Hays Energy - July 2010
Hotspots
Investment into the existing network and Government funding for the roll-out of the new broadband has created demand for Line Mechanics, Cable Jointers, Glove and Barrier Mechanics, HV Electrical Fitters, Supervisors and Distribution Managers. PILON cable layers for fibre optic broadband are also in demand.
The coming quarter
Cautious optimism best describes New Zealand's energy recruiting market. Many companies are backfilling vacancies, in part due to the loss of key personnel to other industries and as a result of the global demand for their skills.
Employer trends
Retention is a focus for many employers at present in response to the market's improvement. Counter offers and salary increases are also emerging once more as retention tools, although employers are reluctant to go outside national set salaries.
Some companies are looking not just at local candidates, but also national and overseas candidates in order to secure the top talent. They are offering more training and investment via apprenticeships, but is this too little too late?
They are also utilising temporary assignments for short-term needs and in recognition of the greater flexibility they offer to offset the shortage of key skills.
Candidate trends
Candidates are increasingly interested in national roles, and we attract interest from candidates looking to relocate. Overall, candidate levels are constant, although there has been an increase in candidates coming into the local market from India, the Philippines, South Africa and the UK.
