More than half (52%) of employers and recruiters plan to hire more professionals in the second half of 2010 than in the first, and a quarter report salaries for new hires are rising, according to a survey by Dice Holdings Inc.

Among those hiring, 49% said that they would hire 10% more employees in the second half of the year than in the first. Another 28% said they plan to increase hiring by 11% to 20%.

Also, 69% of respondents said they do not believe layoffs are likely at their companies within the next six months -- that compares to 61% in a previous survey released in November.

"Businesses seem to be gradually loosening their grip on the hiring process as the economy improves," said Dice President and CEO Scot Melland. "At the same time, professionals are more willing to jump ship right now. As the employment cycle strengthens, companies are likely to find it more challenging to keep their top talent."

Dice's survey took place from May 20 to May 24 and included nearly 800 respondents. Dice operates career Web sites for information technology, engineering, financial services and other professionals.