Temporary jobs growth outpaces rest of market

Jo Faragher

The number of temporary jobs added across Great Britain over the past three years has grown by 13.8%, outpacing overall jobs growth.

This is the conclusion of database analysis by CareerBuilder UK and Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI), taking data from nine government sources showing labour market conditions across 369 occupations, 563 industries and 385 geographies.

CareerBuilder and EMSI’s analysis has also identified the areas that are likely to see the most growth in temporary opportunities this year. Top of the list are teaching and childcare roles, which are likely to enjoy a 5% rise in the vacancy numbers year on year.

In comparison, business, research and administrative professionals are only likely to see a 2% rise in temporary vacancies this year, according to CareerBuilder and EMSI’s research.

In terms of geography, the East Midlands is likely to see the most promising rise in temporary jobs, with a 5% rise in vacancies. This far outpaces the 0.3% growth predicted for the overall jobs market. 

In a separate CareerBuilder UK study, 56% of employers reported that they plan to hire temporary or contract workers in 2014.  Of these employers, 44% plan to transition some temporary employees into full-time, permanent staff. 

Scott Helmes, managing director of CareerBuilder UK, said: “Coming off of multiple hard-hitting recessions, companies are being more cautious with their permanent hiring.” 

Temporary employment is growing across industries and regions, and provides great opportunities for employers to work with a larger pool of diverse talent, while allowing workers to test-drive different work experiences and network with employers.”