Top 5 IT Recruitment Agencies in Estonia

Meri Sargsyan

Last updated on July 2, 2024 | 25 min read

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In the midst of Europe, Estonia is quickly becoming a center for information technology (IT) innovation and skilled professionals. Recognized for its digital infrastructure, forward-thinking, tech-savvy population, and favorable business environment, Estonia is strengthening its position as a top choice for IT companies and professionals.

Despite being outside the 50 largest cities in Europe or the European Union, the capital city of Tallinn, with a population of approximately 450,000, is a prominent startup hub in the region, according to EU-Startups.

The 2023 Global Startup Ecosystem (GSE) Report spotlights Estonia’s significant role in the global tech scene. Estonia has risen 28 positions to claim the 10th rank among emerging ecosystems, making it the third fastest-growing tech hub, only behind Turkey and Spain.

In this article, we present the top 5 IT recruitment agencies in Estonia, known for their expertise, extensive networks, and successful track records in connecting top talent with leading companies. Whether you are a company seeking to strengthen your team or a professional searching for the next career opportunity, these agencies are well-equipped to fulfill your needs.

Top IT Recruitment Agencies in Estonia

As for the top three picks, we have selected the following companies:

1. DevsData LLC – Top Pick: Best overall
2. Brainy: Best for enterprise
3. TalentHub Recruitment: Best for startups

1. DevsData LLC – Top Pick: Best overall

   Company size: ~60 employees
   Established year: 2016
   Website: www.devsdata.com
   Pricing model: Success fee

   

   DevsData LLC, a prominent IT recruitment firm based in Estonia, has built a strong reputation over the past 8 years by specializing in tech recruitment. With a track record of connecting skilled professionals with suitable job opportunities that match their expertise and career goals.

   What distinguishes DevsData LLC is its ability to collaborate with a wide range of global enterprises, including startups from various countries, such as the US, Poland, Israel, and Germany. Authorized by the government to offer recruitment and staffing services, DevsData LLC is a trusted partner in the IT recruitment sector. The company is diverse with skilled team members from the US, ensuring a broad understanding of global market needs.

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   DevsData LLC also provides legal assistance to businesses entering the Estonian market by offering guidance on contract establishment. Its smaller scale allows it to operate with lower overhead costs compared to larger firms. This efficiency enables competitive pricing for clients while maintaining high service standards and the quality of recommended candidates.

   The firm has received multiple awards, including:

   • 5 stars on Clutch
   • Top Company (Top HR Recruiting company 2023)
   • Top HR Staffing company

   

   DevsData LLC uses a success-based pricing model and boasts a database of over 65,000 pre-vetted candidates. The estimated time to fill a position is less than 10 days, and new recruits are guaranteed a probation period.

   Clients choose DevsData LLC because it is a recruitment partner combining global reach, rigorous screening processes, and personalized service to meet all IT staffing needs in Estonia.

   Contact the company via [email protected] or visit its website at www.devsdata.com.

   Address:
   DevsData IT Talent Estonia
   Hobujaama 4, 10151
   Tallinn, Estonia
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2. Brainy: Best for enterprise

   Company size: ~130 employees
   Established year: 1998
   Website: https://brainyagency.com/

   

   Brainy, headquartered in Tallinn, is a recruitment agency focused on finding IT professionals for local and international companies. It offers efficient and effective search and selection services. Specializing exclusively in IT recruitment, Brainy’s expertise ensures it finds suitable candidates for businesses. No upfront fees are charged; payment is only required once results are delivered.

   The first set of candidates is presented within 7 days, providing timely hiring solutions. They offer a free replacement guarantee for employees who do not meet expectations. They strive to deliver highly qualified candidates using an extensive database and advanced recruitment methods. Active in the European IT market since 2019, they possess the knowledge and experience necessary for effective recruitment.

3. TalentHub Recruitment: Best for startups

   Company size: ~15 employees
   Established year: 2019
   Website: https://talenthub.ee/en/

   

   TalentHub is an Estonian-based recruitment agency dedicated to accelerating the growth of venture-backed teams. Since 2019, they have collaborated with numerous local and global clients who are making a significant impact, successfully placing hundreds of candidates. TalentHub offers a personalized recruitment approach tailored to the specific needs of their partners.

   Do you have IT recruitment needs?

   🎧 Schedule a meeting

   Founders Käthe-Riin Tull and Reet Kaurit, drawing from their own experiences with recruitment agencies, established TalentHub to prioritize quality in the recruitment process. They believe that the needs of candidates and interviewers should be equally considered, ensuring a successful outcome for all parties involved.

4. CVO Recruitment: Best for international recruitment

   Company size: ~10 employees
   Established year: 2000
   Website: https://cvo.ee/

   

   CVO Recruitment provides executive search, recruitment, and staffing services in the Baltics. Operating in Estonia since 2000, they have helped thousands of people advance in their careers and supported numerous companies in starting or developing their activities. They are part of the Gi Group Holding HR ecosystem, a global organization delivering services to support the evolution of the labor market. With extensive experience, CVO Recruitment offers recruitment solutions that connect talented individuals with suitable opportunities. Their partners include local, international, and global organizations.

   To support the sustainability and international competitiveness of their customers, they have created a global network of candidates, enabling them to carry out projects worldwide. The professional team at CVO Recruitment is dedicated to creating value and results, working across various industries and sectors to supply Estonian and foreign companies with professionals at all levels.

5. Bonsay Technologies: Best for executive search

   Company size: ~15 employees
   Established year: 2021
   Website: https://bonsaytech.com

   

   Bonsay is an IT Services and IT Consulting provider that assists in hiring skilled software engineers for tech projects. With over 3 years of experience, Bonsay has built strong teams capable of handling complex and large-scale projects in IT and services, government, logistics, and FinTech.

   Bonsay collaborates with industry professionals and organizations worldwide, ensuring a smooth process, timely delivery, high-quality products, and meaningful outcomes.

   Their method for finding top software developers includes searching for senior engineers experienced in challenging sectors like finance and government, evaluating their teamwork, communication, responsibility, and positivity, watching them solve real problems in real time, and assessing their technical knowledge and qualities such as curiosity and grit. Only candidates who pass all four steps are shortlisted, ensuring a perfect match for the client’s needs.

Interesting to know

Estimated salary range for IT personnel in Estonia

In Estonia, the average monthly compensation across all sectors is approximately €1,400. High income is considered to be between €2,000 and €2,500 before taxes. Software developers are among the highest-paid professionals due to the country’s well-established IT sector and the high demand for tech workers.

Here are some estimated salaries based on the reports:

How to compensate employees in Estonia and which employer of record (EoR) to utilize?

It is essential to properly compensate Estonian employees while abiding by local regulations. One effective approach is to engage an employer of record (EoR) service.
Here are some EoR firms that can assist with compliant payment processes and help navigate Estonia’s employment laws:

• DevsData LLC
• Oyster HR
• Deel
• Plane
• Remote

Utilizing an EoR service ensures adherence to local laws and simplifies managing payroll, taxes, and benefits for your Estonian employees.

It’s important to mention that our top-pick IT staffing agency, as an EoR service provider, DevsData LLC, manages employment regulations, payroll, and HR responsibilities for businesses. This enables companies to establish operations in Poland without creating a separate legal entity while ensuring compliance with local labor laws.

When compensating Estonian employees, you may also consider international payment methods. Here are a few reliable options:

• Wise (formerly TransferWise) is well-regarded for its low fees and fair exchange rates.
• PayPal is a practical choice for both businesses and individuals, although its fees can be higher.
• Payoneer is a popular option among freelancers and companies, offering accounts that support multiple currencies.

Time zone differences

It’s important to be aware of time zone differences when making international calls, especially with the rise of remote work and global collaborations. Estonia is in the Eastern European Time (EET) zone, which is typically 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) in the U.S. and 10 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time (PST).

This image illustrates the precise time differences between Tallin, Estonia, and several major cities around the world. You can explore additional insights here.

How to call Estonia from the US?

Follow the dialing format provided below when calling Estonia from the United States:

• Dial 011, the exit code for the United States, required for making any international call.
• Enter 372, the ISD code or country code for Estonia.
• Include the area code for the city in Estonia you are calling. Estonia has 28 area codes. If an area code is needed, dial it after the ISD code. If no area code is required, simply dial the recipient’s telephone number after the ISD code.

The complete format is: 011 + 372 + area code + local phone number.

Estonia’s education system and prominent technical universities

Estonia’s education system is highly regarded for its focus on innovation, digital literacy, and effective teaching. The system comprises different levels:

Pre-primary education

This phase caters to children aged 18 months to 7 years and is designed to develop basic skills and social behavior.

Basic education

Compulsory education begins at age 7 and spans 9 years, covering grades 1 to 9. The curriculum encompasses various subjects such as languages, mathematics, science, and physical education.

Secondary education

This level includes general secondary education (gymnasium) and vocational education and training (VET). General secondary education lasts for 3 years and prepares students for higher education. VET varies in duration and equips students for specific trades or professions.

Higher education

Estonia is home to a variety of higher education institutions, including universities, colleges, and professional higher education institutions. The higher education system follows the Bologna Process, offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

Top technical universities in Estonia

Estonia is home to several esteemed technical universities renowned for their educational excellence and research. Here are some of the top technical universities in Estonia:

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) (~15,000 enrolled students)

TalTech is Estonia’s premier technical university, offering diverse engineering, technology, information technology, and business programs. It is known for its strong emphasis on innovation, research, and industry collaboration.

University of Tartu (~14,000 enrolled students)

While primarily recognized for its strengths in humanities and natural sciences, the University of Tartu also provides exceptional programs in computer science, engineering, and information technology. It is one of Estonia’s oldest and most prestigious universities.

Estonian University of Life Sciences (Eesti Maaülikool) (~5000 enrolled students)

Estonian University of Life Sciences specializes in agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, and related fields. It is renowned for its research and education in sustainable development and life sciences.

Estonia’s dedication to education and its leading technical universities make it an appealing choice for students seeking high-quality education in STEM fields.

Conclusion

Estonia is an attractive hub for hiring IT talent because of its robust tech ecosystem, culture of innovation, and high quality of life. The presence of global tech giants and a thriving startup community enhances Estonia’s appeal for tech professionals, positioning it as a leading destination for tech talent in Europe.

Businesses seeking to navigate the competitive Estonian market and attract top tech talent can benefit from partnering with reputable recruitment firms such as DevsData LLC.

With a local office in Tallinn, DevsData LLC specializes in providing legal and tax advisory services, as well as business process outsourcing (BPO) services. The company is known for its stringent interview process for tech talent, which includes a challenging 90-minute session with a software expert and a complex problem-solving task.

DevsData LLC tailors its processes to suit the specific needs of each client, ensuring exceptional service and personalized solutions for startups as well as large corporations. Despite being a smaller firm, DevsData LLC has extensive experience with corporate clients and maintains high service standards through a rigorous recruitment process and a network of 65,000 developers, guaranteeing access to top-tier talent tailored to individual client needs.

Here’s an example of a successful case study from DevsData LLC: A cryptocurrency exchange client had high expectations for their engineering team, seeking expertise in algorithms and problem-solving from the financial sector.

DevsData responded by assigning three dedicated recruiters and launching a multichannel sourcing campaign using platforms like job boards and LinkedIn, alongside international headhunting efforts across Asia, Europe, and the US.

They refined their recruitment process with stages including initial qualifications, coding challenges, soft-skills assessments, technical interviews, and client evaluations.

Initially planning to hire one programmer, the client expanded to hiring four and established a local engineering branch, impressed by DevsData’s ability to deliver top-tier talent. This strategic approach not only met immediate needs but also positioned the client for sustained success in the competitive cryptocurrency market.

To learn more or get in touch with them, you can contact DevsData LLC at [email protected] or visit their website at www.devsdata.com.

Address:
DevsData IT Talent Estonia
Hobujaama 4, 10151
Tallinn, Estonia
[email protected]Copy Email

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Meri Sargsyan Copywriter and Marketer

An experienced content writer with a keen interest in technology. She creates content that speaks directly to tech enthusiasts.

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