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What is the Tech Jobs Situation in Late 2004?
CareerConfused asks: "Today I came across an ad in the NY Times, put out by Microsoft, Micron, Level 3 (among others) that claimed that the H-1B visa quota for FY2005 has already expired (it claims the quota expired the first day of FY2005, which started just about a month back). OK. On the one hand, we have
stories of techies not finding jobs; and on the other, we have stories from businesses which claim that lack of H1s is killing their business, as well as public advocacy (like that ad in NYT). So, what is it? Are we in another boom, with jobs going a-begging and companies requiring more H1s to fill them? How come I haven't noticed this in the form of a fatter paycheck (or an Aeron chair, or a fooseball table in the cubicle)?" What have you experienced in your searches for technology-based jobs? Is it still hard to sell your hard-earned skills or are things looking up?
While its one thing to claim that the lack of H1Bs is killing your business because Americans don't want to move to Fort Wayne, Indiana. It's quite another to say that you can't find a job in Silicon Valley. What's needed is an overall view of how tech jobs are doing across the country. What areas are in desperate need of technical skills and what areas are suffering from a shortage of jobs?
I have had much luck since I was downsized with a last day of employment of 31 January, 2003. I though my Unix administration skills would be in demand. I did have a hiatus, when my reserve unit was mobilized mid-February 2003 for one year. Not able to find employment, as I was getting ready to demobilize, I extended for another 6 months. I finally returned at the end of July, using vacation time to return early. Thank goodness for unemployment checks, otherwise I would have burned through my severance pay on the high cost of living in California. I believe the tech sector is still hurting. Just look at the states that the Democrats one ... tech heavy parts of the country. I voted for the economy, as I felt the war on terror can't be won if we can't pay our bills (digression here). Now Greenspan is stating the deficiet threatons our economy. WTF is going on?
You know, if you set up your company in Fort Wayne, Indiana, not too many developers are going to want to move there. (yes, I have been there. Several times. I wouldn't move there...) Ergo, offer some incentives (i.e. more money, more vacation, better benefits, etc). Don't cry to your congressman and try to import lower wage talent from overseas. And that is the only reason they want the H1Bs - they are WAY cheaper, and will do anything you ask them to.
Lets face it, for some people, rural America (those oh-so-wonderful red states) isn't all that attractive, when compared to the energy and excitement of city living.
Then again, I live in a small college town in the middle of nowhere, so what the hell do I know. Of course, as soon as I finish my dissertation, I am outta here...