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Unlocking Opportunities: Life Science & Engineering Job Market Overview 2024
Unlocking Opportunities: Life Science & Engineering Job Market Overview 2024
Are you a professional seeking exciting opportunities in the thriving fields of Life Sciences and Engineering? As we step into 2024, the Life Science and Engineering sectors are buzzing with diverse opportunities and trends that could shape your career path.Life Science Sector in Ireland:Ireland's Life Science sector remains a beacon of innovation, covering pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, and healthcare. The country hosts several multinational companies engaged in cutting-edge research, development, and manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and medical products.Dive into roles such as bioprocess technicians, quality control analysts, regulatory affairs specialists, clinical research associates, and production managers. The sector thrives on research, innovation, and compliance with stringent regulatory standards.Current Trends and Challenges:1. Sustainability and Green Engineering: Both Life Science and Engineering sectors emphasise sustainable practices, valuing professionals with expertise in environmentally friendly technologies.2. Healthcare Innovation:The intersection of Life Sciences and Engineering is creating new frontiers in healthcare innovation, with a focus on developing medical devices and technologies to enhance patient care.3. Regulatory Compliance: Navigating evolving regulatory standards, especially in pharmaceuticals and medical devices, remains a key challenge and a crucial skill in demand.4. Biopharmaceuticals:There's a particular emphasis on the production and development of biologics and biosimilars, driving demand for specialists in this niche.5. Health and Safety: Both sectors prioritize health and safety, making professionals with expertise in occupational health and safety essential for securing work environments.Skills in Demand:Life Sciences: Bioprocessing, regulatory affairs, quality control, clinical research, and expertise in biopharmaceuticals.Engineering Sector: Pioneering the FutureIreland's Engineering job market spans various disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, chemical, and environmental engineering. Manufacturing, energy, and environmental sustainability contribute to the demand for engineering professionals.Explore roles like manufacturing engineers, process engineers, environmental engineers, and maintenance engineers. The sector is increasingly focused on sustainable engineering practices.Current Trends and Challenges:1. Sustainability and Green Engineering: A growing emphasis on sustainable practices, especially in industries beyond construction.2. Health and Safety: Continued prioritization of health and safety, particularly in manufacturing environments.Skills in Demand:Engineering: Depending on the field, skills may include project management, environmental impact assessment, manufacturing process optimization, and expertise in sustainable engineering practices.Salary Insights: Rewarding Your ExpertiseSalaries in the life science and engineering sectors in Ireland are often competitive, reflecting the importance of these industries to the country's economy. Salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, education, and the specific sub-sector or discipline. Professionals in roles such as research and development, regulatory affairs, quality control, and bioprocessing may command competitive salaries. Senior positions and roles requiring specialized expertise, such as in biopharmaceuticals, may attract higher compensation. Salaries for roles in health and safety, project management, and sustainable engineering practices can also be competitive. Salaries are expected to increase by around 3% to keep pace with inflation. However, highly sought-after professionals may witness salary rises of up to 10 to 15%.The Rise of Remote Work: A Paradigm ShiftCompanies have tightened up on remote working but still offer some flexibility where possible. Some companies have returned to fully on-site models but are struggling to attract and retain talent on that basis. 90% of candidates expect the option to work from home at least 1-2 days a week (unless the particular position does not allow for that) and if the same position presented itself but one was fully on-site, the candidate would choose to apply for the company offering the hybrid approach.Contractor OpportunitiesDue to economic uncertainty, we've seen an increase in demand for contractors in 2023 and this trend is set to continue into 2024 as employers prefer the flexibility of a contingent workforce. Skill gaps and demand for talent are important factors in the increase in demand also with companies looking to contractors to fill gaps in their teams in tandem with permanent positions - another trend we foresee continuing throughout 2024.It is no longer just large organisations leaning on contractors. SMEs are also now tapping into the contractor talent pool as a way of supplementing their workforce- especially now that permanent salaries are catching up with contractor hourly rates due to market inflation.In terms of skills, we foresee an increase in demand of contract roles across QA/QC, Regulatory Affairs, Validation, Automation & Control, Commissioning & Decommissioning and Manufacturing. Contractors are brought in to address specific manufacturing challenges, improve efficiency, implement new processes, ensure processes meet industry standards, assess, and improve quality systems, conduct audits or to assist with compliance and navigate regulatory processes.As a result of the increase in demand, contract rates have been on the rise and will continue to increase in 2024. It is now common practice for a contractor to ask and receive rate increases when their contracts are up for renewal. Recruitment and retention therefore remain high priorities for companies using contractors.With organisations now comfortable with remote work arrangements, the market has opened up to all areas of Ireland and further afield. A big trend is seeing Contractors based in the regions now being able to work for the large organisations in the cities and even in other countries. Therefore, rates in the regional areas of Ireland are now catching up with those of the main cities.The Life Science and Engineering job markets in 2024 present abundant opportunities for skilled scientists, engineers, and specialists. For help with your job search contact technical@sigmar.ie.
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Future-Proofing Your Career: In-Demand Skills & Salary Trends in the Irish Financial Sector
Future-Proofing Your Career: In-Demand Skills & Salary Trends in the Irish Financial Sector
The financial services sector in Ireland has seen a mixed picture in 2023. While overall employment growth had slowed compared to 2022, there have been pockets of strong demand for certain skills and roles.Key TrendsSkills Shortage: There is a shortage of skilled talent across the market, particularly at the supervisor, assistant manager, and manager levels. This has led to companies moving quickly to secure top talent and has increased the prevalence of counteroffers.Central Bank Guidelines: The Central Bank's new guidelines have increased demand for candidates with experience in compliance and risk. There is a particular demand for candidates at a more senior level in PCF-approved positions.Sought-After Talent: The most sought-after talent in 2023 has been in the following areas:Private equityDepositaryCompliance & riskPension administratorsFinancial advisorsSustainability/ESGInsurance Market Growth: The insurance market has continued to grow in 2023, with a number of institutions setting up new functions or growing existing ones in Ireland. This has led to a high demand for candidates in areas such as claims, commercial account executives, underwriting, and loss adjusting.Legal Market Strength: The legal industry remains strong, with a demand for skilled legal professionals across a range of sectors. The most in-demand legal roles include legal counsel, corporate lawyers, company secretaries, funds lawyers, and DPOs.Salary TrendsIncreasing Salaries: The increase in demand for candidates and the shortage of skills have led to rising salaries across the financial services sector. Counteroffers are also becoming more common as companies compete to retain their staff.Faster Hiring Processes: The time it takes to hire a qualified candidate has shortened as candidates have more opportunities available to them. Companies that can move quickly through the hiring process are more likely to secure top talent.Shift Back to In-Person Interviews: There has been a shift back to in-person interviews, which can provide a better candidate experience and increase buy-in from candidates.Advice for JobseekersStay up-to-date on the latest skills and trends: The financial services sector is constantly evolving, so it is important for jobseekers to stay up-to-date on the latest skills and trends. This can be done by attending industry events, reading industry publications, and taking online courses.Network with people in the industry: Networking is essential for jobseekers in the financial services sector. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn.Be prepared to negotiate your salary: With the increase in demand for candidates, jobseekers are in a stronger position to negotiate their salaries. Be prepared to do your research and understand your worth in the market.
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IT Jobs Market 2024: Capitalising on Ireland's Thriving Tech Landscape
IT Jobs Market 2024: Capitalising on Ireland's Thriving Tech Landscape
Ireland's IT job market in 2024 is a dynamic landscape, reflecting the country's status as a global tech hub. With over 106,000 people employed in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry, Ireland boasts a robust ecosystem hosting 16 of the top 20 global tech companies, including the top 3 enterprise software providers with their headquarters located here.Investment and Employment Trends:The momentum in Ireland's IT sector continues to surge, with 139 investments secured in the first half of 2023. These investments are expected to generate over 12,000 jobs in 2024, aligning with the consistent strong investment flows seen since 2015. Notably, 48% of these investments have been approved for regional locations, showcasing a commitment to spreading the benefits of the tech boom across the country.Innovation and Talent Pipeline:Ireland's commitment to Research, Development, and Innovation (RD&I) is evident in the 25 projects initiated in 2023, surpassing the previous year's achievements. The focus on sustainability projects and transformative investments reflects a shift in client priorities. Ireland maintains one of Europe's strongest talent pipelines for STEM, aided by extensive government support and investment in skills programs.Areas of Skill Demand:Persistent skills shortages persist due to intense competition, creating challenges for employers. Key areas of demand include software engineering (DevOps, Java, Python, .NET, React, and Angular Js), Site Reliability Engineers, DevSecOps, Information Security, Cloud Engineers, Business Analysts, Project/Program Managers, Quality Assurance (QA) professionals, and roles in Data Engineering and Data Science. The move toward automated processes also fuels demand for Software Development Engineers in Test (SDET) and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) roles.Executive-Level Positions:Ireland's substantial talent pool extends to executive-level positions, with high demand for Software Engineering Managers to Chief Technology Officers (CTOs). The influx of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) entrants sustains this demand.Salaries and Competitive Packages:In a competitive talent market, salaries have increased but stabilized. Companies are enhancing benefits packages, with a significant focus on healthcare, pensions, and bonuses. The use of sign-on bonuses has emerged as a strategy to attract and retain top talent, reflecting the ongoing battle for skilled professionals. Employers are increasingly mindful of individualized employee experiences in areas such as collaboration, cultural equity, and employee well-being.Demand for Remote Work:The IT job market reflects a new era of flexible working arrangements, with companies prioritizing employee well-being and satisfaction. The term "hybrid" has given way to a more adaptable approach, responding to the needs and preferences of both employers and employees. Companies are recognizing the importance of flexibility in recruitment and retention strategies.Contractors in High Demand:Contract roles in Cloud, Data, and Software Development are experiencing increased demand, with both large organisations and SMEs tapping into the contractor talent pool. Permanent salaries now rival contractor daily rates due to market inflation, prompting businesses to use contractors to supplement their workforce. Outsourced IT functions are on the rise, particularly for commercially focused IT positions and infrastructure support. The acceptance of remote work arrangements has further opened up opportunities for contractors across different regions in Ireland.As Ireland's IT job market evolves in 2024, the key to success for both employers and employees lies in adaptability. The continued influx of investments, focus on innovation, and the demand for diverse skill sets position Ireland as a vibrant hub for technology professionals. Employers must navigate the competitive landscape by offering attractive packages and prioritizing employee experiences, while professionals can explore a wealth of opportunities in a market that values flexibility, innovation, and expertise.
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Signs of Recruitment Fraud
Signs of Recruitment Fraud
Sigmar Recruitment are issuing a warning to job seekers about scammers who are pretending to be Sigmar consultants. These scammers are using a variety of methods to contact potential victims, including social media, email, and text message.Here are some signs of recruitment fraud that we are asking job seekers to be aware of:Asking for money: Legitimate employers and hiring managers do not require an application fee or expect you to pay for training.Upfront requests for sensitive information: Sensitive information (like your PPS number, date of birth, or bank account information) should never be a part of the early recruitment process.Fraudulent use of company information: Scammers can be quite adept at producing convincing communication, even using (without authorization) the name and logo of a well-known company. Generic company email addresses: Sigmar recruiters will only contact you via email or LinkedIn. They do not use their personal Facebook or Instagram accounts to promote jobs or contact candidates. That said, it’s all too easy for scammers to create an email or social media post that looks legitimate. When in doubt, don’t respond. Instead, go directly to the company’s website and check their page.Only using texts and online chats: Some recruitment scams have migrated to texts or online chats such as WhatsApp. Sigmar will never contact you first on WhatsApp. Initial outreach will always be through LinkedIn or official Sigmar phone numbers and email addresses.If it seems too good to be true: If a company is fast-tracking you, contacting you within an hour of applying, and doesn't require an interview or checking references, it's probably a scam.Sigmar Recruitment are asking job seekers to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity. If you are unsure whether or not a job posting is legitimate, you can contact Sigmar directly to verify.Here are some additional tips to protect yourself from recruitment fraud:Do your research on the company before applying.Be suspicious of any job posting that requires you to pay money or provide personal information upfront.Do not click on links or open attachments in emails from unknown senders.Be wary of job postings or salaries that seem too good to be true.Trust your gut! If you feel something isn't right, it probably isn't.Sigmar Recruitment is committed to providing a safe and positive job search experience for all job seekers. By being aware of the signs of recruitment fraud and taking steps to protect yourself, you can help to ensure that your job search is a success.If you see suspicious posts or get questionable messages, don't engage. Please block the scammer, flag the message as spam, and report.
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Fintech skills in demand
Fintech skills in demand
The fintech industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, and the demand for skilled professionals is high. As fintech companies continue to innovate and develop new products and services, they need employees with a variety of skills, including:Technical skills: Fintech companies need employees with strong technical skills, such as software development, data science, and cybersecurity. These skills are essential for developing and maintaining fintech products and services.Financial skills: Fintech companies also need employees with strong financial skills, such as accounting, finance, and risk management. These skills are essential for understanding and managing the financial aspects of fintech products and services.Business skills: Fintech companies also need employees with strong business skills, such as marketing, sales, and customer service. These skills are essential for promoting and selling fintech products and services, as well as providing excellent customer support.Here are some of the most in-demand fintech skills currently:Software development: Fintech companies need software developers to build and maintain their products and services. Popular programming languages for fintech include Python, Java, and JavaScript.Data science: Fintech companies use data to make better decisions about their products and services, and data scientists are responsible for collecting, analysing, and interpreting data.Cybersecurity: Fintech companies need to protect their customers' data from cyberattacks, and cybersecurity professionals are responsible for developing and implementing security measures.Blockchain: Blockchain is a new technology that is being used to develop new financial products and services. Fintech companies need employees with expertise in blockchain technology.Artificial intelligence (AI): AI is another new technology that is being used to develop new financial products and services, meaning this is also a skill in demand.In addition to these technical skills, fintech companies also need employees with strong soft skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.If you are interested in a career in fintech, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success:Get the right education and experience. There are many different educational paths that can lead to a career in fintech. Some people choose to get a bachelor's degree in fintech, while others get a degree in business administration or another related field. You can also gain experience in fintech through internships and volunteer work.Network with people in the field. Networking is a great way to learn about job openings and meet people who can help you get your foot in the door. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn.Stay up to date on the latest fintech trends and best practices. This shows employers that you're passionate about the field and that you're committed to professional development.Be able to articulate your skills and experience concisely. This is important for both your resume and cover letter, as well as during interviews.Be enthusiastic and positive. This will make a good impression on potential employers and show them that you're excited about the possibility of working for their company.Here are some of our current roles within the FinTech industry:Finance Manager - FintechSalary: €75,000 - 85,000Location: South DublinFinancial Controller – FintechSalary: €75,000 - 80,000Location: Dublin City CentreNewly Qualified Accountant- FintechSalary: €60,000 - 65,000Location: Dublin
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In-Demand Business Support & Customer Service Skills
In-Demand Business Support & Customer Service Skills
As companies work hard to stay competitive and provide exceptional experiences to their clients, the need for skilled staff in business support and customer service keeps growing. In this article, we'll look at the important skills businesses are looking for.1. Great CommunicationWhether you're talking or writing, it's vital to be clear. Nowadays, good communication also means being good with digital tools. Employers want people who can talk professionally with colleagues, clients, and customers, making sure everyone gets the right information.Top Tip for interviews: Prepare examples that highlight your proficiency in clear and effective communication. Share instances where you successfully conveyed complex information to non-technical stakeholders. 2. Problem Solving AcumenIn the world of business, problems come up all the time. The ability to think on your feet and adapt to unforeseen circumstances showcases your commitment to delivering results.Top Tip for Interviews: Prepare specific anecdotes showcasing your problem-solving skills. Describe situations where you identified a challenge, analysed options, and implemented a successful solution. 3. Technological ProficiencyFamiliarity with various software, tools, and platforms can significantly enhance your employability. Things like customer relationship systems, project management tools, and data analysis software are just a few examples of technologies that are becoming increasingly integral to business operations. Embracing technology shows you're ready to work in a modern business.Top Tip for your C.V: List the software, applications, and tools you are proficient in on your C.V. Make sure to also include any certifications or trainings related to these technologies on your LinkedIn profile. 4. Adaptability and FlexibilityThe Irish business landscape is always changing, which is why being flexible is so important. Companies want people who can handle change, learn fast, and switch things up when they need to. Being open to new challenges and being willing to upskill can set you apart in a competitive job market.Top tip for your C.V.: On your CV, talk about times when you changed and helped your team or company grow. For interviews, give examples of when you tried new things or took on jobs that weren't easy for you. Show your ability to thrive in dynamic environments. 5. Speaking Other LanguagesIreland’s strategic position in the European Union has led to an influx of international businesses and customers. If you know languages like Spanish, French, or German, this can be a significant advantage. It means you can talk to more people and understand more clients Multilingualism showcases your cultural awareness and ability to engage with a diverse audience.Top Tip for your C.V: Include a section that highlights your language proficiencies and any experiences where you effectively used them in a professional setting. 6. Being Kind and Focused on CustomersFor jobs where you help customers, being kind is important. If you know what customers want and care about their problems, they'll like your company more. Companies value candidates who prioritize customer-centricity, as it directly impacts customer satisfaction and long-term success.Top Tip for Interviews: Share stories of how your empathy positively influenced customer interactions, leading to enhanced customer satisfaction and/or conflict resolution.7. Time Management and OrganisationKnowing how to use your time well and organise things can make you get more done. From arranging meetings to handling administrative responsibilities, these skills demonstrate your capability to juggle multiple priorities and meet deadlines consistently.Top Tip for interviews: Provide examples of how your strong time management skills helped you meet tight deadlines or manage multiple projects simultaneously. As the business world in Ireland keeps changing, the demand for proficient business support and customer service professionals remains steady. Cultivating these in-demand skills not only increases your employability but also positions you as an asset to your employer. Whether you're already experienced or just starting out, getting good at these skills can help you find great jobs and help Irish businesses grow, even when they're competing with companies from all around the world. At Sigmar, we're committed to connecting top talent with businesses seeking excellence in business support and customer service. Get in touch to explore how we can help you thrive in these exciting fields. Email your cv to hello@sigmar.ie or check out current jobs here
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The Impact of The Pay Transparency Directive
The Impact of The Pay Transparency Directive
With a focus on promoting equality and fairness in the workplace, the European Union has passed the Pay Transparency Directive, which aims to increase the transparency around salaries and existing pay gaps. The directive has significant implications for employers and job seekers alike. Here, we explore the upcoming changes and their potential effects on the employment landscape in Europe.Pay Transparency: Lessons from Finland and the United StatesFinland, known for its unique tradition of ‘National Jealousy Day’, publishes the taxable income of all its citizens on November 1st each year. This annual event is described as an “orgy of financial voyeurism”, which highlights the country’s commitment to transparency. Interestingly, the EU Pay Transparency Directive aligns with Finland’s approach by advocating for greater openness regarding income information.While Finland have been early advocates of pay transparency, the United States has also taken significant strides in this area. Since 2018, various states in the US, including Massachusetts, have implemented equal pay acts that prohibit companies from asking prospective employees about their current salaries. This approach has resulted in companies focusing on offering fair compensation for the role being advertised rather than relying on a candidate’s previous earnings.The Impact of Pay TransparencyOne of the key outcomes of pay transparency is the potential to address pay inequalities. By providing clear salary information, companies can attract more qualified candidates and promote greater equity in compensation. Studies have shown that job advertisements with salary details receive between 20-30% more quality applications, leading to improved hiring outcomes. The EU Pay Transparency Directive requires organisations with more than 250 workers to disclose pay information as part of the recruitment process. This means that candidates will no longer be asked about their current pay to determine job offers. Moreover, employers must provide workers with information on the criteria used to determine pay and pay progression. These measures aim to establish more objective standards for compensation and reduce the influence of previous salaries on job offers. Mike McDonagh, COO of Sigmar Recruitment comments, 'What it's actually done, or what it seems to have done with organisations is that they're now starting to pay people for the role that they're going for, rather than paying people for the role that they had.”Learning from the United States, where pay transparency laws are already in place in several states, organizations may be required to disclose pay bands for different roles and levels. This allows for greater clarity and transparency regarding what individuals should expect in terms of compensation for specific roles, skills, and experience. While the extent of public disclosure remains uncertain, the U.S experience suggests that companies may need to share pay bands or salary ranges, offering a clearer understanding of remuneration across organizations and roles.Benefits and ChallengesThe Pay Transparency Directive brings both benefits and challenges. Greater transparency can lead to increased trust among employees, as they have a better understanding of their worth and how it compares to others in similar roles. It can also contribute to narrowing the gender pay gap and addressing pay disparities for individuals from minority groups.However, challenges may arise. Some organisations may resist sharing detailed pay information due to concerns about internal discrepancies or potential negative reactions from current employees. Companies must find a balance between transparency and maintaining competitiveness. It will be crucial to implement pay transparency in a manner that encourages fairness while considering the unique dynamics and needs of each organisation.What’s Next?As the EU Transparency Directive takes place, the employment landscape in Europe will undergo significant changes. The move towards increased pay transparency aligns with global efforts to address pay inequalities and foster more equitable workplaces. By providing candidates with greater salary clarity, organisations can attract qualified talent, enhance retention rates, and promote fairness in competition.While challenges and concerns may arise during the implementation process, transparency can ultimately lead to a stronger, more inclusive work environment. As organizations can adapt to these new regulations, they must prioritise effective communication, skill acquisition, and employee well-being. By embracing pay transparency and its potential benefits, Europe takes a significant step forward building a more equitable and progressive workforce.
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Adie McGennis Wins Lifetime Achievement Award
Adie McGennis Wins Lifetime Achievement Award
We are delighted to announce that our founder and CEO, Adie McGennis has been recognised for his remarkable career, personal and professional standing, and in particular his achievements over his twenty-year tenure as Sigmar’s CEO. On Friday at the Employment & Recruitment Federation Awards, hosted at The Shelbourne Hotel, Adie was presented with the James Kilbane Lifetime Achievement Award. Our Sales & Marketing team were also the winners of the “Best in Practice – Sales & Marketing Recruitment” award on the night. Beginning his career in recruitment in the 90s with Interstaff Recruitment after a brief stint in London, within a few short years, Adie became Managing Director of Marlborough Recruitment. It went on to become the largest recruitment agency in Ireland and the first Irish professional services company to be listed on the stock exchange. In 2002, he left to help set up Sigmar Recruitment and since then, Adie has built Sigmar into a thriving, global company that has won over 60 awards. Adie is the ultimate servant leader; humble and sincere, measuring himself by the leaders he creates and not by his own achievements. His ethos has undoubtedly shaped Sigmar’s culture and purpose. Commenting on Adie’s achievement, Frank Farrelly, COO of Sigmar Recruitment said:“I am absolutely delighted that Adie has been recognised by the Employment & Recruitment Federation. Adie is one of the most recognizable and well-liked recruitment professionals in Ireland. In a career spanning over 30 years, he has made numerous lifelong friends and he has been one of the most collaborative and helpful people to many in the industry be they colleagues, competitors or members of the ERF. He truly embodies the spirit of this award and I am delighted to see him being awarded by his peers. Through Adie’s leadership, values, and entrepreneurial spirit, Sigmar has continued to grow and evolve as a business and will continue to do so! Thank you Adie, for all that you have done! Huge congratulations on behalf of all team Sigmar!” Find out more about Sigmar’s story here. Find out more about the Employment & Recruitment Federation Awards here.