As we step further into the AI era, companies are under pressure to innovate faster, while keeping their tech teams lean, efficient, and specialized. But there’s a catch: some of the most business-critical roles are also the hardest to fill.
Here’s what we’re seeing at Oceans, working across 12 countries in LATAM with high-growth teams in fintech, healthtech, e-commerce, and AI:
The Top 5 Most Challenging Roles to Fill in 2025:
1. AI/ML Engineers
These are not your average software developers. AI/ML engineers need to combine advanced knowledge of statistics, linear algebra, and data modeling with real world engineering skills. They build and optimize models, deploy them into production, and constantly refine systems based on dynamic datasets. Their work drives product personalization, predictive analytics, intelligent automation, and more core elements in any competitive digital strategy.
Why it’s hard: The global AI talent war has pushed salaries to record highs and created fierce competition for senior engineers.
How LATAM helps: Countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia have world-class universities producing top AI talent. With the right partner, companies can tap into engineers who are already contributing to major fintech and healthtech innovations.
2. DevOps & Cloud Specialists
These professionals sit at the intersection of software development and IT operations, enabling seamless code deployment, infrastructure scaling, and secure environments. In an era where businesses are moving to hybrid or multi-cloud architectures (AWS, Azure, GCP), the need for engineers who understand CI/CD, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), security protocols, and cost optimization is more critical than ever.
Why it’s hard: Many engineers specialize in just one platform, making cross-cloud expertise rare.
How LATAM helps: LATAM has a growing population of certified DevOps professionals who’ve worked with US and EU-based teams. Nearshoring partners can source experts with hands-on experience in enterprise-level cloud transformations.
3. Data Engineers
Data engineers build and maintain the infrastructure that powers analytics and AI systems. They create pipelines, standardize and clean incoming data, and ensure that data is reliable and accessible in real time. Without this foundation, data scientists and AI tools simply can’t function.
Why it’s hard: Many companies mistakenly hire analysts instead of true engineers, leading to bottlenecks, broken pipelines, or compliance risks.
How LATAM helps: LATAM talent pools offer a surprising depth of senior level data engineers experienced in tools like Apache Spark, Airflow, Snowflake, and Big Query. Many have supported projects for Fortune 500 clients, making them ideal for complex data ecosystems.
4. Microsoft Dynamics Developers
These developers bridge technology with business operations. Beyond customizing Dynamics 365 modules (Sales, Finance, Supply Chain), they need to understand ERP/CRM logic, integrations with legacy systems, and how to translate business needs into scalable tech solutions.
Why it’s hard: The mix of business acumen and technical Dynamics expertise is rare especially when coupled with the ability to communicate effectively with non-technical stakeholders.
How LATAM helps: While niche, there’s a growing cluster of Dynamics professionals in LATAM countries like Mexico and Costa Rica. These developers often work on global enterprise accounts, making them well versed in cross-functional collaboration.
5. QA Automation Experts
As product release cycles shorten, automated testing is non-negotiable. QA automation experts design test strategies, write scripts, integrate tools like Selenium, Cypress, and Playwright, and ensure tests run smoothly across development stages. They’re the backbone of continuous delivery and product stability.
Why it’s hard: Many QA profiles are still manual testers, and even among automation testers, few have experience creating robust test architectures from scratch.
How LATAM helps: LATAM’s talent pool includes many QA leads with strong technical backgrounds, used to working in agile environments. They bring more than just testing they bring systems thinking to prevent bugs before they happen.
Why Nearshoring Is the Answer (When Done Right)
In the past, nearshoring was mostly about cost. Today, it’s about expertise, speed, and trust.
The right nearshoring partner should give you:
- Access to pre-vetted, senior-level engineers
- Time zone alignment for real-time collaboration
- Flexibility in contracts, engagement types, and tech stacks
- Fast turnaround when scaling up or pivoting direction
At Oceans, we work with a curated network of Triple-A code experts who thrive in complex environments, are fluent in English, and integrate seamlessly with client teams from day one.
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We’d love to help you revisit an open role or even send over a shortlist of available talent, within 48 hours.
