A Hays Quarterly Report has been released this week, showing employment trends in the mining sector from April – June, 2015.
The report has shown subdued hiring activity in the mining sector with continued cost cutting across the industry.
“In Western Australia there are some gold operations that are increasing their exploration activity and driving their production forwards, however the increase in activity in this sector is being balanced by jobs lost in iron ore,” the report stated.
“Temporary contracts remain more attractive to employers who are opting to try out candidates before offering permanent opportunities. This is a popular recruitment methodology when the pool of available candidates is perceived to be large.
“Ironically though, when companies are hiring permanent staff they are finding it challenging to attract staff away from their existing employers. Candidates need to be convinced that the role is stable before being lured by an attractive salary package.
“The number of candidates has increased but the skill sets of those available don’t always match up with the requirements of employers, especially when candidates have worked in a specific mine type throughout their career.”
The report outlined another trend being experienced as a result of the availability of candidates is a raised expectation from employers about the level of experience of the talent pool and the level of candidate that their vacancy can attract.
“In Queensland, we are seeing demand for candidates who can start work immediately on short-term contracts. This work will often then turn into ongoing contract work. Companies require candidates with current medicals and inductions who are ready to go on DIDO friendly rosters,” the report said.
“Due to the recent mass redundancies in South Australia, there has been an increase in skilled candidates with mining experience in the market.
Most of the candidates are using LinkedIn and previous employers to connect with their own networks to seek new opportunities.”
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