I have worked on a contract basis as a civil engineer for over ten years and have experience on a wide range of projects. My current contract will finish in a couple of weeks, with no option for an extension. I know the market is tough at the moment, so I’m worried about how I’ll secure my next role with so few contract vacancies coming up. Do you have any suggestions about what I should do differently this time?
Understandably, we’ve had numerous queries along the same lines as this recently, so I’m keen to provide a comprehensive answer to your question for all those with similar concerns. The first point I’d like to make is that many engineers who have enjoyed a buoyant contract market for some time now are facing new challenges as companies take tighter control over their expenditure. Within many of the industries that NES supports, we have observed a shift in preference from a flexible, skill-specific contract workforce to a stable and loyal permanent one.
With a predetermined annual salary spend for managers, permanent workers mean greater control over budgets. They also indicate increased loyalty during a time when retention of the best skills is crucial and usually signify longer notice periods for those who do leave, giving hiring managers plenty of time to find a replacement.
Our advice to technical and engineering professionals looking to secure work as soon as possible is to consider permanent roles wherever possible while the economic climate dictates a preference for this type of work. We’re well aware that contractors value the flexibility, high rates and extended breaks that often accompany their work, but we’re also aware of what companies are looking for and, right now, they want people who are committed to the organisation.
It is worth remembering that permanent employment has all kinds of advantages that don’t apply to contract positions. Benefits such as bonuses, pensions, healthcare and company cars regularly complement the basic annual salary of a permanent vacancy to attract the best candidates. Could you consider a permanent role, where you’ll have a fixed location, with paid annual leave and sickness absence despite contract work being your preference?
If this really doesn’t appeal and you have the financial security to remain out of work, then it might be worth considering taking a sabbatical. If you like the idea of spending more time with your family, going travelling or working on a new project – writing a book, for example, then it could be that you work until the end of your current contract and then concentrate your efforts on something different. Of course, this would only be possible if you can afford to do so, and you will have to consider what happens when you need that regular income again.
I hope this has response has helped to address your concerns. An up to date CV and adequate interview preparation will be essential whether you’re applying for contract or permanent roles. Keep in contact with your business network, including recruitment agencies, to stay informed about the latest opportunities and be persistent with your job search. Good luck with securing your next role and please contact your recruitment agency if you have any further queries.
