Engineering under the spotlight...
There's a real mixed bag of demand and vacancy numbers across the sector
HSQE Engineers
Signaling Engineers
BIM modellers/ technicians
P-Way Engineers
Engineering vacancy numbers
November, December, January, July, October 2023 by percentage difference July - October
The data shows:
BIM is resurging once more, which comes as little surprise, given the delays stemming from a shortage of design personnel in the market. One way to address this gap is to explore adjacent sectors where transferable skills can be leveraged and attract design professionals into the continuously thriving rail sector. Emphasising the opportunities of working on complex and impactful projects where technological advancements and career opportunities abound in well written job adverts will help attract skilled candidates from other sectors.
So what?
Although there has been a minor dip in demand for HSQE Engineers, the need within the market remains substantial. We understand that safety remains a paramount concern in all rail projects.
Design Engineer numbers in decline!
Where have all the design engineers and digital engineering professionals gone?
Due to project delays, particularly concerning HS2, there has been a noticeable pattern where companies are releasing highly skilled professionals from both temporary and full-time positions.
Is this an ongoing trend?
With recent positive developments in Parliament, including the endorsed funding for projects like Northern PowerHouse Rail, EastWest Rail, and Transpennine Route Upgrade, we anticipate a surge in station development activities.
As a result, there will likely be an increase in job opportunities for roles related to CAD, BIM, Mechanical, Electrical, and other Building Services designs in the latter part of this year, with a more significant upswing projected for 2024 and beyond.
Furthermore, the ongoing planning and design for three major stations in HS2 also contribute to this temporary slowdown being only a fleeting setback.
- We've been involved in all major rail projects for 15+ years, from HS1 to Crossrail
- We facilitate the transition of engineers from consultancy positions to end client roles with organisations like Network Rail, TFL, HS2 Ltd, and many others
Our most significant achievements stem from clients who have become strategic partners with Matchtech, collaborating on tailored talent attraction plans that precisely cater to their requirements.