Fastest-growing jobs in your state

It’s been a challenging couple of years for many of us – especially when it comes to work. But the new year may open up a wider range of job choices, with job ads rising across almost every industry.

Job ads were 12.5% higher across June to November 2021 compared to the six months before, and the upward trend extends across the country.

Job ad growth made a steady start in the second half of last year, putting us in a good position coming into 2022. 

Which roles are growing the fastest in your state or territory? Select a state or territory below to find out.

Opportunities on the rise

The skills shortage across many industries is putting more job-seekers in the driver’s seat. Robert Beckley, regional director at recruitment firm Hays expects job growth to continue this year. “Right now, we’ve never seen such a candidate-short job market and skills shortages in so many industries, and we predict this will only continue to intensify,” he says.

This may mean more opportunities on the job front for you in 2022.

“International border openings should provide some additional access to overseas talent, but the number of departures could negate arrivals, and fail to fully address the supply and demand imbalance,” says Beckley.

Strong outlook for Healthcare workers

Job ads for Healthcare & Medical were up 11.5% compared to the previous six-month period, with Pharmacists (80.5%), Pharmacist Assistants (67%) Associate Nurse Unit Managers (77%) leading the way.

Becky Brown, consultant in marketing and health at recruitment firm Steam Consulting, expects demand to spike across the industry this year due to the ongoing impact of the pandemic, as well as the aging population.

“Definitely expect demand to continue and to be higher in 2022 than it has been,” she says.

“With more competition among healthcare providers than ever before, being able to contribute and be a part of a growing business is important to employers”, adds Brown. “The healthcare industry will always be about caring and putting people first, but now I am seeing that having a more commercial and growth mindset really helps.”

Trends in Hospitality & Tourism

While there was a small decline (2.7%) in job ads for Hospitality & Tourism nationally, some industry roles are among the top 20 fastest-growing jobs. They include Kitchen Hands (91.4%), Shift Supervisors (83.5%), Food & Beverage Supervisors (62.9%) and Food Delivery Drivers (61.9%).

The much-publicised skills shortage in Hospitality & Tourism looks set to drive up demand for industry workers. Peter Jackson, Senior Recruitment Consultant at TMS Talent, says industry employers are working harder to attract employees.

“We’re seeing varying degrees of salary increases, more flexibility like four-day weeks, and even bonus structures are becoming more prevalent,” he says.

Tech roles on the rise

Job ads in Information & Communications Technology were up 23.5% compared to the previous six-month period with ads for Scrum Masters (72.7%), Digital Business Analysts (66.3%) and Support Specialists (62.2%) leading the way.

Beckley says demand is outstripping supply in many areas of the industry. “Remote working has contributed to this demand, as organisations have had to provide the technology, collaboration tools and secure environments to enable working from home,” he says.

“However, other related trends are also driving demand, such as the heightened importance of digital engagement with customers, which has led to a surge in demand for software and data skills.  Many organisations have also fast-tracked their cloud journeys, and cyber security remains a priority. This demand has coincided with increased job churn and border closures, which has amplified the competition for talent.”

Will job ad growth impact salaries?

If you are working in one of the fast-growing industries, now may be the time to negotiate a bigger pay packet, but it pays to do your research.

“It’s important to know your worth in the market place, so the first step would be to research and understand the typical salaries on offer for the skills you possess,” says Beckley. “You can do this by talking with a trusted recruiter or researching a salary guide.”

Beckley also advises considering the value of non-financial benefits, such as training and development programs and other lifestyle-related rewards and incentives, before negotiating your pay packet.

“More and more, we’re finding that candidates are able to successfully negotiate aspects of their role beyond salary that ultimately have a more profound impact on their lifestyle and job satisfaction,” he says.

Brown says more employers are reviewing salaries to attract and retain the very best.

“I have seen my clients more open to negotiation for higher salaries, as they know they need to do this in the current market,” she says. “At offer stage with a new employer, or when negotiating with your current employer, clearly define what salary you are looking for and why you feel you should be getting it.

If your salary expectations can’t be met, Brown recommends negotiating a salary review to be built into your contract at the end of a probationary period.

“You need to be open and upfront with your employer about what is important to you,” she says.

The 2022 job market is off to a promising start, despite the ongoing challenges of COVID-19. With job ad volumes rising – and huge demand for skills in some areas – now may be the time to look at what opportunities you can take hold of.