Demand for overseas qualified tradespeople soar

Lack of Kiwi tradies sees demand for overseas qualified tradespeople soar

The shortage of skilled trades professionals in New Zealand has resulted in greater demand for overseas qualified tradespeople located in the country, says recruiting experts Hays.

Plumbers, Machine Operators and Carpenters are among the roles topping the Hays Quarterly Report of skills in demand for trades & labour for April to June 2015.

“New Zealand’s trades & labour jobs market is distinctly short of skilled trades professionals, with demand definitely outstripping supply,” says Jason Walker, Managing Director of Hays in New Zealand.
“This is perhaps most obvious for building and civil trades. While the market is very active, the progress of projects can be slowed due to the shortage of tradespeople.

“There are simply not enough Kiwis gaining a trade, and as a result a lot of local companies are forced to hire overseas qualified tradespeople who are onsite here. The majority of available candidates are here on working holiday visas.”

According to the recruiter, high demand exists in Auckland for Plumbers and Electricians, thanks to the city’s busy construction market. “Given the shortage of local candidates, employers are recruiting overseas qualified tradespeople in these areas,’ says Jason.

“We’re also seeing high demand for Machine Operators as Auckland expands to overcome the housing shortage. In addition, roading projects have created a huge shortage of Wheel Tracks & Rollers qualified Machine Operators. In particular demand are Excavator Operators and Drillers as these candidates have very unique skills.

“Class 4 and 5 Truck Drivers are also needed thanks to the high amount of civil works taking place in Auckland. Qualified Tip Truck and Moxy Drivers are needed however they can secure higher pay in Christchurch and Australia.

“Licensed Building Practitioner Carpenters are another area of demand. New subdivision projects have created high demand for qualified builders.”

Meanwhile, high demand exists for Registered Electricians who can lead projects and sign off work, and Registered Plumbers in Christchurch, says the recruiter. “However there is a shortage of people who are becoming registered, and those who are often expect a higher hourly rate,” says Jason.

“Qualified HVAC Technicians are also sought in Christchurch. There are not a lot of experienced technicians in the market, which has led to high demand.”

For the full list of skills in demand, please view our Hays Quarterly Report.

Hays, the world’s leading recruiting experts in qualified, professional and skilled people.

- Ends -

© Scoop Media