According to the 2012 Linux Jobs Report, there is a growing demand for Linux skills; however, finding talent is challenging, which is resulting in higher salaries and bonuses for Linux professionals. 

The research shows that 81 percent of respondents say hiring Linux talent is a priority. In fact, 47 percent of surveyed hiring managers plan to add more Linux professionals to their organizations in early 2012 with 63 percent noting that Linux hires are growing relative to new jobs in other skill areas. Still, 85 percent of respondents say finding qualified Linux professionals is difficult. 

Although salary raises for tech professionals averaged only 2 percent in 2011, Linux professionals saw an average of 5 percent increase in salary raises, and a 15 percent bump in bonuses during the same period. Among the respondents, 75 percent say the mid-level professional with three to five years of experience are the most desired hires, particularly for those possessing development or systems administration skills.