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This year, the key challenges in manufacturing will be attracting and retaining the best talent. To keep employees on board, organisations will need to increase the number of candidate engagement activities, promote workplace wellness, and help people manage the challenges of the rising cost of living.
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The manufacturing sector employs over 275,000 people in Ireland, which equates to more than 11% of overall employment and contributes over โฌ208 billion worth of export goods annually.
Nine of the worldโs top ten medical device companies have operations in Ireland, and their general manufacturing bases extend beyond the major cities, promoting regional development and providing significant economic growth across the island.
Ireland is not just a manufacturing hub for biopharmaceuticals, electronics, and medical technology; it is also a powerhouse for food manufacturers. Employers in this sector are cautiously hopeful about the current economic environment, compared to last year. The continued availability of talented people is critical for continued growth and, with Ireland currently nearing full employment, it is imperative for the industry to attract a consistent influx of talent from abroad.
Attracting and retaining talent, managing energy costs, and addressing the cost-of-living crisis are among the top issues facing the manufacturing industry in 2024. The manufacturing sector needs employees who have specific industry experience, including physical tooling skillsets, including welding and machining. There is also an increased demand for talent who understand transformational digital technologies, such as AI, automation, analytics, and robotics.
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โAs stated above, the manufacturing sector is experiencing a talent shortage, which is affecting many different areas of production.
Production roles with the greatest shortages include:
Operators
Quality Control (QA)
Process Technicians and Engineers
Welders and Fitters
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Entry-level qualifications for operator and quality roles vary, but candidates usually require a leaving certificate or equivalent, with 1-2 years of relevant experience at minimum.
Trade positions require relevant industry certificates and 1-2 years of relevant experience.
Prospective candidates are taking advantage of the skills shortage to push for more benefits. Many employers now provide the following:
Pension
Healthcare
Annual bonus
Further educational assistance
Benchmark salaries across different locations, industries, and areas of expertise
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Reach out to Cpl's Manufacturing Recruitment team for a consultation on how we can help you meet your talent needs for 2024 and beyond.