Trades Recruitment Market Commentary – December 2019
One of the biggest challenges we face at present is the number of roles available and the scarcity of good quality candidates across all commercial & industrial trades sectors. Candidates with a strong skills base could quite possibly find themselves with multiple options. One candidate we met with recently had four job offers from four individual companies over a seven day period. In this type of circumstance, competition for high demand talent can push up salaries. In general though, salaries are reasonably stable. With the current economic uncertainties, candidates are generally behaving more conservatively than they normally would and staying with their current employers.
Following are more specific observations of the key commercial & industrial trades markets which we operate in.
Electrical Trades
Electrical trades continue to be the most sought after trade in both Melbourne and Sydney – demand is very high for skilled electricians. The commercial market is strongest within the BMS, HVAC and security sectors. Salaries on offer continue to be steady after seeing slow consistent increases over the past year.
Mechanical Trades
We’ve had a surge in available roles for Mechanical Fitters and CNC Operators. Our problem is that high quality candidates appear to be reluctant to move roles this side of Christmas. We anticipate that once end of year shutdowns and maintenance programs have concluded, from late January to early February, we will see more candidates prepared to move roles. It could be a good time to apply for roles with us before this happens.
Field Service, Building Services & Mechanical Services
Demand for fire service personnel continues to be strong and we are constantly looking for good quality sprinkler fitters. Wages for this sector are holding their own and remain stable. Good quality candidates are in demand with the majority of roles on offer being permanent.