Eight in ten (81%) recruiters say hiring Linux talent is a priority in 2012.

Dice Holdings and The Linux Foundation today are releasing the first-ever Linux Jobs Report. The 2012 Linux Jobs Report is the result of a survey of more than 2300 hiring managers and reveals that Linux talent is in higher demand than ever and that people who know Linux are garnering bigger salaries and bonuses, as well as better perks than their colleagues in other skills areas. Key highlights from the report include:

• Eight in ten (81%) recruiters say hiring Linux talent is a priority in 2012.
• Managers report they’re hiring more Linux professionals relative to other skill areas in the next six months.
• Linux professionals are hard to find, garnering higher salaries and better bonuses.
• Employers are seeking mostly mid-level developers and systems administrators.

Key statistics are illustrated in the following infographic, and a news report from The Wall Street Journal titled “Linux Popularity Sparks Salary Jump”.