications. This creates a gap between what companies seek and the availability of prepared professionals, justifies.
Where to start
Anyone wishing to enter one of these fields must build a solid foundation in information technology, through degrees such as Computer Science, Analysis and Development of Systems, Software Engineering or Computer Engineering. For cybersecurity, specifically, it is essential to have knowledge about computer networks, operating systems and basic programming languages. Additional certifications to the degree are also valued. Data engineering requires mastery of SQL and NoSQL databases, in addition to familiarity with processing tools such as Apache Spark and Hadoop and languages like Python and SQL
How to stand out in the market
According to Capeline, besides technical knowledge, it is essential to develop skills such as critical thinking, resolution of complex problems and continuous learning. “Soft skillsas effective communication and teamwork are increasingly valued, because many technological solutions require collaboration between different areas – and IT professionals with these skills are becoming rare in the market, detail. Another differentiator is practical experience: participating in real projects, contribute to communitiesopen sourceor facing technical challenges demonstrates a more attractive profile for companies. Recognized certifications also add value to the resume. Finally, having a mindset focused on innovation and curiosity for new trends makes all the difference in building a successful career