Automotive engineering is one of the most exciting sectors in the world of work with new technology, breathtaking design and perfect execution coming together to create some of the most eye catching cars on the planet.
From the electric elegance of Tesla to steps towards more efficient batteries and automation, innovation is leading the way in automotive engineering. Randstad Engineering looks at 10 of the biggest developments on the horizon.
1) Techies take the wheel
The automotive sector focuses heavily on autonomous technology and the demand for tech talent in research and development is greater than ever. This means that newer recruitment processes to attract the best tech talent must be determined.
2) Driving retention
Companies are striving to improve employer brands through greater work-life balance and increased training and development. These steps are designed to boost employee retention and decrease turnover.
3) Re-engineering the workforce
With recalls affecting automotive companies in both cost and values, major auto companies are considering reinventing the way they manage their operations, which would also allow them to alter workforce structures.
4) Looking for candidates outside engineering
Companies will likely find that they can benefit from hiring candidates with expertise that ranges beyond the automotive industry.
5) Foot down on employer brand
The auto industry has been perceived as one that requires hard physical labour and pays poorly. Companies must now work hard to enhance brand value and spread the right messages to applicants.
6) Driving diversity
The current engineering workforce is 92% male and 94% white - that must change. The automotive industry must work on increasing diversity through its ranks with the greatest focus must be on gender diversity.
7) Different engines powering different generations
Automakers have workers ranging from Baby Boomers to Generation Z so companies must develop initiatives that cater to the diversity of their workforces.
8) Best candidates harder to find
Employees in the automotive sector are now in demand from outside of the industry with equipment manufacturers dipping into the same talent pool.
9) Middle management running low
Although automotive companies have been working at improving their sourcing, the mid-level has been widely ignored. This has led to the potential for a leadership gap in the coming years.
10) Talent needed on new shores
With shifting production demands (and not to mention there is a new demand for qualified talent. This means identifying the right balance of new and experienced workers.