TORONTO – Optimism for 2014 remains high in the Canadian resources and mining sector even though 2013 saw a drastic downturn in business and hiring activity, accord to Hays Canada's 2014 Salary Guide.
Hays collected data from more than 150 employers in November 2013. Although 11% originally forecast a dip in business activity, fully 42% experienced one. The effect was seen an a decrease in permanent positions.
The analysis points toward renewed optimism for 2014. Almost half (45%) of the resource and mining sector expects business activity to increase in 2014. A quarter (25%) expect to add permanent staff, and 51% expect staff levels to stay the same.
Respondents indicated that skills shortages will remain a concern with 75% describing it as moderate to significant. They were divided on the cause. One third cite lack of training and professional development, and another third think too few people are entering the labour market.
“During the downturn we anticipate that larger owner operators will focus on efficiency projects and hire improvement and maintenance professionals to reduce the cost of production,” said Rowan O’Grady, president Hays Canada. “It’s also possible that mining professionals with highly transferable skills will move over to the forestry industry because of rising global demand for timber; particularly process and mechanical engineers and maintenance staff.”
The 2014 Hays Compensation, Benefits, Recruitment and Retention Guide is Hays’ seventh edition of this annual report. Readers interested in requesting a free copy should visit Hays.ca for more information.
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