As a recruitment consultant specialising in manufacturing jobs, I have witnessed first-hand the resilience and growth of the sector. Despite global economic and geopolitical uncertainties, skills shortages and talent disruption, the strength of the sector is evidence of the robustness and innovative spirit that Northern Ireland is known for.
The manufacturing sector plays an essential role in the Northern Irish economy and significantly contributes towards employment. It is the second largest industry in Northern Ireland—directly providing 88,026 jobs (11%). In terms of output, it punches well above its weight, contributing 14% to the total economic output in the region.
Manufacturing has weathered the storm of economic challenges, including Brexit and global supply chain disruptions. Latest figures released by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA), show manufacturing jobs were up by 1,323 (1.5%), over the year to September 2023.
Even in the face of harsh conditions, the sector has shown a remarkable ability to adapt, innovate, and flourish. This resilience is reflected in the stability of the jobs it offers and the ongoing investments in the sector, ensuring a secure environment for those looking for career advancement.
In my opinion, there has never been a better time to consider a career in manufacturing in Northern Ireland. The sector needs a diverse range of skills, from product design and engineering to project management and IT. With the rise of Industry 4.0, the integration of new technologies is creating exciting opportunities for upskilling and innovation.
According to Invest NI, Northern Ireland's economic development agency, there is a strong emphasis on advanced manufacturing and engineering, with significant support for training and development to fill the skills gap. Also, an Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) at a cost of £98m,has been planned for the outskirts of Belfast and will become Northern Irelands national centre for advanced manufacturing. This will support innovation and allow development smaller companies in Northern Ireland to attempt to compete globally.
Recent announcements from Almac, who are increasing their workforce with 550 new roles in an £80m expansion and companies like Vertiv who hope to increase their manufacturing and engineering staff by 200, show the growing demand for highly skilled manufacturing talent.
Considering a change or thinking of upskilling?
There’s no doubt the manufacturing industry in Northern is committed to continuous improvement and opportunities for professional growth are ample. A career in manufacturing offers stability and security—both important considerations in today's dynamic job market.
The Investment and innovation in Northern Ireland’s manufacturing industry means careers in manufacturing are evolving to be more inclusive and diverse than ever before. There are great Initiatives in place to encourage more young people and women to consider manufacturing as a career path, with Skill Up—the flexible skills programme—offering 7,000 free places until the end of 2024, including courses in Advanced Manufacturing.
Whether you are happy in your current role or actively seeking a new challenge, the manufacturing sector in Northern Ireland is looking for experienced talent and people new to industry considering their career path. Whatever your situation, I encourage you to explore current job opportunities in an industry that is shaping the future of global manufacturing standards.
If you’re considering your next career move or interested in pursuing a career in manufacturing in Northern Ireland, it’s a fantastic time to be part of an innovative and thriving sector that values its workforce and plays a vital role in our economic success story.
To learn more about these manufacturing sector career opportunities within in Northern Ireland, email Richard.Gowdy@cpljobs.com or give me a call on 028 90 725632.
Sources:
· Business Register and Employment Survey 2022 | Department for the Economy (economy-ni.gov.uk)
· BRES Publication and Tables 2022 | Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (nisra.gov.uk)
· Manufacturing-and-NI-Economy.pdf (manufacturingni.org)
· Industry 4.0 explained | Innovate NI
· Advanced manufacturing and engineering | Invest Northern Ireland (investni.com)SKILL UP – the flexible skills programme | nidirect