Power in the scientific industry shifts to workers
One in 10 workers are looking to find a new job in next 12 months
Nine out of 10 science workers feel secure, with the same proportion feeling satisfied in their jobs, according to the Reed Scientific Salary Guide and Market Insight 2014.
But, two-thirds (69%) have not received a pay rise in the last 12 months, and a third said they had not had a pay rise in five years or more.
While the UK’s scientific workforce is largely satisfied, nearly one in 10 workers are looking to secure a new role within a year. As a result, more than a quarter (27%) of scientific sector employers are worried about losing talented individuals from their organisation.
With investment in the science sector growing as a result of increased research and development activity, large cash injections from venture capitalists and government backing, there is a wealth of new job opportunities, says Reed. With this upturn, the balance of power is tipping in favour of skilled candidates.
However, the research also highlighted a shortage of skills in the science industry, with 22% of businesses saying they have a skills gap in their organisation and seven in 10 (70%) saying this gap is having a negative impact on their business.
There has been a big increase in demand for quality assurance, quality control and regulatory affairs professionals
The recruitment specialist canvassed the attitudes of around 2,500 workers as well as employers working in a variety of industry sectors and job levels.
Lisa Kitt, Divisional Manager at Reed Scientific, said: 'As the sector enjoys a return to growth and job opportunities increase, the balance of power is tipping in favour of the pool of skilled candidates which remains static.'
She added that there has been a big increase in demand for quality assurance, quality control and regulatory affairs professionals. Companies are also adopting a stricter line in taking on candidates with visas or overseas sponsorship to support a strong UK talent pool for the long term, which is limiting the available supply of candidates in the short term.
'As the opportunities for candidates increase with continued growth in venture capitalist funding, employers will need to focus on their employee attraction and retention strategies,' said Kitt.
'Companies are having to invest heavily in attractive relocation packages to secure the best talent. Candidates want to see a clearly defined career development plan from prospective employers, as well as a competitive salary and benefits.'