Mid-sized tech services firms to lead hiring in FY26
Mid-sized tech services companies in India are set to hire roughly 16,000 people in FY26 — a pace that could outstrip the Big Five. The push is driven by leaner delivery models, shorter project cycles and demand for rapid, domain-focused solutions.
Why hiring is shifting to mid-sized firms
- Agile operations: Smaller teams and flatter structures let these companies scale quickly for short-term, high-impact projects.
- Project cadence: Clients increasingly prefer shorter engagements and fast pilots, which suit mid-sized vendors that can mobilise talent faster.
- Niche expertise: Many mid-sized firms specialise in specific industries or technologies — cloud migration, cybersecurity, healthcare IT — making them the go-to partners for targeted work.
- Geographic spread: Growing demand from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities creates new talent pools and reduces cost pressures compared with larger metros.
Where the opportunities are opening up
Hiring is not only about numbers. Roles are shifting toward technology and client-facing skills that enable fast delivery and business impact.
Hot technology areas
- Cloud engineering and migration
- Data analytics, BI and data engineering
- AI/ML model development and MLOps
- Cybersecurity and compliance
- Automation, RPA and low-code development
- Product engineering and platform development
Business and delivery roles
- Project managers and delivery leads
- Solution architects and technical consultants
- Client relationship and account managers
- Pre-sales and domain specialists
Opportunities for freshers
Fresh graduates can find a faster entry path at mid-sized firms. Recruiters at these companies often run frequent campus drives, bootcamps and trainee programs to build teams quickly.
- Common entry roles: Junior developer, QA/test engineer, cloud operations associate, data analyst, technical support.
- Why it works: Shorter project cycles mean early exposure to end-to-end delivery. Freshers can progress faster into meaningful roles compared with larger firms where roles may be more siloed.
- How to stand out: Basic certifications (cloud, testing, data), internships, and demonstrable project work or open-source contributions.
Opportunities for experienced professionals
Mid-sized vendors are looking for experienced talent that can run projects end-to-end, sell services, or lead technology transformations.
- Senior roles in demand: Solution architects, cloud engineers, data scientists, security experts, product managers, delivery heads.
- Career appeal: Faster role expansion, greater ownership, and clearer paths to leadership. Compensation packages may include competitive pay, variable incentives and equity options.
- What employers want: Proven delivery track records, domain expertise, client handling skills and the ability to scale small teams.
How candidates should prepare
- Focus on practical skills and portfolios rather than only degrees.
- Invest in short, role-focused certifications (cloud, security, data tools).
- Build soft skills: communication, client empathy and fast problem solving.
- Consider opportunities in smaller cities — many firms are hiring across a wider geographic footprint.
Bottom line
Mid-sized tech services firms in India are creating fertile ground for both freshers and seasoned professionals. With around 16,000 hires expected in FY26, these companies offer faster growth, varied responsibilities and chances to work on niche, high-value projects — making them an attractive option for jobseekers looking to accelerate their careers.