Skill report · Programming Languages

Algorithms: demand in job postings

Algorithms is named in 2% of the 28,652 tech job postings Mettlespark read in the United States and Canada over the last 180 days (664 postings), most often for Software Engineer at 6%, Backend Engineer at 4% and Machine Learning Engineer at 4%. When a posting names it, 84% list it as required.

From 28,652 postings in the United States and Canada, April 23, 2026 to October 20, 2026. Updated October 20, 2026. How we count

Postings naming it
6642% of all postings
Required when named
84%rather than nice to have
Senior level or above
60%of the postings naming it

Over time

Its share of postings has held steady since October 2023, comparing like with like.

The roles that ask for it most

The share of each role's postings that name Algorithms.

Roles asking for Algorithms
Role
Software Engineer
Backend Engineer
Machine Learning Engineer
Full-Stack Engineer
Embedded Software Engineer

Often asked for alongside

The share of postings naming Algorithms that also name each.

Industries

Where the postings naming it come from.

  • Banking & Financial Services11%
  • Enterprise Software & SaaS7%
  • Aerospace & Defense7%
  • Healthcare5%

Quick answers

Is Algorithms in demand?

Algorithms is named in 2% of tech job postings in the United States and Canada over the last 180 days, 664 postings, and required in 84% of those. Its share of postings has held steady since October 2023, comparing like with like.

Which jobs ask for Algorithms?

Software Engineer, Backend Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer and Full-Stack Engineer postings name it most often: 6% of Software Engineer postings, 4% of Backend Engineer postings, 4% of Machine Learning Engineer postings.

What skills go with Algorithms?

Postings that name Algorithms most often also name Data Structures & Algorithms, Distributed Systems, Python and Java.

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